Author: Crix

FAMOUS STRANGERS Unveils New Music Video “I’ll See You In The Stars”

Edmonton-based band Famous Strangers is proud to unveil their new music video for their latest single “I’ll See You In The Stars” in the lead up to their first hometown headlining show on May 10th at The Starlite Room with support from Black Friday, King Thief, and Embur. The show is part of a broader 2025 year of performances that include festival appearances at Loud As Hell Open Air (Drumheller, AB – Aug 1-3) and Decimate Metalfest (Millet, AB – June 13-14), and upcoming tour dates to be announced.

Ticket info for May 10th at Startlie Room at the following link: https://starliteroom.ca.

“This show represents a major milestone for us. It’s our first time headlining, and we’re doing it in our hometown, on our terms, with bands we respect. May 10th is more than a gig. It is a statement of who we are and where we’re headed.” – Famous Strangers

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Since their formation in 2023, Famous Strangers‘ signature blend of haunting melodies, powerful vocals, and immersive soundscapes has captivated listeners. The band brings together accomplished musicians whose past experiences in various musical projects have shaped their collective sound. Their diverse influences converge in a unique sonic experience characterized by atmospheric instrumentals and a dynamic vocal approach that seamlessly shifts between melodic and aggressive. They are recommended for fans of Halestorm, Judas Priest, Dio, and Arch Enemy.

Their latest single, “I’ll See You In The Stars,” draws listeners into a celestial dreamscape where emotional intensity meets cosmic wonder. The single represents another compelling chapter in Famous Strangers‘ evolving musical narrative, highlighting their ability to create dark, moody compositions that resonate on a deeply emotional level.

Watch and listen to the music video for “I’ll See You In The Stars” at https://youtu.be/OtdfaMp4Hec​

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/44B8ci5​

Previous Singles:

George – https://youtu.be/fz85ChqELO4​

Deepstar – https://youtu.be/00jujvck9sM​

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More info:

​Famousstrangersband.com

​Facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559110131774

​Instagram.com/famousstrangersband

​Tiktok.com/@famousstrangersband

Swedish synth powerhouse Priest play wicked games in the world of Goth Noir

Hot on the heels of Cleopatra Records’ Goth Top 100 countdown, Sweden’s mighty Priest usher in the next generation of dark rock, a lush, cinematic cover of Chris Isaac’s “Wicked Game” – a heartfelt homage to David Lynch’s Wild at Heart movie, wherein the original track appears.

An electronic project started by former members of the Grammy Award-winning metal band Ghost, the enigmatic Priest skillfully translate Isaac’s country-esque guitars and rhythms into haunting Moog synthesizers and 80’s LinnDrum-sounds.
Priest says: ”We think it’s one of the best pop songs ever written and we were very happy when Cleopatra asked us to do a cover of this kind. We covered some unexplored territory for Priest here. I will always see the dark highway in Wild at Heart when I hear it.”
Priest is touring the USA between July 1 to August 3 — tickets on priestnexus.com

“Wicked Games” can also be heard on Gothic Noir, a thrill-packed deep dive into both the music’s sainted past and it’s immediate future.  
 

No less than six of the 19 tracks are exclusive to Gothic Noir, including vivacious offerings from Buzz Kull, Soviet Soviet, Lamori (brilliantly tackling Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl”), Shad Shadows and Deus Ex Lumina, reimagining George Michael’s “Careless Whispers.”

They are joined by the cream of Cleopatra’s goth community, including Chris McCarter’s IKON; Gene Loves Jezebel; The Mission (the immortal “Severina”); Razed In Black; Batcave arch-glamsters Sexagisma; punk pioneers The Damned; Fear Cult; Miranda Sex Garden; and Christian Death – artists who, across a variety of guises, devoured almost 25% of the Top 100.
Elsewhere, Ministry shine a light on the darkest corners of their Squirrely Years with a 1982 demo of “Work For Love”; and with Joy Division, A Flock of Seagulls and UK post-punk marvels 1919 also on board, Gothic Noir promises to completely reinvent your listening plans as we heard into summer.
But – as Sexagisma put it on the foot-stomping preview of their own forthcoming album, c’mon, c’mon, it’s MONSTER FUN!
Track Listing
1. Truly Madly Deeply – Buzz Kull
2. Iris – Soviet Soviet
3. Leaders Of Men (Martin Hannett Sessions) – Joy Division
4. Wicked Game – Priest
5. Black Roses (2024 Single Version) – IKON
6. Severina – The Mission
7. Brown Eyed Girl – Lamori
8. Serpent Queen – Gene Loves Jezebel
9. Wishing (If I Had A Photograph Of You) – A Flock Of Seagulls
10. Spectre (Love is Dead) (Kill Shelter Remix) – Christian Death
11. Work for Love (1982 Demo) – Ministry
12. Anxiety – 1919
13. Careless Whisper – Deus Ex Lumina
14. Strangers in the Night – Shad Shadows
15. Shadow of Love (Live) – The Damned
16. Monster Fun (Bat Cave Deadly Mix) – Sexagisma
17. Are You The One? – Miranda Sex Garden
18. Share This Poison – Razed In Black
19. She Loves Me Not – Fear Cult

Cassidy Paris returns with new video “Butterfly” out now

Australian rocker Cassidy Paris is thrilled to share her new single and accompanying music video, “Butterfly”, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.

“Lyrically the song Butterfly represents strength and independence. It can be applied to many facets of life. It encapsulates freedom, peace, growth and individuality. We feel very privileged and honoured to have had some greats like Paul Laine (The Defiants) and Gary Brandon (White Sister) contribute to make this song worthy of being the first single, from the new era”, commented Cassidy.

 

Stream “Butterfly” HERE

As a teenager growing up in Australia, there’s likely very few others out there with ambitions of being a “rock star”. Especially considering rock music isn’t exactly regarded by the mainstream as the “coolest” thing in the 2020’s. 22yo Cassidy Paris however is an exception.

Cassidy is determined to make rock music a ‘cool’ thing again and inspire a new generation of younger fans to not only listen to rock ‘n’ roll, but maybe even pick up a guitar, instead of a phone.

At the age of 11, Cassidy met singer songwriter Paul Laine (ex Danger Danger, The Defiants), who developed a unique mentoring role. Paul took Cassidy under his wing to help develop her as an artist and songwriter, collaborating with her in songwriting and producing her music.

From early on, Cassidy has wanted to deliver a strong message through her music. In 2018, she released the song “Stand”, a heartfelt song about ‘standing up for yourself’ as a young woman.

Cassidy continues to deliver that message, promoting anti-bullying through performances at many schools around Melbourne, Australia and is an active campaigner for the worldwide ‘Metalheads Against Bullying’ organisation. Cassidy has built up a strong connection with her growing worldwide fanbase that has already seen her perform in America, Japan and the UK with the band.

Cassidy Paris released her debut full length album titled “New Sensation” in December 2023 to critical acclaim. “My debut album is 80s infused, mixed with a current vibe. Influenced by Rock Gods such as Debbie Harry, Pat Benatar, Joan Jett & Lita Ford, I’m keen to put my spin on things in a modern original way”, she declared.

Cassidy Paris will embark on the Bittersweet Tour by playing live shows in Europe, the U.K. & Ireland in April, May & June 2025. The tour will also see the band perform at festivals such as Frontiers Rock Festival Italy, Chti Rock France, BEL-AOR Ireland and Call Of The Wild in England.

Cassidy & the band are endorsed by Fender Guitars, Anthony Bell Guitars, Ernie Ball, London Drumstick Co. & Wornstar Clothing.

Line Up:
Cassidy Paris – vocals
Tom Rogowski – guitar
Stevie Janevski – bass
Alex Rogowski – drums

Follow CASSIDY PARIS:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
TikTok
X

Avatar Announce European Tour

Avatar, who have been touring the world extensively with their latest album Dance Devil Dance, today reveal their plans for next year, which will start with a major tour across Europe. The Avatar across Europe tour starts on February 5th in Stockholm. Alien Weaponry will be on the tour.

The biggest shows of the band’s career so far are promised, so the orchestra is understandably excited about what’s to come.

“We are die-hard addicts! Despite all the praise we’ve received on stage, we can’t get over the feeling that we’re just getting started. That’s why this tour is meant to break all previous records and boundaries. I’m not just talking about the size. Everything has to be better than ever before. This is what we live for – and this is what we promise,” says the band’s frontman Johannes Eckenström.

The band, who have been working diligently in the studio on their tenth album recently, are also heading to support Iron Maiden this year before their adventures next year. The trip will also take the band to their own Halloween-celebrating Noche De Brujas gig in Mexico.

AVATAR across EUROPE 2026

February:
05 – STOCKHOLM, SE – FÅLLAN
07- HELSINKI, FI – KULTTUURITALO
09 – OSLO, NO – SENTRUM SCENE
10 – COPENHAGEN – DK – VEGA
11 – OSNABRÜCK, DE – DIE BOTSCHAFT
12 – BRUSSELS, BE – A.B.
14 – LONDON, UK – EXHIBITION
15 – MANCHESTER, UK – ACADEMY
16 – GLASGOW, UK – BARROWLAND
17 – NOTTINGHAM, UK – ROCK CITY
18 – BRISTOL, UK – O2 ACADEMY
20 – AMSTERDAM, NL – AFAS LIVE
21 – ESCH-SUR-ALZETTE, LU – ROCKHAL
22 – ZÜRICH, CH – COMPLEX
24 – BARCELONA, ES – RAZZMATAZZ
25 – MADRID, ES – LA RIVIERA
27 – LISBON, PT – LAV
28 – BILBAO, ES – SANTANA 27

March:
02 – LYON, FR – LE CUBE
03- MILAN, IT – ALCATRAZ
04 – VIENNA, AT – GASOMETER
05 – MUNICH, DE – TO TONHA
06 – COLOGNE, DE – E-WERK
07 – PARIS, FR – LE ZENITH
09 – WIESBADEN, DE – SCHLACHTHOF
10 – ZLIN, CZ – SPORTS HALL DATART
11 – WARSAW, PL – STODOLA
12 – BERLIN, DE – COLUMBIAHALLE
13 – HAMBURG, DE – DOCKS

Tickets for all shows go on sale this week, Friday, April 25th at 10 a.m. local time in each country.

AVATAR supporting Iron Maiden, Europe 2026
7.5.25 – Madrid, ESP – Cívitas Metropolitano
7.6.25 – Lisbon, PR – MEO Arena
7.9.25 – Zurich, SZ – Hallenstadion
7.11.25 – Gelsenkirchen, DE – Veltins Arena
7.13.25 – Padova, IT – Studio Euganeo
7.15.25 – Bremen, DE – Bürgerweide
7.17.25 – Vienna, AT – Ernst Happel Stadium
7.19.25 – Paris, FR – Paris La Défense Arena
7.20.25 Paris, FR – Paris La Défense Arena
7.23.25 – Arnhem, NL – GelreDome
7.25.25 Frankfurt, DE – Deutsche Bank Park
7.26.25 – Stuttgart, DE – Cannstatter Wasen
7.29.25 – Berlin, DE – Waldbühne Berlin
7.30.25 – Berlin, DE – Waldbühne Berlin
8.2.25 – Warsaw, PL – PGE Narodowy

A Haunting Call from Beyond – “A Voice in the Dark” by Near Death Experience

As we await the long-anticipated CD release of Near Death Experience’s critically acclaimed debut album, Brief Is The Light, on May 30th, 2025, the French gothic doom metal ensemble reignites the shadows with a haunting re-release of their lyric video for “A Voice in the Dark.” This mesmerizing music video is a journey through life, death, and the yearning to return.

“A Voice in the Dark” is a melancholic yet powerful exploration of the fragile line between existence and oblivion. With ethereal melodies, crushing riffs, and haunting vocals, Near Death Experience creates a captivating narrative of love, loss, and the desperate desire to escape the shadows: “The waves crash, the sand shifts beneath weary feet—will they find their way back, or remain lost in the dark forever?”

Originally a solo instrumental project by Mathieu Bonfardin (drums) during the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020, Near Death Experience (NDE) was fully formed as a band in Nantes, France, in May 2022. NDE blends gothic, melancholic doom metal with clean, lyrical female vocals. Influenced by bands like Paradise Lost, The Gathering, Draconian, Katatonia, Black Sabbath, Moonspell, and Metallica, NDE explores the dark and compelling theme of near-death experiences.

Their LP, Brief Is The Light, is a concept album telling the story of a woman, a victim of domestic violence, now in a coma and experiencing near-death visions. As she recalls her past life, she yearns to return to reality, despite the suffering and uncertainty.

Will you press ‘play’ and journey with her? Don’t worry—the light will shine at the end.

linktr.ee/ndemusic

Dead End Irony releases the final single from the new album to be releases in the end of May

Catch My Soul is 5th and the last single from the Dead End Irony upcoming album Battles and Brotherhood to be released on end of May via Inverse Records. The song is a heavy metal ballad with a chorus bigger than the Imatra rapids. Verse comes with acoustic guitars, rhythm section is solid and guitar leads fits perfectly in the song with the powerful vocals.


The song is written by the band and it’s produced by Teemu Aalto (Insomnium, Ginger Evil, Marianas Rest).

Listen to the single on music services (Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, Tidal etc.): https://push.fm/fl/dei-catchmysoul

“The song’s story about a father languishing in a prison camp and a son he never met is not only tragic but also unfortunately timely. It creates a charge in the song but also offers hope amidst the sorrow. We wanted both catchiness and a heavier rhythm in the song, and we succeeded in this with Teemu Aalto” says the band’s singer and the song’s co-lyricist, Vesa Winberg.

Dead End Irony:
Vesa Winberg – Vocals
Simo Jokela – Solo Guitar
Kristian Valkama – Guitar
Antti Vainio – Bass
Antti Pekonen – Drums

https://www.deadendirony.com/
https://www.facebook.com/DeadEndIrony
https://deadendirony.bandcamp.com/

Heavy Metal Project Ampicore Releases Lyric Video for “Hoplites and Barbarians”

Ampicore unveils the second chapter of March Up Country—The Rock Opera with “Hoplites and Barbarians,” a thunderous track that narrates the moment Persian satrap Cyrus the Younger enlists 10,000 Greek mercenaries to pursue imperial ambitions.

Hoplites and Barbarians” takes listeners on a journey back to ancient history, recounting the moment Persian satrap Cyrus the Younger recruits 10,000 Greek mercenaries to advance his imperial ambitions. The song delivers a potent blend of rock, metal, and cinematic storytelling, showcasing Ampicore’s unique style.

Credits
Music & Lyrics: Frederic Frees
Vocals: Jamie Jordan
Guitar: Mauricio Mirapalheta
Drums: Maikon Queiroz
Bass: Marco Toba
Lead Guitar: Miguel Esparzapro

Check out the new version of the “The Broken Busts of Hermes” video: youtu.be/1z2Wd1i0O6c

With March Up Country – The Rock Opera, Frederic Frees brings his lifelong passion for music and history, creating a dynamic and introspective work that merges epic rock with deep historical themes.

The upcoming album features a powerful narrative, combining sweeping musical arrangements with compelling lyrics that tell the story of war, survival, and the intricacies of human ambition.

March Up Country – The Rock Opera is set to release soon via Wormholedeath.

www.youtube.com/@Ampicore
marchupcountry.com
x.com/FredericofFrees
ampicore.bandcamp.com/album/march-up-country-the-rock-opera

Canada’s VULTURES AT DAWN Unleash Debut Single “Outlaws” (Texas Chainsaw Marigold) – A Dust-Kicked Anthem For The Modern Desperado

Under the scorching sun of the sonic badlands, queer-fronted desert rock outfit Vultures At Dawn emerge from the shimmer with their debut single “Outlaws” (Texas Chainsaw Marigold); it isn’t just music, it’s the campfire confession of vagabonds with one eye on the horizon and one hand on their weapon. It’s the sound of survival on society’s edges, where victory isn’t measured in gold but in living to see another blood-red sunset. The band shares their excitement:

“‘Outlaws’ was the 2nd song that we wrote. Buck wrote the lyrics after escaping from the cops while on horseback, barely making it out alive. They wrote the song the night they got back, and turned the exhilaration of surviving into a song. It’s our first publicly available song, and we have at least 5 other songs we play live, and a couple others in the process of being written.”

Recorded within the hallowed walls of a historic church, the band infiltrated under the cover of night, “Outlaws” (Texas Chainsaw Marigold) captures the raw, untamed spirit that has made Vultures At Dawn the soundtrack for modern-day desperados. The single sears with soulful vocals from Buck Summers, backed by the thunderous heartbeat of Raven Steel’s guitar work, Sebastian Black’s rumbling basslines, Dallas McCoy’s haunting oboe, and the relentless percussion of Doc.

The band, notorious for their theatrical live shows that incorporate sounds from life on the lam, continues to build their loyal following of self-described outcasts, their ‘volt’ of vultures who flock to experience the band’s mystical, witchy energy and bone-rattling riffs. “Outlaws” (Texas Chainsaw Marigold) offers passage into a world where the rules are written in sand and washed away with whiskey. It is recommended for fans of Kyuss, Black Sabbath, and Queen.

Listen to “Outlaws” (Texas Chainsaw Marigold) at the following links:

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3EtBwfQ​

YouTube – https://youtu.be/X6d4dIOGTKM​

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More Info: https://www.facebook.com/VulturesAtDawn | https://www.instagram.com/vulturesatdawn

Swiss rockers Shakra unveil new video “Burning Heart” out now

Swiss hard rock band Shakra are excited to unveil their new single and official lyric video, “Burning Heart”, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.

“Burning Heart” is a special track that was originally recorded during the sessions for the “Invincible” album. The session files were lost for years and rediscovered by accident during the band’s 30th anniversary preparations. The track is now the first official release on Frontiers Music.


Stream “Burning Heart” HERE

The band commented on the new single: “We had written it off – lost in the digital void. And then suddenly it reappeared, as if the message was meant to manifest itself”.

Lead singer Mark Fox added: “All my life, people have tried in different ways to separate me from what I do with all my heart and soul: making music. But no one has succeeded – and no one ever will”.

“Burning Heart, to me, is a picture of that inner fire that drives you. When you burn for
something, you don’t do it for fame or success – you do it because it’s part of who you are”, stated Thomas Muster.

Shakra is about to celebrate their impressive 30th anniversary, showing why they are a solid force in the world of rock and metal. Walking the fine line between hard rock and heavy metal, they have crafted a sound over the last three decades that captivates both rock fans and metalheads alike.

Despite lineup changes and shifting trends in the rock and metal scene, every challenge has only made the band stronger, solidifying their ability to stay true to their style. Today, Shakra is more experienced, versatile, and enduring than ever before.

Looking far back is important, but the future must not be forgotten – this is far from the end. Shakra is ready to open a new chapter, bigger and more powerful than ever. The foundation they stand on has been built with sweat, blood, and tears – 30 years of dedication and relentless effort.

Their music has been the soundtrack to the lives of countless fans – songs that have sparked memories and accompanied generations. Shakra delivers a live experience that perfectly captures the raw energy and passion of these genres. Their stage presence and commitment guarantee a show that will leave a lasting impression.

Line Up:
Mark Fox
Roger Tanner
Cyril Montavon
Thomas Muster
Thom Blunier

Follow SHAKRA:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
X

Industrial giants Die Krupps to join Ministry on 2025 North American tour

Post-industrial provocateurs Die Krupps are set to ignite stages across North America this summer as direct support for the legendary Ministry on their highly anticipated 2025 tour.
The bill also includes performances from My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult and Nitzer Ebb, and Die Kruups founder Jurgen Engler describes it as “The tour we have been awaiting for a long time.
“It’s the perfect package, a great line-up of bands, which for sure is exciting for the U.S. and Canadian fanbase, and for us! We have all met before in the past, so it will be like a one big happy family going out together.
“Also, Die Krupps haven’t done a full blown U.S/Canada tour in almost three decades. Now is the time for us to reconnect with our fans and show them that this band is far from retired! Hope to see you all soon, to the hilt!!!”
Just ahead of hitting the road, the band has unleashed their hypnotic new single, “Cinnamon Girl” — a dark, dirge-like homage to the sonic spirits of Neil Young (whose own “Cinnamon Girl” sounds nothing like this!) and Type O Negative.
Dripping in noir atmosphere and analog melancholy, the track also introduces the enigmatic Cinnamon Babe, a fast-rising star in the dark-pop underground whose voice floats through the song like smoke in a dim-lit motel room.
“‘Cinnamon Girl’​is about memory, obsession, and the soft tragedy of stardom,” Engler continues. “We wanted it to feel like a furious version of that famous Blue Velvet backroom scene where Dennis Hopper is listening to ‘The Candy-Colored Clown Called The Sandman’.”
 
For more than four decades, Die Krupps have carved out a distinctive space in the modern underground. Originating from the same hometown as fellow robots Kraftwerk, blending brooding synths, jagged guitars, and dystopian visual aesthetics, their signature sound fuses electronic attacks with the visceral punch of Industrial Metal — a style critics have described as “what would happen if Bowie scored a horror film produced by Trent Reznor, if he was from Dusseldorf!
And, as “Cinnamon Girl” hits streaming platforms and Die Krupps take the stage with Ministry, fans can expect a thunderous live set soaked in high tension, lots of sweat, the notorious steelophone and electrified doom. Don’t miss it!

MINISTRY + DIE KRUPPS — 2025 TOUR DATES

Apr 29 Tue
The Van Buren @ 7:00 Pm
Phoenix, AZ, United States
Apr 30 Wed
Revel @ 7:00 Pm
Albuquerque, NM, United States
May 2 Fri
Emo’s Austin @ 7:00 Pm
Austin, TX, United States
May 3 Sat
House Of Blues Houston @ 7:00 Pm
Houston, TX, United States
May 4 Sun
The Factory In Deep Ellum @ 7:00 Pm
Dallas, TX, United States
May 6 Tue
The Eastern @ 7:00 Pm
Atlanta, Ga, United States
May 8 Thu
Sonic Temple Festival @ 12:00 Pm
Columbus, OH, United States
May 9 Fri
Riviera Theatre @ 7:00 Pm
Chicago, IL, United States
May 10 Sat
Masonic Temple Theatre @ 7:00 Pm
Detroit, MI, United States
May 12 Mon
Soundstage Presents @ 7:00 Pm
Baltimore, MD, United States
May 13 Tue
Franklin Music Hall @ 7:00 Pm
Philadelphia, PA, United States
May 14 Wed
Roadrunner @ 7:00 Pm
Boston, MA, United States
May 16 Fri
Brooklyn Paramount @ 7:00 Pm
Brooklyn, NY, United States
May 17 Sat
Mtelus @ 7:00 Pm
Montreal, QC, Canada
May 18 Sun
History @ 7:00 Pm
Toronto, ON, Canada
May 20 Tue
Palace Theatre @ 7:00 Pm
Saint Paul, MN, United States
May 21 Wed
Burton Cummings Theatre @ 7:00 Pm
Winnipeg, MB, Canada
May 23 Fri
Midway @ 7:00 Pm
Edmonton, AB, Canada
May 24 Sat
The Palace Theatre @ 7:00 Pm
Calgary, AB, Canada
May 26 Mon
Commodore Ballroom @ 7:00 Pm
Vancouver, BC, Canada
May 27 Tue
Commodore Ballroom @ 7:00 Pm
Vancouver, BC, Canada
May 28 Wed
Showbox Sodo @ 7:00 Pm
Seattle, WA, United States
May 29 Thu
Spokane Live @ 7:00 Pm
Airway Heights, WA, United States
May 31 Sat
Mission Ballroom @ 7:00 Pm
Denver, CO, United States
Jun 1 Sun
The Union Event Center @ 7:00 Pm
Salt Lake City, UT, United States
Jun 3 Tue
The Warfield @ 7:00 Pm
San Francisco, CA, United States
Jun 4 Wed
Hollywood Palladium @ 7:00 Pm
Los Angeles, CA, United States
Jun 5 Thu
House Of Blues Las Vegas @ 7:00 Pm
Las Vegas, NV, United States