Author: Crix

New Zealand groove metal band Alien Weaponry will release their album Te Rã on Friday

Alien Weaponry, a groove metal band that cherishes the traditions of New Zealand’s indigenous people, has convinced metal fans around the world with their distinctive music, where primitive rhythms seamlessly combine with modern production and different subgenres of metal.

Alien Weaponry will release their third full-length album, Te Rã, this Friday. The album highlights their message of cultural, social and environmental sustainability. In the hands of producer and mixer Josh Wilbur (Lamb Of God, Gojira, Megadeth), Te Rã’s blend of groove, nu, math and thrash metal has been honed into an exceptional and distinctive whole.

“Te Rā is a cry for a future where we can all participate in the heritage of the Maori people – a people whose voices absolutely need to be heard. The common thread running through the album is about being caught between different cultures – not just for the descendants of colonised people, but for everyone,” the band underlines.

Before the album’s release, the band will be releasing one more single. The final single, Taniwha, features Lamb Of God singer Randy Blythe.

“Lamb Of God played a significant role in shaping Alien Weaponry into what it is today, and this collaboration with Randy Blythe feels like one of those ‘pinch yourself’ moments that we never thought possible as teenagers. Randy’s lyrics and vocals were an amazing addition to this song, and we are so excited to share this song/milestone with the world,” the band says.

Te Rā album track list:
1. Crown
2. Mau Moko
3. 1000 Friends
4. Hanging by a Thread
5. Tama-nui-te-rā
6. Myself to Blame
7. Taniwha (feat. Randy Blythe)
8. Blackened Sky
9. Te Riri o Tāwhirimātea
10. Ponaturi
11. Te Kore

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK | SPOTIFY

Toronto Prog DEREV’s Debut Album “Troubled Mind” Out Now+ Cross Canada Tour Dates (QC/ON/MB/SK/BC)

Canada’s Derev is proud to release their first full length, “Troubled Mind”, now available as of March 26th on digital platforms (links below).

The follow-up to their 2021 debut EP “Leap of Faith,” “Troubled Mind” takes a deep dive into the intricacies of the human psyche, addressing a spectrum of mental health issues with each track, ranging from temporary mental instability to more severe conditions such as schizophrenia, cognitive immobility (a fixation on the past), and depression stemming from loss.

Offering a diverse range of sounds from mellow, calm tracks to adrenaline-pumping heavy headbangers while maintaining their distinctive progressive rock sound, enriched with Middle Eastern influences. Incorporating more prominent keyboard parts, experimenting with various time signatures, and introducing new instruments such as the Cajon, Darbuka, and electronic elements. This evolution showcases the band’s innovative spirit and commitment to pushing musical boundaries.

The band adds:

“This album is very personal and introspective. It’s full of memorable songs and parts to listen to and digest, both from a musical and lyrical perspective. Every song tackles a different state of mind and takes the listener into their thoughts of a mental state that they can relate to. As this one marks our second official release, we think the fans will be excited about hearing what Derev still has to offer. They’re in for a crazy ride full of energetic ups and heartbreaking downs.”

Derev was conceived after founding member and drummer Michel Karakach, after fleeing the war in the Middle East and finding refuge in Toronto, Canada, reunited with his best friend, guitarist Armando Bablanian, to turn what was once a mere childhood dream into a powerful reality.

Derev‘s dynamic lineup now includes bassist Stan Komarovsky, providing the backbone of Derev‘s sound, and keyboardist Ran Zehavi from the progressive rock band Scalar, adding depth and complexity. Leading the live charge is frontman and vocalist Mike Symons, who has replaced previous singer Adel Saflou, whose recorded vocals are featured on “Troubled Mind”.

Recommended for fans of Opeth, Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree, Soen, and Riverside, “Troubled Mind” is available at https://www.derevmusic.com/store (on Vinyl, CD, Tour Pass) and all digital platforms (Spotify, Bandcamp).

In additional news, Derev is touring in Ontario to support “Troubled Mind” and will continue their road shows across Western Canada for May (listed below).

Music Video – “Tides of Time” – https://youtu.be/rklJp_t3CdM​

Lyric Video – “Cyclone” – https://youtu.be/1il9zsnxl0U​

Animated Video – “Room 9” – https://youtu.be/ryl-vajc7-M​

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DEREV – Troubled Mind ON/ QC Tour​
March 28 – Waterloo, ON – Midnight Run Café w/ Local Goblin
March 29 – Guelph, ON – The Red Papaya w/ Jupiter Hollow, Crown For A King, and Exolithic
April 5 – Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar w/ World On Alert & Vinyl Hero
April 11 – Hamilton, QC – Club Absinthe w/ 8 Banger, Hollow Core, Bad Communication
April 12 – Brantford, ON – Brandi’s Kitchen & Bar w/ Jupiter Hollow & Guests

DEREV – Troubled Mind – Western Canada Tour​
May 2 – Sudbury, ON – The Townhouse w/ Jeidei, Codos
May 3 – Marathon, ON – Biloxys Wings and Things
May 4 – TBA (North Western Ontario)
May 6 – TBA (Manitoba)
May 8 – Regina, SK – Revival Music Room w/ Fame Fatale, 66 Aces
May 9 – Saskatoon, SK – Amigos Cantina w/ Out Of Frequency, 66 Aces
May 10 – Edmonton, SK – Rendezvous Pub w/ Darkened Skies, Silent Script, Misplaced Intentions
May 12 – Grand Forks, BC – 4th St. Studio w/ guests
May 13 – Kamloops, BC – The Blue Grotto w/ Augur, Gregarious
May 14 – Vancouver, BC – The Roxy Cabaret w/ guests
May 16 – Vernon, BC – Longhorn Pub w/ None The Wiser, Scared Soul Empire
May 17 – Cranbrook, BC – The York Public House w/ Phaeton
May 18 – Calgary, AB – Verns w/ Humans As Totems, The Future Relics, Rocky Mountain Maniacs, 13 Strikes
May 20 – Winnipeg, MB – Sidestage w/ Valley Narrow, Sunbreather
May 22 – Thunder Bay, ON – Black Pirates Pub w/ Cycle Of Disobedience, Along The Lines, The Fixer
May 23 – Sault Ste. Marie, ON – Soo Blaster w/ guests
May 24 – Timmins, ON – Victory Tavern w/ guests

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Track Listing:​
1. Buried Voice (7:23)
2. Cyclone (5:39)
3. Crawl Space (1:16)
4. Room 9 (6:15)
5. Paracusia (4:35)
6. Tides of Time (5:59)
7. Darker Self (5:44)
8. Trace Within (5:01)
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​Album Band Line Up:​
Adel Saflou – Vocals
Armando Bablanian – Guitar
Michel Karakach – Drums
Stan Komarovsky – Bass
Ran Zehavi – Keys
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​Live Band Line Up:​
Mike Symons – Vocals
Armando Bablanian – Guitar
Michel Karakach – Drums
Stan Komarovsky – Bass
Ran Zehavi – Keys

More info: Derevmusic.com | Facebook.com/derevmusic | Instagram.com/derevmusic | X.com/derevmusic​

Kosto’s new single digs deep and addresses the cycle of addiction and depression

Raw nu metal band Kosto is releasing a new single today from their debut EP, kiitos., which will be released on May 16th. The single Pahanilmanlintu is the third release from the EP and this time it features heavier production than before. The new single also showcases vocalist Jarno Hyökyvaara’s rap skills.

“Pahanilmanlintu deals with addiction and depression and the struggle between the two. Finding a way out is too often a solitary task and the glimmers of light are only momentary. Some people get out, some don’t. Pahanilmanlintu can be another person, their own thoughts, a substance or society. The text is an outpouring of anxiety, but in the end there is hope for something better.” singer and lyricist Jarno Hyökyvaara opens the song’s lyrics.

“This song was a kind of ‘strange bird’ for me, but it turned out to be a very rolling rally! Originally, this was planned to be released later. However, the atmosphere and story became even stronger when we played together, and we realized that this song can carry itself and claim its place on Kosto’s first EP,” says Sami Selei, the band’s guitarist and the song’s composer.

The EP, which will be released in May, has previously yielded the singles Kipupiste and En ole. Music videos have also been released for the songs, which you can watch here.

Kiitos. -EP track list:
1. Haaska
2. En ole
3. Pahanilmanlintu
4. Kipupiste

The release of the single Pahanilmanlintu will be celebrated this Friday, March 28, 2025 at the Helsinki Semifinal, where Kosto will share the stage with the band IKINÄ. More information and tickets can be found here.

In conjunction with the release of the single “Pahanilmanlintu”, Kosto is also opening the KostosTV online store, where you can buy official Kosto merchandise. The selection includes, among other things, a t-shirt, beanie, tote bag and Kostosocks, which have been in high demand in advance! As an opening offer until the end of April, subscribers will receive air guitar strings and free shipping, so all you have to do is put on your pants and go for it!

Kosto is:
Jarno Hyökyvaara (vocals)
Sami Selei (guitar)
Ville Marttila (guitar)
Visu Uimonen (bass)
Tino Jäntti (drums)

INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | SPOTIFY

Vanguardian released a new single “Lost in Endeavour” from their upcoming full-length

Jyväskylä-based Vanguardian took another step towards the release of their debut album today by releasing a new, sadly bitter single, Lost in Endeavour. The song is accompanied by an exceptionally vertical music video. Vanguardian’s debut album has previously been teased with the singles Demolition Hour and Peripherals.

“The theme of the song Lost in Endeavour revolves around eternal life and the pursuit of it – how the fear of death and failure makes us strive for something we can never achieve. The endless pursuit of something better separates us from the moment we live in. The main message of the song can be summed up in two words – remember to live,” the band underlines.

The band, which believes in the basic values ​​of heavy music, does not rely on backing tracks or samples, and the songs were composed together in a rehearsal room. Vanguardian’s music has turned the knobs of several subgenres to the southeast, and influences can be found in black metal, prog, rock ‘n’ roll and sludge. The band shows the middle finger to all polished, inauthentic and emotionless art.

Vanguardian, which rose from the ashes of Inkvisitor in 2019, set its starting point on the idea that the members do everything as a collective, combining into a seamlessly functioning machine. The studio built in collaboration with Jami Honkala and Ville Mikkola gave the band the freedom to work on the upcoming full-length album exactly as it was envisioned – without compromising on schedules and artistic freedoms.

The band, which cherishes its independent production, has developed its constantly refined output year after year towards a more threatening and raw essence, both musically and visually. The seamless groove and sharp ensemble playing have also convinced the audience on the live stage, and the career worked with reverence is taking Vanguardian towards international stages.

Vanguardian is:
Markus Martinmäki / vocals
Tino Jäntti / drums
Mikko Saviranta / guitar
Sakari Soisalo / bass

INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY

Finnish metal band Pohjoisen Soturit released the second single ‘Tolokun Musta’ from the upcoming third album N

The Finnish metal band Pohjoisen Soturit, formed in 2004, is set to release their third studio album N on May 2nd 2025 via Inverse Records. 

The second single ‘Tolokun Musta’ is now available on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/ps-tolokun-musta

The band comments:
“The second single from the album ”N”, Tolokun Musta. We were thinking of making a remake of an old song, maybe a demo of this in 2007. Last year the band celebrated its 20th anniversary and this is one of those early songs. A nicely heavy guitar beat and a gentle summer evening ditty. The lyrics are that traditional gloom.”
LISTEN to first single Kuiskaus on streaming https://push.fm/fl/pohjoisen-soturit-kuiskaus

Line-up:
Guitar & vocals – Anssi Leinonen
Drums – Ossi Leinonen
Bass – Jussi Ruotsalainen
Guitar – Ville Normi
Keyboards – Juuso Tujunen

Links: 
https://www.facebook.com/PohjoisenSoturit
https://www.instagram.com/pohjoisensoturit
https://www.pohjoisensoturit.com
https://pohjoisensoturit.bandcamp.com

SANDNESS New Video “Not Your Dog” Off New Album “Vertigo” Out May 2025 + Limited Edition Purple Vinyl

Taken from Sandness’ upcoming album “Vertigo,” out May 16th, 2025, via Rockshots Records.
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Watch the official video for “Not Your Dog”, the brand new single by Italian hard rock power trio SANDNESS. The track is the first preview from their fifth studio album “Vertigo”, an energetic mix of hard rock and power pop with anthemic choruses, driving riffs, and a strong message of self-empowerment.

Music Video – https://youtu.be/Hz2-TNx1JB0​
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Produced, recorded, mixed, and mastered by Alessandro Del Vecchio at Ivorytears Music Works Recording Studio, the new album “Vertigo” marks a new creative chapter for the band. Written during a time of personal and professional change, the record embraces a new songwriting approach while staying true to the band’s signature sound.
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​“Not Your Dog” is a powerful and catchy anthem about independence and breaking free from control and expectations. With gritty guitars, punchy rhythms, and bold vocals, the track is perfect for fans of UFO, D-A-D, The Darkness, Y&T, and classic melodic hard rock.

“Vertigo” will be available on CD and limited edition purple vinyl.
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Pre-order the album: https://lnk.to/ZtUHJ1​
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Listen/save the single “Not Your Dog”: https://lnk.to/hzXlUT​

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SANDNESS will present the new album live on May 20, 2025, at Alcatraz – Milan, opening for Eclipse and Gotthard in their only Italian show.

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Tracklist – Vertigo:
​1. Per Aspera Ad Astra
2. The Match
3. Draw The Line
4. From Zero To Hero
5. Back For More
6. Midnight Dance
7. Rock’n’Roll High
8. Not Your Dog
9. Neverending Road
10. Train Of Time
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​Sandness Line-Up:
​Mark – Bass, lead and backing vocals
Metyou – Drums and backing vocals
Robby – Lead and rhythm guitar, lead and backing vocals

For more info:​
​Rockshots.eu​
​Sandnessofficial.com
​​Facebook.com/Sandnessband/​
​Instagram.com/sandness_official​

New York’s ARC Release New Video For “Ghost Lights” Ahead Of April Tour Dates With VISIONS OF ATLANTIS

Genre-defying metal NYC outfit ARC will be joining symphonic metal maestros Visions of Atlantis for two exclusive shows this April, bringing their extraordinary multimedia spectacle to lucky fans in Mechanicsburg, PA, and Brooklyn, NY. Ahead of this, they are releasing the video for their single “Ghost Lights,” which comes off the 2023 EP “Awaken The Machine”.

Founded on visionary Sonny Angell’s ambition to create a performance-based band with boundary-pushing music, ARC has rapidly established itself as one of the most innovative acts in modern metal. The band’s philosophy ‘ARC EVOLVES’ drives their constant reinvention and elevation of both their sound and stage presence. They comment on what is in store:

“We constantly try to raise the bar, enhance our stage show, expand our thematic elements, and experiment with different musical styles. ARC is ambiguously mysterious, ARC is energy and machines. Human interpretations are on stage playing the music, however, ARC is all around us. Information being transmitted from… Somewhere in parts of your brain, you didn’t know you had.”

The band performs with meticulously planned choreography, custom costumes, specialized stage lighting, props, and synchronized on-screen visuals—all managed by a dedicated stage manager who travels with the band exclusively to orchestrate their technical production.

ARC‘s music seamlessly fuses the brutality and melody of extreme metal with retro-futuristic synth-wave electronica, creating an all-out assault on the senses. Their frenetic live shows combine lasers, smoke, blood, sweat, and the band’s relentless energy in a performance experience that must be witnessed to be believed. They are recommended for fans of Rammstein, Dark Tranquility, and Dance with the Dead.

Watch and listen to the video from “Ghost Lights” at https://youtu.be/ImcuPCKPLK4​

Their latest EP, “Awaken The Machine,” is available on Arc-evolves.bandcamp.com and Spotify.

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Show Dates w/ Visions of Atlantis​
April 2 – Mechanicsburg, PA – Lovedrafts
April 5 – Brooklyn, NY – The Meadows

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Track Listing:​
1 – Dark Road – (3:44)
2 – Ghost Lights – (4:22)
3 – Magnitudes – (4:08)
4 – Shadow Life – (5:55)
5 – Kingdom for my Corpse – (4:25)
6 – The Deep End – (3:43)
Album Length: 26:19

More info: https://linktr.ee/arcmetalnyc​

Spanish Dark Post-Rock Architects Müntrails Sign With Wormholedeath

The atmospheric soundscapes of Spanish dark post-rock quintet Müntrails are set to captivate audiences worldwide as they proudly announce their signing with Wormholedeath Records. Their groundbreaking album, “The Cenobite Tapes,” is scheduled for release on May 2, 2025.
Formed in 2022, Müntrails—featuring Dibasson (vocals), Beszel (guitars, programming, backing vocals), Zennon (keyboards), BasLag (bass), and Shevek (drums)—has captivated audiences with their genre-blurring fusion of atmospheric post-rock, melancholy melodies, and raw, ritualistic energy. The band describes their journey as a quest to create deeply personal and timeless music, weaving their conceptual narratives through their recordings and electrifying live performances.
Having already made waves with their previous EPs (Venom To Come, Disorder Road, and Dance Divine), Müntrails has built an impressive foundation, with The Cenobite Tapes marking a new chapter in their sonic evolution.

In a statement reflecting their excitement, the band shared, “Müntrails is very pleased and proud to be part of the Wormholedeath records team and is fully convinced that there will be interesting events and outstanding successes working together. Hailzzzz!!”

“The Cenobite Tapes” is not just an album; it’s an immersive experience that invites listeners to traverse a rich tapestry of sound and emotion. While not a concept album in the traditional sense, it weaves together diverse musical landscapes that resonate with a profound sense of melancholy and rebellion.

From the hauntingly dense passages of “Pathways” to the raw intensity of “Ancient Enemy” and “We Can Dance,” which feature powerful bass lines and ritualistic guitars, Müntrails showcases their ability to blend emotional depth with sonic ferocity. The album also explores more progressive and ambient territories in tracks like “Heretic Eyes” and “Erase My Name,” post-rock elements are intricately layered throughout, creating a nuanced listening experience.

Despite its lack of a defined concept, “The Cenobite Tapes” possesses a subtle common thread that emphasizes the band’s unique self-expression. This distinctive character makes the album both engaging and accessible, inviting listeners to become active participants in its emotional and dramatic journey. The result is a cohesive listening experience that feels like a living, breathing entity, where ambient musicality and vocal expression reign supreme.

muntrails.bandcamp.com
www.youtube.com/@Muntrails
www.facebook.com/Muntrails
www.instagram.com/muntrails
soundcloud.com/muntrails

Pre-save The Cenobite Tapes here: orcd.co/thecenobitetapes

US alternative rock sensations DAKAR – Debut Album “Say It Again”

True to their name, Dakar represents the spirit of American rock from Duval County, Florida. Founded by talented musicians David Benfield, Darrell Edmunds, and Luke Jean in 2019, Dakar has quickly risen to prominence with their distinctive sound that they describe as “analog rock for a digital world.” With a blend of 90s guitar-driven alternative hard rock, indie, punk, modern, and southern rock influences, Dakar’s music captivates audiences with its raw energy and unapologetic style.

Following the success of their EPs, “Come and Get It” in 2020 and “Over the Line” in 2021, Dakar gained widespread acclaim for their raucous dystopian cautionary title track, “Over the Line,” a powerful combination of overdriven classic rock guitars and ferocious vocals. The band’s musical evolution and their passion for crafting authentic and powerful compositions set them apart in the competitive rock scene.

Their debut full-length album, “Say It Again,” was recorded at Friends of Friends studio in Jax under the skilled guidance of engineer Brok Mendes. The band poured their heart and soul into the nine-month-long production process, resulting in an album that showcases their collective talent, dedication, and growth as musicians.


“Say It Again” tracklist:
1. Not Gonna Be Your Sucka
2. Chase Scene
3. Say It Again
4. Over The Line
5. Come and Get It
6. Ronnie Jean
7. Clutches
8. Grab Your Reigns
9. Reason
10. Animal
11. Projection
12. Escape From New York
13. Empire Dreams

To get a taste of Dakar’s powerful sound and musical talent, be sure to check out the lyric video for “Say It Again” on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4oJ_0e3uyoI&feature=youtu.be

“Dakar,” as the band explains, holds several meanings, but the one closest to their hearts is derived from the Senegalese local Wolof word, meaning “whoever settles here will be in peace.” This sentiment resonates with the band’s mission to create music that connects with listeners on a deeper level, offering solace and strength in an increasingly complex world.

DAKAR are:
David Benfield – Guitar/Vocals
Darrell Edmunds – Guitar/Vocals
Alejandro Soto – Bass
Luke Jean – Drums

Fans can connect with the band through their website and social media platforms:

– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dakartheband
– Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dakartheband
– Twitter: http://twitter.com/dakartheband
– Reverbnation: https://www.reverbnation.com/dakartheband
– YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/dakartheband
– Official Website: www.dakar.band
– Spotify: tinyurl.com/SpotifyDakar

Dead Groove Announce new EP “Rubicon” and Motörhead Cover

Rising heavy blues powerhouse Dead Groove, born from the creative crucible of 2020’s lockdown, release the EP Rubicon this week. Pressed on crystal clear 10″ vinyl, the release features a distinctive cover of Motörhead’s “Ace of Spades.”
Also included are two coruscating band originals, “Fire” and “The Damned,” the latter spotlighted by Dead Groove’s latest video, an auto-destruction rampage capturing the three piece in action. Watch out, too, for a special appearance by Moris Tepper’s “The Bummer Man” painting.
Filmed by Vinny Marvaso and produced/edited by band members Fred Aching and Holly West, the video premiered this week.
Dead Groove began as a pandemic collaboration between drummer Aching and bassist/vocalist West, and swiftly evolved into one of the scene’s most promising acts. The band, completed by guitarist Cesar “Cags” Salaverry, brings together decades of professional experience, including West’s current role with Zepparella, Salaverry with the Peruvian band Mauser, and Aching’s performances with Kings of Thrash alongside David Ellefson, Powerflo and BulletBoys.
The successor to the band’s acclaimed self-titled debut album, Rubicon represents a significant evolution in Dead Groove’s musical journey. The title, referencing the historic point of no return, perfectly captures the band’s commitment to pushing their sonic boundaries – they describe it as presenting “a more polished iteration of Dead Groove’s signature sound while maintaining the raw energy fans have come to expect.”
Their interpretation of Motörhead’s “Ace of Spades” demonstrates Dead Groove’s artistic vision. By deliberately slowing the tempo and incorporating their characteristic groove, the band has created a fresh interpretation that both honors the original and establishes their unique musical identity.
The EP’s creative process highlights the band’s collaborative strength, with Aching and Salaverry crafting the instrumental framework while West contributes her distinctive vocals and lyrical artistry. Drawing from influences including Black Sabbath’s heavy blues foundation, Deep Purple’s progressive complexity, and the melodic innovation of King’s X, Dead Groove continues to forge their own path in modern heavy music.
To celebrate the release, Dead Groove are performing at the legendary Whisky A Go Go on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood on March 23rd, opening for King’s X. The band will be available for interviews throughout the upcoming month to discuss their music, creative process, and future projects.Press inquiries:
Further information