Author: Crix

French alt-punk/metal/rockers MATW re-release sophomore mini album ‘Endless Loop’ worldwide

Nearly a six months after the initial release of the record, French alternative punk/metal band MATW is thrilled to announce its worldwide re-release of ‘Endless Loop’ across all major digital platforms, following the re-release of their previous mini-album ‘Through The Looking Glass’.

As part of this global launch, the album is now fully available for streaming on YouTube, allowing fans everywhere to immerse themselves in their powerful sound.

Stream the entire mini-album on YouTube

A Striking Fusion of Punk, Rock, and Metal
Since forming in 2013, MATW has become a standout force in the French alternative scene. Their debut EP, Find Your Way (Send The Wood Music), earned them a reputation for high-energy performances across southern France. In 2015, the band released their self-titled album Me Against The World, blending punk, rock, and metal with raw intensity.

A refreshed lineup in 2020 brought new sonic explorations, leading to a remastered version of their debut in 2022. In 2023, the EP Through The Looking Glass gained critical acclaim from Rolling Stone and Rock&Folk, propelling the band to major shows alongside Ignite (USA) and Mad Of Ace (UK).

Their 2024 release, Endless Loop, a companion to Through The Looking Glass, showcases their most ambitious work yet. Recorded in-house by Florian Cedard and mastered by Loran Saulus, the album received praise from Rock Hard and fueled a nationwide tour.

Poised for 2025, MATW is ready to bring their signature energy to new stages and audiences, determined to leave a lasting impact.

Tyrantti & Irvikuvat live at Monttu New Level, Pori (Finland) 1.2.2025

Finnish band Tyrantti released their album “Ihmispyramidi” last November, to promote it they went on a tour that touched several Finnish cities including Pori, where our reporter Cristina immortalized the band with her photos. Their performance did not disappoint the fans who crowded under the stage, an explosion of energy and virtuosity accompanied by fun and surprises. For this tour the band has grown, during the live shows in addition to the official members there are the keyboardist Koobra Kovanen (absent for this date) and the bassist Janne Viitanen. To replace the drummer who for family reasons is absent on this tour, in Pori Patrik Fält (Brymir) took care of it. In support the local Irvikuvat, who with their rock/metal alternated with comedy sketches, knew how to do the honors and warm up the audience.
Here the photos taken by Cristina Gregori.

THE PIT presents Award-Winning Documentary ‘The History Of Metal And Horror’

“In a way, ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ is about the end of the world, and I think that might be why Leatherface and ‘Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ are so appealing in heavy metal. It’s really apocalyptic and Leatherface is an apocalyptic character. I think that’s where you start to see an overlap with the interests of a lot of heavy metal music.”

As new addition to its list of programs, THE PIT VOD platform presents “The History Of Metal And Horror”, a documentary that explores the history of heavy metal music and horror, and how the two genres ultimately crossed paths.

Various metal artists share their first introduction to horror, their favorite horror films, their influences, and more. Horror film icons also discuss how their films have influenced the horror genre, their connections to metal artists, and why metal and horror work well together

The full documentary is available right now on the platform with a 7-days FREE trial.

Stream the documentary on The PIT

The electrifying fusion of heavy metal and horror, showing how these two genres have inspired, influenced, and collided to create a lasting cultural phenomenon.

Directed by Mike Schiff, this captivating documentary explores the origins of heavy metal, its profound ties to classic horror cinema, and its enduring cultural impact. “The History of Metal and Horror” offers a deep dive into the dynamic relationship between these two iconic genres, featuring insights from over sixty prominent figures in metal and horror.

Adding a creative twist, the film weaves its chapters with segments of a post-apocalyptic short film hosted by horror legend Michael Berryman. Interviewees include some of the biggest names in the industries, such as Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie, John Carpenter, John 5, Tom Savini, Kirk Hammett, Dave Mustaine, Corey Taylor, Kane Hodder, Jonathan Davis, Scott Ian, Doug Bradley, Sid Haig, Bill Moseley, and Chris Jericho.

For reminder, THE PIT is and available right now through the following link and your best ISP.

SinHeresY Announce European Tour in Support to ELEINE

Italian modern metal band SinHeresY have announced that they will be supporting Eleine on their “We Shall Remain Tour” around Europe next April/May.
The band will share the stage also with alternative rock/metal Klorg.

Raised in Trieste (Italy) in 2009, SinHeresY is one of the most renowned italian modern metal band with both male/female vocals. From the goth atmospheres of the debut EP “The Spiders and the Butterfly” (Revalve Records, 2011), through the symphonic landscapes of the first full-lenght album “Paint the World”  (Bakerteam Records, 2013), to the energetic streams of “Domino” (Scarlet Records, 2017), SinHeresY crafted a unique sound made of distiguished vocals, core-oriented guitar riffs and bombastic keyboards, with no musical boundary. SinHeresY already toured several times around Europe, sharing the stage with world-class acts as Dream Theater, Queensryche, Tarja, Lacuna Coil, Lordi, Children of Bodom. Following the acclaimed 2019 pop-metal platter “Out of Connection” the five-pieces combo released its fifth studio album “Event Horizon” via Scarlet Records on August 2023.

THE LIFE YOU LEFT BEHIND (official video)

CASTAWAYS (official video)

ZERO ONE (official video)

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Ecuador’s ANIMA INSIDE New Video “Through The Glass” Off Upcoming Album “Alien”

Ecuadar’s Anima Inside, unveils “Through The Glass”, a compelling new single accompanied by a striking official music video, further amplifying the song’s intense emotional depth. As one of the most powerful tracks from their upcoming album “Alien”, the song showcases the band’s signature blend of modern rock, progressive elements, and rich melodic textures.

With razor-sharp riffs, a dynamic rhythm section, and soaring vocals, “Through The Glass” takes listeners on a profound journey of perception and self-reflection. The song questions reality—do we truly see what’s on the other side or just a distorted version of the truth? This duality is mirrored in the cinematic music video, which visually brings to life the track’s themes of introspection and uncertainty.

Renowned for their ability to fuse progressive rock, alternative influences, and Latin musical roots, Anima Inside once again delivers a track that is both immediate and deeply layered. Fans of Muse, Pink Floyd, and Disturbed will find themselves drawn to its evocative storytelling, soaring melodies, and immersive instrumental work.

With meticulous production and a striking visual narrative, “Through The Glass” is a powerful statement, reinforcing Anima Inside’s status as one of South America’s most compelling rock acts.

LISTEN TO “Through The Glass” – https://lnk.to/iqOTVT​
​VIDEO – https://youtu.be/NfgFRFP7Zhw​

More info: https://www.rockshots.eu | https://animainside.com | https://www.facebook.com/AnimaInside | https://www.instagram.com/animainside | https://x.com/AnimaInside​
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“Drink Some More!” w/ VALLORCH’s Music Video of Galloping Riffs & Triumphant Choruses For New Album “The Circle” Out March 2025

Vallorch continues their journey into the world of folk and symphonic metal with their latest single, “Drink Some More!”, a raucous celebration of music, camaraderie, and revelry. Taken from their upcoming album “The Circle”, out next March 14th, 2025 from RockShots Records, this track embodies the band’s signature blend of folk traditions and symphonic grandeur delivering an irresistibly energetic and immersive experience.

With galloping rhythms, soaring melodies, and powerful folk instrumentation, “Drink Some More!” brings the listener straight into the heart of an ancient, fire-lit revelry. The combination of driving riffs, triumphant choruses, and spirited flute melodies captures the essence of Vallorch’s sound—balancing the raw energy of folk metal with the epic atmospheres of symphonic and power metal. The song is a perfect example of the band’s evolution, refining the elements introduced in “Neverfade” (2013) and “Until Our Tale Is Told” (2017) into a polished, dynamic, and immersive sonic experience.

Lyrically, the song draws from Alpine folklore and ancient traditions celebrating the timeless ritual of gathering together to share stories, drinks, and moments of uninhibited joy. “Drink Some More!” invites listeners to let go of worries, embrace the present, and lose themselves in a whirlwind of melody and rhythm.
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​Vallorch is also thrilled to announce the release of the official music video for “Drink Some More!”, visually bringing to life the song’s vibrant energy and celebratory spirit. This video perfectly complements the track’s infectious atmosphere, immersing viewers in the amazing and high-energy world that Vallorch has crafted with its music.

Fans of Eluveitie, Alestorm, Wind Rose, and Korpiklaani will find much to love in Vallorch’s vibrant fusion of folk instrumentation and symphonic power. This track is a call to revelry, a toast to the enduring spirit of folk metal, and a preview of the grand musical landscapes that “The Circle” promises to unveil.

Raise your glass, let the music take over, and “Drink Some More!” with Vallorch as they prepare to unleash their most refined and exhilarating work to date.

Music Video – “Drink Some More!” – https://youtu.be/7q6VdSiaE2k​

Digital Single – https://lnk.to/0GbDTM​

Album Pre-Order / Save – “The Circle” – Out March 14, 2025 – https://lnk.to/sbWpoP​

First Single – “Circle of The Moon”

Music Video – https://youtu.be/IlyLrROKUQU​

Digital – https://lnk.to/lURizi​

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Track Listing:​
1. To the Silver Summit – 3:53
2. Hellpath – 3:52
3. Circle of the Moon – 3:34
4. Drink Some More! – 3:42
5. Antermoia – 5:00
6. Röte Löon – 4:39
7. Salbanéo – 3:59
8. The Wild One – 4:10
9. Dyssomnia – 9:08
Album Length: 42:01

ABOUT:​
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​VALLORCH was born in December 2010, when Marco Munari (NewSun), Matteo Patuelli (Alzhagoth), and Massimo Benetazzo came up with the idea right after attending a concert together. Inspired by the energy and spirit of the event, they decided to form their own band, and the name VALLORCH—taken from a small Cimbrian village on the Cansiglio plateau—was quickly chosen as a tribute to their cultural roots.

For the first year, VALLORCH experimented with different sounds and musicians, searching for the right lineup. By January 2012, the group solidified with the addition of vocalist/flutist Sara, vocalist/bassist Leonardo Dalla Via, multi-instrumentalist Andrea ‘Demetrio’ Rampin (playing tin whistle, bagpipes, accordion), and violinist Francesco Salviato. This seven-member ensemble debuted live in March 2012, promoting their newly released EP Stories of North. Their captivating blend of folk metal quickly gained traction, earning them recognition in the Italian scene and leading to performances at events like Fosch Fest, where they opened for major bands.

However, the summer of 2012 brought changes. Violinist Francesco parted ways with the band, and Martina Mezzalira took his place. Around the same time, VALLORCH signed a record deal with Moonlight Records and entered the studio to work on their first full-length album. Released in 2013, Neverfade was met with critical and fan acclaim, blending fast-paced, melodic jigs with guttural and clean vocals, alongside powerful death metal riffs. This success landed them performances at major international festivals like Metaldays.

2014 saw further lineup shifts. Andrea Demetrio Rampin left the band, replaced by Paolo Pesce on accordion, hurdy-gurdy, and keyboards. Meanwhile, vocalist Sara took over tin whistle and bagpipe duties. Founding member Matteo Patuelli also stepped down, making way for guitarist Mattia Buggin to join. Despite these changes, VALLORCH pressed forward, embarking on their first European tour with Artaius. They played in Germany, Czechia, France, Belgium, and Slovakia, culminating in a performance opening for Mägo de Oz at the Metal for Emergency festival.

Later that year, they returned to the studio to record their second full-length album, Until Our Tale Is Told (2015). The album reflected the band’s growing compositional maturity and led to more festival appearances and live shows over the next two years.

In 2016, Riccardo Gianni briefly joined the band as a violinist, performing at several major local festivals. However, by 2019, the band was once again at a crossroads. After a series of lineup changes and creative challenges, founding member Marco Munari decided to leave the group. The remaining members—Massimo, Sara, Leo, Mattia, and Marco—faced a difficult choice: either disband or evolve. They chose to reinvent themselves as a five-piece band.

The global restrictions from 2020 to 2022 made live performances difficult, but the band used this time to focus on writing new material. By 2023, VALLORCH returned to the stage, opening for renowned acts like Alestorm, Wind Rose, and Rhapsody Of Fire.

Now, in 2025, VALLORCH is set to release their highly anticipated new album, “The Circle”, marking a triumphant return. Reborn from the ashes of their former selves, they are ready to take the world by storm once again.

Vallorch Line Up:​
​Sara Tacchetto: vocals, choirs, tin whistle, bagpipe
​Leonardo Dalla Via: vocals, harsh vocals, choirs, bass, programming
​Marco Povolo: vocals, choirs, keyboards, bouzouki, programming
​Massimo Benetazzo: Drums
​Mattia Buggin: electric and acoustic guitars
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​Guests:

Serena Zucco (Adgarios): violin
​Glorya Lyr (Eard): Celtic harp in “Antermoia”

More info: ​
​https://www.rockshots.eu​
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​FOLLOW:​
​https://www.instagram.com/vallorch_official/​
​https://www.facebook.com/vallorch​

“Every drop of heart blood is squeezed into this album.” – Finnish metal band Black .44 released their second studio album Bloodlines

Finnish metal band Black .44 released their second studio album Bloodlines on February 7th 2025 via Inverse Records. Their debut album “No Blanks” hit the Official Finnish Album Charts on position #19 in 2015. To celebrate the album release, the band also released a stunning music video ‘Aftermath’ made by Anssi Korhonen.

WATCH  Aftermath music video: https://youtu.be/1pdWvss-PD4

Life has taken the band members around the world since their debut album, and finally the next album will see the light of day. That’s pretty much the only daylight we’ll encounter with the release.
The band continues the theme of the first album with dark themes, because they too have to be confronted and overcome. Throughout the album, we deal with mental illness, extreme intolerance, political shenanigans and reflections on taking another person’s life along the tunes of tasty hard rock and stoner inspired metal.
The main themes of the album are the extreme difficulties of different parts of societies, the mental imbalance of certain individuals of humankind and the fundamental problems in humanity that pave the way of our race as a small grain of sand in the cold emptiness of the universe.
Our second album is a humble bow to the musical influences we grew up with to our respectable adult age, and we hope that these elements will also make our listeners smile and nod their heads along our music, because every drop of heart blood is squeezed into this album.

LISTEN to Bloodlines album: https://push.fm/fl/black44-album

Limited CD edition available HERE

Black .44 – Bloodlines (album 2025)


Track list:

1. Intolerance
2. Bloodlines
3. The Kingdom
4. Again
5. The Motherfucker Song
6. Vril
7. Will The Real Jesus Christ Please Stand Up?
8. Angst
9. Aftermath

Album cover by Riku Turunen

Line-up:

Jason – Vocals & Rhythm Guitars

Antti – Lead Guitars

Pete – Bass

Mikko – Drums

Links:
https://www.black44.net
https://www.facebook.com/blackpoint44
https://www.instagram.com/black_.44
https://black44.bandcamp.com

The first international rock band perform in world most watched Gala Event in China

Since its 1983 debut, the Spring Festival Gala is a tradition for Chinese New Year celebrations and it is recognized by Guiness World Records as the world’s most-watched TV program.

Triumph Music confirmed OneRepublic’s appearance and got superior time slot for its airing on Jan 28th. OneRepublic has become the first American band to perform during China’s Spring Festival Gala.

Triumph Music CEO Gary Chow states “It was great honor and privilege to work with such talent as OneRepublic’s. It was challenging but rewarding to work on the project, and with everyone involved wanted this historical performance to happen. We have lots to thank to China Media Group (CMG), producer of Spring Festival Gala.” Triumph partner Richie Mattila adds “The approval process was highly stringent but it got selected as one of favorite segments at the end.”

Followed the successful airing (600millon views) with joint post-promotion efforts from artist team and Triumph Music, OneRepublic quickly established themselves as one of the most popular Western bands in China. Gary Chow says “We see how influential the Spring Festival Gala is, OneRepublic performing during the show went viral and it was the most-discussed topic on China’s socials with numbers of fans doubling overnight.”

Triumph Music is an artist service company based in Shanghai specialize in booking, promoting and developing international artists in China.

More information:
Gary Chow CEO
Phone +86 18501609956
E-mail garychow@triumph-music.com

Rock band Saving Jack release massive ballad Brother – The song dedicated to friends was born from lyrics given as a gift

Founded in 2020, Saving Jack has grown from an acoustic trio into a seven-piece rock orchestra, including both classical music experts and self-taught garage rockers. The band, which is signed to Ässä Records, has so far released the EPs Free and Live Your Life. The previous single releases Losing You and Drunk Again were released earlier this year.

Today, however, we are on the verge of a more dramatic production, as Saving Jack releases their new single Brother. The song showcases the band’s signature characteristics – ambitious American-style compositions, singing lead guitars and profound lyrics. The end result is a rock ballad that meets international standards.

Brother was born when the band’s composer, Jaakko “Jaffa” Tanninen, received the finest Christmas gift from his wife: lyrics that tell the story of friendship, its authenticity, timelessness and beauty. The significance of the lyrics was highlighted when a person close to the band died of illness during the song’s production. However, he managed to hear the first version of the Brother single. The band dedicates the song to all their dear friends.

“This topic had been on their minds for a long time, but they had not found suitable words, even though friends have always played a very big role in the band’s life. The following days were spent at the piano, and we finished the draft of the song Brother. Originally, the song was only intended to be recorded with piano and vocals, but in the studio an electric guitar was also added. However, the song continued to grow, and the final version also includes drums, bass and percussion,” Jaffa recalls.

Saving Jack is:
Vocals – Ville Muru
Guitar – Timo Pyykkö
Guitar – Jaakko “Jaffa” Tanninen
Bass – Heikki Hartikainen
Drums – Ossie Jaala
Piano – Sampo Anttila
Percussion – Nils-Ole Römark

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Finnish heavy rock band STUD releases their fifth album

‘Under Silver Sky’ is Finnish STUD‘s fifth album and it offers a diverse set of melodic heavy rock songs. STUD have been updating ther sound from album to album and the same continues with this latest one. ‘Under Silver Sky’ is another strong performance from the pioneer of Finnish heavy rock.

The album features 10 songs, of which ‘Under silver sky’, ‘Castaway’ and ‘Alone’ have already been released as singles. Lyric videos have also been released for the singles.

STUD has been releasing albums at a steady pace since 2013, with their latest album being their fifth full-length. Each album has been carefully crafted, using the best professionals at every stage of the process. However, the responsibility for the final result has always been with the band itself.

The music on this album offers fans of melodic heaviness and hard rock a journey from one mood to another. The opening track ‘The Bridge’ is an instrumental that has also been played as an intro at the band’s gigs. ‘False believer’ is a strong and loud heavy song with a riff that is the only part of the album that was written before 2020.

The title track ‘Under silver sky’ and the catchy ‘Last time’ are the more melodic sections of the album, while the more modern sound is represented by ‘If living is so easy’ and ‘Low battery’. Singles ‘Alone’ and the album closer ‘Castaway’ show that STUD is on a roll and not taking any backward steps.

Listen to the album on music services (Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Tidal, Bandcamp etc.): https://push.fm/fl/stud-undersilversky

STUD:

Ari Toivanen (vocals)
Mika Kansikas (guitar & keyboards)
Lauri Leno (bass)
Stenda Kukkonen (drums)

STUD’s discography includes:
1. Out of the Darkness (2013)
2. Rust on the Rose (2014)
3. Circle of Lies (2017)
4. War of Power (2020)
5. Under Silver Sky (2025)

For more information about the band, their discography, and upcoming tour dates, visit their official website at www.stud.fi and the Facebook-page www.facebook.com/STUDofficial