Category: Press Releases

UK’s SERPENTYNE’s New Album “Tales From The Dark” out now – New Video “Run For Your Life”

Serpentyne unleashes their highly anticipated new album “Tales From The Dark”, a bold evolution of their symphonic metal sound. The album refines its signature fusion of orchestral grandeur and modern metal intensity, weaving together fast-paced, cinematic compositions with powerful vocal harmonies. Fans of Nightwish, Within Temptation, and Eluveitie will find themselves immersed in a dynamic and evocative listening experience.
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The road to “Tales From The Dark” has been paved with an electrifying single that introduced listeners to the album’s rich sonic universe. The first glimpse came with “Prophetess of Dreams”, a hard-hitting and fast-paced track that set the stage with machine-gun guitar riffs and an ominous tale of fate and destiny. Now, the album release is accompanied by the focus track “Run For Your Life”, a relentless and high-energy anthem that captures urgency and fear through a powerful mix of 8-string guitar work, soaring vocals, and layered orchestration. This song encapsulates the cinematic intensity of Serpentyne’s evolved sound, pulling listeners into a desperate chase for survival.

Watch and listen to the video for “Run For Your Life” – https://youtu.be/U4zZMv5DWrQ​
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With “Tales From The Dark”, Serpentyne solidifies its place at the forefront of the symphonic metal scene, delivering an album that is heavier, darker, and more dynamic than ever before.
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​“Tales From The Dark” is available now on all major streaming platforms and in physical format at the following links:

Digital – https://lnk.to/talesfromthedark​

CD pre-order – https://rockshots.eu/products/serpentyne-tales-from-the-dark-cd​

Music Video – “Prophetess of Dreams” – https://youtu.be/u5g-6pX-7BI​

​

Track Listing:​
1. Prophetess of Dreams
2. Into The Night
3. Dangerous Mind
4. Ghosts of Times Past
5. Run for Your Life
6. Evil From Within
7. Dreamer
8. Seance
9. March of Death
10. Promised Land

Album Credits:​
Maggiebeth Sand – Lead Vocals
Nigel Middleton – Bass and Vocals
Lee Willmer – Guitars
John Haithwaite – Keyboards
Marco – Drums
​
Recorded by Maggiebeth Sand, Lee Willmer and John Haithwaite
Produced and arranged by Serpentyne
Mixed and Mastered by Justin Hill
Front cover Artwork by Harley Velasquez
Digipack & booklet design by Maggiebeth Sand

​More info:​
Label: https://www.rockshots.eu​
Website: https://www.serpentyne.com​
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Serpentyneofficial​
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serpentyneofficial​
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Texas Metal Veterans STATE OF MIND Return With Sophomore EP “Sanity Of Madness”

State of Mind, the Texas-based heavy metal outfit known for its powerful blend of classic metal and raw emotion, has recently released its second EP “Sanity of Madness” on February 7, 2025, via Self-Made Records with distribution from Earache Records. The six-track collection arrives as a testament to the band’s evolution since their formation in 1994, showcasing their signature combination of thunderous anthems and introspective songwriting. They comment on their expectation for the reception of the album:

“We think it will be received well. It’s got a raw human unpolished sound to it that you don’t get anymore. We decided not to put too much polish on it and leave it raw and authentic. We wanted that human, dirty sound. Like the good ole days of hella concerts. It’s like all of our influences came together and showed us the path we needed to take. There are so many storylines in this EP; it’s epic how they all fit together”

“Sanity of Madness” builds on the momentum of their 2022 singles “Shattered” and “Fall Away,” and their self-titled 2019 debut. The new release includes standout tracks like “The Masters Coming”, a groove-heavy odyssey that tells the tale of Renefield’s supernatural struggles, and “Dead”, a hard-driving anthem that captures the universal feeling of modern-day alienation. “Wizard”, inspired by a mystical poster that once adorned their practice space, demonstrates the band’s ability to transform visual art into crushing metal compositions.

State of Mind continues to deliver what they call “New Classic Metal” combining the timeless appeal of traditional heavy metal with contemporary themes and production. The EP weaves together tales of mythical beings, personal demons, and spiritual warfare, all delivered with the intensity that State of Mind fans have come to expect. It is recommended for fans of Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, and Dio.

“Sanity of Madness” is available at the following links:

Bandcamp – https://sttefmnd.bandcamp.com

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/4hBestQ​

Youtube Stream – https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_kQqlrjSlxBdocyxCjG8JIfnIWTTgfxBQA​

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Track Listing:​
1. The Masters Coming (3:00)
2. Dead (3:50)
3. Mourning Star (4:59)
4. Shine (3:34)
5. Wizard (2:39)
6. Sail Across The Ocean (3:52)
EP Length: 21:51

More info: Facebook.com/AstateofmindJohnFerris | X.com/JohnFerris_SOM​

Finnish prog rock band Mastord has released their third album

Mastord is a Finnish progressively rocking project that has released two albums Trail Of Consequence 2019 and To Whom Bow Even The Trees 2021. Third album, Lemmon Lintu, was released on February 14, 2025, exactly six years after the debut album.

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

A lot has changed since the last release. The singing language has changed from English to Finnish, the soundscape has become lighter and new people have brought their strong expertise to the music.

Guitarist and songwriter Kari Syvelä backgrounds the new album: “When all is lost and life slowly dwindles away, a journey begins from which there is no return. “Raven” takes the listener to the depths of the soul, where loneliness, the longing for abandonment are the only companions and comfort. In this story, man steps into the enchanting shadow of the black bird and walks towards the edge of death, but not only towards the end, but towards a new way of being.

The journey is not just about letting go, it is also a journey of self-discovery – no longer in the human, but in a much larger and freer sense. Going ever deeper, grief and despair turn into understanding, and finally, somewhere in the darkest night, death is no longer an end but a transformation.

Lemmon Lintu is not only an album about death, but also about life after death. In this story, a man who has lost himself finds a new life – no longer as a man, but as a raven, doing his work as an altruistic, humble and most respectful escort to the afterlife. In the end, the raven’s song is no longer just a call to death, but the soothing sound of life and death merging together, telling us that even when we lose everything, we can still find something in ourselves that will never die.”

Line-up:
Markku Pihlaja, vocals and lyrics
Jenni Roslakka, backing vocals
Jarmo Pikka, drums
Antti Huopainen, pianos, electric pianos and Hammonds
Pasi Hakuli, bass frequencies
Kari Syvelä, guitars and synthesizers

https://www.facebook.com/mastordofficial

https://www.instagram.com/mastordband/

Rioghan release the second studio album ‘Kept’ – new video ‘Motion’ also available

Finnish progressive metal band Rioghan released their second studio album ‘Kept’ on February 14th 2025 via Inverse Records. Also an official live video of ‘Motion’ can be seen HERE.

LISTEN to the album: https://push.fm/fl/rioghan-kept

Rioghan comments:

About the song ‘Motion’:
“In my opinion, ‘Motion’ entwines everything I love in this band and song making process, a wide variety of vocal range, ominous seriousness with playful twists, catchy chorus and a bag full of surprises all in all! For the whole process of this album’s making, ‘Motion’ has stayed my favorite song of all. Keyboards for this song are played by Vikram Shankar, Teemu Liekkala, and the end solo is performed by our newest addition to the band, keyboardist Aleks Toppari.”

About the album:
” ‘Kept’ revolves lyrically within the name’s theme, every song tells a different story and perspective of being kept in, by, or from something. Imprisonment, mentally or physically, in different moments of life or within someone’s presence. Instrumentally, ‘Kept’ goes to way more deeper ends than it’s predecessor ‘Different Kinds Of Losses’. As expected, we couldn’t decide whether to soar or to dive, so we did both and visited all kinds of levels in between. I feel like we reached new lengths in working together as a band and our bond has grown so much stronger, giving a lot of space to more free creativity.”

About the live shows:
“It feels SO good to get back to live shows and meeting all the lovely people who have carried this forward to this point and also welcoming all the new faces in the crowd! Yesterday’s pre-listen party and livestream show was an unforgettable experience, so much love for everyone involved!”

The music video of first single ‘Edge’ can be seen here: https://youtu.be/SYz0locEGn4

The music video of second single ‘Hands’ available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_-4BO6FTB8

The music video of third single ‘Distance’ available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RFfafeR93nY

BIOGRAPHY
The rising star of modern Finnish metal Rioghan has made an unforgettable expression to the metal scene with their multi-layered musical expression full of surprises. Strikingly beautiful yet violent imagery hand in hand with the music creates an otherworldly experience, easy to fall in love with.

Rioghan’s music is modern metal with progressive twist – ranging from melodic death metal moments to floating dark pop elements, while ethereal gothic darkness walks right beside you all the way.

Based in 2019 around singer-poetess Rioghan Darcy, the band has gained international attention from their very first EP Blackened Sky. Positive remarks grew even heavier with their debut album Different Kinds Of Losses, made in collaboration with Jonas Renkse (Katatonia) and Einar Solberg (Leprous).

The band consists of singer Rioghan Darcy, guitarist Teemu Liekkala (Red Eleven), guitarist Tero Luukkonen (Red Eleven), bassist Antti Varjanne (Joviac, Time Primer), and drummer Valtteri Revonkorpi (Leverage).

Rioghan’s live production consists of hardcore professionals, and every moment is thought through from lights to stage presence. Dedicatedly practiced show was presented to fans in autumn 2024, when Rioghan toured Finland with Wheel in Olympia, Tampere; Sawohouse UG, Kuopio; On The Rocks, Helsinki; Lutakko, Jyväskylä; Finlandia-klubi, Lahti and 45Special, Oulu.

The crowd’s warm welcome with the successful tour ensured Rioghan their place among the future exports to be reckoned with.

Rioghan – Kept (Album 2025)

Track list:
01. Dreams
02. Hands
03. Skin
04. Edge
05. Distance
06. Hopes
07. Motion
08. Here
09. Red
10. Grief

Cover photo: Mikko Parkkonen / Aarni Visuals

Cover layout: Sakari Tuokkola

Produced & mixed by Teemu Liekkala
Mastered by Miro Kiiski / Miro Mastering

Line-up:
Rioghan Darcy – vocals
Teemu Liekkala – guitar & keys
Tero Luukkonen – guitar
Antti Varjanne – bass
Valtteri Revonkorpi – drums

Links: 
https://linktr.ee/rioghandarcy
https://www.facebook.com/rioghandarcy
https://www.instagram.com/rioghandarcy
https://rioghan.bandcamp.com
https://spoti.fi/36nTHP7
https://www.rakkausrunot.fi/runoilijat/emma-rioghan-darcy

Italian LINISTIT Release New Single And Video ‘Rose Of Eden Garden’

From the depths of gothic legends and the dark imagery of black/death metal, LINISTIT unveil their new single, Rose of Eden Garden, now available on all digital platforms via Volcano Records.

Inspired by the tales of Mircalla Karnstein, the track narrates the tormented love between a human and a vampire – a bond that defies the dogmas of Christian religion to embrace a free and immortal existence. With powerful, melodic, and dark soundscapes, the song explores the desire to transcend human limitations and embrace eternity.

Formed in 2012 by Claudio Pluchino (Angelus – rhythm guitar) and Maria Spada (Triria – vocals), Linistit represent an evolution of extreme Italian metal, forging a unique identity that blends technique, passion, and evocative gothic aesthetics.

The official music video for Rose of Eden Garden is a powerful work that intertwines sensuality and erotic tension with a profound sonic narrative. Here, black metal pushes beyond its most hidden boundaries, delivering a radical, multisensory experience that is both thrilling and captivating.

Watch the Rose of Eden Garden music video here: https://youtu.be/8tzupQuGiFo

Further info at
www.volcanopromotion.com
www.facebook.com/linistit.official

Canadian Power Thrash PHEAR’s Heaviest Sound To Date On New Album “Save Our Souls” out now

Canadian metal contingent PHEAR has unleashed their second full-length album “Save Our Souls”,with digital distribution from Golden Robot Records. The new record follows the band’s award-winning album “Instanitarium” (2019), and their critically acclaimed EP “The Curse Lives On” (2020).

With their arena-caliber sound, “Save Our Souls” was produced, mixed, and mastered by Jon Howard (Threat Signal), and can be best described as the heaviest offering from PHEAR to date. Most of the album was written during the dark times of Covid. “Not a lot to be happy about during that time,” adds vocalist Patrick Mulock.

Extremely passionate and driven, PHEAR is always thinking of new ways to entertain its fans, and “Save Our Souls” is no exception. It has taken four years to complete (mostly due to covid). Led by Patrick Mulock and producer Jon Howard in the studio, each musician was pushed hard to get the best out of each of them and they delivered.

“We had a lot of time to craft these songs. We didn’t have any time restraints. We would go into the studio and do three songs at a time. We were very excited to work with Jon Howard (Threat Signal) again. Jon is the sixth member of Phear. The studio experience was great as we fed off each other’s ideas. We pushed each other to get the best performances we could. There are NO FILLERS here. Seven String guitars have played a big part in this. Our sound has grown. The bass guitar on this album is HUGE! The drumming from Mike Harshaw was also very aggressive. If you were to ask me now…This is the heaviest Phear has ever been……….for now lol!” says Mulock.

A listening experience of thrash, prog, and classic metal elements, PHEAR offers a strong balance from infectious choruses to melodic and growling vocals for true heavy metal nostalgia. Their two lead singles, the album’s title track and “Snake” are sure to make you throw up your hail horns and rock out with a sore neck from the headbanging. Plus the band offers up their cover version of Nevermore‘s “Narcosynthesis”.

“We feel that Phear fans will LOVE this album. We have played some of these songs live and they have gone over amazingly. The first time we played the title track “Save Our Souls”, the entire club was singing the chorus. And it has happened everywhere we have played since…….. No better feeling in the world!” adds Mulock.

Music Video – Snake – https://youtu.be/zfXS3gVttIQ​

Music Video – Save Our Souls – https://youtu.be/IqiOxTc6MMY​

PHEAR features Patrick Mulock (Lead Vocals) (Eidolon, Rampage), Pat Rogers (Lead & Rhythm Guitars) (Profaner- 2016 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions), Alex Zubair (Lead & Rhythm Guitars) (Burn to Black, Nadar Sadek, Iomair, Nephelium), Andrew Suarez (Drums) (Fatality, The Slyde – 2023 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions) and Chris Boshis (Bass) (Conflicted).

Throughout their existence, PHEAR has had the honour of opening for German metal legend UDO DIRSCHNEIFER, THE DEAD DAISIES, and STRYPER, along with performing on a pre-show for icons and heroes IRON MAIDEN in 2019 in Toronto at Budweiser Stage.

Recommended for fans of Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Judas Priest, Dream Theater (prog elements), and Metallica, PHEAR‘s sophomore album “Save Our Souls” is available from Golden Robot Records at the following link (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon) – https://orcd.co/save-our-souls​

​

Track Listing​
1. Aftershock (5:11)
2. Save Our Souls (6:39)
3. Snake (5:26)
4. Narcosynthesis* (5:29) (*Nevermore Cover)
5. New World Error (5:11)
6. Lease on Life (7:02)
7. Bleed (7:57)
8. On Thin Ice (8:20)
9. Delusions (Live) 6:45)
Album Length: 58:03

Album Credits:​
All songs performed by: Phear
All songs written by: Phear
*excluding “Narcosynthesis” Written by Nevermore
Produced by: Jon Howard and Phear
Mixed by: Jon Howard and Phear
Mastered by: Jon Howard (Woodward Avenue Studios)
Album Artwork for “Save Our Souls”: Drake Mefestta
​

Recording Band Line Up:​
Patrick Mulock – Lead Vocals
Chris Boshis – Bass Guitars, Backing Vocals
Alex Zubair – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Pat Rogers – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Mike Harshaw – Drums

Live Band Line Up​
Patrick Mulock – Lead Vocals
Chris Boshis – Bass Guitar, Backing Vocals
Alex Zubair – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Pat Rogers – Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar
Andrew Suarez – Drums

More info:​
​https://phearofficial.com​
​https://www.facebook.com/phearband​
​https://www.instagram.com/spreadthephear​

Avantasia’s new single The Witch Feat Tommy Karevik – Avantasia’s tenth studio album Here Be Dragons out on February 28th

Tobias Samet’s Avantasia is once again on the verge of releasing a new single. The album ‘Here Be Dragons’, which will be released on February 28th, from which so far have been released two singles – Creepshow and Against The Wind, which features H.E.A.T. singer Kenne Leckremo. ‘Here Be Dragons’ will be released by Napalm Records.

The third single from the upcoming album, The Witch, was released on February 13th. The song features Kamelot singer Tommy Karevik.

“The Witch has a mesmerizingly dark and magical feel, which is new to the world of Avantasia. However, the song also has many of our trademark elements and fits the album perfectly. Tommy Karevik from Kamelot did a fantastic job and I can’t wait to sing this song with Tommy on the upcoming tour!”, says Tobias Sammet, continuing:

“During the shows, we transform the stage into a haunted old castle, reminiscent of the ancient building where we filmed the music video for this song. The Witch is a beautifully melodic, powerful anthem filled with scary little details.

Here Be Dragons (2025)

1. Creepshow
2. Here Be Dragons
3. The Moorlands At Twilight
4. The Witch
5. Phantasmagoria
6. Bring On The Night
7. Unleash The Kraken
8. Avalon
9. Against The Wind
10. Everybody’s Here Until The End

Avantasia‘s successful career has resulted in hundreds of millions of streams, awards, number one singles, sold-out arena tours and headline performances at the biggest festivals, cementing the band’s place at the top of the international metal scene. The band’s tenth studio album is sure to surprise old and new fans alike, and the Here Be Dragons tour that follows the album will bring their biggest and most spectacular show to European arenas to date.

“I’m full of energy and can’t wait to perform the songs from the new album live! After the release, we’re heading out on a big European tour with a completely new show. In addition to new material and classics, there will be some rarities, and the whole spectacle will be served with the most amazing stage show in Avantasia’s history,” Tobias Sammet enthuses.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | SPOTIFY

Finnish metal band Pohjoisen Soturit to release third album later in 2025 – first single Kuiskaus out now

The Finnish metal band Pohjoisen Soturit, formed in 2004, released the first single Kuiskaus (whisper in English) from their forthcoming third studio album N which is set to be released on May 2nd 2025 via Inverse Records. 

LISTEN to Kuiskaus single on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/pohjoisen-soturit-kuiskaus

The band comments:
” “It will go, go for it!”

Despite its title, the Pohjoisen Soturit single Kuiskaus is a brisk cadence and a well-shouted story about an unhappy family man who, as his last trick, burns down his house, family and himself. There’s such a nice groove vibe here.”

Pohjoisen Soturit – Kuiskaus (Single 2025)

Composed and lyrics by Anssi Leinonen, Ossi Leinonen, Jussi Ruotsalainen, Ville Normi, Juuso Tujunen

ISRC: FI3FC2590602

Single picture by Herkko Siekkinen

Pohjoisen Soturit – N (Album 2025)

Track list:
1. N
2. Kuiskaus
3. Jäinen Syli
4. Tolokun Musta
5. Harhat
6. Valitusvirsi
7. Avanto

Album cover by Anssi Leinonen

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

Prog Guitarist ROD RODRIGUES Shares Epic Video “Tales Of A Changing Life Suite” Off New Album “Tales Of A Changing Life Part 2”

Sharing his journey and stories of coming to Canada from Brazil on the new album “Tales Of A Changing Life Part 2”, guitarist, music teacher, and songwriter Rod Rodrigues is pleased to release his latest music video “Tales Of A Changing Life Suite” that features on its recording Hugo Mariutti (Bowed Guitar), Heitor Tenorio (Bass), Orlan Charles ( Keyboards and orchestrations), and Lucas Emídio (Drums).

“’Tales Of A Changing Life Suite’ is the epic piece I always wanted to write. It brings together everything that defines my guitar playing, blending all my influences—prog rock, orchestrations, shredding, and Latin music. The song takes you on a journey, much like “Journey to the Centre of the Earth”, with different sections that flow like a musical adventure, filled with emotion, complexity, and dynamic shifts.” adds Rodrigues.

The video for “Tales Of A Changing Life Suite” can be hard and seen at https://youtu.be/d_pNXwOTUK8​

Fusing prog rock with Latin rhythms guitar virtuoso Rod Rodrigues has studied with renowned musicians Kiko Loureiro (Megadeth) and Greg Howe (Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson) and has received degrees from IG&T and Claretiano University. Since 1997, he has been sharing his knowledge and skills as a music teacher in Brazil, Canada, and Europe. His e-book Guitar Shred (2016) was released in both languages, Portuguese and English, and in 2018, the guitarist and teacher launched his online training course Extreme Guitar Workout, which has attracted hundreds of students from around the world. Over the years, he has also been a member of various bands, including Enemies of Reality and Falling Into a Dream (a Dream Theater tribute band).

As a solo artist, Rodrigues released his first EP in 2010, titled “The First Step: Introduction”, which gained recognition in several music publications, including Guitar Player, Cover Guitarra, and Guitarload, among others. In 2019, he released his single “T.A.G.” followed by his concept EP, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1” in 2022. Notably, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1” featured the talented Marco Sfogli (James LaBrie, Premiata Forneria Marconi) on the track “Woodbine Sunset”.

Thanks to his outstanding work on “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1”, Rodrigues was voted one of the top 20 Guitar Players of 2022 by the readers of Brazilian Roadie Crew Magazine.

Rod Rodrigues produced his first full-length, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 2”, with mixing by Renato Osório and mastering by Kris Crummett (Nick Johnston, Issues, Sleeping With Sirens). For the album’s guests, Rodrigues recruited guitarists Hugo Mariutti, Angel Vivaldi, and Roy Ziv; bassists Heitor Tenorio and Bruno Ladislau; drummers John Macaluso (ARK, TNT, Yngwie Malmsteen, Riot), Rodrigo Abelha, and Lucas Emidio; as well as Orlan Charles (keyboards, piano, and saxophone), Rodrigo Sperandio (Brazilian viola), and vocalists Wesley Poison, Ana Carla de Carli, Andressa Alves, Caroline Grossi, Matheus Grossi, and Francis Botene.

“With Tales of a Changing Life Part 2, I believe I reached my peak as a musician and composer. Truly able to convey through music all the emotions of the transformation my life has gone through in the past 10 years. Moreover, I was fortunate to have the best team of musicians, each adding their unique and special touch to the work.” adds Rodrigues.

Recommended for fans of Dream Theater, Rush, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, and Angra, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 2” was released on October 18, 2024, and is available at the following links:

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/3CwoigV​

Bandcamp (CD + Digital) – https://rodrodrigues.bandcamp.com/album/tales-of-a-changing-life-part-2​

Video – “Inukshuk” ft. John Macaluso (drums), Angel Vivaldi (second guitar solo) – https://youtu.be/00i4UQ45AGw​

Video – “On The Road” ft. Rodrigo Sperandio (Brazilian viola) – https://youtu.be/T1du5ofuRCM​

Video – “Mom’s Lullaby” – https://youtu.be/rP6oSwPRxGE​

​

Track Listing:​
1 – Inukshuk – Feat. Angel Vivaldi and John Macaluso (6:31)
2 – On The Road (5:24)
3 – East Coast Memories – Feat. Roy Ziv (6:24)
4 – Dust In My Eyes (6:01)
5 – Saudade – Feat.Wesley Poison (1:41)
6 – Mom’s Lullaby (5:40)
7 – Tales Of A Changing Life Suite – Feat. Hugo Mariutti (11:32)
Total Time: 42:02

More info: Rodrodrigues.net | Facebook.com/rodrodriguesofficial | Instagram.com/rodrodriguesofficial​

About:

Fusing prog rock with Latin rhythms guitar virtuoso Rod Rodrigues has studied with renowned musicians Kiko Loureiro (Megadeth) and Greg Howe (Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson) and has received degrees from IG&T and Claretiano University. Since 1997, he has been sharing his knowledge and skills as a music teacher in Brazil, Canada, and Europe. His e-book Guitar Shred (2016) was released in both languages, Portuguese and English, and in 2018, the guitarist and teacher launched his online training course Extreme Guitar Workout, which has attracted hundreds of students from around the world. Over the years, he has also been a member of various bands, including Enemies of Reality and Falling Into a Dream (a Dream Theater tribute band).

As a solo artist, Rodrigues released his first EP in 2010, titled “The First Step: Introduction”, which gained recognition in several music publications, including Guitar Player, Cover Guitarra, and Guitarload, among others. In 2019, he released his single “T.A.G.” followed by his concept EP, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1” in 2022. Notably, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1” featured the talented Marco Sfogli (James LaBrie, Premiata Forneria Marconi) on the track “Woodbine Sunset”.

Thanks to his outstanding work on “Tales of a Changing Life Part 1”, Rodrigues was voted one of the top 20 Guitar Players of 2022 by the readers of Brazilian Roadie Crew Magazine.

Released in October 2024, Rod Rodrigues produced his first full-length, “Tales of a Changing Life Part 2”, with mixing by Renato Osório and mastering by Kris Crummett (Nick Johnston, Issues, Sleeping With Sirens). For the album’s guests, Rodrigues recruited guitarists Hugo Mariutti, Angel Vivaldi, and Roy Ziv; bassists Heitor Tenorio and Bruno Ladislau; drummers John Macaluso (ARK, TNT, Yngwie Malmsteen, Riot), Rodrigo Abelha, and Lucas Emidio; as well as Orlan Charles (keyboards, piano, and saxophone), Rodrigo Sperandio (Brazilian viola), and vocalists Wesley Poison, Ana Carla de Carli, Andressa Alves, Caroline Grossi, Matheus Grossi, and Francis Botene.

Hard rock veteran Fear of Water remixes DMX classic for new single

Fear of Water, the solo project from hard rock veteran Dave Perry, has produced some of the most imaginative collaborations in the 2020s.
A series of one-off unions have seen them join forces with a host of names from across the musical spectrum. Clint Lowery (Sevendust), Marcos Leal (Ill Niño), Elias Soriano of Nonpoint, Heidi Shepherd of Butcher Babies, Aaron Nordstrom (Gemini Syndrome) and more have accompanied Fear of Water across the years, not only delighting a legion of listeners but oft-times shocking them as well. The only thing that’s guaranteed with Fear of Water’s new releases is – it’s nothing you were expecting.
Now, Perry unleashes his most audacious project yet, as he and mixing maestro Eric Emery join DMX for a coruscating reimagination of the rapper’s “X Gon Give It To Ya.”  Although, that said, it’s not as great a leap as you might expect, as Perry explains.
“DMX has always had a metal energy in his voice so this collaboration felt very organic. I’m honored to have this opportunity to breathe new life into such a classic bad-ass song.  I wish we could make an entire album together!”