Category: Press Releases

Crossbone Skully’s acclaimed debut album Evil World Machine features a stellar cast of rock icons from Johnny Depp to Alice Cooper

Crossbone Skully, who have received rave reviews from Metal Hammer and Classic Rock Magazine, among others, released their album ‘Evil World Machine’ via Better Noise Music, and the event was celebrated last weekend with an album release gig at the Viper Room in Los Angeles. The new ‘Let’s Bust The Trust’ music video was premiered at the same venue, which can now be watched here.

The excellent rock band, led by Tommy Henriksen, who is known for his work with Alice Cooper and Hollywood Vampires, has a rather star-studded cast of guests on their album. The album features guest appearances and spoken word work by Johnny Depp, Alice Cooper, Phil Collen (Def Leppard), Nikki Sixx (Mötley Crüe), Joe Perry (Aerosmith) and Kane Roberts. The album was produced by retired producer Mutt Lange, who has worked with AC/DC and Def Leppard, among others, and producer-mixer Mike Plotnikoff (AC/DC, Aerosmith).

The album’s lineup doesn’t pale in comparison to the guests either. In addition to Henriksen, the core group of various lineups that can be heard on the album is formed by guitarist Tommy Denander, keyboardist Jamie Muhoberac, bassist Chris Wyse, drummer Glen Sobel and bassist Pete Way. The mixing was handled by Olle Romo, who has conjured up sounds for Muse and Bryan Adams, among others.

“The cornerstone of this album is my own heroes, which include AC/DC, Queen, The Who, but also The Cars and Kraftwerk. Mutt called me and told me that he thought there was something here, and I started crying like a baby. It was like Jesus had come back. Mutt has taken these songs to a completely new level. Now it doesn’t matter what else happens to this album,” says Henriksen.

In addition to bassist Wyse, Henriksen’s live band includes guitarists Sam Bam Koltun (Dorothy, Faster Pussycat) and Anna Cara. Alex Boch plays drums.

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE | TIKTOK

Finnish metal band Black .44 are back after nine years – first single and video ‘Again’ out now

Finnish metal band Black .44 is back after nine years! The band is set to release the 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. The first single ‘Again’ taken from the forthcoming album is released today with a music video that’s available here: https://youtu.be/DwIsnKw7bCk

Band comments:

“The song discusses the weaknesses and strengths of the mind from the individual’s point of view. Mental health swings in all directions, but in the end, the strength of the individual leads to victory and light. The band describes this through powerful lyrics and the music alternates between strong and dark themes, with beautiful melodies bringing light to the situation. The roller coaster of the mind is alternately dark and bright, and in the end, the mental strength and willingness to live will lift him back to his feet.”

LISTEN ‘Again’ single on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/black44-again

Limited CD edition Pre-order 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

Black .44 – Again (Single 2024)


Music by Jason & Antti
Lyrics by Jason

ISRC: FI3FC2448604

Single 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

VALLORCH Announce New Single / Video “Circle Of The Moon” Off New Album “The Circle” Out March 2025

Vallorch is back with their latest single and video, “Circle Of The Moon”, released on November 22nd. This liberating anthem invites listeners to reconnect with nature and embrace the joy of living. Inspired by Cimbrian myths, the song captures the essence of the ancient dances to the Moon God Maano, celebrating freedom and authenticity.
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The track offers a glimpse into Vallorch’s upcoming album, “The Circle” (2025), set to release in March 2025, which explores the theme of the night in all its facets—from reflection and tranquility to celebration and connection. The album combines Vallorch’s signature folk metal sound with symphonic and power metal influences, blending vibrant melodies, heavy riffs, and a touch of melancholy.
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​“The Circle” marks a significant step forward in Vallorch’s musical journey. Their debut album, “Neverfade” (2013), introduced their distinctive folk metal style characterized by lively melodies and a straightforward rhythmic approach. With “Until Our Tale Is Told” (2017), the band expanded their horizons incorporating more intricate song structures and exploring new rhythmic patterns. Now, with “The Circle”, Vallorch has distilled the essence of their sound, crafting an album that is both polished and emotionally resonant. It balances the simplicity and catchiness of “Neverfade” with the ambitious arrangements of “Until Our Tale Is Told” creating a cohesive and mature work that showcases the band’s evolution.
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The band’s current sound can be described as flowing, ecstatic, vibrant, grandiose, and gleaming. Influenced by Nightwish, Eluveitie, Alestorm, Epica, and Wind Rose, Vallorch seamlessly blends the energy of folk metal with the grandeur of symphonic and power metal. Their music stands out for its dynamic interplay of epic choruses, intricate melodies, and anthemic atmospheres.
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Don’t miss “Circle Of The Moon” and its video—a powerful preview of the epic journey awaiting listeners in “The Circle”. This single is not just a song; it’s an invitation to celebrate life, embrace authenticity, and join Vallorch in their most accomplished chapter yet.
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​LISTEN: https://lnk.to/lURizi​

VIDEO: https://youtu.be/IlyLrROKUQU​

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ABOUT:​
​
​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.

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​VallorchLine Up:​
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​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: ​
​​Roc​​​kshots.eu​
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​FOLLOW:​
​https://www.instagram.com/vallorch_official/​
​https://www.facebook.com/vallorch​
​Spotify​

The mega-popular Smash Into Pieces heads into the weekend with a bang with the single Maze Of Fools – The video continues the mini-series set in Arcadia World

Swedish band Smash Into Pieces drop the bold single ‘Maze Of Fools’ today, which urges you to break free from all limiting factors and stand strong in the face of adversity.

“You have the power to take your future into your own hands. Whatever stands between you and your dreams, we will smash it to pieces,” the band reminds, also referring to the band’s name with a cheerful pun.

The band, which enjoyed huge success with their previous singles ‘Six Feet Under’ and ‘Heroes Are Calling’ and quickly reached the precious metal level with both songs, takes viewers of the song’s music video back to the world of their Arcadia World mini-movies. The latest twists in the adventures taking place in virtual reality is now available on the band’s YouTube channel.

​The band has already accumulated over a billion streams and views on digital platforms, and with 1.3 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone, the band spends a lot of time on the road. In addition to their own tours, Smash Into Pieces has toured with Evanescence and Within Temptation, among others. Last year, the band shone in the final of the Swedish Melodifestival, finishing third in the competition, and the band’s entry ‘Heroes Are Calling’ dominated radio in their home country for weeks.

SMASH INTO PIECES | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | SPOTIFY

Grunge, rock and wildly catchy melodies – East Electric releases new single ‘Killer On The Run’

Finnish band East Electric, which conjures up stylish rock, today releases their new song ‘Killer On The Run’, which is also the third single from the band’s upcoming debut album. The album has so far featured the singles ‘Mothership’ and ‘Remedy’.

“Killer On The Run continues the musical line of the two previous songs, but this time combining a grooving funk rhythm with a furious chase. It features the din of acoustic guitars, multi-layered vocals and grooving percussion. The recordings were made at Sonic Pump studio, a rehearsal room and a home studio, as with previous releases,” the band comments.

In terms of production, East Electric still relies on their own vision, but the final result has been left to Robert Palomäki (Kingston Wall, Olavi Uusivirta) to mix. The band used the same proven formula with their debut EP ‘East Electric’, released a year ago, which received widespread attention on foreign radio stations and Spotify playlists. The EP has already collected 135 thousand plays on Spotify alone.

East Electric combines the raunchy nature of grunge and rock with beautifully catchy melodies and stylish delivery. Singer Jocke Levälampi’s charisma turns the interpretation straight to eleven, creating depth and fire in the lyrics. Toni Kajasti’s guitar takes you on a musical journey, where rough riffs alternate with subtle fingering. The rhythm is kept in check by progressive bassist Matti Vähätalo and the versatile drummer Tuukka Ilmakari.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY

The first single Uranium from the secret society Himmelkraft led by Tony Kakko is now available to listen to – Debut album will be released on March 7th

The first single ‘Uranium’ from the new band Himmelkraft, which was leaked to the public a couple of weeks ago, is being released today. Tony Kakko, the frontman of Sonata Arctica, will release his long-awaited debut full-length album on March 7th.

“I’m super excited that the first signal, the first single, has now been released to the world. Everyone at Himmelkraft is grateful and also full of excitement. Spread the word and enjoy Uranium” says Tony Kakko.

The lyric video for the song can now be seen here and the upcoming debut album is also available for pre-order. The upcoming recording will also be accompanied by special editions, such as a deluxe version decorated with a wax seal and a two-LP package, one of which glows in the dark! The making of the album has also been packaged as The Stories book, where fans can dive into the stories behind the album. Check out all the packages now here.

Himmelkraft is:
Tony Kakko / Unu O’Four – Vocal and Keyboards
Pasi Kauppinen / Du O’Four – Bass
Timo Kauppinen / Tri O’Four – Guitar and banjo
Jere Lahti / Kvar O’Four – Drums and percussion

INSTAGRAM

Finnish progressive modern metal band Heaven-Gemini releases their debut album

Finnish Heaven-Gemini is the result of a collision of creative minds. The progressive metal band’s first album, “Luonnonoikku” (Freak of Nature), is a musically rich and dynamic journey.

Heaven-Gemini’s unique style blends various modern metal genres from thrash to djent, incorporating influences from post-metal and rock. The band shifts chameleon-like from crushing riffs to ethereal melodies, even introducing humor and lightness—sometimes within the same song. This rich musical palette keeps the listener on their toes. The song structures are winding and full of surprises, yet Heaven-Gemini never forgets catchiness. The band’s Finnish-language songs range from powerful melodic vocals to death metal growls and high-pitched screams.

The title “Luonnonoikku” refers to the protagonist of this concept album. The last remaining humans have fled a ravaged Earth and isolated themselves in a digital simulation—a machine called Nature. The protagonist is a sort of glitch in the system, a deviation from determinism. This dystopian story draws from existentialism, Buddhism, and Greek mythology. “Luonnonoikku” explores questions of eternity, free will, and mortality, following the protagonist’s journey from cynicism to understanding history, discovering beauty, and accepting reality.

The band’s first EP, “Dolores”, was released in fall 2022. Released via Inverse Records, “Luonnonoikku” marks a significant step forward for Heaven-Gemini in terms of production. Seppo Nummela handled the mixing, and Joni Borodavkin mastered the album, creating a sound that is heavy, clear, and full of intricate details.

The album artwork was created by Tampere-based visual artist Jussi Huttunen. Music videos have been released for the singles “Pathomania” and “Tinnitus”. These videos were filmed and edited by drummer Santtu Paananen.

Heaven-Gemini is a unique new voice in Finnish metal. “Luonnonoikku” is a must-experience for any fan of prog or metal.

Listen to “Luonnonoikku” on music services (YouTube, Bandcamp, Apple Music, Deezer, Tidal etc.): https://push.fm/fl/heavengemini-luonnonoikku

Heaven-Gemini social medias:

Facebook

Instagram

YouTube

Heaven-Gemini is:

Aleksi Kokko: guitar, vocals

Mikko Soininen: guitar

Santtu Paananen: drums

Eetu Savolainen: bass

Batushka will complete Hellsinki Metal Festival – Winter Edition 2024 indoor festival Kaapelitehdas in Helsinki on December 14th

Hellsinki Metal Festival – Winter Edition 2024 indoor festival, which was previously announced this fall, is today announcing a great new addition to the event held at Kaapelitehdas in Helsinki . In addition to Dark Funeral, Belphegor, Kyy and Omnivortex, the Polish band Batushka will be performing at the event on December 14th.

Batushka is a black metal band founded by Krzysztof Drabikowski, which combines the traditional liturgical singing tradition of the Orthodox Church with its music. The band, which will be celebrating its 10th anniversary next year, split into two bands in 2018, of which Batushka, which can now be seen at Kaapelitehdas, is the band founder Drabikowski’s own band, considered by many to be the original Batushka.

After the band’s changes, Batushka’s 2019 album Panihida (Панихида) received good reviews, and the band has been seen in Finland at numerous successful gigs in recent years – including at the Hellsinki Metal Festival in the event’s inaugural year. Batushka’s latest album “Tsaryu Nebesnyy” was released in 2021.

Tickets for the Hellsinki Metal Festival – Winter Edition 2024 event are now on sale at Ticketmaster. In addition to basic tickets, the event also includes RIP tickets, which include access to a private area with a direct view of the stage, private sanitary facilities, a bar and a smoking area. RIP members also receive a lanyard and a wristband that serve as an entrance ticket to the RIP area.

Information on the food and beverage services available to everyone will be updated on the festival’s event page.

Hellsinki Metal Fest Winter Edition 2024
14.12.2024
Helsinki Kaapelitehdas
Age limit 18.

Tickets: Ticketmaster
Basic ticket 59 €
RIP ticket 99 €
RIP the ticket includes:

  • RIP area with a view of the stage
  • RIP lanyard and wristband
  • RIP toilets
  • RIP smoking area
  • RIP bar

www.hellsinkimetalfestival.fi

The new single “Afterall” from the metal band Let It All Burn, led by hitmaker Lauri Hämäläinen, is a powerful song in a moment of loss

Let It All Burn, a band that operates smoothly in the fields of modern metal, alt metal, nu metal and industrial, releases its single ‘Afterall’ today. Led by Lauri Hämäläinen, who is behind numerous Finnish hits, the band began releasing singles last year. The band’s sound has also been shaped by Heigo Anto, who has become Hämäläinen’s musical partner. The same duo can also be found behind Stereo Terror’s song competing in the Estonian Eurovision final next spring.

Having found their own sound with low-pitched guitars and modern electronic spices, Let It All Burn creates a dark world for the listener with their ‘Afterall’, where the strong melodies characteristic of the band come into their own. ‘Afterall’ is a fitting song, especially for those who have experienced losses in their lives.

“Losing great loves and people is never easy. Sometimes something beautiful and stronger grows from the ruins of loss. Sometimes people step onto painful paths where pain accompanies every step for years. Sometimes, rarely, their back is straight and the mirror is clear because they know they have done everything they could. Then pain and sorrow are not accusatory, they do not attack or bark, but lie heavy in the heart. Then sorrow is a naked and raw friend who moves away from home only when it is time. When after everything there is only the truth. After everything. Afterall,” Hämäläinen says.

Let It All Burn is:
Lauri Hämäläinen – Vocals, programming
Janne Salo – Guitar
Riku Vuorio – Guitar
Heigo Anto – Bass, programming

KOTISIVU | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE | INSTAGRAM

Admire The Grim have released the second single Resist from their forthcoming debut album, featuring vocals from Stam1na’s Antti Hyyrynen

Finnish melodic death metallers Admire the Grim will release their debut album ‘Resist’ via Inverse Records on January 31st 2025. The album’s title single Resist is unleashed today and it features Stam1na‘s Antti Hyyrynen on featuring vocals!

LISTEN Resist single on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/atg-resist

Band comments:

“‘Resist’, as its name suggests, is a song that pushes you for resistance against all oppression. It was one of the last songs that got finalized for the album and it has this odd structure where all the verses are in the beginning of the song and the end of the song is all about simple, catchy choruses and bursting guitar solos. When we started writing this song, it seemed like the puzzle pieces just fit on the very first try and suddenly the song was ready. Right before the album recordings we came up with the idea that we should ask a local legend Antti Hyyrynen of Stam1na to feature on vocals. Antti was happy to come to the studio and recorded some ripping vocals for the track. ‘Resist’ turned out to be a great song for a single and an amazing banger for live shows.”

 

Vocalist Katri Snellman comments:

“To me personally, considering the vocal parts and lyrics this song became the highlight of the record. There’s this certain simplicity in the vocal lines that gives space for interpretation. That is especially fun live! It’s also probably clear without saying that having Antti Hyyrynen of Stam1na to do the vocal feature on this song gives it a specific tone. Couple of years back I wouldn’t have thought in a million years that I’m gonna be singing on the same song with Antti any time soon. I’m very lucky to have these band members around me to create music and make cool things possible. It’s good to continue from here forward!”

Listen to the album’s first single Crescent Moon: https://push.fm/fl/atg-crescent

BIOGRAPHY:
Finnish melodic death metallers Admire the Grim will release their debut album ‘Resist’ via Inverse Records in January 2025. The album, which was crafted for two years, consists of familiar Admire the Grim tunes and acoustic surprises. Antti ‘Hyrde’ Hyyrynen of Stam1na visits as a guest vocalist on the single ‘Resist’. Album debut gig will be held at the legendary Nuijamies venue in the band’s hometown of Lappeenranta, Finland. Afterwards Admire the Grim is heading for gigs around Finland.
Admire the Grim was formed in 2021. The band released its’ well received ‘Rogue Five’ debut EP via Inverse Records in 2022. After the release the band followed up with a Finnish tour and their first gig abroad at Bloodstained Metal Fest in Estonia.

Limited CD edition Pre-order available HERE

Admire The Grim – Resist (album 2025)

Track list:

01. Crescent Moon
02. Resist
03. Revolutions
04. Rivers to Surge
05. Acoustic Melodies from the Past and Present
06. Choke on Your Words
07. Hypocrite
08. Mad Queen of the Second Sun
09. No Limits

Album cover by Anssi Kuivalainen

Admire The Grim – Resist (Single 2024)

Music by Jani Loikkanen, Katri Snellman, Tommi Vante

Lyrics by Katri Snellman

ISRC: FI-D5C-24-00002

Single cover by Juha Tretjakov

Line-up:

Katri Snellman (vocals)

Jani Loikkanen (guitar)

Sirja Ojaniemi (guitar)

Petri Hänninen (bass)

Tommi Vante (drums)

Links:
https://www.instagram.com/admirethegrim

https://www.facebook.com/admirethegrim
https://admirethegrim.bandcamp.com