Category: Press Releases

THE AUTUMN AURORA Make Their Debut with ‘Plastic Altar’ – A Darkwave-Infused Journey Through Faith, Disillusion & Inner Awakening

Available now on all digital platforms, “Plastic Altar” is the debut single from Italian post-punk/darkwave outfit THE AUTUMN AURORA, released via Volcano Records.

With this first release, the band introduces a deeply personal and emotionally charged sound, blending post-punk, darkwave and alternative rock into a dark, immersive and visceral sonic experience. “Plastic Altar” tells the story of a painful awakening — the moment when someone who has spent a lifetime kneeling before an altar, seeking miracles, answers and divine salvation, finally realizes that no one is coming to save them. The song unfolds as a reflection on faith, disillusionment and the need to stop searching outside for what must ultimately be found within. It is an invitation to reconnect with the divine as an inner force, rather than a desperate response to suffering. Musically, the track moves through suspended, twilight-soaked atmospheres, interrupted by sudden bursts of extreme fuzz-driven distortion and stripped-down minimalist passages, where delicate arpeggios carry the emotional weight of the vocals. The song constantly shifts between tension and release, building toward a central section openly inspired by doom metal, adding further depth and weight to its sonic landscape. To accompany the release, the band has also unveiled the official music video on YouTube — a visually intense and highly symbolic piece that expands on the song’s themes of alienation, conflict and transformation, fully embodying the band’s aesthetic and narrative vision.

The Autumn Aurora is an Italian post-punk/darkwave band with a distinctive and unconventional sonic identity, built around a rare lineup featuring two bass guitars, keyboards, drums and vocals. Through layered bass lines, synth-driven soundscapes and dark atmospheric textures, the band creates an immersive and magnetic world suspended between emotional tension, introspection and raw expressive power.

Listen to “Plastic Altar” on all digital platforms and watch the official video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNFdnYTSRuA

Further info at
www.volcanopromotion.com
https://linktr.ee/theautumnauroraband

Finnish one-man metal band Rare Elements have released a new single called ‘Under the Iron Sky’

Under the Iron Sky is a slow, heavy, groove-driven track with progressive influences, built around two parallel layers of conflict: an internal psychological struggle and an external, war-like landscape. Rather than simply depicting conflict, the song captures a state where resistance becomes an unavoidable condition of existence.

The track paints a world where movement grows increasingly difficult. With lead in the feet and iron in the sky, the environment becomes suffocating and oppressive, turning every step into an act that feels like resisting gravity itself. Forward motion is no longer instinctive—it becomes deliberate, draining, and painfully slow.

At the same time, Under the Iron Sky dives into deep internal exhaustion. The battlefield is not only physical, but also a mental space. External reality and inner experience begin to merge, blurring the line between what is real and what is perceived. The recurring question “How did it come to this?” distills the emotional core of the track: confusion, fatigue, and a growing sense of inevitability.

The chorus expands this tension into a multidirectional threat—pressure closing in from above, ahead, and behind. The central figure is not only confronted by external forces, but gradually worn down by their own weakness and exhaustion. In the end, the struggle is no longer directed at a single enemy, but becomes a total, immersive condition where internal and external forces are inseparable.

Musically, the track combines heavy, groove-based riffing with progressive structures, the crushing weight of slow death metal, and dark shades of doom metal. A cinematic approach shapes the arrangement, allowing the song to unfold like a soundscape—layered, immersive, and gradually intensifying toward a suffocating climax. Minimalistic and direct lyricism reinforces the atmosphere, leaving space for interpretation.

Under the Iron Sky is not just about conflict—it captures the moment when struggle itself becomes inevitable.

LISTEN to ‘Under the Iron Sky’ on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/rare-elements-under

Line-up:

Harri Sarpavaara – vocals, guitars, bass, synths, drum programming

https://www.facebook.com/rareelementsrock

https://www.instagram.com/harrisarpavaara

Alternative band Blame Me! returns with emotional single Time by Time – new album also on the way

Finnish alternative band Blame Me! made it onto the playlists of several radio stations a few years ago with their singles Fire, Fuel and Scars and Fear’s Don’t Matter, as well as a cover of All The Things She Said. The band was signed to the German label Out of Line, but in recent years the band has been somewhat quiet. The band describes the twists and turns like this:

“Life happened, and with an unplanned two-year hiatus, Blame Me! had to reinvent itself. Over the past year, we’ve been creating new songs with new sounds and a completely new rhythm, brought to life by new drummer Maiju Mäki.”

Blame Me! is now releasing a new song, Time by Time, which was inspired by a failed relationship.

“We believe that everyone has at least one relationship in their life that they have done everything they can to build and put their whole heart into, but whose inevitable end cannot be prevented. Despite this, they try to hold on to the good memories and forget the bad ones. In the end, the only option is to let go.”

The music video for the song Time by Time showcases a renewed Blame Me! and fresh energy.

The band also reveals that a new album is on the way early this year, and more singles are expected in the near future. Blame Me! can be seen at the following gigs:

4.9. Nirvana, Turku (+ Crimson Sun, Without Warning)

5.9. Skenesali, Vantaa (+ Crimson Sun, Without Warning)

Blame Me! is:

Bini Silvennoinen – vocals

Jesse Lindstedt – guitar

Juho Jokimies – bass

Maiju Mäki – drums

FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

Finnish Fuzz Rock Quartet Heezer Unveils Darker Side of Upcoming Album “Stereolith” With New Single “Let It Burn”

Finnish fuzz rock quartet Heezer is preparing for the release of its sophomore full-length album Stereolith, due out on August 13. The self-released record has already been previewed with the gritty groove of “Horse” and the energetic “This Town”, which surprised listeners with melodic hooks borrowed from pop punk. Pre-orders for the album are now available through Levykauppa Äx, with both CD and vinyl editions on offer.
Now, the spotlight turns to the darker and heavier side of the album as Heezer hasreleased “Let It Burn”, accompanied by a striking animated music video.

“We originally planned to make a simple lyric video, but somehow the song felt like it deserved a proper visual story,” recalls bassist Antti Vesikko. “I came up with the idea of telling the song’s dark narrative through a comic without speech bubbles. At one point, with other work stuff piling up and no free time, I started building the project with AI. Thankfully, I came to my senses, scrapped the whole thing and decided it still wasn’t time to let artificial intelligence take the wheel. We brought in Amet Komik Studio to illustrate the story, and I edited the video to follow the dynamics and structure of the song. The result turned out beautifully and fits ‘Let It Burn’ perfectly.”

“We’ve always included slow and heavy songs on our releases, and ‘Let It Burn’ showcases that side of the new album really well,” says drummer Ville Häsä. “The demo was recorded in my home studio. Sami played through the structure on guitar while shouting cues for section changes on the fly. We had the demo together after just a couple of takes, but I didn’t yet realize the full picture. Once the bass and vocals were added, I understood what a great and wonderfully dark song it was. It ended up sounding very close to what you hear on the album. Personally, I love the Soundgarden-inspired bridge section.”
Singer-guitarist Sami Kääriäinen adds:

“The verses, written by Antti, deal with mental struggles and the twists and turns of the mind, while the choruses offer a rather straightforward solution: let it all burn. The lyrics can be interpreted in many ways, though. Once again, Heikki Pöyhiä delivered some absolutely brilliant backing vocals.”

“Stereolith” tracklist:
1.  Horse
2.  This Town
3.  Stone I Am
4.  Let It Burn
5.  Moonshine
6.  Mountain
7.  Crazy
8.  The Van
9.  Desert

Heezer stand firmly behind their professional DIY mindset and they’ve taken major steps forward in their evolution – from stronger songwriting to a higher production level. The band’s sharpened approach shines through in a powerful and distinctive result. Still, their main principle remains unchanged: making music has to stay fun, now and in the future.

Heezer have been steadily winning over audiences both on streaming platforms and on stage. See band live this summer:

17.7. Stereolith-album pre-listening party, Kuluma Pub, Imatra (+ live-stream)
7.8. Patruuna Fest, Imatra
14.8. Nirvana, Turku

Heezer line-up:
Sami Kääriäinen – vocals, guitar
Ville Räsänen – guitar
Antti Vesikko – bass
Ville Häsä – drums

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE

Amberian Dawn, stepping into a new era, released their album Temptation’s Gates

Amberian Dawn, one of the pioneers of symphonic metal, has been dropping songs and striking videos from their new album throughout the spring, and now marks the band released their first album with the new singer Nicole Willerton,Temptation’s Gates. As the final preview, the band has released the single Moon, accompanied by a music video directed by Erkki Halkka, pulsing with dark electricity.

The studio album and the previously released singles have been a clear step in a new direction for the band — one that embraces more modern and even rougher elements. According to Tuomas, Nicole’s arrival has truly begun a new era.

“I composed this song just a few weeks after we welcomed our new vocalist into the band. From the very beginning, the track had an unusually dark and haunting atmosphere, and I wanted to preserve that feeling throughout the entire working process. It had also been a long time since I last recorded a guitar solo myself, so returning to that role made the experience even more personal. This song showcases the darker and more spectral side of our new era,” says the band’s primus motor, Tuomas Seppälä.

Nicole Willerton, who has taken a strong role in the lyric writing, describes Moon as a safe haven amid chaos.

“Moon is about finding hope, serenity, and inner peace in a world full of destruction, greed, and suffering. The moon acts as a guiding light and a symbol of beauty, reminding us that even when life feels overwhelming or filled with sorrow, it’s important to appreciate the simple beautiful things in life, like nature and the freedom of the spirit.”

The tracks on Temptation’s Gates:

Temptation’s Gates

The Vision of Dreaming

Moon

Unchained

Eternal Flame

Life is Art

This Night is Waiting for Me

Undying Colours

The Garden

Phantasmagoria

The album is available in various formats, and you can also check all special bundles here.

AMBERIAN DAWN is:

Tuomas Seppälä – keyboards, guitar

Nicole Willerton – vocals

Emil Pohjalainen – guitar

Joonas Pykälä-aho – drums

Jukka Hoffren – bass

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | NAPALM RECORDS

Enemies Everywhere releases the single My Vengeance and announces the debut album

The Helsinki-based deathcore band Enemies Everywhere have released a new single, My Vengeance, and simultaneously announced the release of their debut album. The self‑titled debut will be out on August 28, showcasing the developmental process the band has gone through over the past couple of years.

“The whole band, including everyone behind the scenes, has been waiting for the release of the debut album like the rising moon. The process behind making the album was at the same time challenging but rewarding; painful but cathartic. During the process we learned a lot about each other as people, friends, and band members. The debut album is proof of what the band has grown into over the past years – which is why the only right name for the record is Enemies Everywhere.”

The single My Vengeance points the way toward the upcoming album:

“The album’s third single, My Vengeance, is a testament to Enemies Everywhere’s career and new direction. The song condenses the sound of the previously released singles and the entire album, accompanied by a versatile and heavy arrangement. The sharp‑eared fans may recognize the track from our early‑year live shows, and now we finally get to release My Vengeance for everyone to hear!”

Enemies Everywhere’s summer shows will begin in a few weeks in Lahti, and the autumn album release will be celebrated with a Finland tour announced later.

Newly announced shows:

18.7.2026 – Lahti, Lahti Metal BB

23.7.2026 – Kaaos Fest x Raskas EI Kiusaamiselle!, Vaasa

7.8.2026 – Imatra, Patruunafest

26.9.2026 – Mäikä Klubi, Tapahtumatehdas, Hyvinkää

Enemies Everywhere:

Sasu Mikkola – vocals

Otso Saano – guitar

Ville Vesala – bass

Veikka Laru – drums

INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TIKTOK | YOUTUBE

French chaotic hardcore/mathcore non-engineers DEAD KIWIS are back and they have a T-Rex. // New album ‘EXTREME METAL’ Out now

The French chaotic hardcore / mathcore non-engineers DEAD KIWIS (featuring member of Buy Jupiter) have just unleashed ‘EXTREME METAL’ via Vollmer Industries: a furious collision of mathcore chaos, hardcore aggression, dark humor and catastrophically questionable life choices.

Built on dissonant riffs, frantic rhythms, angular guitars and explosive energy, ‘EXTREME METAL‘ dives headfirst into themes of depression, grief, isolation, manipulation and disillusionment. Rather than dwelling in melancholy, DEAD KIWIS transform emotional collapse into pure cathartic violence, channeling frustration, anxiety and burnout into an unrelenting sonic assault.

Blending destructive intensity with sarcasm, absurdity and self-awareness, ‘EXTREME METAL’ feels less like a descent into darkness than a high-speed collision between emotional damage, party chaos and complete annihilation.

Born in the Lyon area in 2008, DEAD KIWIS have steadily carved their own path through the French underground by blending hardcore chaos, mathcore precision and rock’n’roll absurdity into something both violent and unmistakably fun.

Originally rooted in punk hardcore, the band took a decisive turn toward a more singular and explosive sound with the release of ‘Karate Karnage’ (2017) and ‘Systematic Homerun’ (2019), embracing the unpredictable energy of chaotic hardcore while injecting razor-sharp riffs, dissonant textures and a heavy dose of offbeat humor.

Somewhere between controlled collapse and total nonsense, DEAD KIWIS deliver a sound built on frantic rhythms, angular guitars, futuristic tones and ferocious vocal performances — balancing technical intensity with a deliberately unhinged approach that refuses to take itself too seriously.

Renowned for their high-energy live shows and irreverent identity, the band has shared stages across France and Europe with acts such as Frontierer, Comeback Kid, A Wilhelm Scream and many others, building a reputation as one of the most entertaining and unpredictable heavy acts emerging from the French scene.

In 2026, DEAD KIWIS return with ‘EXTREME METAL’, their most ambitious and uncompromising record to date — a chaotic, tongue-in-cheek collision between mathcore brutality, hardcore urgency and cinematic stupidity.

ARTEMISIA Released New Video Single ‘Ciò che l’acqua mi ha dato’, Inspired by the Universe of Frida Kahlo

Available now on all digital platforms, “Ciò che l’acqua mi ha dato” is the brand-new single by Italian heavy rock band ARTEMISIA, released by Volcano Records.

With this new track, the long-running Italian band returns to explore intense and profound sonic territories, moving between heavy metal and progressive rock through a distinctive formula that blends power, experimentation, and storytelling. The result is a compelling piece that further strengthens ArtemisiA’s unmistakable artistic identity. Inspired by Frida Kahlo’s 1938 painting of the same name, the single transforms the artwork’s powerful symbolism into music, where water becomes a reflective surface of the unconscious — a vessel of memory, pain, and identity. Much like the Mexican artist’s vision, body and mind merge into a suspended space where obsessions, fragility, and deeper truths emerge. Musically, “Ciò che l’acqua mi ha dato” strikes a balance between heavy-driven power, dark atmospheres, and progressive structures, preserving the evocative intensity that has always been a defining element of ArtemisiA’s songwriting. The track unfolds as an introspective journey, inviting listeners to dive into the unconscious and confront whatever rises back to the surface. Alongside the release, the official music video is now available on YouTube, featuring a combination of live footage and studio sessions that captures the band’s raw energy and artistic essence. The video highlights the intensity, chemistry, and emotional depth that stand at the core of both the song and ArtemisiA’s creative vision.

Founded in 2006 by Vito Flebus and Anna Ballarin, ArtemisiA have built a recognizable identity over the years through dark atmospheres, literary influences, and a powerful live presence. After six albums and important collaborations, including one with Omar Pedrini, the band is currently working on their new full-length album, set for release this September via Volcano Records, with this single serving as a significant preview of what’s to come.

Listen to the song on all digital platforms and watch the official music video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEFnLMeXCI4

Further info at
www.volcanopromotion.com
www.artemisiaband.it

TONIC BREED Unleashes “Name Dealer” EP ft. guests from Whitesnake, Flotsam and Jetsam, Five Finger Death Punch, ex-Lamb of God, ex-Megadeth

Tonic Breed, the long‑running Norwegian thrash and heavy‑metal project led by Patrik K. Svendsen, returns in 2026 with its most ambitious and star‑studded release to date: the new EP “Name Dealer”. Reinvention has always been at the heart of Tonic Breed, and this EP pushes that ethos further than ever, bringing together an elite roster of guest musicians whose contributions elevate each track into its own distinct sonic world.
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The EP features performances from Tommy Aldridge (Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne), Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Trans‑Siberian Orchestra), Chris Adler (ex‑Lamb of God, ex‑Megadeth), Michael Gilbert (Flotsam and Jetsam), Charlie Engen (Five Finger Death Punch, Scale The Summit), and producer/mixer Adrian Bjerketvedt, along mastering by Steve Kitch except for track 3 “Anew” mixed and mastered by Gene “Machine” Freeman, “Name Dealer” stands as Tonic Breed’s most diverse, dynamic, and collaborative work yet.

“Name Dealer is the second EP in the new Tonic Breed format, where guests are invited to perform on the tracks. The first two songs were released last year, and the EP was completed with an additional two songs on June 10th. I’m extremely happy with the quality of the songs and the musicians involved in the process. This EP experiments with everything from the old recipe while adding new layers such as orchestration and different songwriting approaches. The quality of the deliveries from everyone involved is beyond my expectations. Everything from the musical contributions from the guests to the mixing and engineering process in the final stages of the song creation has exceeded what I hoped for,” says Svendesen.

Across its four tracks, the EP showcases the full spectrum of Tonic Breed’s identity: thrash roots, melodic depth, emotional storytelling, and the unmistakable fingerprints of world‑class guest performers.
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The EP opens with a track that wastes no time establishing its intensity. Title track “Name Dealer” hits immediately, fast, sharp, and unrelenting, yet anchored by a rare melodic hook in the chorus, something not typically associated with Tonic Breed’s catalogue. The song is elevated by the powerhouse duo of Tommy Aldridge on drums and Joel Hoekstra on guitar, whose performances bring a level of precision and fire that Svendsen describes as exceeding all expectations. Their involvement marks a milestone collaboration for the project, adding both prestige and unmistakable character to the track.
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The second track, “Close In,” featuring Charlie Engen on drums, shifts into a more expansive emotional space. Musically, it’s a layered semi‑ballad; clean passages, heavy surges, harmonies, choirs, and orchestration intertwine to create the most dynamic arrangement Svendsen has ever crafted. Lyrically, the song explores the long‑term weight of loss, not just the moment of impact, but the lingering emotional gravity that follows. It’s a deeply personal piece, balancing vulnerability with power.
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A high‑octane eruption of riffs and rhythmic force, “Anew” features Chris Adler, whose unmistakable drumming reshaped the song from the ground up. Originally built from a rough demo, the track evolved through collaborative restructuring, with Adler taking the lead in forging a more unique and effective arrangement. For fans of Adler’s signature style, this track delivers in full; Svendsen calls it the most Lamb of God‑esque performance he’s heard from Adler since his time in the band. It’s a rare opportunity to hear Adler’s drumming behind someone else’s riffs, and the result is explosive.
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Closing the EP is a pure thrash assault, direct, sharp, and free of filler. “The Die Is Cast” channels the spirit of ’80s thrash while weaving in touches of melody and atmosphere. Lyrically, it paints the image of a once‑mighty war machine lying broken among the wreckage of others like it, its silence heavy with the memory of destruction. The track features Michael Gilbert, whose presence ties the song directly to the era and genre that inspired it. His contribution adds authenticity and weight, making this a standout moment for longtime thrash fans.

Tonic Breed began in 2006 as a four‑piece band from Sarpsborg, Norway, but since 2019 has evolved into a one‑man project driven by Svendsen’s vision and a rotating cast of elite collaborators. Over the years, Tonic Breed has worked with some of metal’s most respected musicians, including Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth), Bernt Jansen (Artch/Wig Wam), Björn Strid (Soilwork), Martin Skriubakken (Endezzma), Oliver Palotai (Kamelot), and “Name Dealer” continues that tradition with its most impressive lineup yet.

Listen to “Name Dealer” (released June 10th, 2026) at the following links:

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/album/1bMoNWS8EiuLAD2NDrurnj​

Music Videos:

Name Dealer – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etvT8PAeRAU​

Close In – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9-S1fQgYR0A​

Anew – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wx-8n9qs5cY​

The Die Is Cast – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAC4_K0Sqko​

Track Listing:​
1. Name Dealer ft. Tommy Aldridge (drums), Joel Hoekstra (lead guitars) – 3:48
2. Close In ft. Charlie Engen (drums), Adrian Bjerketvedt (guitars and lead guitars) – 5:45
3. Anew – Chris Adler (drums) – 3:31
4. The Die is Cast ft. Michael Gilbert (guitar solo) – 3:31
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​For more info:​
​https://tonicbreed.com​
​https://facebook.com/tonicbreed​
​https://instagram.com/tonicbreed​

About Tonic Breed:​
Tonic Breed is a Norwegian thrash and heavy metal one-man music project by Patrik K. Svendsen. Until 2019, Tonic Breed was originally a four-piece band, established in Sarpsborg, Norway, in 2006. As of 2022, Tonic Breed has released three albums and one EP. Today, Tonic Breed is constantly reinventing itself in songwriting and guest collaborations, which already include Chris Adler (Lamb of God), Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth), Björn Strid (Soilwork), Michael Gilbert (Flotsam and Jetsam) and Charlie Engen (Five Finger Death Punch, Scale The Summit, Idealogy).

Discography:
-2026 – Name Dealer (EP)
– 2026 – Name Dealer (single) (ft. guest drums Tommy Albridge (Whitesnake, Ozzy Osbourne) and guest guitar Joel Hoekstra (Whitesnake, Trans-Siberian Orchestra))
– 2026 – Close In (single) (ft. guest drums Charlie Engen (Five Finger Death Punch, Scale The Summit, Idealogy)
– 2025 – Anew (single) (ft. guest drums Chris Adler (Lamb of God)
– 2025 – The Die Is Cast (single) (ft. guest guitar solo Michael Gilbert (Flotsam and Jetsam)
– 2025 – The Charge (single w/ Darkroot)
– 2024 – Outsold – LP – 10th Anniversary Edition
– 2022 – Fuel the Fire – EP (ft. guests Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth), Bernt Jansen (Artch/Wig Wam), Björn Strid (Soilwork), Martin Skriubakken (Endezzma), Oliver Palotai (Kamelot)
– 2018 – Install Memory – LP
– 2014 – Outsold – LP
– 2010 – On the Brink of Destruction

THE MOURNING Unveils New Members To Lineup Jason Ashcraft (Helion Prime) and Alon Mei-Tal (Helion Prime, Nili Brosh)

Progressive metal collective The Mourning announces a major evolution in their lineup with the official addition of guitarist Jason Ashcraft (Helion Prime, Lunar, Planeswalker) and bassist Alon Mei‑Tal (Helion Prime, Levinia). Their arrival marks a pivotal moment for the band, expanding its sonic depth, technical range, and creative firepower as they enter their next chapter.
​
​Ashcraft expresses his excitement about joining the fold:

“I’m super stoked to be coming on officially with The Mourning. I’ve had the pleasure of working with a few of the members for a while, and everyone has been very welcoming. From a musical side, it’s been fun stepping out of my comfort zone and challenging myself to explore new avenues. I look forward to future adventures with The Mourning!”

Mei‑Tal adds:

“It’s official! I’ve been a friend of the band for a couple of years now, helping out on shows, recordings, etc., but I’m very pleased to be one of the gang now. The Mourning is a great group of talented musicians and quality humans. The songs are proggy enough to be interesting, but catchy enough to be fun and memorable, and I can’t wait to join them in bringing listeners more epic tunes and top‑tier performances!”

​

With both musicians now fully integrated, The Mourning steps into its most ambitious and musically dynamic era yet.
​
Alongside the lineup announcement, The Mourning recently unveiled their powerful new single and cinematic music video, “If I Die I Die.” The track introduces the band’s renewed sonic identity, heavier, darker, and more emotionally charged, while showcasing the expanded dual‑vocal dynamic between founding vocalist Johnny Ray and newly joined Brazilian co‑vocalist Nanda Hayek (OverAlive).
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Built on the band’s signature blend of cinematic songwriting, progressive metal precision, and layered vocal interplay, the song confronts fear, existential dread, and the psychological exhaustion of living under its weight. Its core declaration, “I’m tired of all this fear, I’m done living in fear”, captures the track’s central theme of liberation through surrender.
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Written by Francesco Pinter and Johnny Ray, and produced, mixed, and mastered by Alex Nasla (Edge of Paradise), the single blends intricate progressive elements with a more direct, modern heaviness. The band describes it as “a psychological and spiritual battle,” moving from dread into cathartic release.
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The accompanying music video mirrors the emotional arc of the song. A woman is hunted by a mysterious figure of death, terrified at first, then increasingly resolute. She rides her motorcycle toward the confrontation she has avoided, only to discover that death was never the true enemy. Fear was.
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​“By facing it directly, she conquers the thing that had been ruling her,” says Johnny Ray.
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​The Mourning’s evolution follows a landmark year for the band. In 2025, they made their live debut aboard 70000 Tons of Metal, where Kerrang! hailed them as an “outrageously talented new prog collective” and praised their 3 a.m. debut as “one of the sets of the weekend.” They later performed at Prog on the Ranch 2025, further solidifying their rising status in the progressive metal world.
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With the addition of Nanda Hayek and now Jason Ashcraft and Alon Mei‑Tal, The Mourning enters a new era, one defined by expanded musicianship, deeper emotional storytelling, and a sharpened modern metal edge.
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Recommended for fans of Lacuna Coil, Amaranthe, Flyleaf, Disturbed, and Evanescence, watch and listen to the video for “If I Die I Die” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbms_iiHgAM​

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/themourning/if-i-die-i-die​

​

Single and Live Band Lineup:​
Nanda Hayek – Female Co-Vocalist
Johnny Ray – Male Co-Vocalist
Alex Nasla – Keyboards
Jason Berlin – Drums
Jason Ashcraft – Guitar
Alon Mei-Tal – Bass
Francesco Pinter – Lead Guitar

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​For more info: https://www.themourningmusic.com​

About: Formed by vocalist and songwriter Johnny Ray, The Mourning was created to transform personal struggle, spiritual searching, and existential weight into emotionally immediate progressive metal. Their music blends soaring dual vocals, intricate musicianship, atmospheric tension, and deeply human lyrical themes. The band’s previous album, “Hush,” established them as a rising force in modern progressive metal, exploring anxiety, trauma, meaning, and inner transformation across its acclaimed tracklist.