Category: Press Releases

Nordic Hard Rock band Rylos released the single Prisoner Of Thoughts from the upcoming album Signs of Life

Finnish hard rock band Rylos has released a new single Prisoner of Thoughts. The song tells about how a person can become a prisoner of his own thoughts, which prevents him from believing in himself.  Prisoner of Thoughts is the first single from the upcoming fifth album Signs of Life, which will be released in March 2025. The album production was already started two years ago, but the constant line-up changes delayed the making of the album.

Listen to the single on music services (Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Tidal etc.): https://push.fm/fl/rylos-prisoner-of-thoughts

Tracklist/ISRC-code:

01. Prisoner of Thoughts

ISRC:  FI3FC2449805

Composed by Mikko Heino, Riina Suikkanen, Jussi Uutela, Jere Anttonen, Niko Partanen, Juha-Pekka Pusa

Lyrics by Mikko Heino & Arto Porvari

The band is now starting the Signs of Live -tour, with which they will preview the songs from the upcoming album.

SIGNS OF LIVE 2024

14.9 Jysäys Rock, Anjala, FINLAND
25.9 Bar Loose, Helsinki, FINLAND
27.9 Fort Bar, Tallinn, ESTONIA
28.9 Club Republika, Riga, LATVIA
02.11 Vanha Viiala, Myllykoski, FINLAND
09.11 Hotel Zilton, Loviisa, FINLAND
14.11 Cart & Horses, London, UNITED KINGDOM
14.12 Hard Rock House, Helsinki, FINLAND

Rylos has been making music regularly for the past ten years, released
4 albums, 7 singles and the video game Space Adventure.

Rylos (Official Website) www.rylosplanet.fi

Rylos Facebook https://www.facebook.com/rylosplanet

Rylos Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rylosplanet/

Rylos TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@rylosplanet

Finnish black/death metal band Luusäkki released the second single ‘Statue in Uniform’ from the upcoming debut album

Finnish black/death Metal band Luusäkki is set to release a self-titled debut album which will be out via Inverse Records on October 17th 2024. Statue in Uniform is the second single taken from the album and it’s available here: https://push.fm/fl/luusakki-statue

MS comments:
‘”Statue in Uniform” is the second single from Luusäkki’s upcoming self-titled debut album. The album was written and recorded in Helsinki in the fall of 2022. “Statue in Uniform” combines the dark tones of black metal with the fury of death metal. The song addresses the harsh reality of conflicts and aims to depict the inhuman effects of war as well as the cyclical nature of human suffering. The imagery paints a picture of lost souls and identities.”

LISTEN to the first single Fifth of the Fifth Columns single: https://push.fm/fl/luusakki-fifth

BIOGRAPHY:
Luusäkki is a Finnish one-man project combining black metal, death metal and ambient music. The unstable atmosphere of 2022 gave impetus to the creative process that gave birth to Luusäkki.

Luusäkki – Statue in Uniform (single 2024)

Track list:

01. Statue in Uniform

Music & lyrics by Markus Sundquist.

ISRC: FI3FC2485606

Single cover by MS

Luusäkki – Luusäkki (Album 2024)

Track list:

01. Penned in Water
02. Gangrene
03. Spit Shined Pig Skin
04. Mai-Dun
05. Fifth of the Fifth Columns
06. Statue in Uniform
07. Suzerain
08. Hyena
09. Death Cult
10. All Hallows
11. City of God

Album cover by MS.

Line-up:
Markus Sundquist – Guitars, bass, synths, programming, other instruments, vocals, composition, lyrics, mixing, mastering.

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/luusakki
https://www.instagram.com/luusakki_band
https://luusakki.bandcamp.com

Jotungrav have released an epic new single, Ulven, a nine-minute progressive black/folk metal track of Nordic mythology

Finnish Jotungrav is taking its next step of its musical journey with the new single Ulven, a nine-minute progressive epic of Nordic mythology. Ulven has been released on September 10th 2024 via Inverse Records and it’s giving a taste of the musical aspirations of the band.

The song showcases the ferocity of early 2010’s folk/black metal with a symphonic edge, as well as a love for long and versatile compositions. As a product molded by the modern day metal era, Jotungrav likes to incorporate various progressive elements in their music, which can be heard in the constantly evolving dynamics of Ulven. The song functions as a warm up for the band, which is composing new material and preparing for the recording of its next release. The song will be accompanied by a lyric video, which will give a glimpse into the animalistic horrors that dwell within man.

WATCH ULVEN lyric video: https://youtu.be/m1q2Fo6Nzns

The band comments:
“Ulven is an atmospherically versatile song; in it you can hear everything from the tremolo guitar riffs characteristic of black metal to atmospheric passages accompanied by acoustic instruments. The atmosphere of the song is sometimes serene, sometimes furious. The song’s lyrics are from a darker, albeit philosophical, end. They reflect on people’s pent-up xenophobia and hostile tribalism. Ulven (wolf in Finnish, referring to the Fenris wolf) serves as a metaphor for the human tendency to see enemies everywhere, as well as for cowards who without empathy sacrifice their own ties to others in the name of self-interest. This is how the song connects the problems that torment people from ancient times as well as a modern point of view. Even though the ancient Scandinavian mythology only functions as a thematic mirror for human characteristics, Ulven’s lyrics contain both direct and indirect references to Odin, the reigning god of Asgård, who spent his life until the last day in fear of the prophecy of the Jotun wolf that would kill him. However, fear of death cannot be likened to hate in Odin’s case: the god of knowledge would meet his death spear in hand on the back of his horse, whether he wanted it or not. However, not all ordinary people are blessed with such might and stoic fortitude. The worst people succumb to obsessive paranoia in the face of chaos, arming themselves with the power of anger.”

LISTEN to ULVEN single on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/jotungrav-ulven

BIOGRAPHY:
Jotungrav is the brainchild of singer-songwriter Matias Stenman, which incorporates elements of black metal and folk metal within a progressive metal framework. The project got its initial start in 2015, but most of the material composed back then ended up being discarded. It was in the summer of 2022 when the single Drängen was finished when Jotungrav finally materialized, with the help of fellow Sargassus members Matias Rokio, who provided percussive arrangements to the song, as well as Teemu Leskinen, who took on the mixing and mastering duties. Initially Jotungrav was a slowly progressing musical effort, but with time the project managed to accumulate enough material for a second single, Ulven, while working on more material for future releases. Both musically and thematically Jotungrav draws inspiration from early 2000s–2010s viking/pagan metal scene and mythology. The lyrics have a philosophical and symbolic focus on humanity. The songs evolve into vast soundscapes while maintaining a raw and genuine feel to them, paying homage to the early days of folk metal.

For fans of Moonsorrow, Ereb Altor, Wilderun and Turisas.

Jotungrav – Ulven (single 2024)

01. IUlven

Music by Matias Stenman & Matias Rokio
Lyrics by Matias Stenman

ISRC: FI3FC2486601

Single cover by Matias Stenman

Line-up:
Matias Stenman – Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Orchestrations
Matias Rokio – Drums

Links: 
https://www.facebook.com/jotungrav
https://www.instagram.com/jotungravofficial
https://jotungrav.bandcamp.com

THE PIT presents ‘Adam The Apostate – Nergal The Heretic’​ Documentary

“A look into the life of one of the most controversial figure in extreme music today” In the realm of contemporary music, Adam “Nergal”

Summer time is “replay time” on THE PIT VOD platform, with ”Adam The Apostate – Nergal The Heretic’, a documentary digging into the life of Adam “Nergal” Darski, leader of one of the most famous extreme metal bands, Behemoth.

An expansive filmic biography of the many-faced leader of the band, covering his humble beginnings in Cold-war Poland, rise to musical excellence and fame as well as successful fights against both cancer and dubious legal prosecution.

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

In the realm of contemporary music, Adam “Nergal” Darski surely needs no further introduction. Yet the guitarist and singer has even made inroads into general pop culture and shaped social discourse, all the while not moving away an iota from the underground ethos his ongoing career is based on.

Rising from his humble beginnings in Cold-war Poland to global fame with his band Behemoth, striving for musical excellence throughout the ignominies of life-threatening illness and dubious legal battles, staying deeply spiritual and focused during even the most casual appearances in mundane limelight, it is safe to say the 1977-born has many faces, the sum of which defies categorization. Satanist or dexterous money spinner? Academically certified historian or shallow media figure? Inspired and inspiring spokesperson of a generation or mere agent provocateur?

Make your guesses – Now with a degree of success that is matchless in extreme heavy metal as one of the most vicious fields of art, diverse business ventures and public roles, after conquering leukaemia, becoming the subject of not one but two biographical books and making a case in court for freedom of both speech as well as religious belief, the renaissance man opens up for a candid, unapologetic portrait of the multi headed beast that he is.

MEXICAN STANDOFF Have A Tasty New Cover of Cheap Trick’s “Denver Omelette” Off Upcoming Album “Raiders of the Dutch Rudder” Out October 2024

Italy’s Mexican Standoff is delighted to announce the release of a new cover of Cheap Trick’s song “Denver Omelette”.

“This our take on 80’s Glam Rock, less hair metal and more Cheap Trick style melodies. The chorus revolves around a stop and go that emphasizes its open melody.” says the band.

The cover track is featured on the band’s upcoming album “Raiders of the Dutch Rudder”, which will be released on October 4th, 2024 from Rockshots Records.

Showcasing their blend of classic rock energy, metal aggression and punk rebellion for a groovy musical experience, “Raiders of the Dutch Rudder” draws from metal, glam and punk, for a sound that is both fresh and familiar with lyrics ranging from imaginative storytelling to personal reflections.

Listen to “Denver Omelette” at the following links:

Digital – ​http://lnk.to/z5y5YQ​

YouTube – https://youtu.be/B5rb9pzeM8o​

Previous Single – Music Video – “Bloody Summer” – https://youtu.be/XRuuQ6SEDuk​

Album Pre-Order – CD https://bit.ly/MexicanStandoffCD​

Album digital pre-save – ​http://lnk.to/lbJFpL​​

Track Listing:​
1. Falling Down
2. Adios Motherfucker
3. Denver Omelette
4. Salvation
5. Anthrax Empress 2
6. Bloody Summer
7. Gifted Blonde
8. Proud Mary
9. Wheezy
10. Morning Light

More info: https://www.rockshots.eu | https://www.facebook.com/mexicanstandoffrock1 | https://www.instagram.com/mexican_standoff_rock/​

Finnish Thrashers MUTANT BLAST release Album “Soulsteeler”

Mutant Blast unleashes their new album, titled “Soulsteeler”. Featuring a mix of slightly older, re-arranged tracks alongside new compositions, the album has been meticulously crafted over 1.5 years with utmost dedication.

“We put a lot of effort into making the album as good as possible,” says Toni Huhtiniemi (Guitar & Backup Vocals). “We hope that as many fans of heavier music as possible will find the band and get to hear the end result!”​
​
The band’s sound is characterized as ‘Metal thrashing death’n’roll – and heavy! This defining style is evident throughout the album, featuring powerful riffs, good melodies, and strong songwriting aimed at engaging listeners.
​
​Mutant Blast draws inspiration from a variety of influences including bands like Metallica, Entombed, Iron Maiden, Exodus, and Annihilator shaping a sound that blends death’n’roll, thrash metal, and heavy metal with elements of hard rock and death metal.
​
​Mutant Blast invites fans of heavy music to join them on this sonic journey. With a sound that has evolved from their death’n’roll roots to encompass thrash and heavy metal, their upcoming album promises to be a testament to their growth and musical prowess.

“Soulsteeler” is available as of September 6th, 2024, and available on CD at https://shop.rockshots.eu/en/home/6938-mutant-blast-soulsteeler.html​

and Spotify – https://spoti.fi/4cX3gEI​

Track Listing:​
1. Satan’s Pawn
2. Alone in the Wasteland
3. Into the Night
4. Black Mass
5. Final Day
6. Acid Rain
7. Mind Control
8. For the Sake of Humanity
9. Prowler (Iron Maiden cover)

For more info:​
​Rockshots.eu​
​https://www.facebook.com/mutantblastband​

​https://www.instagram.com/mutantblastband/​

Nordic Metal Cruise will roll on the waves of the Baltic Sea in February 2025 Featuring Anaal Nathrak, Månegarm, Wormwood, Skiltron and Stereo Terror DJ

The eighth Nordic Metal Cruise will be organized as metal start of 2025 on the 8th-9th February on M/S Viking Grace’s journey from Turku to Stockholm and back. Anaal Nathrak, Månegarm, Wormwood, Skiltron and the cruise’s official house DJ duo Stereo Terror will be on board.

The main performer of the evening is the English Anaal Nathrakh, who smoothly combines black metal, grindcore and death metal in his production. The band, which calls itself “necro metal”, released its latest album “Endarkenment” in 2020.

On the other hand, Månegarm is responsible for the comfort of the fans of folk and viking metal on the upcoming cruise. The band, which took its name from the wolf figure in Norwegian mythology, will also celebrate its 30th anniversary next year – after all, the band’s predecessor, Antikristi, was founded in 1995. The album “Ynglingaättens öde”, released the following year, was characterized as the band’s return to “the world’s best pagan metal bands”.

Similarly, the Swedish Wormwood has been operating for ten years now with diverse metal, drawing inspiration from Scandinavian history and themes related to the collapse of society, for example. The band’s album “The Star” was released earlier this year. The band’s wide spectrum of musical influences takes listeners from black and extreme metal through folk to garage rock – without forgetting the importance of melancholic Scandinavian melodies.

Originally founded in Buenos Aires and later rooted in Finland, Skiltron brings a touch of Celtic spices to the waves of the Baltic Sea. Founded in 2004 by Emilio Souto, the band toured hard in Argentina in its early years, where Skiltron has been seen on the same stages with, for example, In Extremo and Korpiklaani, and soon the road also led to Europe’s biggest metal festivals. The band, rooted in Espoo, will do a British tour before the Nordic Metal Cruise at the end of the year.

Stereo Terror, which was part of the first Nordic Metal Cruise, returns due to high demand to entertain the crowd. Stereo Terror acts as the official house DJ duo of the cruise, entertaining the crowd on several occasions – not forgetting the closing party on the main stage of the first night!

Tickets for the cruise are now on sale:
http://www.nordicmetalcruise.fi and http://www.vikingline.fi/nmc

Polish Cairo-Based Guitarist/Songwriter ANDRZEJ CITOWICZ Premieres New Special Album “Living Machine” on YouTube

Pioneers, Artificial Intelligence, and Late ’80s Rock Sounds – A New Chapter for CITOVITZ AND THE FIREFLIES OF FEBRUARY

OnSeptember 5th, YouTube hosted the online premiere of the latest album from Citovitz And The Fireflies Of February (CTFF). This project features two talented musicians: Andrzej Citowicz, a guitarist and composer originally from Wałbrzych, Poland, now residing in Cairo, who has collaborated with guitarists from the legendary American band Warrant; and Patryk Szymański, a bassist and guitarist from Działdowo, Poland, known for his work with the band Transtime.

“Living Machine” – the title of CTFF’s newest release – comprises 10 tracks. The album blends ’80s rock vibes with modern sounds. What sets this release apart is the inclusion of vocal parts, a departure from the band’s previous instrumental albums. Through a collaboration with TuneCore, the musicians leveraged artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. AI not only generated vocal parts for the provided lyrics and tracks but was also applied to existing vocal recordings, giving them a completely new dimension.

“Although we’re traditionalists who love collaborating with other people, we’d be remiss not to accept an offer from a giant like TuneCore,” notes project leader Andrzej Citowicz. “We were selected for a project training AI capabilities in singing, vocal harmonies, etc. Out of hundreds, if not thousands, of participants, we made it to the final 60, allowing us to create 10 unique tracks with AI assistance.”

Patryk Szymański adds, “It’s been nearly fifteen years of playing together without meeting in person. Around 2011-2012, we were pioneers in amateur remote recording, which even international music magazines noted. Today, we’re using AI resources in our musical adventure to feel like the rock stars we’ve always wanted to be, right from our own bedrooms,” he says with a smile.

It’s worth noting that while AI played a crucial role in shaping the vocals, it didn’t entirely replace the human voice. “AI served as a tool to help us achieve the sound we dreamed of. You might even hear fragments of our own vocals in some tracks, further shaped by artificial intelligence. It’s an experiment that allowed us to push the boundaries of music and create something truly unique,” Andrzej Citowicz explains.

“Living Machine” – An Album That Will Surprise

“Living Machine” is set to surprise listeners. The combination of traditional rock sounds with modern technologies, unique AI-created vocals, and emotional lyrics creates an exceptional whole. It’s an album that lingers in memory long after listening, leaving the audience with a sense of fulfillment.

Singles Promoting the Album

The album is promoted by singles including “Life Means Nothing At All” and “Beautiful Broken Souls,” which are already winning over listeners. These energetic tracks serve as perfect ambassadors for “Living Machine” and herald an extraordinary musical journey.

Listen and See for Yourself!

The link to the full version of the album, which will be available on YouTube on September 5th, is provided below:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7KjuV2lXI3gnyzX92Oaw6_XMMvg3SnD2&si=1I_jpRaUWgkTqwjO

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Earlier this Summer, Citowicz released “Bloody Mamacita”, taken from the upcoming album “Unwelcomed and Unbreakable” set to released later this year. “Bloody Mamacita” is more than just a song; it’s a heartfelt dedication to his wife and a powerful anthem for adults on the autism spectrum. The track explores the often-overlooked struggles and triumphs of neurodivergent individuals navigating adulthood.

Citowicz adds, “Every song on this album is a piece of my story, and the stories of countless others who navigate this world a bit differently. It’s about being unwelcomed by society’s norms but remaining unbreakable in spirit.”

Watch “Bloody Mamacita” lyric video: https://youtu.be/j4Ts9XXTQuo?si=4bPYUvd32W0HondB

“Bloody Mamacita” Music Credits:
Andrzej Citowicz: Guitars, Music, and Everything in Between
Patryk Szymanski: Bass
Vocals: Voice of a Neurodivergent

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On May 6th 2024, Andrzej Citowicz released his deeply personal gift, “Carpe Diem: The Best Of” album, of Citowicz’s creative musical odyssey.

Beyond the realm of music, “Carpe Diem: The Best Of” is a profound reflection of Andrzej Citowicz himself. Every note and melody resonate with the triumphs, challenges, and quiet moments of contemplation that have shaped him as an artist. It’s an intimate glimpse into the depths of his being.

In case you missed, stream “Carpe Diem: The Best Of” at https://youtu.be/T52FnyGxYtk?si=znvhvOa-TQ8SUkqD – feat. heart-piercing guitar riffs and a pulsating rhythm section skillfully crafted by bassist Patryk Szymański.

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As an autistic guitarist, Citowicz has leveraged his unique perspective to craft a distinctive sound that resonates with listeners from all walks of life. His music serves as a powerful tool for self-expression, allowing him to convey complex emotions and thoughts in a way that transcends verbal communication. By sharing his experiences and creative process, Citowicz aims to inspire and empower others on the autism spectrum, while also promoting greater understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity in the music industry.

Andrzej Citowicz’s music career has been marked by a unique blend of hard rock, blues, and cinematic elements, which has garnered him a loyal following across the globe. His critically acclaimed trilogy of instrumental albums has been praised for its emotional depth, technical virtuosity, and innovative storytelling. Citowicz’s music has been described as “a cinematic soundscape that transports listeners to a world of raw emotion”.

Also check out Andrzej’s earlier singles:
“Hive of Weirdness” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji5TwSm_hNo
“Butterfly Effect” – https://youtu.be/jryGasne7Mg?si=BWLN4_tx7r03NgoD
“Turn To Stone” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2NT7O9Zr2M
“Anemoia” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THtiL7q90bY
“Modern Blues Riot” special demo – https://youtu.be/AEZtTuPr6bI
Special Cairo Mix ‘Midnight Thunderstorms’ – https://youtu.be/FEK8fsbHd4I
‘A Wound That’s Always Bleeding’ – https://youtu.be/clScq09DywE
‘Savagely Hungry For Love’ – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEgRrcmgLDY
‘Electric Heartbeat Symphony’ – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6IWdx0vOQQ
‘Marvelous Misadventures Of Myself’ – https://youtu.be/jsgLvfF5Wd8
‘The Long Train Journey’ – https://youtu.be/zbEgbMBGbGw
‘Never Ending Storms’ – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ip04u1xuf4s

Connect with Andrzej Citowicz:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AndrzejCitowicz
Instagram: https://instagram.com/citovitz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/citovitz/

THE WRING Latest Single “The Nail” Is A New Blend Of Aggression And Prog Metal Off New Album “Nemesis” Out Sept 2024

Sudbury, Canada’s The Wring continues to build anticipation for their upcoming album “Nemesis” with the release of their new single “The Nail”. This track is a hard-hitting showcase of the band’s ability to blend heavy rock with progressive influences, delivering a sound that is both aggressive and intricate. “The Nail” features a compelling mix of rhythmic complexity and melodic intensity, as guitarist Don Dewulf comments:

“When there is no baseball or hockey on TV, I will flip to the MUCH LOUD video channel where they play anything that has a guitar in it (rare these days, as I do not count what Taylor Swift does as ‘playing guitar’). I stumbled on a song by The Offspring called Behind Your Walls of Pain. For some reason, that song stuck with me. Once I broke it down, it was the i-vi—iv progression that I found interesting. This is uncommon without the V chord. I twisted it up for the chorus and added a bunch of different parts to make the song. Lyrically, there is no disguising my disdain for the unprecedented lack of decency, honesty, and respect in the world right now.”

“The Nail” delves into themes of perseverance and struggle, a recurring motif in the band’s work. The track’s driving rhythm, punctuated by Dewulf’s razor-sharp guitar work and Abbott’s thunderous drumming, provides the perfect backdrop for Hache’s evocative vocals and bass lines. The song’s structure, which oscillates between intense heaviness and intricate melodic passages, keeps listeners on the edge, reflecting the tension and release inherent in the song’s message.

Watch and listen to the music video for “The Nail” via its premiere on Bravewords HERE.

“Nemesis” will be released on September 27, 2024, via Wormholedeath, with distribution by Aural/Orchard, it is recommended for fans of Dream Theatre, Opeth, and Porcupine Tree.

Album pre-save at https://orcd.co/nemesispre-save​

Previous Single – “The Sword” – Music Video – https://youtu.be/LLkIs2V6BWQ​

Track Listing:​
1. Badlands – 5:13
2. The Nail – 5:29
3. Blur – 4:17
4. The Sword – 5:37
5. Before I Disappear – 4:39
6. Welshrats – 5:18
7. Dark Passenger – 5:20
8. Nemesis – 4:47
Total 40:40

More info: www.thewring.ca | https://www.facebook.com/thewringband | https://www.instagram.com/wringband​

Italian guitarist RICCARDO D’ATTIS Releases New Single ‘Timeless Dimension’.

Volcano Records & Promotion is thrilled to announce the release of Riccardo D’Attis‘ new single, titled Timeless Dimension. Available from September 4, 2024, on all digital platforms, this instrumental track represents a sonic journey blending rock and metal with a modern sound, inspired by the words of legendary guitarist Steve Vai: “Passion eliminates time. Passion takes you to a timeless dimension of now”. Timeless Dimension is a tribute to musical passion that transcends time, inviting the listener to explore new horizons through captivating melodies and high-level guitar techniques. With a duration of 6 minutes and 6 seconds, the track captures Riccardo D’Attis’ essence as a guitarist and composer, showcasing his ability to blend classical influences with a contemporary touch.

Born in Bordighera in 1993, Riccardo D’Attis began his musical journey at the age of 17. After a period as a self-taught musician, he studied at the National Conservatory of Nice, where he deepened his musical knowledge. He currently works as an electric guitar teacher and collaborates with various bands, ranging from pop to jazz and from funk to symphonic metal.

Listen to ‘Timeless Dimension’ on Spotify or your favorite streaming platform AT https://music.imusician.pro/a/ZLX84TY9/

Timeless Dimensions

Listen also to the first single ‘Engine Fault’ at https://music.imusician.pro/a/dnXPpVAq/

Further info at
www.volcanopromotion.com
www.facebook.com/riccardo.dattis