Music News & Reviews from the Rock, Metal, Blues, Prog, Punk & Jazz Genres as well as stage and festival shows
First act of the night Unyielding Love takes to the stage. With no hesitation and no introduction they jump right into their set with a whiny and intense backing track full of electronic growls loud enough to pierce your ear drums. No drummer, just bass, […]
Gig reviews‘SEVERANCE’ OUT NOW via MLVLTD Manchester’s GUILT TRIP have dropped their brand new album, Severance, out today via MALEVOLENCE-run label MLVLTD. In celebration of the release, they’ve also shared new single and video for ‘Eyes Wide Shut’. Watch the music video for ‘Eyes Wide Shut’ HERE. Order […]
NewsSINGLE FOR TITLE TRACK HERE The debut Rocket Pengwin album ‘Polar Opposites’ from multi-hyphenate singer, songwriter, and visual artist Eddie Sears is out now. The title track, ‘Polar Opposites’ serves as the project’s lead anthem, and anchors what’s sure to become a pop-punk phenomenon. […]
NewsFirst act of the night Unyielding Love takes to the stage. With no hesitation and no introduction they jump right into their set with a whiny and intense backing track full of electronic growls loud enough to pierce your ear drums. No drummer, just bass, […]
Gig reviewsFirst act of the night Unyielding Love takes to the stage. With no hesitation and no introduction they jump right into their set with a whiny and intense backing track full of electronic growls loud enough to pierce your ear drums. No drummer, just bass, guitar and vocals. The vocals are straight and are instantly rough with no aim for change throughout the set, whilst both the bassist and guitarist are completely calm and make barely any movements throughout the set the front man has the energy of a 10 man band.
Running around the stage like a mad man screaming into the mic non-stop, this man has a next level energy that gives off the feeling of being possessed. He head butts his sound deck multiple times throughout the set whilst sticking a miniature microphone into his mouth to create a static sound effect that works with the possessive like themes of the set.
He’s throwing punches through the air whilst making sure to keep the equipment from getting damaged. Towards the end of the set it’s like the possession turns sinister as he picks up a skull from the deck with a microphone attached to it and performs the vocals though the skull giving the illusion that he’s drinking from it. He takes a look throughout the crowd with a sinister smile on his face before bashing the microphone into his head busting it clean open. With blood dripping down his face with a smile he finishes the set with a clean final ending.
8/10: the theme was incredible and had the shock factor to wake you up for a show like this.
Second band to the stage Jarhead Fertilizer, this time a band member less. Drums and guitar only with the drummer also as the vocalist. Which is a tough enough gig when you don’t add in that it’s pure rough vocals throughout. So big props to these guys because doing both in this heatwave with a face full of war paint is not an easy one.
The set was pretty relaxed despite its harsh tones, with little movement from the guitarist and a lot of energy thrown into the drummer. A black curtain was placed on either side of the stage with the band’s artwork displayed which for a small venue like Rebellion caused some issues with a majority of the audience not being able to see what was happening on the stage. Especially with only two members and everything being quite central on the stage.
Riffs were full on incredible with solid breakdowns which caused a lot of hair whipping, there’s no point in calling it head banging if it feels like you’re getting whipped in the process.
7/10
Final support of the night Antichrist Siege Machine. Again drummer and vocals all in one with a full four man band. Either there was an issue with the microphone but over everything else, backing tracks and heavy riffs I couldn’t hear the vocals in the slightest. You knew vocals were happening by just looking at the drummer and witnessing the show, but you couldn’t hear much.
The bassist and lead guitarist were heavily in sync which made the whole performance satisfying to watch with each breakdown coming with hard head banging from the band. Behind me pits began to open for the first time all night, with the entire floor opened up with no escape of the chaos that was unfolding. Pretty sure I was even kicked in the back of the neck at one point. But that’s what you get at heavy hardcore shows like this, kicks in the neck and men with moustaches that know how to do insane breakdowns.
8/10.
The final band of the night and the one everyone has been waiting for, people have stayed at the front of the stage all night for this moment. After reviewing the legendary Damnation Festival last year I noticed some familiar faces that I spotted there that I’m seeing right now, at metal shows you will always run into someone you know.
Full of Hell have a formless freestyle to their performance, it almost feels like the most evil and discombobulating jam session that’s ever been held. There is no niceness within the room anymore; it’s pure evil and hate. Dylan Walker uses electronics and samples to give the whole sound more depth throughout the show. He growls rougher vocals into a contraption that almost looks like a breathalyser, or something right out of Star Wars / Doctor Who. The once safe space at the front of the crowd is no longer the safe space as the chaos builds in the room and it gets even more rowdy, the pit opens up even wider as if it’s sucking the room into the middle. There’s even points mid image taking when i’m kicked in the back of the head by people in the mosh pit.
Dylan prowls the stage like a caged beast trying to make itself free, howling away releasing his pent up anger and aggression. His vocals are incredible and don’t falter at any point during the entire show. The band move from the intense speed they came on with and go to a more slow tempo within the blink of an eye. You don’t notice the songs change and before you know it it’s 10pm and the final song is approaching. The audience around me is insanely happy with what they have witnessed throughout the night, and what an amazing performance they have experienced! They have deconstructed metal and rebuilt it into something insanely powerful that has even more potential!
9/10
Setlist:
Words & images: Lauren Allard
‘SEVERANCE’ OUT NOW via MLVLTD Manchester’s GUILT TRIP have dropped their brand new album, Severance, out today via MALEVOLENCE-run label MLVLTD. In celebration of the release, they’ve also shared new single and video for ‘Eyes Wide Shut’. Watch the music video for ‘Eyes Wide Shut’ HERE. Order […]
News‘SEVERANCE’ OUT NOW via MLVLTD
Manchester’s GUILT TRIP have dropped their brand new album, Severance, out today via MALEVOLENCE-run label MLVLTD. In celebration of the release, they’ve also shared new single and video for ‘Eyes Wide Shut’.
Watch the music video for ‘Eyes Wide Shut’ HERE.
Order Severance HERE.
On the new single and album, the band comment:
“This record pushes our sound in a different, more 90s metal-influenced direction while maintaining the spine we’ve become known for. Our writing schedule means we’ve had limited appearances on festivals and tours this year which, whilst being challenging for us personally, was necessary. Now all the hard work is finally coming to a head and we couldn’t be more excited to show the world what we’ve been drawing up. We believe ‘Eyes Wide Shut’ is one of the standouts of this body of work, channeling Lamb of God style riffs blended with our typical hardcore elements.
“Lyrically the song vents the notion of prior agendas clouding a person’s perception of situations, seeing what you want to see and showing ignorance towards what you don’t, thus resulting in invalid judgement. The video for ‘Eyes Wide Shut’ is an artistic embodiment of this in form of a short film directed by Luigi Sibona, produced by Hollow Films.”
After spending many years cutting their teeth in the world of underground hardcore, Manchester’s GUILT TRIP are poised to cross over into wider alternative audiences with the release of their second full length album Severance. Despite touring internationally and accumulating millions of streams, GUILT TRIP were long overlooked by the industry. Building a loyal following entirely organically, from the ground up, through nothing but quality music and hard work.
Now, beginning to get the attention they deserve, Severance is an obvious progression in what they have previously been known to deliver. You can expect 12 tracks of expertly crafted hardcore influenced metal with the riffing of Machine Head and vocal aggression of Hatebreed. Severance boasts slick and modern sounding production and also a lyrical intelligence, both of which exceed far beyond the standards of many of their hardcore peers. Severance is set to be a pivotal record for GUILT TRIP which will see them break through the ceiling of the underground and earn them the respect of heavy music fans worldwide.
As well as numerous festival appearances across Europe this summer, GUILT TRIP will also be heading out on a UK and EU run supporting Malevolence alongside Sylosis and Justice for the Damned this coming November, as we;; as their headline album release show in December, which sold out in three days. UK tour dates below:
Malicious Intent tour:
07.11 – The Garage, Glasgow
08.11 – O2 Ritz, Manchester
09.11 – O2 Institute, Birmingham
10.11 – SWX, Bristol
11.11 – O2 Kentish Town, London
Headline Album Release Show
15.12 – Corporation, Sheffield *sold out
Tickets available here: https://mlvltd.com/pages/tickets.
About GUILT TRIP:
GUILT TRIP are a metallic hardcore five-piece from Manchester, UK. Blending elements from a multitude of genres through metal, hardcore and thrash, the band have found themselves in a league of their own. All whilst remaining independent, the band have smashed major festival slots such as Bloodstock and the prestigious Hellfest, followed up with a Canadian headline run and European main support for Stray From The Path. GUILT TRIP have quickly become the finest international export that the UK hardcore scene has to offer, with their groove-ridden riffing appealing to a far wider audience than the scene that initially spawned them.
GUILT TRIP – Severance
Tracklisting:
1. Fallen At My Feet
2. Surrounded By Pain
3. Eyes Wide Shut
4. Sweet Dreams (ft. Florent Salfati)
5. Reaching Paradise
6. Tearing Your Life Away
7. Broken Wings
8. The Gates
9. Sanctified
10. Hell Will Replace The Rain
11. Severance
Band Members:
Jay Valentine – vocals
Tom Aimson – drums
Jak Maden – guitars
Sam Baker – guitars
Social Media Links:
Facebook || Instagram
SINGLE FOR TITLE TRACK HERE The debut Rocket Pengwin album ‘Polar Opposites’ from multi-hyphenate singer, songwriter, and visual artist Eddie Sears is out now. The title track, ‘Polar Opposites’ serves as the project’s lead anthem, and anchors what’s sure to become a pop-punk phenomenon. […]
NewsSINGLE FOR TITLE TRACK HERE
The debut Rocket Pengwin album ‘Polar Opposites’ from multi-hyphenate singer, songwriter, and visual artist Eddie Sears is out now. The title track, ‘Polar Opposites’ serves as the project’s lead anthem, and anchors what’s sure to become a pop-punk phenomenon.
“The song, like the album, is an exploration of a series of big ‘what ifs’.” says Eddie Sears. “I wrote it as a representation of moments in my life where as I was wrestling with feelings for someone who I wasn’t sure felt the same way back. I also wrote this song when I was fresh to NYC – I really had a rough go of it for the first few years in the city, and this struggle with figuring out whether or not I’m too different for this place led me to the creation of Rocket Pengwin.
Listen to the track HERE
Rocket Pengwin will playing an album release show next month in New York City.
Sunday 8th October – Elsewhere, NYC Tickets here
Having moved to New York in 2016 with the need to find a place where self-expression would be understood and appreciated – and where being unique is the norm, Eddie started to make roads to what would become Rocket Pengwin. Born from being a creative in the artistic world, Eddie was able to find his team in order to rekindle his own form of expression and embrace this fully independent project.
“I don’t know any other version of existing if not being an artist. Music and visual arts are my form of existence from day one. That developed with listening to The Beatles and making lots of punk music growing up, and eventually experimenting with electronic equipment and graphic design.” says Sears.
He continues “I care about community, about being able to connect with like minded individuals that find comfort in my songs. Learning that sharing my experience has helped people go through a hard time, celebrate a win or going through a break up is mindblowing and a dream come true. Writing music is a vehicle to share things that I would never tell to someone’s face – not even my own. Writing songs is a little like therapy on steroids: you pour your heart and soul into a sentence, and eventually, everyone gets to hear it.”
As the story goes, the Penguin is from Antarctica – the place on Earth least interfered with by humans. New York City couldn’t be more of a contrast. By bringing the ‘Pengwin’ to life in the real world, he created an outlet to express how he felt in life and love, but also in a more literal way that would challenge fans and passersby alike to think about what it means to find a sense of place. Whilst the whole concept can be existential – man vs. nature, imagination vs. reality, he wanted to ground Rocket Pengwin by exploring real topics that anyone can relate to – what does it take to stand out in a crowd? Is that even important? Do we actually all stand out in our own, unique ways? How do relationships even work – whether they are amongst each other, our significant others, with the city we live in or even with ourselves?
All of these themes are explored in the debut album ‘Polar Opposites’, and each of the 11 (original) songs is a chapter of the story (the project also features two high-octane covers of Taylor Swift’s ‘Anti-Hero’ and Miley Cyrus’ ‘Jaded’). Each original track contains its own standalone narrative arc based on his own reality and that of Rocket Pengwin.
‘Polar Opposites’ is a powerful record that is infused with the biggest hooks, empowering lyrics and a huge injection of fun that could be loved by fans of Blink 182 and Reggie And The Full Effect. In a testament to the project’s endorsement across the world of rock and pop-punk, two of the original tracks (What’s The Point? (I Care), Promises) were co-produced with Ilan Rubin, drummer for Nine Inch Nails, and the youngest-ever inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Further, Jacopo Volpe, who is on tour with Post Malone currently, also delivered drumwork across the album. Daniele Autore, who has delivered production work on remixes for Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez, and Skrillex accompanies the star-studded roster of producers involved in ‘Polar Opposites’.
“I’m excited for everyone to hear the project in its entirety,” says Sears. “From start to finish, it’s an adventure filled with celebrations, fuck yous, quiet moments of introspection, and anthems to get you motivated even when the weight of the world is holding you down. I hope fans find the sum of its parts to be the perfect soundtrack for their lives, no matter what part of planet Earth they live on.” The project brings fans into a familiar and surreal world, where they must examine their own preconceived notions of what it means to be the odd one out, all with the catchiest pop-punk songs, and sure-fire anthems in the making.
‘POLAR OPPOSITES’ TRACKLISTING:
Polar Opposites
Central Park
Save Me
What It Seems
Heaven
Say It Loud
Mars
What’s The Point? (I Care)
Promises
Don’t Hate
Invincible
Jaded
Anti-Hero
RAGE BEHIND – »Eminence Or Disgrace« Out December 8, 2023 Via Atomic Fire Records:PRE-ORDER/PRE-SAVE HERE: https://ragebehind.afr.link/eminencePR RAGE BEHIND – Don’t Break (OFFICIAL VISUALIZER VIDEO): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWk7OKIow24 WATCH/STREAM/PURCHASE: https://ragebehind.afr.link/dontbreakPR Today, French groove/nu-metal thrash monsters RAGE BEHIND are proud to announce their long-awaited debut album »Eminence Or Disgrace« which […]
NewsRAGE BEHIND – »Eminence Or Disgrace« Out December 8, 2023 Via Atomic Fire Records:
PRE-ORDER/PRE-SAVE HERE: https://ragebehind.afr.link/eminencePR
RAGE BEHIND – Don’t Break (OFFICIAL VISUALIZER VIDEO): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWk7OKIow24
WATCH/STREAM/PURCHASE: https://ragebehind.afr.link/dontbreakPR
Today, French groove/nu-metal thrash monsters RAGE BEHIND are proud to announce their long-awaited debut album »Eminence Or Disgrace« which will be released on December 8, 2023 via Atomic Fire Records. In addition, they have also revealed a powerful new song titled ‘Don’t Break’ which is accompanied by a visualizer video. Aggregating the precision of SLAYER and the groove of acts like LAMB OF GOD, both transported in a modern groove metal world, their new track will delight a new generation of metal fans. In this decadent world, where one easily loses its moral compass, RAGE BEHIND‘s intention with their music is to bring the listener to achieve eminence. The rage might be held behind the mask, but they always deliver the message.
Watch the visualizer video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GWk7OKIow24
Stream/purchase ‘Don’t Break’ now, here: https://ragebehind.afr.link/dontbreakPR
The band comment: “‘Don’t Break’ is a song fueled by hatred. However, the message through this hate is that patience, serenity and karma always work for you and are your best allies. It’s a perfect song to describe the energy of our band, thrashy and incisive. It reminds us on some good memories when we were in the studio. It was a tough one to record but the result is sick!”
RAGE BEHIND are an alliance of seasoned musicians who have combined forces to defend the legacy of modern groove and thrash metal and spread a call to fight in a world of ever-growing disgrace. This new devastating metal monster, with a heart fueled by passion, rage, and ambition, has paid its dues while being on the road with HEAVEN SHALL BURN, PROTEST THE HERO and BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME, and on their new album »Eminence Or Disgrace,« every song is a call to surpass one’s self-imposed limits.
Pre-order the album as CD-digipak, pre-save it on your favorite DSP or pre-order it digitally now, here: https://ragebehind.afr.link/eminencePR
More on »Eminence Or Disgrace«:
‘Eminence Or Disgrace’ OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqfyZm4T_UM
‘Dictated Freedom’ OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAEm2zlGY58
‘Through Wrath’ OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hTVDlhgrkY
‘Season Of Blood’ OFFICIAL VISUALIZER VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bLTj_cyrAuw
‘Hourglass And Revenge’ OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gwUAJ5kcdE
Next week, RAGE BEHIND will finally hit the roads of their home country alongside fellow countrymen, modern thrash metallers HEART ATTACK, and Belgian cinematic/electronic metalcore ensemble SUASION. All details can be found below!
RAGE BEHIND live:
New Blood Tour w/ HEART ATTACK + SUASION
Presented by Rage Tour
29.09.2023 FR Dunkerque – Les 4Écluses
30.09.2023 FR Pagney-derrière-Barine – Chez Paulette
01.10.2023 FR Strasbourg – Artefact La Laiterie
05.10.2023 FR Cesson-Sévigné (Rennes) – Brasserie Skumenn
06.10.2023 FR Saint-Nazaire – Le VIP
07.10.2023 FR Saint-Brieuc – Bonjour Minuit
11.10.2023 FR Lyon – Rock n’Eat
12.10.2023 FR Nîmes – Paloma
14.10.2023 FR Issy-les-Moulineaux – Le Réacteur
Tickets: https://ragebehind.com/tour-dates/
RAGE BEHIND are:
Vitali Lukas | vocals
Jerry Ho | lead guitar
Max Liva | rhythm guitar
Stan Morgan | bass
Edward Vale | drums
RAGE BEHIND online:
www.ragebehind.com
www.facebook.com/ragebehindofficial
www.instagram.com/ragebehind
https://label.atomicfire-records.com/project/rage-behind/
‘SHAME ON ME’ due 20th OCTOBER via THRILLER RECORDS. Four-piece hard rock band CATCH YOUR BREATH have shared their reflective new track ‘Mirror (Ft. Ekoh)’, taken from their long-awaited debut album Shame On Me, due 20th October via Thriller Records. Fans will find previously released singles, ‘Y.S.K.W’, ‘No Evil‘, ‘Savages‘ and ‘21 Gun Salute‘ on […]
News‘SHAME ON ME’ due 20th OCTOBER via THRILLER RECORDS.
Four-piece hard rock band CATCH YOUR BREATH have shared their reflective new track ‘Mirror (Ft. Ekoh)’, taken from their long-awaited debut album Shame On Me, due 20th October via Thriller Records. Fans will find previously released singles, ‘Y.S.K.W’, ‘No Evil‘, ‘Savages‘ and ‘21 Gun Salute‘ on the album and it will also include the critically acclaimed ‘Dial Tone‘ and their fan-favourite title track.
Stream ‘Mirror (Ft. Ekoh)’ here.
Pre-order Shame On Me here.
On the new single, lead vocalist Josh Mowery comments:
“‘Mirror’ is a song about times in your life, you think you have everything figured for yourself, and then with one fell swoop something goes wrong and you realise you’ve been lying to yourself the entire time, always hoping for the positive outcome you wished so badly to obtain, just to end up hating yourself because deep down you knew it wasn’t ever really going to happen in the first place.”
“Mirror’ is adventurous, highlighting addictive hooks whilst connecting clean vocals alongside rap stylings, making for a striking pair. The band create an expressive atmosphere keeping their versatility intact with each new song they put out, drawing fans and new listeners in.
On their debut album, Mowery continues:
“Shame On Me is an accumulation of songs written about my past. My journey to my early adulthood. Every song is attached to a significant point in my life, or someone in my life at one point or another. Hopefully these songs reach people, and help them heal, much like music did for me growing up.”
The band is coming off the heels of their successful release of single ‘Dial Tone‘. The track illuminates an addictive sound as it’s dosed in distinctive guitar tones and strong vocals. It has hit over 7 million streams on Pandora and over 30 million on Spotify while charting on iTunes and Billboard.
CATCH YOUR BREATH has had a year of accomplishments being played on over 35 rock radio stations and coming in at #31 on Billboard as single ‘Shame On Me‘ hits #13 on Octane. CATCH YOUR BREATH continue working on tracks with Curt Martin, (DED, Attila), and continue to develop an ever growing fanbase with their devoted local scene out of Austin, Texas. With this consistent support they were able to take their infectious live show on the road in support of Attila on The Rage Tour.
With a spike in popularity on TikTok, CATCH YOUR BREATH continue to dominate the music scene, landing ‘Dial Tone’ spots on BBC Radio 1’s Future Alternative and Kerrang!’s K Nights playlist.
About CATCH YOUR BREATH
A fresh, burgeoning alt-rock band based out of Austin, Texas. Comprised of vocalist Josh, guitarist Teddy, bassist Cianan, and drummer Onell, CATCH YOUR BREATH injects a unique mix of synth soundscaping elements, imaginative production, and refined songwriting for an intense amount of emotion. The secret ingredient of their music is their relatable core. Says Teddy of the sound, “We want to mix it up with a new gen of alt-rock and metal… there’s almost never just our instruments playing by themselves”. With their latest single ‘Dial Tone’ debuting on Sirius XM Octane radio, exponential Pandora growth, and coverage by Knotfest.com, audiences will instantly connect with the music no matter where they come from.
Tracklisting:
1. No Evil
2. Dying On The Inside
3. Dial Tone
4. Cycles
5. Deadly
6. Y.S.K.W
7. My Confessions
8. Savages
9. Mirror (Ft. Ekoh)
10. Don’t Go
11. Cold Light
12. 21 Gun Salute
13. Shame On Me
Band Members:
– Joshua Mowery (vocals)
– Teddy Herrera (guitar)
– Cianan Madigan (bass)
– Onell Hernandez (drums)
Social Media Links:
Facebook || Instagram || Twitter || YouTube || TikTok || Spotify
Listen to “Don’t Bother Me Babe” on all digital platforms HERE When the world needs to push aside all the bad things and find the strength to search for blue skies again, what better resource to turn to than the music of Albert Hammond? Albert […]
NewsListen to “Don’t Bother Me Babe” on all digital platforms HERE
When the world needs to push aside all the bad things and find the strength to search for blue skies again, what better resource to turn to than the music of Albert Hammond? Albert has faced down disappointment, loneliness, isolation, and impossible yearning and turned them into some of the most incisive and moving hit songs of the last 50 years. “It Never Rains In Southern California,” “The Air That I Breathe,” “When I Need You,” “One Moment In Time,” “I Don’t Wanna Lose You” and “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” are just a few of the uplifting, transformative classics he has penned for himself, The Hollies, Leo Sayer, Whitney Houston, Tina Turner, Starship and others. Now comes the driving, looping pulse of “Don’t Bother Me Babe”, an elemental force to drive away negativity and move forward in a positive direction.
“This song is one of those ‘clear-eyed’ moments when you see it’s time to retreat from the world,” affirms Albert. “Monks do it… so do writers… it’s a hunger to connect to the inner person… the one that has the wisdom, words, and music.”
Recorded between Berlin and Nashville, the song prisms constant change (not always positive) through the eye of a master songsmith and finds the inspiration, strength, and armor to journey onwards.
“Yeah…. I can feel the discomfort and impatience in it.” Albert acknowledges. “That’s just the honest feeling when the world changes for you from oasis to desert, from beauty to chaos….freedom to fences. I’m glad I made it back.”
And the world is also glad to have Albert Hammond back, adding exquisite words and music to our daily challenges.
“I hope it helps you not to feel alone…..really.”
New Music Out Now On Joe Bonamassa’s Journeyman Records, Available On All Digital Platforms. Robert Jon & The Wreck, the high-energy rock & roll collective from Southern California, have been tirelessly pushing the boundaries of rock and roll, earning accolades and passionate fans in the […]
NewsNew Music Out Now On Joe Bonamassa’s Journeyman Records, Available On All Digital Platforms.
Robert Jon & The Wreck, the high-energy rock & roll collective from Southern California, have been tirelessly pushing the boundaries of rock and roll, earning accolades and passionate fans in the process. These five men, with their unwavering commitment and passion, have etched their name in the annals of Southern Rock history.
Known for delivering raw, emotive sounds that capture the quintessential essence of Southern Rock, they are thrilled to unveil their latest single, “Stone Cold Killer,” produced by Kevin Shirley (Aerosmith, Black Crowes, Iron Maiden) out on all digital platforms today via Joe Bonamassa’s Journeyman Records. The accompanying music video is a playful departure from their previous visuals, as it marks the band’s first foray into animation. Directed and animated in striking black and white by Marco Pavone, the unique visual representation captures the song’s energy and depth as well as fun caricatures of each band member.
A teaser from their forthcoming album slated for release next year, “Stone Cold Killer” showcases the unique blend of rock, blues, and country that has garnered Robert Jon & The Wreck widespread acclaim. The single emerged organically from a rehearsal jam, and, as guitarist Henry James Schneekluth remarked, was recorded “without too much fuss and pretty minimal adjustments” at The Village Studios in Los Angeles with esteemed producer Kevin Shirley in April.
Having formed in 2011, Robert Jon & The Wreck have consistently grown, both in their musical prowess and their fanbase. In addition to the release of their new studio album Ride Into The Light, this year also saw RJTW release their first-ever concert film, Live At The Ancienne Belgique, which dropped in April. Recorded during their sold-out show at the Ancienne Belgique in Brussels, Belgium on June 29th, 2022, the live CD/DVD set captures the Wreck amid their longest-ever tour – 67 performances in 75 days across 9 countries.
Prolific songwriters with a wealth of new material who refuse to be constrained by traditional release strategies, the band’s new partnership with Joe Bonamassa’s Journeyman Records affords them the opportunity to work with the world’s top producers and release a steady stream of high-quality singles on an ongoing basis, cutting through the industry chaos and ensuring new music is accessible to fans as intended.
Reigning from Southern California, Robert Jon & The Wreck take the Southern rock sound from the east coast and make it their own. Since their inception in 2011, these native Californians; Robert Jon Burrison (lead vocals, guitar), Andrew Espantman (drums, background vocals), Henry James Schneekluth (lead guitar, background vocals), and Warren Murrel (bass) have been electrifying audiences all over the world with their soaring guitar leads, rich vocal harmonies, and memorable tunes. Recently, keyboardist Jake Abernathie joined the band as an official member as they continue to tour and record in the studio. Simply put, it is difficult to ignore when these talented musicians take the stage.
Robert Jon & The Wreck are touring extensively in 2023, bringing their new music to fans both in the United States and Europe. They are currently on a European tour, covering countries like Germany, the Netherlands, UK, France, Austria, and Switzerland. After wrapping up in Europe on October 8th, the band will head to the U.S. in November. They will start by supporting The Mavericks for four shows, followed by their own headline tour that will continue until December 10th. For more details and ticket information, visit https://robertjonandthewreck.com/
EUROPEAN TOUR 2023
9/27/23 – Le Thor, FR – Le Sonograf
9/28/23 – Talcy (Blois), FR – Le Quai’Son
9/29/23 – Penmarch, FR – Cap Caval
9/30/23 – Herent, BE – GC De Wildeman
10/1/23 – Winterbach, DE – Strandbar 51
10/2/23 – Salzburg, AT – Rockhouse
10/3/23 – Rimsting, DE – Feuerwehr
10/4/23 – Frankfurt, DE – Nachtleben
10/5/23 – Seon, CH – Konservi Seon
10/6/23 – Basel, CH – Atlantis
10/7/23 – Torgau, DE – Kulturbastion Torgau
10/8/23 – Fulda, DE – Kulturzentrum
US FALL TOUR 2023
11/16/23 – MONTEREY, CA – Golden State Theatre*
11/17/23 – EL CAJON, CA – The Magnolia*
11/18/23 – SCOTTSDALE, AZ – Scottsdale Center For The Performing Arts*
11/19/23 – ALBUQUERQUE, NM – Isleta Resort & Casino*
11/25/23 – Boca Raton, FL – Funky Biscuit
11/26/23 – Jacksonville, FL – Underbelly
11/28/23 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Pour House
11/30/23 – Greenville, SC – The Radio Room
12/1/23 – Cornelius, NC – Boatyard
12/2/23 – Elkin, NC – The Reeves Theater & Cafe
12/3/23 – Richmond, VA – The Tin Pan
12/5/23 – Baltimore, MD – The 8×10
12/6/23 – Warrendale, PA – Jergel’s Rhythm Grille
12/7/23 – Cleveland, OH – Beachland Ballroom
12/8/23 – Westland, MI – The Token Lounge
12/9/23 – Aurora, IL – The Venue
12/10/23 – Minneapolis, MN – 7th St Entry
*SUPPORTING THE MAVERICKShttps://robertjonandthewreck.com/https://www.facebook.com/robertjonandthewreckhttps://www.instagram.com/robertjonandthewreck/https://twitter.com/rjandthewreckhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/4FXvPjJz57tIo23OpzHlYC
An unusual acceptance to cover the show at Huntingdon Hall, having the press along, particularly photographers, is not usually their thing. I’m glad they made an exception! Early entry meant I could look around for places to photograph from even with the knowledge that the […]
Gig reviewsAn unusual acceptance to cover the show at Huntingdon Hall, having the press along, particularly photographers, is not usually their thing. I’m glad they made an exception!
Early entry meant I could look around for places to photograph from even with the knowledge that the large majority of images would be taken from the back of the hall, behind the audience. That said, I did manage to eke out a couple of alternative spots with the agreement of the Huntingdon Hall manager, Sarah Czyrko.
No support band tonight but Martin, along with Danny Willson, Misha Nikolic and [new kid on the block] Sonny Flint, put on 2 x 50minute sets to entertain the decent, all-seated, crowd. This tour was to celebrate another 50 year milestone, this time for the release of the Live Dates double album, released in 1973.
The entire Live Dates album was played with all the right songs just not in the right order, plus a few extras over the two sets.
Songs from one of my all-time favourite albums, Argus, kicked off the evening as the band opened with The King Will Come, Warrior and then Throw Down the Sword. For someone who had played, allegedly, less than 50 shows with the band, Sonny Flint has fitted in superbly well, having taken over drum duties from tea-drinker Tim Brown. Martin Turner had his trusty, but battered, white-ish Gibson Thunderbird in hand (and if you haven’t heard of the origins of this piece of kit feel free to ask me), and the dual guitars of Misha Nikolic and Danny Willson battle things out quite admirably – a cracking combination.
Plenty of chit-chat and story-telling between songs, Martin Turner does have some interesting tales to tell – I know because I interviewed him once upon a time and the 20 minute slot I was given turned into nearly an hour and three quarters of stories from his time on the road.
Moving on, we had Rock’n’Roll Widow followed by Ballad of the Beacon then Baby, What You Want me to Do? – a cover of a Jimmy Read song. The first set closes with Phoenix.
It was good to see, and hear, Danny Willson taking on more of the vocals and the fact that he looks remarkably like Ted Turner and Andy Powell (allegedly) helped matters along. Danny does have a good singing voice and it fits in very well alongside Martin Turner’s vocals.
After a short break the second half opens with more stories before the band get into Lady Whiskey taken from the band’s first, self-titled, album. The Pilgrim, from Pilgrimage, came next before the band diverge from the Live Dates album to give us FUBB, You See Red, written by Laurie Wisefield, and Living Proof. The shorter second set closes with Blowin’ Free.
Do we have time for an encore – of course we do!
The band finish the evening with Doctor and then Jailbait, crowd favourites which do include yet more stories.
Part of the setlist tonight included a couple of songs written when the band were known as The Empty Vessels (aka MT Vessels – geddit?), one of several names adopted before Wishbone Ash was taken on, a nice throwback to Martin’s very early days.
A smashing night’s music, in a fairly intimate venue, with Martin, Danny, Misha and Sonny all on top form – what’s not to like?! Danny and Misha, in particular, trade places and funny faces, as well as hit the twin lead guitar notes, without fault. Great fun and a great night’s entertainment, as usual. Here’s to the next 50 years 😉
Setlists:
Set 1.
The King Will Come
Warrior
Throw Down the Sword
Rock & Roll Widow
Ballad of the Beacon
Babay What You Want Me To Do
Phoenix
Set 2.
Lady Whiskey
The Pilgrim
FUBB
You See Red
Living Proof
Blowin’ Free
Encore.
Doctor
Jail Bait
Words & images: Reg Richardson
Watch the video for ‘Oslo (feat. Démira)’ HERE Praise of new album Race The Night:“A heady collection of anthems and proves they still have it after 30 years of nuclear sound” – Louder Than War ★★★★ ½“The kind of grandstanding solos and punky dramas that made 1977 such an […]
NewsWatch the video for ‘Oslo (feat. Démira)’ HERE
Praise of new album Race The Night:
“A heady collection of anthems and proves they still have it after 30 years of nuclear sound” – Louder Than War ★★★★ ½
“The kind of grandstanding solos and punky dramas that made 1977 such an essential Britrock debut” – Classic Pop ★★★★
“Race The Night is the work of a band who are still curious about musical forms and the ability to raise their own potential” – Classic Rock ★★★★
“Tim Wheeler and the boys deliver the goods” – Hot Press ★★★★
“It’s the kind of album you want your teenage heroes to come back with.” – Louder ★★★★
“Their eighth studio album is their most heavy rock since 2004’s Meltdown, unashamedly embracing epic riffery.” – The Arts Desk
“Admirably fresh and energetic” – The Sun
“[Ash] remain confident purveyors of hook-happy indie anthems” – Uncut
Having teased the album with a handful of singles ahead of the release, which included the super-charged, widescreen anthemia of Race The Night, the muscular riffing of Like A God, the brisk power pop of Usual Places and the “ode to one of those nights”, as Tim Wheeler puts it, of ‘Crashed Out Wasted’, the band’s first album in five years is finally released.
Winning consistent support across BBC 6 Music, BBC Radio 2 and Absolute Radio, these new songs bring with them what lead singer and guitarist Tim Wheeler describes as “the sound of the band reveling in the sheer joy of being a band after being separated by time and distance through the insanity of the early 2020s.”
The band also share one more video from the album for side A’s sepia-tinged love story ‘Oslo (feat. Démira)’.
Hear new album Race The Night here and watch the video for ‘Oslo (feat. Démira)’ below.
Ash will be playing a short run of instore / outstore live shows as Race The Night is released. The shows will combine Q&As, acoustic sets and signings, as well as a special show at Pryzm Kingston, at which the band will play tracks from the new album fully electric for the first time. Full details are below and tickets are available here.
Ash – Race The Night album instore / outstore tour 2023
Mon 18th Sept | Banquet Records Kingston @ Pryzm (7pm) – SOLD OUT
Tue 19th Sept | Rough Trade Bristol (6.30pm) – SOLD OUT
Wed 20th Sept | Rough Trade East London (7pm) – SOLD OUT
Thu 21st Sept | Tower Records Dublin (7pm)
Ash will also be taking Race The Night on tour through the UK and Europe before the year is out, on a co-headline run with The Subways. Tickets are on sale now here.
Ash x The Subways UK / EU tour dates 2023
Sat 30 Sept – De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill, UK
Sun 01 Oct – Marble Factory, Bristol, UK
Tue 03 Oct – Rock City, Nottingham, UK
Wed 04 Oct – Barrowland, Glasgow, UK
Thu 05 Oct – Leeds Beckett SU, Leeds, UK
Sat 07 Oct – NX, Newcastle, UK
Mon 09 Oct – The Academy, Dublin, IE
Tue 10 Oct – O2 Ritz, Manchester, UK
Wed 11 Oct – O2 Kentish Town Forum, London, UK
Sun 19 Nov – De Helling, Utrecht, NL
Mon 20 Nov – Das Bett, Frankfurt, DE
Tue 21 Nov – Bürgerhaus Stollwerck, Cologne, DE
Thu 23 Nov – Faust, Hannover, DE
Fri 24 Nov – Plan B, Malmo, SE
Sat 25 Nov – Beta, Copenhagen, DK
Mon 27 Nov – Rockefeller, Oslo, NO
Tue 28 Nov – Debaser, Stockholm, SE
Thu 30 Nov – Kesselhaus, Berlin, DE
Fri 01 Dec – Beatpol, Dresden, DE
Sat 02 Dec – Lucerna Music Bar, Prague, CZ
Mon 04 Dec – PPC, Graz, AT
Wed 06 Dec – Plaza Klub, Zurich, CH
Thu 07 Dec – Technikum, Munich, DE
Fri 08 Dec – Im Wizemann, Stuttgart, DE
Sun 10 Dec – Botanique, Brussels, BE
Mon 11 Dec – Le Petit Bain, Paris, FR
Ash – Race The Night
1. Race The Night
2. Usual Places
3. Reward In Mind
4. Oslo (feat. Démira)
5. Like A God
6. Peanut Brain
7. Crashed Out Wasted
8. Braindead
9. Double Dare
10. Over & Out
11. Like A God (Reprise)
Ash: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube
Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhjhKjhLOUc Following their latest, much-acclaimed studio album, Medicine (released in February 2023 through AFM Records, order HERE), Boston-based rockers LANSDOWNE have shared a brand new single, ‘Safeword’. “We wanted to give our fans that familiar sexy dirty rock sound they love from Blue Collar Revolver, but […]
NewsListen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhjhKjhLOUc
Following their latest, much-acclaimed studio album, Medicine (released in February 2023 through AFM Records, order HERE), Boston-based rockers LANSDOWNE have shared a brand new single, ‘Safeword’.
“We wanted to give our fans that familiar sexy dirty rock sound they love from Blue Collar Revolver, but bring it into 2023 with some modern production”. The band comments: “‘Safeword’ is really about embracing who you are when it comes to sex. Everyone is curious, everyone has their kink. Don’t be ashamed…embrace it!”
Stream/download the track now, available on all digital services: https://lansdowne.bfan.link/safeword
Ever since they took the rock world by storm, LANSDOWNE built its name the old fashioned way – on the road; having performed countless shows internationally, including a 2007 tour for the troops across Kyrgyzstan, Afghanistan, and Kuwait, as well as sharing the stage with rock heavyweights such as Theory of a Deadman, Puddle of Mudd, Creed, Black Stone Cherry, Pop Evil, and more.
In more than 15 years of the band’s career, they have achieved two billboard charting radio singles, over 100 million streams and views, and have licensed songs to major brands such as iRobot, the NFL, MTV, and more. Comprised of Jon Ricci (Vocals), Shaun Lichtenstein (Lead Guitar / Vocals), Glenn Mungo (Drums), Josh Waterman (Guitar / Vocals), and Mike LaRoche (Bass), LANSDOWNE has been a force to be reckoned with since emerging into the music scene in 2006.
Their latest album, Medicine, that has been lauded by both fans and music press alike, was released on February 3 2023 via AFM Records. Order your album copy of this must-have hard rock jewel now at THIS LOCATION!
Follow Lansdowne:
https://spoti.fi/3v3O2ei
https://apple.co/3ISe89D
https://www.facebook.com/lansdownemusic
https://www.instagram.com/lansdownemusic
https://www.lansdownemusic.com