Storm Inside My Heart
releazed on 25.06.2021
To release their own album – something FREAKSTORM could never have dreamed of a few years ago, for singer Sinah Meier and drummer Olli Fuchs were starting as a tribute project.
But in the meantime they were becoming a band that establishes itself in the newcomer scene with its own songs.
As an appetizer for the album, FREAKSTORM send the propulsive title track “Storm Inside My Heart” to radio/media.
The first song recorded by FREAKSTORM in 2016 was a cover of the US group Halestorm.
The goal to hand this track over to their idols personally (which indeed happened), gave Sinah and Olli the motivation to record their own songs.
The first EP “We Got The Fire” was recorded and released in 2018.
2019 followed the internationally released EP “From Zero” which was the product of a new era for FREAKSTORM:
On the one hand the band began to work with
producer Dennis Ward (Pink Cream 69/Helloween).
He supported the band to develop a rich rock sound – a strong fundament for Sinah’s powerful and clear voice.
On the other hand FREAKSTORM since then cooperates with the German label Major Promo Music regarding all digital releases.
In May 2019 the successful single “Can’t Keep Me Down” was released this way and at the same time FREAKSTORM started to shoot their own music videos.
The EP “From Zero” also came as a physical CD onto the market and draw great attention in the scene:
Reviews in rock magazines, radio plays around the globe and the jump in the Alaskan (!) charts.
Sinah und Olli worked successfully with alternating musicians.
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Vocals: Sinah Meier
Bass: Dennis Ward
Guitar: André Pflaumbaum
Drums: Olli Fuchs
Storm Inside My Heart
releazed on 25.06.2021
At the latest recording session at the Kangaroo Studios (Karlsdorf-Neuthard) their producer
Dennis Ward played the bass on all tracks and Oliver Hartmann (Avantasia/Hartmann) contributed the guitars for three tracks.
FREAKSTORM used the preceding corona break for intensive songwriting.
This pays off: The musicians officially come back with refined arrangements and a matured sound.
On August 27th 2021 the album “Storm Inside My Heart” with nine tracks will be released – digitally AND physically with a digipack CD.
new album ‘Diamonds unlocked II’
out on 30th july 2021
German hard rock guitar wizard AXEL RUDI PELL has finished recording and mixing his latest album “Diamonds Unlocked II”, set for release on July 30th 2021 on Steamhammer/SPV.
The successor to last year’s top 5 album “Sign Of The Times” is the follow-up to his 2007 cover recording “Diamonds Unlocked”.
Pell’s carefully considered decision not to release brand-new material for the first time in almost 15 years is mainly based on the ongoing pandemic and current restrictions on live concerts.
The 61-year-old explains that “it makes no sense at all to put out new songs that we will not be able to perform live.”
But fans desperately waiting for a new studio album will have to acknowledge that this kind of solution is a pretty good one indeed! PELL had been flirting with the concept of “Diamonds Unlocked II” for two or three years, and he’s also aware of the vast number of cover versions currently floating on the Internet, which he sees as a challenge.
Of course it depends on the selection and variety of the material, but first and foremost it is the
transformation of each individual track that matters.
The result is so outstanding that PELL is justly proud of his latest offering.
“Without patting myself on the back too loudly – this is an album worth listening to from start to finish.”
Instead of delivering every single note so that it
sounds exactly like the original, a cover album should, above all, be fun.
And entertain and inspire the listener, an audio algorithm which makes you get out the original versions or the whole back catalogue of the artists presented.
In this respect, “Diamonds Unlocked II” is an offer that no self-respecting hard rock fan can refuse.
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new album ‘Diamonds unlocked II’
out on 30th july 2021
Line-Up:
Johnny Gioeli – Lead and Backing Vocals
Axel Rudi Pell – Lead, Rhythm and Acoustic Guitars
Ferdy Doernberg – Keyboards
Volker Krawczak – Bass
Bobby Rondinelli – Drums
It all starts with the only original composition on the recording, a typical ARP intro entitled “Der Schwarze Abt”.
“I like intros which prepare you for the atmosphere of the songs that follow.”
Setting the tone is a blistering version of Sammy Hagar’s “There’s Only One Way To Rock” (1982), “a perfect song” where PELL uses Van Halen’s live version during the solo, playing both Eddie Van Halen and Sammy Hagar’s solos but in his own style.
His admiration of another guitar hero, namely Ritchie Blackmore, is no secret, so what we get is one of the most underrated tunes from the Ronnie James Dio-fronted Rainbow line-up:
“Lady Of The Lake” from the “Long Live Rock’n’Roll” album (1978).
“Rainbow never played that song live, for whatever reason. We chose the demo version from the deluxe edition and added some typical ARP bits.”
Then ARP goes on to surprise his fans with a great version of Paul Anka’s “She’s A Lady” (best known in Tom Jones’s version from in the 1970s).
The two Americans in the band, singer Johnny Gioeli and drummer Bobby Rondinelli, have become huge fans of the ballad, which has evolved into a straightforward rock number, although they were admittedly a little sceptical in the beginning.
And then back to the 1970s again with Geordie’s semi-hit “Black Cat Woman” (1973), brilliantly redone with plenty of new verve and combined with Brian Johnson‘s rerecording from 1989.
Tony Carey, one of Rainbow’s former keyboardists (and a friend of Axel’s), had a huge hit in Germany in 1988 with his classic soundtrack ballad “Room With A View”, which PELL has now adopted as if it was one of his own compositions.
Same thing with Chris Norman’s hit “Sarah (You Take My Breath Away)”, first out in 1987: PELL
has charted new territories, putting in fewer keyboards and more ARP drive.
One of the biggest surprises is without a doubt “Rock’N’Roll Queen” by British indie rock band The Subways (2005), a number you wouldn’t expect to find on an ARP record.
“I’ve always liked the song and happened to hear it on TV a few weeks back. We reduced the punk attitude a bit and turned it into a heavy rock anthem.”
There are plenty of versions of the Rolling Stones
classic “Paint It Black”, however none of them refers to Deep Purple’s 1993 live version, as performed during Blackmore’s final tour.
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new album ‘Diamonds unlocked II’
out on 30th july 2021
“I needed to do this track in ARP style, so the Purple version fits perfectly.”
“I Put A Spell On You” (Screamin‘ Jay Hawkins, 1956) is the oldest number on the album, CCR’s version being the best-known adaptation.
“It’s influenced me big-time. I added a solo which was inspired by late Free guitarist Paul Kossoff.
It’s my favourite solo on this record.”
One more highlight comes at the end: a stomping, thundering heavy rock adaption of the ABBA classic “Eagle”, which sees ARP in top form and leaves fans hankering for the next studio album featuring original material, scheduled for a release in spring 2022.
We can’t wait!
01) Der Schwarze Abt (Intro)
I´m always using short Intros to my albums. It gets you in the right mood to listen to the complete work. This one has nothing to do with the German movie of the same name, it´s a song I wrote myself.
02) There´s Only One Way To Rock
One of my favored Sammy Hagar tunes, wild and energetic! I also like the Van Halen Live version, but I didn´t want to compete with Eddie here, because there was only one Eddie Van Halen! R.I.P.
03) Lady Of The Lake
Very underrated track by the DIO fronted Rainbow. Melodic and mystical at the same time, always liked this song!
04) She’s A Lady
Written by Paul Anka, but best known by Tom Jones. Don´t know why, but this song follows me from the 1970ies on. Our version starts as a ballad and continues as a punchy Rock track.
05) Black Cat Woman
I grew up in the 1970ies and listened to Geordie too. Brian Johnson was a great vocalist even back in the days before joining AC/DC! There are 2 original versions of that track, so I decided to have the best snippets out of both!
06) Room With A View
One of my favorite Tony Carey songs. First heard it in a German TV movie and liked it from the start. Was a huge Hit back in the 80ies. Very strong melody!
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new album ‘Diamonds unlocked II’
out on 30th july 2021
07) Sarah (You Take My Breath Away)
What? Chris Norman… really? Yes!!! I always liked this song. It has a strong riff and a great melody!
08) Rock `n´Roll Queen
Heard the original song by The Subways a few years ago and liked it immediately! Being a little punky, but has a very catchy chorus. We transferred it to a more “Minor” ARP style attitude.
09) Paint It Black
Does this world really need another cover version? YES! Everybody knows this song by the Rolling Stones, which has a great melody and structure. I also liked the extended version of Deep Purple from their 1993 shows, so we combined both arrangements into a powerful ARP symbiosis!
10) I Put A Spell On You
The original done by Screamin Jay Hawkins is a bit weird to my ears, but people love it, because it´s that weird! I always favored the Creedence Clearwater Revival version over that original, so we did it close to that. For me this track has a special feeling and sometimes takes me back to the beginning of the 70ies.
11) Eagle
One of my alltime favorite songs by ABBA. Great lyrical message for being “free”and a great melody!
new album ‘Diamonds unlocked II’
out on 30th july 2021
Since forming in 2015, this London based melodic metalcore 5-piece have been making strides in the alternative rock and metal scene.
Extensive UK touring of their octane-fuelled live sets, along with the success of debut album »Low« (August 2019), which smashed into the top 5 iTunes metal charts, with a string of singles appearing in top Spotify and Amazon Music editorial playlists, has gained praise and recognition for CITY with peers and industry, and further cemented the loyalty and dedication of a growing army of fans.
2019 was a very busy year for the band, with appearances at a slew of UK festivals including Camden Rocks, Macmillan Fest, Burn It Down, Holloween, a fly in appearance at High Fives Festival in Sweden, a headline set in the Doghouse Tent at the revered Download Festival where an audience of 4000+ festival revellers got to witness CITY in full effect, and a sold out album release show at Boston Music Rooms in London.
Following the departure of long-standing vocalist Sam Stolliday the band unexpectedly found themselves in unknown territory, with a burning question – where do we go from here?
12 months on, the band are back with the introduction of new vocalist Oli Duncanson and ready to welcome a brand new era of THECITYISOURS.
“Oli has been a part of our team for a long time. He is a very well respected entity in his own right amongst the music scene, having toured as a photographer with bands such as Wage War, Oceans Ate Alaska, Our Hollow, Our Home amongst countless others.
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new single ‘Coma’
Line Up:
Oli Duncanson | Vocals
Mikey Page| Vocals/Guitar
Stuart Mercer| Guitar
Jamie Deeks | Bass
Louis Giannamore | Drums
He was massively involved in bringing our creative vision to life on our first record and has toured with us a number of times, so the personal bonds were already very strong. We knew he had a voice in the locker. We’d seen snippets of his capabilities over the years, so when he registered an interest in becoming a part of CITY, we knew we had to explore it as an option. We got him into the studio to demo a couple of tracks and clicked instantly. The vibe in the room was electric as soon as he opened his mouth. The power and raw emotion of his voice translated perfectly to the overall feel of what CITY was, but also opened up an exciting possibility to develop our sound in areas we had never explored before. We immediately knew we were dealing with something very special. The departure of Sam from the band left some very big shoes to fill, but we are confident that you won’t be disappointed with what’s to come from the new era of THECITYISOURS.” – Mikey Page
“The band and I have been good friends for years having worked for them or bands around them, be it on tour or creating their music videos for the last album, so in that sense I was fortunate to know the inner workings of the band before joining. I’ve always wanted to be part of a band but it’s always been something I was apprehensive to do as nothing previously ever seemed to feel right. I remember being shown some demos of some new songs prior to Sam’s departure and absolutely loving the direction and progression of the band’s sound so as soon as Mikey told me about the opening in the band, I knew I had to take a chance!”
– Oli Duncanson
New single ‘Violent’ is the band’s first offering to feature Oli at the helm of THECITYISOURS and is a real nod to the angstier incarnation of the band.
“I think people have been a little cautious of bands like ours. We’ve always been a band that have bridged the gaps between genres and with its successes has often left people looking to others, perhaps afraid to admit they like what they’re hearing until its validated by one of their peers. ‘Violent’ is a line in the sand. It is the embodiment of our ethos of taking every element of our band to the next level and making a definitive mark with the dawn of a new era. As one of the heaviest tracks we’ve ever written, it starts hot and shows no sign of slowing down. Relentless angst from start to finish. ‘Violent’ is arguably our most honest account as a band to date. Betrayal was never something we’d really experienced before as a band, so dealing with events of this nature was a difficult but incredibly insightful process to experience. The progression from sadness to anger is always a difficult period to rationalise when contemplating the reasons for a relationship collapsing. In many cases, it’s clear that there are reasons or regrettable actions to contextualise a series of events. However, it does not mean that they hurt any less.
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new single ‘Coma’
This track lays it all out on the table, with a hope to providing some kind of solace for the pain, before picking ourselves back up and coming back, stronger than ever before.” – Mikey Page
‘Violent’ is set to be released on 26th March via Arising Empire.
“We are ecstatic to have joined the Arising Empire family, amongst a roster of so many talented bands. The team at the label have been incredibly supportive of our creative vision for this record and allowed us to spread our wings to create a collection of music unlike anything we have ever attempted before. Some of our biggest influences have been associated with this great team over the years, so we are very excited to see what the future has in store.” – Mikey Page
ALBUM
THECITYISOURS are notorious for combining emotionally driven lyrical content with a furious blend of Rock, Metal & Pop influences, and the Sophomore album »Coma« is no exception.
Taking varied inspiration from the likes of BRING ME THE HORIZON, DON BROCO and WAGE WAR, through to artists such as Bruno Mars, Justin Timberlake and THE 1975, the band have taken their philosophy for cross genre diversity to new levels entirely.
“COMA depicts a complex journey of self discovery. A metaphorical life-after-death. I’d gone through an incredibly difficult time in my personal life which saw a number of important relationships very close to me falling apart. Sam had parted ways with the band and there were question marks around the future of CITY. I turned to the only thing I know for a form of respite from the emotional turmoil I was facing, picked up the guitar and started putting how I was feeling down on paper. The variation of themes that came to fruition were in some ways surprising to me. There was an anger and bitterness I had never had the balls to put out in the open in such a direct manner before. I’d always been concious of keeping things subliminal through fear of how other people might perceive the material we were releasing. Our songs have always been written around things that have happened to us and how it’s affected us as people, but there was a new found honesty to this record unlike any previous attempts we had made as a band. It felt like the gloves had come off and we were free to do exactly what we wanted to do, without the limitations of judgement we had previously enslaved ourselves with.” – Mikey Page
There is an overarching presence of loss throughout the themes portrayed therough the lyrics on the record.
A loss of loved ones, relationships, personal control and even a contemplation for a loss of
life.
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new single ‘Coma’
However, juxtaposed against the fresh feeling, pop-centric musical arrangements that are interwoven throughout, this record breathes a balance of infectious radio stylised hooks that radiate an underlying positivity to an otherwise dark concept through the lyrical content.
“We have always been a band that has worn our hearts on our sleeves. We have never been afraid to speak about or show our emotions in the public domain and this record is a true extension of that ideology. There is a toxicity in some areas of society that often condemns the expression of emotion, particularly in men & boys, as weakness. These songs tell the story of some of the most difficult times of my life. I wanted to write a record that outwardly showed the audience that it’s okay to cry. It’s okay to say you’re not okay. I hope people are able to relate to this record in a way that they can take from it and hopefully in turn, provide a network for people to connect with each other and make those dark days a little brighter.” – Mikey Page
In collaboration with Oz Craggs at Hidden Track Studios (NECK DEEP, MALLORY KNOX, FEED THE
RHINO) this latest work has developed a fresh maturity in sound, through the crossing of genre lines and limitations.
“With so much change in and around the band, we needed somebody we trusted to help us develop a new sound that paid homage to everything people have grown to love about CITY, whilst simultaneously closing the door on the past and embracing a new era of our band. When we decided we were going to put together a new record, it was never in doubt that we would be returning to Hidden Track to work with Oz again. As a long time friend of the band and producer of our previous work, he had an insight into how we wanted to experiment with our previous formula and create something that felt like a positive evolution of CITY. We wanted to make a record that didn’t sound like anybody else. Something to lay down the gauntlet and show that just being present wasn’t going to be enough this time around. We weren’t just here to be a passive part in the music scene, but to assert ourselves within it. Following meticulous
discussions regarding the direction we wanted to pursue, Oz encapsulated our vision as trying to
marry the heaviest of Modern Metal production, with a slick pop vocal production that wouldn’t
sound out of place amongst either genre. This cemented the feel for exactly what we were aiming to achieve and perfectly describes the final product we achieved. I believe this is sonically the best work we have produced to date and I am excited to show the world what we have to offer.” – Mikey Page
“Prior to recording with Oz I didn’t really have any experience tracking vocals apart from doing a cover here and there with some friends. I ended up demoing the tracks for this release remotely, using a cheap USB mic and free audio software barely having a clue to what I was doing so going to Hidden Track Studios was an awesome experience. I truly feel that Oz brought out the best of my potential and we can’t wait for people to hear what’s been produced!” – Oli Duncanson
new single ‘Coma’
‘The Hindsight Notes’
out 4th of february 2022
COLD NIGHT FOR ALLIGATORS are a respected and forward-thinking progressive metal outfit from Copenhagen, Denmark.
Swaying the world with their innovative take on progressive metalcore and playing numerous shows across Europe and even the far east of India, these guys are no freshmen.
Having explored dense, technical prog metal on their two previous full-lengths, their new release
»The Hindsight Notes« shows a more mature band with a cleaner, softer sound, focused on well crafted, innovative songs with a progressive edge.
The clean, minimalist aesthetic of the artwork covers a sprawling record that dials back the heaviness where needed to let the song-writing and myriad of creative details shine.
Whether it’s moody synths, bouncy 8-string guitar grooves, or tasteful, layered choir arrangements, the musical side of the band captivates and shows a multi-faceted, creative outpouring without conventional limitations.
This approach also shows in the lyrical and vocal tour-de-force from frontman Johan Pedersen,
dealing with personal trauma, hopes, and doubts in a far more intimate and exposed way than what’s usually seen in the guarded prog metal genre.
In the flourishing Danish metal scene, COLD NIGHT FOR ALLIGATORS truly stands apart as a hard to categorize, and rewarding listen with their new record, which dares to stand out and thoughtfully use their well-honed skills.
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Line Up:
Johan Pedersen | Vocals
Kristoffer Jessen| Guitar
Roar Jakobsen | Guitar
Nikolaj Lauszus | Drums
‘The Hindsight Notes’
out 4th of february 2022
The band states: “This record is the sound of us growing up as people and musicians. Before and
during the pandemic, the creative process was a fixed point in a lot of personal chaos, which we tried to channel towards an honest and personal statement. Everything was allowed, but also had to beexecuted to perfection. We brought in a ton of cool collaborators to make this vision come through and truly feel like we made a fully formed record that does not follow trends and does not compromise. Whether it was going softer, more straight forward or more experimental, we made a point to follow where our common creative sensibilities led us. It was a huge amount of work, but the album feels intensely rewarding and personal for that reason.”
»The Hindsight Notes« is co-produced by the band, Mirza Radonjica (GHOST IRIS, MØL, SIAMESE) and Chris Kreutzfeldt (CABAL, MØL, GHOST IRIS).
Mixing and mastering was done by Jacob Hansen
(VOLBEAT, KATATONIA, THE BLACK DAHLIA MURDER).
»The Hindsight Notes« will be out through Arising Empire on 4th February 2022.
new single
‘Heaven In Hiding’
IMMINENCE unveils a secret.
Fronted by vocalist and violinist Eddie Berg, guitarists Harald Barrett & Alex Arnoldsson, drummer Peter Hanström and bass player Christian Höijer; IMMINENCE takes us on an epic, cinematic journey with their captivating new single ‘Heaven In Hiding’.
Following the release of previous single ‘Temptation’, the relentless behemoth that earned the nomination as the heaviest song in the bands history and upon release undisputedly became one of the most successful metalcore singles of 2021, IMMINENCE once again displays their unrestrained diversity and dynamic approach with a new release.
With ‘Heaven In Hiding’, the group presents all their strengths and unique features as a band and accompanies the song with an extraordinary
video production, once again directed by Pavel Trebukhin.
‘Temptation’ might have set a new standard for what one might expect from the group, but ‘Heaven In Hiding’ proves them to be unlike anyone else.
The video recordings took place somewhere deep inside the ice cold landscapes of Latvia, February 2021.
”Temptation was the undoubtedly biggest production we ever worked on. We want to show that we’re able to deliver the same quality and creativity, yet do something completely different. Heaven In Hiding is now yours.” Harald Barrett (guitar)
The song was recorded, mixed, and mastered in Sweden by Henrik Udd: Award-winning producer that has worked on some of the most critically acclaimed albums with acts such as ARCHITECTS, BRING ME THE HORIZON, AT THE GATES, and many more, including IMMINENCE as well.
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IMMINENCE are:
Eddie Berg | Vocals/Violin
Harald Barrett | Guitar
Alex Arnoldsson | Guitar
Christian Höijer | Bass
Peter Hanström | Drums
Contra Promotion presents:
»IMMINENCE: Live in concert – Europe 2022«
15.02.22 DE-Leipzig, Täubchenthal
16.02.22 DE-Hamburg, Gruenspan
17.02.22 DE-Schweinfurt, Stattbahnhof
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new single
‘Heaven In Hiding’
After the remarkably successful announcement of the band’s exclusive acoustic tour ”Live In Concert Halls”, granting the Swedish quintet a placing in Eventim’s Official Charts as one of the fastest selling tours in Germany, IMMINENCE recently announced a new European headline tour taking place in 19 cities during February & March 2022.
All venue sizes has increased largely in capacity and these will be the bands biggest headline shows to date.
Since the release of »Turn The Light On: Deluxe Edition«, an album era that has acted as a significant milestone, where IMMINENCE took the step from being a promising up & comer to an established headline act, ‘Heaven in Hiding’ is the
second new, heavy track the band is releasing in almost two years.
With a placing in the Top 100 Official German Album charts, a sold-out run of album release shows and a 100% increase in ticket sales, and doubled venue capacities during the last EU headline tour, IMMINENCE has proven to be one of the most growing and exciting bands in the metal scene today.
IMMINENCE was formed in the south most part of Sweden and have over the years become one of the country’s most promising acts with a diverse sound and universe, embracing everything from metalcore to acoustic music.
Founded in 2010 by Eddie and Harald when they were just teenagers, the band grew organically with a constantly expanding fan-base all over the world while touring actively in Europe since the release of the band’s breakthrough single ’The Sickness’ (2015).
IMMINENCE has released three studio albums, »I« (2014), »This Is Goodbye« (2017) and »Turn The Light On« (2019).
“FROM SWEDEN WITH LOVE”
Long-term friend and designer Jakob Koc created the single artwork and has been responsible for the bands art development ever since 2014.
19.02.22 PL-Krakow, Kwadrat
20.02.22 CZ-Prague, MeetFactory
22.02.22 HU-Budapest, Barba Negra
24.02.22 DE-Munich, Backstage
25.02.22 DE-Stuttgart, Im Wizemann
26.02.22 IT-Milan, Legend Club
27.02.22 CH-Zurich, Exil
01.03.22 BE-Antwerp, Kavka
02.03.22 DE-Cologne, Kantine
03.03.22 UK-London, The Garage
04.03.22 FR-Paris, La Boule Noire
05.03.22 NL-Utrecht, De Helling
07.03.22 DE-Frankfurt, Batschkapp
08.03.22 DE-Berlin, Festsaal Kreuzberg
09.03.22 DE, Muenster, Sputnikhalle
10.03.22 DE-Hanover, Musikzentrum
Following yet more official appreciation, as acknowledged by the presentation of the German Record Critics’ Award, for their current album Genesis XIX (having garnered the prize once before with its predecessor Decision Day in 2016) and prior to their upcoming 40th band anniversary next year, Sodom have rarely been as energetic as in spring 2021.
Despite cancelled shows, despite the Covid-19 lockdown, despite the many imponderabilities that these strange times bring about.
In a phase when other bands appear to remain stuck in anguish, 20 August 2021 will see Tom Angelripper and band members Frank Blackfire (guitar), Yorck Segatz (guitar) and Toni Merkel (drums) release their brand-new EP Bombenhagel on Steamhammer/SPV, available on CD, 12” vinyl and for digital download.
“Originally we had planned to bring out the record in time for this year’s summer festival season, including a sticker with all confirmed tour dates.
Of course, the way it looks at the moment, all gigs will be postponed until 2022.
But the EP will be released anyway, as a sign of life.
As a signal to our fans:
We’re still around!
The story continues,” explains Tom, who has three sensational numbers up his sleeve.
Number 1:
a new edition of their classic ‘Bombenhagel’, from their 1987 album Persecution Mania.
“I wanted a recording of our old classic by the new line-up. Of course that was really special with a drummer such as Toni and two stringsmen. This new arrangement of our anthem definitely holds a few surprises in store.”
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new EP ‘Bombenhagel’ out 20.08.2021
Tracklisting:
01. Bombenhagel 6:06
02. Coup De Grace 3:06
03. Pestiferous Posse 5:05
- Tracks 1 is a re-recorded classic with the current
line-up
-Track 2 and Track 3 are brand new recorded songs with the current line-up!
Line-Up:
Tom Angelripper – bass, vocals
Frank Blackfire – guitars
Yorck Segatz – guitars
Toni Merkel – drums
Not forgetting an awesome guitar solo courtesy of Harris Johns, who as a producer also guested on the Persecution Mania version of 'Bombenhagel’:
“Harris practically insisted oncontributing a special kind of solo, in line with his outstanding skill. Naturally, that’s been a real pleasure for us because we’re all aware of what he’s done for us. Without Harris, Sodom wouldn’t be where we are today.”
Number 2:
the brand-new track ‘Coup De Grace’, which Tom describes as a “true thrash sensation”.
The song was composed by Yorck Segatz, with lyrics penned – as ever – by Tom:
“It’s about the frequently-sung-about death blow that a hunter delivers to a deer that he has wounded, a torero to a bull, a killer to their victim. But what we are really saying is: Humanity is currently in the process of administering the blow of death to itself. Climate change, massive environmental problems, wars, the strange way of interacting that people currently have. We’re all responsible if things go down the drain. ‘Coup De Grace’ is our attempt to rouse people and urge them to act more thoughtfully.”
And last but not least, number 3:
‘Pestiferous Posse’, a sinister, heavy and downright brutal track with low-tuned guitars and lots of “heavy artillery” (quote Tom) in terms of sound.
It’s about that most famous of gunfights in the history of the American Wild West at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona, in October 1881 between the brothers Wyatt, Morgan and Virgil Earp and Doc Holliday, and local cattle and horse rustlers and outlaws, who called themselves the “Cowboys”.
To Tom, this historic event is not only a cornerstone of American history, but in a figurative sense also a synonym of current problems in the US, as well as Germany.
He says: “If you look at the persistent battle between Democrats and Republicans, the storming of the Capitol a few months ago – there definitely are a few parallels with the past.”
Talking of which: The new EP will certainly not be the last chapter of Sodom’s history.
Highly motivated thanks to the latest recognition of their outstanding thrash metal by fans and media alike, the four musicians have already set their sights on the future.
Tom promises: “Of course we’re really happy that our fans love Genesis XIX and that the album has made
no. 10 in the charts. After all, where would we be without our fans? Based on the fantastic
reception of our album, our next target can only be to come up with something really special to mark our anniversary next year!”
new EP ‘Bombenhagel’ out 20.08.2021
The time has finally come, Herbst from Berlin release their debut single “Zwanzigtausend Meilen”! The name Herbst is literally part of the agenda because the sound of the four Berlin musicians is hard, rough, and gloomy. Herbst emphasizes on their debut single that we are never alone. Every situation in life requires a pillar of support that reaches out to us and gives us strength.
Stream it here: https://ffm.to/zwanzigtausendmeilen
Their lyrics tell unadorned stories from the musicians’ everyday lives and feel so authentic that you can find yourself in them. Matthias Engst (ENGST) reveals himself here as a co-songwriter as well as a video producer of his new favorite project.
Herbst singer Olli comments on the first single and the songwriting: “Zwanzigtausend Meilen (Twenty thousand Miles) was co-written by my friend Engst and me. We wanted a song that appeals to many and in whose lyrics we see and recognize ourselves. All of us have our troubles, we have too much from the day-to-day routine and search for our places of refuge…, these can be quiet places like here under the surface of the sea, at the bed of the sea, where you can regain your composure and reset yourself.”
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‘Zwanzigtausend Meilen’
new single out on 30th of july 2021
Herbst is:
Olli Weckert – vocals
Mark Rötz – bass & vocals
Rilo Messer – guitar
Steffen Böhm – drums
“Matze shot the videos. He is an absolute movie enthusiast and always has great ideas and then gets us on board so we can incorporate our ideas,” the band adds about the making of the video.
Matthias Engst comments about Herbst:
“The position of a manager was always unthinkable for me as an artist until the current time, because I am fully involved with my own projects in the field of videography or the very work on my own band ENGST. But when Herbst frontman Olli decided to start a serious musical project again, I was on fire from the beginning and offered my help out of years of friendship. After I realized how intensively and passionately the rest of the band was working on Herbst’s progression, my interest was directly increased and I could imagine a permanent collaboration. Over time, my friendship with the other Herbst musicians has also grown considerably, and working on songs, strategies, and concepts together with the band is simply unbelievable fun for me. The straightforward and easy-going nature of the guys, as well as their willingness to put themselves unconditionally into the band’s work, reminded me of the energy of Engst and boosted my motivation even more. Similar to Engst, Herbst perform a sound all their own, which is extremely appealing to me as a fan as well, and I’m thoroughly convinced that there’s a huge fanbase waiting for the four Berliners out there.”
The band slams heavy riffs as well as thrilling beats into the listener’s face just like a storm, while still being exceptionally melodic and catchy with the distinctive voice of Herbst’s singer Oliver Weckert, who founded the band with his buddy Mark Rötz.
The two guys just won the Berlin radio station STAR FM’s “Brand Your Band” song contest earlier this year and will release their first EP via the new label Träumer & Helden in February 2022. Stay tuned!
‘Zwanzigtausend Meilen’
new single out on 30th of july 2021
The band’s fans were overjoyed when in summer 2020 Rage frontman Peavy Wagner presented the group’s new line-up featuring two guitarists, announcing a return to the constellation that had recorded classics such as Black In Mind and End
Of All Days.
After last year’s departure of Marcos Rodriguez, Stefan Weber (ex-Axxis) was enlisted, followed just a few weeks later by Jean Bormann (Angel Inc, Rage & Ruins).
The fourth band member is drummer Vassilios “Lucky” Maniatopoulos, who has been with Rage since 2015.
The current line-up could be seen and heard for the first time on the ´The Price Of War 2.0 video clip, a new edition of the same-named song from Black In Mind, which has been available on all major online channels since June 2020.
Immediately afterwards, the quartet commenced work on its brand-new album Resurrection Day, available on Steamhammer/SPV on 17 September 2021 as a CD digipack, vinyl double album, premium box-set and for digital download.
“Im surprised how quickly the new line-up has gelled into a homogeneous team and how positively the talents of each band member have come into effect,” says Wagner, looking back on a highly creative production phase and commenting on Rage’s latest offering:
“I feel that our music is still typical Rage on the one hand while sounding so much fresher on the other.”
Rage have recorded twelve new songs covering a stylistic range that could hardly be more characteristic of the band, from raw thrash metal tracks like ´Virginity (also the first video), ´The Age Of Reason and ´Extinction Overkillthrough midtempo pieces such as ´Arrogance And Ignorance and ´Monetary Godsto the straightforward ballad ´Black Room which balances things out.
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new album ‘Resurrection Day’
out on 17th of September 2021
Tracklisting:
Memento Vitae (Overture) 1:14
Resurrection Day 4:18
Virginity 3:41
A New Land 3:49
Arrogance And Ignorance 5:00
Man In Chains 4:36
The Age Of Reason 4:22
Monetary Gods 3:54
Mind Control 4:14
Traveling Through Time 4:13
Black Room 4:49
Extinction Overkill 5:52
Peavy Wagner (vocals, bass)
Vassilios Maniatopoulos (drums)
Stefan Weber (guitars)
Jean Borman (guitars)
“Rage fans get exactly what they want on Resurrection Day, plus a surprise or two,” promises Peavy, mentioning in particular ´Travelling Through Time, a number that explores the extremes between bludgeoning “shoot-em up grooves” (quote Peavy) and epic moments.
“The song is inspired by Renaissance composer Giorgio Mainerio,” he explains. “Theres a piece
by Mainerio called ´Schiarazula Marazula, with a wonderful theme that I often play at home on acoustic guitar. Jean and I have adapted it to suit the Rage format and given the song a different rhythmic perspective, which has added intensity. We’ve never done a number like ´Travelling Through Time before.”
While were on the subject: Resurrection Day features another Rage cooperation with Pepe Herrero from Spain, who contributed atmospheric orchestral arrangements to four songs (´Resurrection Day, ´The Age Of Reason, ´Traveling Through Time, ´Black Room).
“As before, the maestro's orchestration adds a whole new dimension, more depth and even more expressiveness to a number of our songs,” Peavy praises Rage’s thoroughly successful “Spanish connection”.
Speaking of which: Resurrection Day was mixed by Herreros compatriot Dani González Suárez, who has been the band`s live mixer for years.
And last but not least: Lyrically, Peavy once again proves that he likes to think beyond pure metal clichés.
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new album ‘Resurrection Day’
out on 17th of September 2021
Tourdates:
2021
31.07. CZ-Ostrava – Ostava V Plamenech
13.08. DE-Sandstedt/Offenwarden – Rock For Animal Rights
14.08. DE-Hünfeld – Rhön Rock Open Air
12.11. CH-Sarnen – UrRock Musik Festival
13.11. IT-Paderno – Slaughter Club
16.11. FR-Colmar – Le Grillen
18.11. ES-Valladolid – Sala Porta Caeli
19.11. ES-Granada – Sala El Tren
20.11. ES-Vitoria – Urban Rock Concept
21.11. ES-Barcelona – Sala Boveda
23.11. DE-Munich – Backstage
25.11. BE-Bilzen – South Of Heaven
26.11. DE-Hamburg – Markthalle
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Although Resurrection Day is no concept album in the traditional sense, a common thread runs through all the numbers:
“It’s about the history of mankind from a philosophical and psychological point of view, two aspects that have always interested me very much. And that’s exactly what I found so
irresistible about making this album – to take a closer look at things that I’ve been thinking about for a long time.”
So we can look forward to a very special Rage album, and of course eventually also to live shows.
Provided that the situation allows it, Peavy and his men are set to embark on a major European tour in November 2021.
With Resurrection Day on their setlist, the shows are guaranteed to turn into highly explosive events!
new album ‘Resurrection Day’
out on 17th of September 2021
27.11. DE-Rostock – Zwischenbau
30.11. HU-Budapest – Analog Music Hall
01.12. SVK-Bratislava – Randal Club
03.12. DE-Mannheim – 7er Club
04.12. CZ-Prag – Club Chmelnice
05.12. CZ-Zlin – Masters Of Rock Cafe
06.12. DE-Regensburg – Airport Eventhalle
08.12. DE-Stuttgart – Universum
09.12. DE-Siegburg – Kubana
10.12. DE-Nürnberg – Z-Bau
11.12. NL-Oss – Groene Engel Cafe
12.12. DE-Essen – Turock
2022
16.03. LT-Vilnius – Club Vakaris
17.03. LV-Riga – MP Club
18.03. EST-Tallinn – Tapper
19.03. RU-St. Petersburg – Opera Concert Club
20.03. RU-Moscow – Arbat Hall
22.03. RU- Nizhnij Novgorod – Premio Centre
23.03. RU-Kazan – Big Twin Bar
02.-05.06. CZ-Plzen – Metalfest Open Air
08.-11.06. SE-Sölvesborg – Sweden Rock Festival
new single/video
‘success of the snake’
The new album ‘seven’ is releazed on October 1.
Frontman and producer Hilton Theissen, follows his path with Zoodrake on the forthcoming second album “seven” with ten energizing and emotional songs in a forceful way.
The first single ‘success of the snake’ is released this Thursday and reveals the band’s strengthened stylistic path featuring a varied range and sweeping synth and swirling guitar walls on danceable beats.
Reflecting on the first single, Hilton states: “The biblical allusion to the serpent’s success alludes to mankind’s addiction to falling prey to its penchant for immoral decision-making, with the thought of the beauty of its cultural creations evoking a touch of melancholy with regard to its certain demise.”
