Category: news
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Among Legends return with reflective new melodic punk single “Floating Here For Years”
Ontario-based punk rock trio Among Legends have officially unleashed their brand-new single, “Floating Here For Years”. Released on 12th June 2026, the track stands as the sophomore promotional taste of their upcoming full-length studio album, Lose My Grip, which is scheduled to land on physical and digital shelves on 10th July 2026. Following up on … Continue reading Among Legends return with reflective new melodic punk single “Floating Here For Years” -
CMD.EXE Signal Burst Review
CMD.EXE Signal Burst Review
The track opens with a cinematic ambiance that makes listeners feel as though they are in a spacecraft navigating through the cosmos. This initial groove is infectious and sets a transporting mood. The keyboard sounds evoke a sense of distant exploration, enhancing the atmosphere with their ethereal quality. The lead vocals showcase hints of Enrique Iglesias, providing a warm and inviting texture to the song.
As the song progresses, it momentarily pauses to split the verse into two distinct sections. This creative decision introduces a more intricate structure that demonstrates the ambition to craft songs that transcend predictable formulas. Instead of following conventional patterns, this song seeks to innovate, engaging listeners in unexpected ways.
The energy escalates dramatically as the chorus bursts forth, capturing attention with its explosive nature. However, what truly lingers in the mind is the post-chorus keyboard riff, which is haunting and anthemic. This catchy melody resonates, proving to be epic and memorable, albeit with a hint of darkness that lingers in the air.
Immediately returning to the verse, the piece then transitions into a bridge that alters the rhythmic flow and harmonic textures. This section creates a stark contrast that enriches the song’s overall journey, keeping the listener enraptured. The use of shifting rhythms and harmonies adds an element of surprise as the narrative unfolds further.
Signal Burst – Sound and Atmosphere
The entire composition feels like a journey through the stars, a sonic offering hailing from another planet. It maintains an incredible melodic quality throughout, creating an experience that is innovative and satisfying. The track seems to echo the aesthetics of science fiction film, reminiscent of the ambitious themes found in works by directors like Christopher Nolan.
“Signal Burst” narrates the tale of humanity’s final transmission into the cosmos, a theme that aligns beautifully with its expansive sound and storytelling. This connection is visually complemented in the accompanying video, which further amplifies the song’s narrative and thematic elements.
Signal Burst – Performance and Production
The lush effects and auditory twists invite the audience to visualize the vastness of space while contemplating the weight of human existence. The song does not shy away from addressing existential themes, layering those thoughts over an engaging musical backdrop that breathes life into the concept.
This track, with its innovative structure, layered textures, and reflective themes, makes “Signal Burst” an auditory experience that encourages listeners to reach for the stars in metaphorical and literal senses.
While many tracks adhere to conventional formats, “Signal Burst” stands out by challenging the norms, inviting listeners on an interstellar adventure through sound and emotion.
Adventurous
If you love this music: Discover More
The post CMD.EXE Signal Burst Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
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Primordial Black – Heterotopia
https://www.metalourgio.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Primordial-Black-Heterotopia-album-artwork-by-Yasser-Mahammedi-Bouzina-768×768.jpg -
Piss Poor – Under Attack
I love the band name Piss Poor since that was one of my dad’s favorite adjectives when I was a child in the ’70s and ’80s. And based on the name, you can probably surmise that this Connecticut-based band (another Jeffrey Thunders jawn!) doesn’t fall into the easy listening category. Out on cassette tape on Big Neck Records, Piss Poor’s new EP is as old school as it gets. Think OG hardcore a la early Black Flag and Void with a touch of Germs reckless danger and Samoans get-bent attitude. The band tears through 6 tracks in 7-and-a-half minutes in a bruising style that very much lives up to a title like Under Attack. You know what to expect: guitars that go through your bones, stabbing bass lines, and a singer who really knows how to holler. This is relentless, real deal stuff from a band that’s poised to make some serious noise. Fucking excellent, pure and simple! -
Domenic Marcantonio – Earthbound Spaceman
After recording eight albums with Beach Patrol over the past two decades, Domenic Marcantonio has finally released a proper solo album. His foray into the solo realm has long seemed inevitable given Beach Patrol’s slow and steady progression beyond its roots in straight-forward power pop. In particular, 2020’s Making Waves and 2022’s Festivus really highlighted Domenic’s widening array of influences, growing comfort with lo-fi home recording, and fully developed artistic voice. He’s too gifted to limit himself to writing only a certain kind of song. Although my Beach Patrol fandom dates back to 2006, those last two albums are the ones I go back to the most. So for me, the folk/roots/blues/acoustic direction of Earthbound Spaceman is not a departure that’s tough to swallow. The album title is a little bit of a vibe clue. If Domenic Marcantonio really is an Earthbound spaceman, that suggests an alienation from the contemporary world that a lot of us have been feeling to varying degrees. Who wants to be normal in 2026?So no, this is not a Beach Patrol album, and it doesn’t try to be. This is just a talented artist writing the songs he was inspired to write, and none of this needs to conform to any clear-cut musical genre. Domenic’s flair for melody and hooks remains very much in tact, and his distinctive style of guitar playing is no less appealing in this looser, more laidback sonic space. From the opening strains of “Two Signs,” you immediately know who you’re listening to. Even as it meanders along without the tight economy of a three-minute pop song, “Better Luck Next Time!” is certainly as catchy and memorable as any song Domenic has ever written. “Strange Transformation” is nothing short of a masterpiece — a song that’s practically a guide to spiritual contentment in these ugly, divisive times. “Clear As a Bell,” one of two tracks in which Domenic duets with his wife Mirra Laes, brings a warm ’70s soft rock energy, and it’s absolutely beautiful. “Dominic Kinnicinnick,” a peppy, country-fied adaptation of The Singing Nun’s 1963 hit “Dominique,” is pure joy without pretension. “Tabula Rasa” would not have sounded out of place of any recent Beach Patrol album.I’m certainly not the most objective reviewer since writing about Domenic Marcantonio at this point feels like writing about my brother. So I was thrilled to see a writer I immensely respect, Dennis from Add To Wantlist, beautifully articulate the appeal of this record. As Dennis points out, the album feels unassuming at first but has a way of gradually pulling you into a state of intoxication. Sometimes the phrase “rewards repeated listens” is reviewer-speak for “There are no hooks.” But in this case, it means the hooks are more subtle and sophisticated. Given that it has been more than four years since Festivus came out, it’s a great pleasure to again encounter new music from one of my favorite songwriters. Songs like “Battlestar Galactica,” “Don’t Panic,” and “Thanks Coach” have profoundly impacted me in recent years, and now “Strange Transformation” and “Clear As a Bell” are sure to follow in their footsteps. There is no doubt in my mind that any fan of Beach Patrol will be delighted with Earthbound Spaceman. -
Def Leppard launch “Rejoice” live video and Greatest Hits album ahead of UK summer tour
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Def Leppard have released a stunning live video for their latest single, “Rejoice”, captured earlier this year during their completely sold-out residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The live digital release arrives via EMI / Mercury Records on the eve of the band’s highly anticipated summer stadium … Continue reading Def Leppard launch “Rejoice” live video and Greatest Hits album ahead of UK summer tour -
Beyond the Beach: 10 Songs About The Real California
There are so many legendary songs written about the West Coast State of California that it almost seems ridiculous to try to put together a list like this of only 10 songs. We knew there would be so many classics that wouldn’t be included, simply because there are only 10. So instead, we decided to put a couple of classics and then add a whole bunch of songs that most people never realized were about California, or at least had something to do with it. We thought that would be more fun, more interesting, and probably still would frustrate a
The post Beyond the Beach: 10 Songs About The Real California appeared first on ClassicRockHistory.com.
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LA Symphonic Metal LEVINIA Sinks Their Teeth Into 2026 With Dracula Inspired Single “Bite”
Photo Credit – Dream of Mirrors Photography
L-R – Alon Mei-Tal – Guitar, Liam Alexander – Bass, Kourt Henson – Vocals, Dylan Suierveld – DrumsLos Angeles cinematic‑metal outfit Levinia returns with the third installment of their 2026 four‑single cycle, releasing their heaviest and most visceral track yet: “Bite.” The single and accompanying music video arrive as the follow‑up to the band’s recent releases “Silver Tongues” and “The Thorn,” continuing the group’s evolution into a darker, sharper, and more emotionally charged era.
“Bite,” like all four upcoming singles, is produced by Brandon Friesen (Halestorm, Nickelback, The Hu, Papa Roach), whose cinematic approach and modern metal sensibilities have helped elevate Levinia’s sound into its most refined form to date.
Drawing inspiration from Dracula, specifically the character of Mina Murray/Harker, “Bite” reimagines the classic Gothic arc of vulnerability transformed into strength. Vocalist Kourt Henson channels Mina’s evolution from prey to force of will, weaving a narrative of emotional reclamation, toxic entanglement, and the quiet power of survival.
“‘Bite’ is for anyone who’s ever felt drained by something or someone that tried to control them. It’s about finding the strength to fight back and become something stronger than what tried to break you,” says Henson.
Musically, “Bite” is Levinia at their most aggressive, relentless riffs, cinematic tension, and a vocal performance that swings between haunting restraint and explosive catharsis. Fans of the band’s heavier material, especially tracks like “Push and Pull,” will immediately gravitate toward its intensity.
The single’s artwork features a single drop of blood, a minimalist but potent symbol tied directly to the song’s themes. More than a nod to vampiric imagery, the blood represents the shedding of a former self, a transformation born from pain, loss, and the reclaiming of personal power.
“Bite” continues Levinia’s 2026 collaboration with producer Brandon Friesen, who worked closely with guitarist Alon Mei‑Tal and vocalist Kourt Henson during pre‑production to refine the band’s most ambitious material yet. The partnership has resulted in a sound that is heavier, more cinematic, and more emotionally deliberate than anything in the band’s catalog.
This single marks the third chapter in a four‑part release cycle that showcases the full spectrum of Levinia’s identity, from groove‑driven modern metal to atmospheric balladry to the ferocity embodied in “Bite.”
Levinia:
Vocals – Kourt Henson
Guitar – Alon Mei-Tal
Bass – Liam Alexander
Drums – Dylan SuierveldRecommended for fans of Within Temptation, Amaranthe, Nightwish, Lacuna Coil, and Delain. Listen to “Bite” at the following links:
Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=55Uw9l0cmAA
Digital – https://hypeddit.com/levinia/bite612
Previous Singles:
“Silver Tongues” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vqhk6j6wzKs
“The Thorn” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30EmGiQL7ug
More info:
https://www.leviniaofficial.com/
https://instagram.com/leviniaofficial
https://www.facebook.com/LeviniaOfficial/
About: Levinia blends symphonic atmosphere, modern metal aggression, and cinematic storytelling into a sound influenced by Epica, Lacuna Coil, Sabaton, Disturbed, and Evanescence. Formed from the ashes of Los Angeles power‑metal band Aerius, the group has spent nearly a decade refining its identity into something bold, emotional, and unmistakably its own.
Source: ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS
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Alice Cooper Gifts His Latest Album To Man Who Found His Credit Card At Payson Gas Station
Here is a wholesome news story for the weekend: An Arizona man named Geoff Guy found a credit card at a Payson gas station, and it happened to belong to Alice Cooper, who had been golfing in the area and accidentally left the card at a pump. He managed to get it back to the rock legend, and was rewarded with a signed copy of his latest album The Revenge Of Alice Cooper.
The post Alice Cooper Gifts His Latest Album To Man Who Found His Credit Card At Payson Gas Station appeared first on Stereogum.
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LIVE REVIEW: JON STEVENS With Special Guests The Vandastruts
The Vandastruts from Wollongong kicked things off tonight. I must admit that I had never heard of them until tonight. This five piece of twenty somethings took me by surprise. Their thirty-minute set sent me back to the late eighties and early nineties and the thrill of finding a new band that would go on to have a lengthy career and become a part of Australian rock n roll DNA.
The Vandastruts While what The Vandastruts do hasn’t reinvented the wheel, they have refined said wheel by taking the best elements and influence of the last fifty years of Aussie rock and putting it in a big old spit ball that is uniquely theirs.
The Vandastruts When you look at their name it kind of spells it all out for you. Well-crafted songs not unlike those that came from the Vanda & Young stables, there is an energy and urgency to what they do. Borrowing from the DNA of artists like Billy Thorpe and AC/DC through to Jet and Wolfmother while adding their own flair.
The Vandastruts The Vandastruts set was tight, they know their set so well it allowed them room to truly give off that live anything can happen spirit, something that I love. The guys come across as loveable lads, a little loose in their persona yet super tight musically and so much fun. Being hand-picked by Jon Stevens too for this run just adds a further stamp of confidence in the appeal of what they do. Well done guys, I can’t wait to hear and see more from you.
Setlist : Cigarettes And Champagne, Lucy Lu, That’s Alright Mama, I’m Not Playing Games, No Good, Into The Unknown.
The Vandastruts Gallery
Anyone who has ever seen a Jon Stevens gig whether it be with Noiseworks, INXS, The Dead Daisies or solo you know that every performance of his is an experience and event within itself. This is only show eight of the massive run that is the Noiseworks & INXS Collection 2026 and if it is anything to go by you this run will be unlike any other before it.
The show is an extended version of what we have seen before, it’s two hours long, and the set is packed with twenty-five songs and refuses to let up. Now I have lost count of the number of times I have seen Jon live. Tonight there was something different. Not only is the show longer than any other of the Noiseworks and INXS collection tours, but it also dives deeper into both bands catalogues. The revamped set isn’t the only change either and you can’t help but think that the addition of three new players in the band might have had something to do with it.
I don’t think there was a coincidence in opening with ‘I Send A Message’ tonight, it was full of intent, and the message was loud and clear that we were about to experience something very special tonight. The alternation of INXS and Noiseworks hits were impeccable and the pairings were a triumph, the flow and sequence masterfully designed.
The new twin guitar attack of Simon Hosford and Troy Downward give the band a new attack and approach. Both players are elite in what they do, and their resumes are simply incredible. Hosford notably a touring member of Men At Work, Daryl Braithwaite, Electric Mary, Birtles Shorrock Goble to name a few along with Downward who has played with Tina Arena, Daryl Braithwaite, Russell Morris, Tim Rogers, Kate Ceberano, Cody Simpson and Danni Minogue bring something very special to the band and the way the songs present themselves. There is a synergy and connection between the two sharing the load of rhythm and lead duties equally and seamlessly with an attack that gives this collection of songs a new drive live. They play the original parts so damn well and give those parts and the original players full respect adding their own special sauce along the way, I think that is a huge part of the magic tonight.
Hosford’s backing vocals along with those of long-time bassist Chris Bekker and Troy Downward are nothing short of amazing. I found myself looking around the stage to see who was doing what with the harmonies as they really did fill out these songs, lift them and breathe new life into them so well.
Hugo Lee who was called up last minute to cover the shows of longtime keyboardist and Saxophonist Glenn Riether who unfortunately had his time on this tour cut short after just one show due to an injury that has had to see him sit out the remainer of this year’s shows. Now Lee you might and should know as the Keyboard/Saxophone player in Icehouse. Lee is a real talent in his own right, but in this configuration of Steven’s band fills Riether’s shoes perfectly and adds some of his own flair to it all. He has this presence and confidence about him that extends and continues to shine beyond Icehouse, tonight Lee was nothing short of brilliant.
I can’t write a review without mentioning the rhythm section of Johnny Salerno and Chris Bekker. These two lock in so well together and have this magic that they create that I just love. They get better each time I see them and tonight was no exception. They are both technically precise and know each other so well that you would swear they are joined at the hip. They have been doing this with Stevens for a long time now, it has to be close to a decade and it has been incredible watching the engine room become so tight and drive the feel and energy the way they do.
While it has also been a moment since I last saw the Noiseworks & INXS Collection as a tour of its own, there has been no shortage of multi band appearances I have caught with Noiseworks or Jon and his band in that gap. Stevens has never left me disappointed; he is one of this country’s finest rock voices and frontmen, he never ceases to impress me and has done for four decades, something I cannot say about many. Then you have his presence on stage, as a performer Stevens pulls you in with his natural charisma and charm, pulling you into the songs. I never got to see Stevens front INXS live in person, i can only imagine the how the magic would have felt. If it was anything like his performance tonight it would have been spellbinding.
Make no mistake this is the best I have heard this show done. That takes nothing away from past members of the band and their ability. There have been some absolute blindingly good performances in the past, but as I said before tonight there was something different, something new has been unlocked and unleashed. Everything you could wish for was there tonight, the biggest hits, deep cuts and new additions to the set are just a huge breath of air, making this show the strongest it has ever been. So much so there was an energy from Stevens that I hadn’t seen in years, he simply beamed and there was an sense of real pride spilling from the stage.
Hearing deep Noiseworks cuts like ‘It’s Time’, which Noiseworks never performed live and ‘Love vs Money’ gave this show a real depth and dared to step out of the safe song choice lane. Something I truly do love when artists do. It’s respect to not only the songs and legacy but a true testament to how songs from decades ago still have very relevant and relatable message even though the times are so very different.
The INXS side of the set is further enhanced too with the addition of ‘Burn For You’, ‘By My Side’ and ‘Just Keep Walking’. These selections are perfect for the show. As a fan sure there are song I would have loved to hear, there are so many INXS songs that I could have thrown in to make my dream setlist, but when you look at the architecture of this show they possibly don’t work as well as this selection does. The same goes for the Noiseworks songs chosen, they all have a place and fit so perfectly.
The mix by Shane Rae was perfect tonight, detailed, loud and clean, everything sat as it should regardless of if you were up front or right at the back. The lighting and production by Glenn Falloon was impeccable and showed that when lighting is mapped out this well and executed in the way it was it adds to the mood and energy of a show. The lighting tonight added that final coat of gloss to the whole show. Never too little, never too much, something that I hope this tour never loses focus on and adapts to each different environment.
The Forum in my opinion is the best live music venue in this country; I always feel connected to the place and when the show is this good it is nothing short of perfection and I want to do it all again immediately.
This all might sound a little one sided and too good to be true, believe me it’s not. Just ask any of the two thousand others in attendance and I can guarantee they will all say the same thing. The Forum at capacity must be experienced to be fully appreciated. The Forum with Jon Stevens and his band delivering a show like this, there truly is nothing like it.
The capacity crowd tonight soaked up every moment and sang loud and proud, they danced, clapped and had the best time. The power of great songs presented so well is the best therapy for the head, heart and soul. The smiles on people’s faces were wide and bright as they entered the foyer to exit at the end of the night, the chatter of personal highlights passing by is uplifting too. It made my smile, smile a little brighter too.
If I must pick a negative from the night, it would be that there was no merch for sale from either The Vandastruts or Stevens. I love walking away with a souvenir from a show and sadly I left empty handed. Whether it be a CD/Vinyl, a tour poster, stubby holder or shirt it’s always nice to show some extra love and support to the artists.
As we left The Forum tonight the guys from The Vandastruts were loading their gear into their van and were clearly on a high and deservedly so. They connected with a new crowd with ease, and are a great young band who are doing the first twenty shows of this tour, fully embracing the opportunity. I know I will be watching them closely, again proving to myself it is essential to turn up early and check out the support band as you never know what you will discover.
There were a couple of young fans waiting outside the stage doors, one with the first two Noiseworks records in his hands hoping that Jon might sign them on the way out. The Vandastruts guitarist upon finishing loading their van proceeded to hand these two fans stubby holders which surprised them in the best way. The band then continued to hand out stubby holders to anyone in the vicinity that wanted one, it was the perfect PR move, it connected them to the fans. It made you take notice and ensured that you remembered them. It’s such a simple thing to do and sets them apart. I love it when bands seize an opportunity to make a lasting impression.
Setlist : I Send A Message, Voice Of Reason, Suicide Blonde, Burning Feeling, New Sensation, Touch, Burn For You, Miles & Miles, What You Need, Love Somebody, Original Sin, It’s Time, Never Tear Us Apart, Love Vs Money, Just Keep Walking, No Lies, Devil Inside, Hot Chilli Woman, Don’t Change.
Encore : Need You Tonight, Heart & Soul, By My Side, Freedom, Kick, Take Me Back.
A huge thank you to Sas Lyon and the entire Jon Stevens team for having us along.
Jon Stevens Gallery By Shot By Slaidins Photography
The post LIVE REVIEW: JON STEVENS With Special Guests The Vandastruts appeared first on The Rockpit.
