Category: news

Sydney metal entity Evilean is releasing their EP Exhumation Evilean next month.

The first EP for the extreme thrash act, Exhumation Evilean will be released on April 3. Single and clip Lost Cause are available to stream and view now.

Brian Giffin

Where do your dreams go when you die

They’re still happening on some other timeline

You should still be here

We hold you 

Nex Benedict, a nonbinary teen, took their own life in 2024 after enduring severe bullying at school. Their loss, much like Matthew Shepard’s before it, made the world feel suddenly smaller and far more cruel. For trans and queer youth, such deaths can tear through the shared imagination, exposing how easily fear and hatred can wound lives still in the tender process of becoming. Within every young person lives a universe of possibility: future friendships, loves, art, discoveries, and ways of seeing that no one else could ever bring. With each life cut short, whole constellations darken…yet in remembering them with grief and care, queer youth also inherit a stubborn light, the belief that their lives are precious, singular, and worth protecting.

Portland’s Darkswoon (Jana Cushman, Norah Lynn, and Rachel Ellis) felt that loss personally, and Antivenom carries the force of that feeling with unusual clarity. Written in response to Benedict’s death, the single channels anguish into something shared, purposeful, and protective. As a queer band, Darkswoon approaches the subject not as distant observers, but as people living within the same atmosphere of danger, tenderness, and vigilance. The song becomes a tribute, a vigil, and a warning all at once, a piece of music that gathers pain into form and then pushes it outward with grace and intent.

A steady compressed snare drives the track with a stern, almost ceremonial insistence, while synths spread in broad, beautiful sheets and bass holds everything to the earth. The arrangement carries darkwave muscle, post-punk tension, dream-pop drift, and shoegaze scale, yet the band never sounds trapped in a category. Instead, they shape a language suited to the occasion: music as memorial, music as shield, music as a place where rage can stand beside care without diminishing either.

The song imagines a spirit continuing beyond the visible frame, somewhere beyond the hard facts of loss, giving the track its emotional reach. Private grief becomes collective remembrance. The dead are held close, their truth protected, their unfinished time carried forward by those still here. When the guitar rises in the final stretch, it lands with the force of accumulated feeling, finally finding air, a release that feels earned because the song has spent its whole duration holding so much in suspension.

Directed by Sarey Martin, the deeply touching video deepens that sense of communal mourning through a concept both devastating and beautiful. It presents a montage of queer luminaries from across the rainbow spectrum seated for portraits in a setting that recalls a prom; their smiling, radiant bodies gradually shifting into masked and costumed figureheads of loss, embodiments of those taken by bigotry, depression, and violence. The effect is quietly shattering. What begins as a scene of celebration slowly becomes a funeral rite – a grim tribute to those who never got to see a prom, a graduation, or any of the ordinary benchmarks of adolescence. The spirits seem to whisper to one another across the frame, as though memory itself has become a living chorus.

Watch Antivenom below:

Darkswoon have been building toward work like this since Jana Cushman’s 2014 solo project evolved into a trio with Rachel Ellis and Norah Lynn. Across Year One, Bind, and Bloom//Decay, they have widened their scope and sharpened their identity. Antivenom, the title track from their forthcoming April album, suggests a group reaching deeper into its purpose. In a moment when trans and queer youth are so often made to carry unbearable weight, Darkswoon answer with a song that helps carry some of it back.

Antivenom is out on April 3, 2026. Order the album here.

Follow Darkswoon:

• Bandcamp
• Facebook
• Spotify
• Instagram

The post “They’ll Never Bury Your Truth” — Portland’s Darkswoon Mourn Non-Binary Teen Nex Benedict With Video for “Antivenom” appeared first on Post-Punk.com.

Mötley Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx calls out a fan on X after they insulted Vince Neil’s weight and vocal performance, praising the singer’s decades-long dedication.

The post NIKKI SIXX Defends VINCE NEIL After Fan Criticism: "He's My Brother And You Can Go Suck A Dick" appeared first on Metal Injection.

It’s a widespread cultural belief system forged through community solidarity, fueled by an artist’s urge to create something out of nothing. Believe in your work, organise a gathering to display it, invite like-minded creatives to do the same, and the crowds will come. Especially those in areas starved for music that is designed to confront and challenge – whilst being totally life-affirming at the same time. Despite your genre’s penchant for grim visions of death. 

At the end of the day, it’s a metal gig. Still, when you consider the wider context of a society riddled with toxic fractures in a world appearing increasingly dystopian, metal gigs are one of the last remaining accepted rituals of communal stress release. 

“I think there’s a lot of people deprived of metal out there”, says guitarist Aleks Radmanovich of thrash-groove act Thraxas! “It’s awesome to get out and go to areas that bands probably skip…people are starved for entertainment”. Entering their Regional Rampage run after completing phase one of their Violent Vacation tour of the east coast, named and organised after their debut album from April last year, Thraxas! now want to get out to more regional areas. 

On February 28, they appeared at The Baroque Room in Katoomba, one week after performing at a bowling club show for all ages in the Riverina town of Leeton on February 21, near Wagga Wagga. “There were about 250 people at that show in Leeton”, noted Radmanovich. “People can’t always get to Sydney or Melbourne shows, so it’s really important to get out and tour”. 

Appearing alongside Thraxas! at both gigs was Dubbo-based alt nu-metalcore act Whisperhead, who have been releasing a series of singles as music videos on YouTube recently. A regional act themselves, formed many kilometres away from Thraxas!’s foundations in Western Sydney and the Hawkesbury, frontman Nolan Furnell explains that this is what forces them to drive further for tours, they also bring the party to Dubbo by organising their own hometown festival. 

“As time’s gone on, we’ve broadened our reach [and] the trips are getting much, much longer”, Furnell says. “It’s getting trickier to get to the places we want to go”. Giving back to the community that raised them by organising their pub-based, annual Whisperfest, now in its fourth year, the fact that it’s set to be an all-ages show from 3PM on April 11 displays their philanthropic mindset. “We’ve got DisKust, Arkángel, Deadweight 80, Saralisse, Spacegoat, Dead By Dawn, ourselves – and even a local high school band

[called SOKIE]”, Furnell reveals. “That’s extremely exciting, because we get to bring a bunch of our friends back to our hometown”. 

Looking to the futures of Thraxas! and Whisperhead, who appeared in Katoomba alongside Naugrim and T-Rex Autopsy, beloved by the Blue Mountains region and both on their own paths also, the developments are interesting. “[Thraxas! are] working on another EP this time – three tracks, three music videos”, Radmanovich mentions. “Then our plan is to go overseas…Japan’s probably an easier avenue to get into first, and then I’d love to get to the States – a lot of our fan base are over there”. With an album, an EP, and more tracks under their bullet belts, their style is backed by their output. 

Opposed to the 15 years that Thraxas! have been active for, Whisperhead are considerably newer. Naturally, they’re still determining their sound while performing consistently, but they may appeal more to fans of Slipknot and Fear Factory aside Thraxas! attracting Slayer and Lamb Of God listeners. “Our new batch of songs is really reinforcing who we are as artists right now”, Furnell explains. “We’re not about to change genres”. 

Shared between their metal sub-genres, millions of collective kilometres, late night commutes, servo pit stops, tour laundry, broken strings and busted drumsticks, the guiding vision for these bands remains. Long may it continue.

Corin Shearston

It is getting harder than ever to witness Mott the Hoople music being played, at least by its original creators. Ian Hunter is still very much with us but has not toured since the pandemic and sadly his bandmates have … Continue reading →

The post Gig review: A VERY SPECIAL EVENING OF MOTT THE HOOPLE- Riverside Studios, London, 27 February 2026 appeared first on Get Ready to ROCK!.

We had this wonderful chat with Unverkalt’s vocalist, Dimitra Kalavrezou, as we spoke about their music, the new album Héréditaire, and her musical background.

Reuel

Hello Dimitra! I’m very glad to chat with you. How are you doing?

Dimitra

Thank you so much for having me! I’m really excited for this discussion.

Reuel

Me too! You have recently released your new album Héréditaire. What are the first three words that come to mind when you think about this new album?

Dimitra

The first three words that come to mind are origins, trauma, and transformation.

Reuel

How would you describe Unverkalt musical style and sound to our readers who haven’t had the chance to listen to it yet?

Dimitra

I would describe our sound as something that moves between post-metal and more avant-garde textures. It’s quite slow-burning and emotionally driven, with a strong contrast between heaviness and fragility. Vocally, we tried to move through different emotional states, which gives the music a multifaceted character. Because of that, the songs often feel more like unfolding narratives than traditional structures, where dissonance and beauty exist side by side.

Reuel

This sounds amazing! Releasing an album is no doubt a huge milestone for any musician, but also challenging. What was your favorite and least favorite part of working with your bandmates on Héréditaire?

Dimitra

It was challenging mainly because we were exploring many new things during the process. At the same time, that was also one of the most inspiring aspects of working on the album. Everyone brought their own ideas and perspectives, and the collaboration between us felt very natural. For me, the most rewarding part was seeing how all these different elements slowly came together into one cohesive vision. That shared creative energy was something very special while creating Héréditaire.

Reuel

What, in your opinion, does Héréditaire have that older Unverkalt albums did not have, and makes it special?

Dimitra

I think what makes Héréditaire different from our previous albums is the clarity of its conceptual and musical direction. With this record, we really pushed ourselves to experiment, especially with different vocal layers, textures, and new elements within the compositions. It’s an album where many complex and diverse elements come together. You can also hear how different cultural backgrounds blend within the music, which gives the record a different direction. At the same time, we wanted to create something that carries a deeper sense of awareness. One of our intentions with this album was to create a space that invites self-reflection and allows the listener to engage with these themes in a personal way.

Reuel

What musicians can you credit as the ones who inspired you, personally, in your life or career as a musician?

Dimitra

Some of the artists who have influenced me the most over the years are Björk, Fever Ray, iamamiwhoami, The Cure, Porcupine Tree, Pink Floyd, Faith No More, The Gathering, Tool, Katatonia, Anathema, Norma Jean, Rolo Tomassi, Florence and the Machine, Jorja Smith, Korn, Kittie, Bush,, How to Destroy Angels, Crosses, Rob Zombie, Skunk Anansie, Puscifer, Battle of Mice. Each of them has inspired me in different ways and shown me how many different ways there are to express yourself through music.

Reuel

Here’s a question you don’t get asked every day. If the sense of taste and hearing were mixed up together, what food do you imagine Unverkalt’s music would taste like?

Dimitra

Maybe something like a truffle risotto. It’s rich and earthy, with many subtle layers that slowly reveal themselves.

Reuel

Sounds like something I’d like! What are your feelings about the way women are represented in music today, and what do you think can be done to promote more inclusivity and support for female musicians?

Dimitra

I think the metal scene is slowly becoming more inclusive, which is very positive. At the same time, I believe we should continue encouraging experimentation and allow more diverse voices to be present in the scene, with versatility and complexity. No one should feel afraid to express their voice in the way that feels authentic to them, whether that is extreme, aggressive, atmospheric, or softer. We should be more open in talking about these issues and stand together against hateful attitudes that still exist. Supporting each other is essential. There were many moments where I felt like a black sheep, but with time, I realized there is no reason to let anyone define your dreams or your path. What matters is staying true to what makes you feel complete and standing by each other.

Reuel

Thank you for sharing these empowering experience and thoughts! Thank you for your time, Dimitra! Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Dimitra

Thank you so much for this great interview. It was really nice to have the opportunity to talk about our music and allow people to get to know our band a little more. Stay tuned and keep spreading the music.

The post Interview with Dimitra Kalavrezou (Unverkalt) first appeared on FemMetal – Goddesses of Metal.

Portuguese rock and blues artist Vítor Bacalhau has released a new single titled “Burn Me Slow,” a groove-driven track that highlights his multi-instrumental talents and modern take on vintage-inspired blues rock.

The new single features falsetto vocals, fuzz-heavy guitars, and a rhythm influenced by legendary drummer James Gadson. Built around a laid-back but expressive groove, the song gradually unfolds with a resonator slide riff weaving through the mix alongside a sparse bass line and atmospheric keys.

Bacalhau performs all of the instruments on the track, giving the song a distinct personal feel from start to finish. The arrangement blends classic blues textures with contemporary production, creating a sound that balances grit and intimacy.

The lyrics for “Burn Me Slow” were written by Carolina Fonson. Bacalhau also co-produced the track with longtime collaborator Budda Guedes, shaping a stripped-down but textured recording that emphasizes mood and feel.

During the mixing process, the track was submitted to acclaimed engineer and producer Tchad Blake through the Mix With The Masters platform for feedback. Bacalhau described the experience as a “career-highlight moment,” noting that Blake’s insights helped refine the song’s raw and minimalist energy.

“Burn Me Slow” represents the latest step forward for Bacalhau as he continues to develop his sound and expand his presence in the blues rock world.

The post Vítor Bacalhau reveals “Burn Me Slow” appeared first on Blues Rock Review.

Phoenix groovers/thrashers INCITE are set to join DEATH ANGEL in support of their “Act III US Tour 2026” alongside VIO-LENCE. INCITE will be obliterating stages performing tracks taken from their critically acclaimed 2025 album Savage New Times, released via Reigning Phoenix Music.

Frontman Richie Cavalera comments, “Metalheads we are beyond fired up to be touring with metal legends DEATH ANGEL and VIO-LENCE on the upcoming Act III US tour! We’ll be bringing our new album Savage New Times to the stage and to the pit for the first time since its release!!! Get those tickets today and get ready for an insane night of heavy metal.”

DEATH ANGEL “Act III” US Tour 2026 W. VIO-LENCE & INCITE Dates:

Purchase tickets HERE!

5/1 – Phoenix, AZ – Marquee Theater
5/3 – Oklahoma City, OK – Diamond Ballroom
5/5 – New Orleans, LA – House of Blues
5/7– Daytona, FL – Welcome To Rockville (not ACT III set)
5/10 – Charlotte, NC – The Underground
5/11 – Asheville, NC – Orange Peel
5/12 – Hobart, IN – Hobart Theater
5/13 – Columbus, OH – The King Of Clubs
5/14 – Detroit, MI – St Andrews Hall
5/15 – Sayreville, NJ – Starland Ballroom
5/16 – Norwalk, CT – District Music Hall
5/19 – Wilmington, DE – The Queen
5/20 – New York, NY – Gramercy Theater
5/21 – Buffalo, NY – Electric City
5/22 – Allentown, PA – Archer Music Hall
5/24 – Baltimore, MD – Maryland Deathfest
5/27 – Atlanta, GA – Masquerade Hell
5/28 – Orlando, FL – The Abbey
5/29 – Ft Lauderdale, FL – Culture Room
5/30 – Tampa, FL – Orpheum
6/2 – Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl
6/3 – Louisville, KY – Mercury Ballroom
6/5 – Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee Metal Fest
6/6 – St Louis, MO – Red Flag
6/8 – Wichita, KS – Wave
6/9 – Greeley, CO – Moxi Theater
6/10 – Colorado Springs, CO – Black Sheep
6/11 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
6/12 – Boise, ID – Shrine Ballroom
6/14 – Seattle, WA – Showbox
6/16 – Portland, OR – Hawthorne Theater
6/17– Sacramento, CA – Ace Of Spades
6/18 – San Luis Obispo, CA – Fremont Theater
6/19 – Santa Ana, CA – The Observatory
6/20 – Ventura, CA – Ventura Music Hall
6/21 – Santa Cruz, CA – The Catalyst

Purchase tickets HERE!

Purchase Savage New Times HERE: https://incite.rpm.link/savagenewtimesPR

Savage New Times – Track Listing: 
1.   Lies
2.   Feel This Shit (I’m Fired Up)
3.   Just A Rat
4.   Chucked Off
5.   Doubts and the Fear
6.   Dolores
7.   No Mercy No Forgiveness
8.   Used and Abused
9.   Never Die Once
10. Savage New Times

Connect with INCITE:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inciteheavymetal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/incite_heavymetal

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/incite/278131122

reigningphoenixmusic.com

Source: C Squared Music