Category: news

Blackened psychedelic goth punk outfit Devil Master have revealed “Bloody Dreams” as the title of their upcoming studio album. The Philadelphia-based band will release the record on September 04th through Relapse Records. Guitarist Darkest Prince handled the entire writing process for the new effort, which can now be previewed through the Sick … Read More/Discuss on Metal Underground.com

On today’s music scene, where almost all the artists and bands sound so similar, merging several styles together

More new music has arrived from Oklahoma City noise rockers Chat Pile, who have unveiled their latest single, “PEN I S MALL,” ahead of the September 4th release of their upcoming album, “Who Loves The Sun.” Despite its tongue-in-cheek title, bassist Stin says the track packs a serious punch, describing it as: Read More/Discuss on Metal Underground.com

Moonspell – Far From God (Napalm Records)

It’s probably not controversial to say that without Moonspell the Portuguese metal scene wouldn’t have the popularity it has today.

Much like Rotting Christ in Greece, they’re a band with 36 years of music behind them and have down a lot to define what the Portuguese metal scene is today. Their frontman Fernando Ribeiro even runs a label that promotes the future generation of bands, so they’re an act who are always forward looking and their new album is just the same.

On their fourteenth studio release you may think there would be a tendency to rest on their laurels but Moonspell don’t do that and with producer Jaime Gomez Arellano (Paradise Lost, Sólstafir, Ghost) at the helm they have release an album is already being compared to their 1996 opus Irreligious, a mighty strong comparison as songs from their record still form major parts of their live show to this day.

Is this comparison warranted though? Let’s dive in and find out, and we’re off to a good start with Cross Your Heart which carries that flame of pioneering gothic rock that Moonspell are so associated with but it does feel like a throwback that 90’s gothic rock explosion where metal bands wanted to make moody, broody music, case in point Paradise Lost’s Draconian Times/Icon or Type Of Negative’s Bloody Kisses/October Rust.

This dark romantic sound has been the result of five years of soul searching, rediscovering who they were back then and joining it with the band they are now, this means more keys, more throbbing bass and less of a metallic heaviness, that they don’t get rid of completely though as Our Freedom To Fall is a distorted, fret sliding crush that borrows from Gojira’s power while the last track Reconquista keeps the metal style as a powerful end.

Far From God is an album of dark passion and emotional substance, which features Fernando singing often with a close up whisper into the mic as the guitars jangle in the background while the synths creates atmospheres and bass/drums march ever forward on tracks such as Your Promise Of Light and Biblical.

The whole record is inspired by the tragic but intensely sexual figure of the vampire who Fernando had fallen out of love with due to recent Hollywood depictions, but his attraction to this tragic and mysterious figure was rekindled by Robert Eggers Nosferatu.

Bringing back the vampire as the major inspiration behind this record and for longtime fans it’s a pioneering band in the genre, defining what gothic metal can be with the title track the most direct to that film and those early vampire stories of Stoker.

Using vampires, werewolves and resurrection as metaphors for existentialism, romance, passion and obsession, there’s a divine opulence to this record, Moonspell taking back goth metal from the countless bands inspired by them, crossing oceans of time to define themselves as one of the planets premiere goth metal exports! 9/10

Witchsorrow – The Devil And All His Works (Church Road Records)

To paraphrase Super Hans’ Big Beat Manifesto “Big Riffs Are The Best, Get High All The Time”, this is pretty much the manifesto of Witchsorrow, although they’d add “Hail Satan” at the end as the Hampshire doom trio pledged their souls to rock n roll, over 20 years ago and are still paying homage to The Dark Lord to this day.

I mean everyone knows Lucifer has all the best tunes right? Witchsorrow certainly do as they play the sort of occult doom that was pioneered by Black Sabbath on this first four albums, when metal was still evil, still ominous and was for the outsiders and the discontents.

For me doom has never strayed from this path, the best doom metal bands are the ones that totally shun modernism and the ever changing music scene, they just want low end fuzzy riffs, lyrics about demons and witchcraft and psychedelia that is driven by a love of controlled substances.

Bands such as Cathedral, Electric Wizard, Saint Vitus and Candlemass are all in this category and as well as kneeling at the altar of Iommi, Butler, Osbourne and Ward, Witchsorrow have been lighting a candle for these other bands since 2006.

Formed by Necroskull (vocals/guitar) and Emily Witch (bass) aka Nick and Emily Ruskell, Witchsorrow is a living embodiment of their die hard attitude to heavy metal, drummers have come and gone but those ominous, cavernous, name your adjective, guitar riffs and evil, foreboding atmosphere never goes away.

This is music for metalheads who wear it on this skin and who like loud as humanly possible. There must be call as Witchsorrow have played Bloodstock numerous times, as well as Download, Arctangent and Desertfest (of course), so there’s a following, one I wouldn’t even call cult as I’m part of that group where heavy metal is part of life and things without it seems pointless, it’s probably why doom and stoner have always been my major loves as they’re honest.

No ego, no posturing, just heavy riffs for the people. What can you expect on Witchsorrow’s fifth album? Well doom metal, unbound and ear bleedingly heavy, doom metal, as always but crafted by a band who are now veterans so can manipulate these well worn auditory terrors in their own way to make sermons that would easily fit into the catalogue of Sabbath, Wizard or Cathedral but are also wholly their own devices of evil.

David Wilbraham plays drums on the record, creating the percussive punishment but going forward Scott ‘Doom’ Taylor will be behind the kit bringing his experience from bands such as Vnder and Garganjua, as Nick and Emily still have things low, slow and fuzzy, Nicks vocals drenched in reverb as the prophets dictate.

They welcome a guest into their church, as Sammy Urwin of Employed To Secret gives a guest solo to closer A Quintessence Of Dust, however the rest of songs are the close knit team of heavy metal lovers bringing more doom metal to the mass hordes that live for it.

That’s the basis of it Witchsorrow play the music they want to, inspired by Iommi and in league with Satan, prepare yourself for The Devil And All His Works. 9/10

The Pretty Reckless – Dear God (Fearless Records)

It’s safe to say the rise of The Pretty Reckless has maybe taken a lot of the rock crowd by surprise, immediately written off due to Taylor Momsen’s previous life as a child and teen actor. They’ve grown into one of the most authentic hard rock bands in the USA, due to their mix of punchy alt rock, blues, punk and classic hard rock driven by the rockstar attitude and gritty vocals of Momsen.

From their 2010 debut the signs were there that The Pretty Reckless were more than vanity project, having developed into great hard rock band with their previous album Death By Rock N Roll cementing them as true arena headliners, so where do they go from there? Well with Dear God they bring us their most emotionally raw record yet, inspired by chaos and moving into an outer body state between heaven and hell.

With themes that include “mortality, self-discovery, chaos, and redemption” as track such as Love Me shouts loudly with a lament to trying to find someone to love you, even if it’s just a deity. Produced by Jonathan Wyman, Taylor Momsen, and guitarist Ben Phillips, all the songs were written by Momsen and Phillips and they go further genre-wise than they have before.

Dragonfire comes from country/bluegrass, the title track has some bluesy Fender Rhodes, When I Wake Up bristles with punk rock, while Spell On You is a big swaggering rocker for all the bad witches listening, Eye Of The Storm takes a step into politicised balladry as the final track Dark Days broods and ruminates on the divine and the mortal.

With the three part, Life Evermore acting as an intro, intermission and outro, I perceive Dear God as a musical, tracks linked with the themes I’ve discussed above but sequenced in a way that they provide individual stories that work just as well as a whole. Dear God is an opus from The Pretty Reckless, rock n roll with the grandest vision. 8/10

Red Dwarf Star – Red Dwarf Star (Pelagic Records)

Coley Dennis is perhaps best known for his work with krautrockers Mazerarti as the guitarist for the electronic rock collective. Red Dwarf Star is his solo project which takes influence from elsewhere, mind altering dream pop wrapped in a bubble of Midwestern post hardcore, 90’s alternative rock and those psychedelic tendencies from Mazerarti.

Inspired by a feeling of loss and uncertainty, stemming from a move from the USA to Switzerland in 2015, it’s a record that’s introspective and personal, emotionally and musically, songs written for Maserati but didn’t fit the vibe, more akin to “90’s, Creation Records/Post-Hardcore” written/recorded with a D.I.Y ethos and very little outside help, it’s almost the antithesis to the collaborative nature of Maserati, a solitary figure creating music that is just for them.

What’s interesting for me are the vocals which sound heavily distorted with a vocoder and effect layered against Allen Epley and Jenna Fournier to bring a textured interplay that brings a sense of inhumanity that works well with separation and loss aspect of the writing, while invoking those Krautrock and 90’s styles simultaneously.

Although it started out as fully solo Red Dwarf Star is now a band with one or two outside collaborators helping the full realisation, Mathias Poese of Jeffk joins on guitar for plenty of jangling melodies that blend with Dennis’ for these expansive soundscapes while Blaise Brechbühl locks down the undulating grooves joined in the backroom by the urgent drumming of Alessandro Pascolo.

In the press pack it suggests Red Dwarf Star is for fans of Failure, Quicksand & Hum, but I’d also add some Steven Wilson and Fear Factory in their as well due to effect-laden vocals here, a continuation, a new beginning, a reason for being all in one record, it’ll be interesting to see where Red Dwarf Star goes from here. 7/10

Get ready, music fans: Lollapalooza Chicago 2026 is officially on the calendar, kicking off Thursday, July 30, and keeping the energy high through Sunday, August 2.

We’re heading back to the iconic Grant Park in downtown Chicago for four incredible days. According to the latest festival guidance, gates will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, giving you plenty of time to soak up the sun and sounds right by the beautiful Lake Michigan.

The essentials for your planning are pretty straightforward: the festival calls Grant Park home from July 30 to August 2, and you’ll want to move fast on passes. While four-day tickets have already moved to a waitlist, there are still a few one-day tickets up for grabs, as noted in the festival’s official date guidance.

This specific weekend is a big deal because Lollapalooza is way more than just a series of concerts. It’s a massive cultural moment for the city – a tourism powerhouse, a bit of a transit puzzle for the downtown area, and easily one of the most vibrant summer gatherings you’ll find in the Midwest.

Lollapalooza Chicago 2026 Key Facts

Lollapalooza Chicago 2026 is shaping up to be an epic four-day run in Grant Park, featuring a diverse lineup and some serious ticket demand.

You can find the July 30 to August 2 window confirmed on the official Lollapalooza site, and the 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily schedule is set in stone by the festival’s support team.

Why Grant Park Makes The Festival So Important

Grant Park provides Lollapalooza with an atmosphere that’s hard to beat: a massive urban festival footprint right in the heart of a world-class city.

Unlike other fests where you’re camping in a remote field, here you’re right in the mix of downtown Chicago, surrounded by high-end hotels, CTA lines, great eats, museums, and the lakefront.

Choose Chicago notes that the central location means street closures will definitely be in effect throughout the weekend. Your best bet for getting there stress-free is public transportation, especially since ride-share zones are typically moved several blocks away from the main festival gates to manage the crowds.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on the Chicago weather. Late July can get pretty steamy, and National Weather Service data for Chicago July normals shows typical highs in the mid-80s.

While we’ll need a real-time forecast closer to the date, smart festival-goers always prioritize sunscreen, a solid hydration plan, and breathable gear to keep the vibes chill even when the temperature rises.

The 2026 Lineup Has Wide Appeal

The 2026 lineup is all about variety, bringing together a bunch of different musical worlds. Pitchfork has highlighted a stellar group of headliners including Charli XCX, The Smashing Pumpkins, The XX, Lorde, Olivia Dean, Tate McRae, John Summit, and Jennie, a list that Choose Chicago is also promoting as the top-tier talent for this year.

This curation ensures there’s something for everyone. Pop enthusiasts have plenty to cheer for with Charli XCX, Lorde, and Jennie. Those who lean toward rock and alternative will be stoked for The Smashing Pumpkins and The XX. Meanwhile, electronic fans have a massive draw in John Summit, who is guaranteed to bring high-energy dance vibes to the park.

The lower half of the bill is just as deep. Keep an eye out for sets from Turnstile, Wet Leg, Freddie Gibbs, and Beabadoobee, among many others.

Pro tip: Lollapalooza is great for early arrivals, as catching a strong afternoon set from a rising artist often ends up being the most memorable part of the whole weekend.

Ticket Demand Is Already High

As you’d expect, people are jumping on tickets fast. Looking at the official ticket page, four-day General Admission started at $439, with higher tiers like GA+ ($789), VIP ($1,749), and Platinum ($4,800) offering extra perks. Most four-day options are already on waitlist, so you’ll want to check current availability regularly.

To keep things professional and secure, we always recommend sticking to the official ticket site or the festival’s verified resale platform.

Big weekends like this often see a rise in scams on social media, so play it safe to ensure your wristband is the real deal when you show up at the gates.

Schedule Planning Should Start With The Map

You can already start mapping out your weekend on the official schedule page, which features daily tabs from Thursday, July 30, through Sunday, August 2. Just a heads-up: keep checking back as we get closer to July, as set times can occasionally shift for various reasons.

A knowledgeable day plan takes the size of Grant Park into account. It’s a long walk from the north stages to the south ones, especially when the crowds are moving between headliners. Try picking three “must-see” acts each day, one afternoon, one evening, and one closer, while leaving plenty of buffer time for food runs and restroom breaks.

Bag Rules And Entry Prep Can Save Time

Getting through security quickly is all about knowing the rules. Lollapalooza’s bag policy is specific: small clutches or fanny packs (6″ x 9″ or smaller) don’t have to be clear but are limited to one pocket. It’s a simple rule that makes entry much smoother for everyone.

If you need a larger bag, it must be clear and within the 12″ x 6″ x 12″ size limit. Hydration packs are a great call, provided they are empty when you walk in and don’t have too many extra pockets. Keeping your gear minimal is a pro move for a long day in the park.

Your essential festival kit should definitely include your ID, wristband, a card for payments, and earplugs. Throw in some non-aerosol sunscreen and a portable charger to keep your phone alive for those late-night videos, and you’ll be set for a successful four-day stretch.

Be sure to review the full allowed and prohibited list before you head out. Common items like aerosol cans, glass containers, large coolers, and professional-grade cameras without a press pass will be turned away at the gate, so double-check your pack.

Food, Hotels, And Transit Will Shape The Weekend

One of the best parts of the weekend is the food at Chow Town. With over 80 vendors, you can grab local Chicago favorites like Lou Malnati’s, Billy Goat Tavern, or Tacotlan. Whether you’re looking for a classic slice or something from Soul Veg City, the food lineup is just as curated as the music.

Where you stay can really define your trip. Staying in the Loop or South Loop means a shorter walk at the end of the night, while neighborhoods like Wicker Park or the West Loop offer a more local dining scene if you don’t mind a slightly longer train or ride-share commute.

Some solid nearby options for your stay include the Chicago Athletic Association, the historic Congress Plaza Hotel, The Blackstone, or the Hilton Chicago. All of these put you within easy reach of the Grant Park gates for a seamless festival experience.

Why Lollapalooza Still Ranks Among America’s Biggest Festival Weekends

Lollapalooza remains a titan of the American festival scene because it perfectly balances scale, history, and a prime downtown location. Music Business Worldwide reported that the 2025 edition saw about 115,000 fans per day, totaling roughly 460,000 attendees across the entire weekend.

The impact on the city is massive. According to Lollapalooza’s own community impact report, the 2025 event poured over $480 million into the local economy. On top of that, the festival paid $10.28 million in rent to the Park District and generated millions more in local amusement taxes.

Since they started tracking these numbers back in 2010, the festival has contributed an estimated $3.6 billion to Chicago’s economy, proving that it’s a vital part of the city’s summer identity beyond just the music.

The festival has deep roots, starting as a touring act in 1991 under Perry Farrell before finding its permanent home in Chicago in 2005. Today, it’s a global phenomenon with sister festivals in South America, Europe, and Asia, but the Chicago flagship remains the crown jewel.

FAQs

Summary

Lollapalooza Chicago 2026 is set to take over Grant Park from July 30 to August 2, with gates open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. With a diverse lineup and high demand for tickets, it’s going to be a vibrant weekend that will truly transform the downtown Chicago landscape for four days.

For the best time possible, secure your tickets early, keep an eye on the schedule for any last-minute changes, and prep your gear according to the bag policy. Treat the park with respect, stay hydrated in the heat, and get ready for one of the best weekends of the summer.

Guitarist John 5 has premiered a music video for “You, Me & The Devil Makes Three,” a track taken from his latest solo album, “Ghost,” which was released last October. The bluesy song features Mötley Crüe bandmate Tommy Lee on drums. Directed by Joey Aguirre, the video was filmed during John 5's world tour. John 5 is set to return to… Read More/Discuss on Metal Underground.com

Australian deathcore band A Night In Texas have announced their fifth full-length album, “The Darkest Side Of Humanity,” which is set for release on September 4th through Unique Leader Records. A press release describes the album as the band's "darkest and most extreme release to date." Production was handled by the band's own Cory Judd, whi… Read More/Discuss on Metal Underground.com

Groove metal outfit DevilDriver have released an Eddie Melendez-directed music video for the title track of their upcoming studio album, “Strike And Kill.” The record is set to arrive this Friday, July 10th, through Napalm Records. Speaking about the song, frontman Dez Fafara (also of Coal Chamber) offered: Read More/Discuss on Metal Underground.com

Live review by Ali Williams There are anniversaries, and then there are anniversaries that make a room full of adults reminisce about a time when they once had knees that worked without pain, disposable income and a working relationship with Triple J. Spiderbait’s Ivy & The Big Apples turning 30 is one of those cultural […]

They also have their debut album, as well as a project with Will Haven’s Adrien Contreras in the works.

The post Sol Invicto (Deftones, Cypress Hill) Release Raw Instrumental Version Of Their Debut EP “Loosely Aware” appeared first on Theprp.com.