Category: news

  • Demolicious Derby 2026, Vol. II: Ten Sick Hardcore Demos from April-June

    Yo sorry I’m late. Went to Outbreak Fest, twisted an aankle stage diving to Turn of Phrase, cartwheeled on stage for Hatebreed, dropped a round-up of my favourite punk and hardcore releases of the year so far, but now I’m back with ten killer hardcore demos from the second quarter of 2026. I’m really proud of the spread on this one: metalcore, powerviolence, beatdown, metallic, melodic and straight up hardcore all covered for your listening pleasure. Let’s rock.


    7 Swords – DEMO

    7 Swords from Germany’s Rhineline region play the kinda music that opens up not so much a fuck you horseshoe as full on maw of violence, with those who don’t fancy throwing their limbs about pinned to the walls in giddy fear for their lives. Their demo opens with a sample from Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai before delivering a beatdown of the most bludgeoning order a la Shattered Realm or Sin Against Sin.


    Big Iron – The Demo

    Going two for two on the Rhineline. Big Iron land pretty much on the complete opposite end of the spectrum to their aforementioned compatriots, with a demo that clocks in at a tight four and half minutes and brings the 00s Lockin’ Out style bangers in the vein of bands like Mental and Rampage. “Leeches” is the longest track on this by some distance and definitely the stand-out for me but it’s all good stuff here.


    Censer – Demo

    I like the way Bandcamp user Izzy puts this one: “Evil music played quick”. Looks like Censer are from Columbus, Ohio and their demo is the powerviolence pick of the year so far for me. Five tracks and six minutes of pissed off and scuzzed out gritted teeth type business on the ever-dependable Delayed Gratification Records.

     


    Die Trying – Demo

    Streets of Hate don’t miss and they certainly haven’t with this one from Nashville, Tennessee’s Die Trying: mosh-forward metallic hardcore featuring Orthodox guitarist Austin Evans on vocals and a couple of sick guest spots from Long Island melodic(ish) hardcore outfit Love Sick and Bangkok world beaters Whispers


    Engine Demo

    Coming at us on the fantastic Rebirth Records (who had a couple of picks on my mid-year round-up), Engine from Los Angeles, California have quite a unique sound for the current era, albeit one with clear heritage in the catchy late 80s/early 90s swagger of bands like Supertouch and Outspoken.


    Full Strength – Demo

    Keeping up the great label streak with an obligatory Total Supply pick and you should already know it’s gonna be some proper hardcore. Full Strength are from Houghton County, Michigan and they’ve got you covered for all your hardcore cardio needs: fast, stomp, two-step, side-to-side—they don’t even ask for more than five and a half minutes of your time.


    Maximum Force – Demo

    I know I probably shouldn’t have favourites here but I do and it’s this. If you (correctly) believe that music was perfected in New York from around 1987-89 by the likes of Breakdown, Killing Time and the Cro-Mags then Maximum Force from Cobourg, Ontario, Canada have got the demo for you. OG mosh music, beatdown kids could never.


    xNecessaryDemisex – DEMO

    Manchester’s xNecessaryDemisex are the only real metalcore pick on this list so they seem to have taken it upon themselves to cover a bit of everything: panicky chaotic bits, ugly mosh bits, a splash of Gothencore, and straight edge bonus points for good measure. One of those perfect cases of a band sounding exactly like their artwork promises. 


    Powermove – Demo: Infernal Hatred… Eternal Strife

    Fair play to Powermove for naming this one something a little more creative than “demo”. Guess you could say that’s a powerm… I’m sorry, I can’t do this. Expect gnarly vocals, bits of 90s Eurocore and NYHC, and a sick guest spot from Louis from Telltale. Shout out Counterculture Records, Unholy Dominion Records, and—can’t believe I’m about to say this—Coventry.


    Spiderweb – Demo

    Finishing where we started in the Rhineline, this time with some working class hardcore punk courtesy of Spiderweb and the wonderful STTW Records. Even by the standards of straightforward hardcore it doesn’t get much more classic than this. Sounds like it could’ve come out in 1981 in the best way possible. Peace.

    The post Demolicious Derby 2026, Vol. II: Ten Sick Hardcore Demos from April-June appeared first on Noob Heavy.

  • Kataklysm and Six Feet Under hit the road for North American tour

    They’ll kick off their co-headlining tour on July 8 in Detroit, with support from Wormhole through August 11

    Source

  • ZUKO Unleash New Single ‘Primal Rage’ Ahead Of EP And Tour

    Brisbane hardcore five-piece ZUKO have today unleashed their ferocious new single Primal Rage. The single arrives ahead of the forthcoming EP Built For Pain, due August 7, and will be followed by a headline tour of Australia, making stops in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide & Perth. Built For Pain is five tracks of savage, groove-driven […]
  • Manfred Mann Marks The Anniversary Of “Silence” With New Cuts On Expanded Reissue

    Manfred Mann Marks The Anniversary Of “Silence” With New Cuts On Expanded Reissue

    As far as anniversary editions of classic albums go, MANFRED MANN’S EARTH BAND haven’t really treat their fans to a lot of substantial surprises, which is why the upcoming reissue of the British ensemble’s 1976 gem “The Roaring Silence” should … Continue reading

    The post Manfred Mann Marks The Anniversary Of “Silence” With New Cuts On Expanded Reissue appeared first on DMME.net.

  • Alabama Shakes announce first album in more than a decade

    Multiple Grammy-winning blues rockers Alabama Shakes have announced their first album in more than a decade. I Must Be Dreaming will be released on August 28, and is the follow-up to 2015’s Sound & Color.

    Alabama Shakes, who returned to action last September with the single Another Life and followed it with American Dream in April, will release a third single from the album, I Feel Hope Coming, on Friday, having released a 25-second preview last week.

    “This younger generation makes me feel hopeful because they can see through all the political lies,” says frontwoman Brittany Howard. “That song’s about holding onto that hope, and refusing to give up.

    “I’m really happy that song exists,” adds guitarist Heath Fogg. “It came from such a joyful moment of collaboration, and exemplifies everything I love about this band being reborn.”

    The band have also released a trailer for I Must Be Dreaming, which was produced at Sound Emporium Studios and Blackbird Studio in Nashville with producer Shawn Everett, who won two Grammys for his work on Sound & Color.

    “There’s a double meaning to it,” Howard says of the album title. “It could be saying, ‘I must be dreaming, because the world is so fucking crazy right now.’ But it could also mean, ‘I must be dreaming, because the world is so incredibly beautiful.’ Both those things can be true at once.”

    I Must Be Dreaming is available to pre-order now.

    Alabama Shakes are currently playing summer festivals in Europe, and will return to North America later this month. Full dates below.

    Alabama Shakes: 2026 tour dates

    Jul 07: Lucca Summer Festival, Italy
    Jul 09: Lisbon NOS Alive Festival, Portugal
    Jul 10: Bilbao BBK Live, Spain
    Jul 11: Madrid Noches del Botánico, Spain

    Jul 24: Tacoma Dune Peninsula at Point Defiance Park, WA+
    Jul 25: Eugene Autzen Stadium^, OR
    Jul 26: Vancouver Freedom Mobile Arch, BC+
    Jul 28: Boise Idaho Botanical Garden: Outlaw Fiel, IDd+
    Jul 29: Salt Lake City Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre, UT+
    Jul 31: Jackson Hole Snow King Mountain, WY+
    Aug 01: Jackson Hole Snow King Mountain, WY+
    Aug 21: Highland Park Ravinia Festival, IL=
    Aug 22: Indianapolis Ruoff Music Center, IN#
    Aug 23: Maryland Heights Hollywood Casino Amphitheater, MO#
    Aug 25: Grand Rapids Acrisure Amphitheater, MI#
    Aug 26: Cincinnati Riverbend Music Center, OH#
    Aug 28: Minneapolis Surly Brewing Festival Field, MN%
    Aug 29: Minneapolis Surly Brewing Festival Field, MN%
    Aug 30: Madison Breese Stevens Field, WI%
    Sep 01: Bridgeport Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater, CT%
    Sep 02: New York Radio City Music Hall, NY%
    Sep 04: Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, NY@
    Sep 05: Lenox Tanglewood, MA@
    Sep 06: Shelburne Concerts on The Green, VT$
    Sep 15: Montreal MTELUS, QC$
    Sep 16: Ottawa CityFolk Festival, ON
    Sep 18: East Aurora Borderland Music Festival, NY
    Sep 19: Dover The Woodlands, DE^
    Sep 25: Santa Barbara Santa Barbara Bowl, CA*
    Sep 26: Dana Point Ohana Festival, CA

    • With Special Guest Joel Culpepper
    + With Special Guests Billy Allen + The Pollies
    = With Special Guest Liam Kazar
    # Co-Headline with Tedeschi Trucks Band
    % With Special Guest Hannah Cohen
    @ With Very Special Guest Mavis Staples
    $ With Special Guest Emily King
    ^ Supporting Zach Bryan
    * With Special Guest Tyler Ballgame

    Find Alabama Shakes tickets.

  • Rosalind Powell Strong Review

    Rosalind Powell Strong Review

    The album begins with the title track, “Strong.” Listeners are immersed in a unique pastoral atmosphere. Powell’s voice, coupled with the piano, creates a mesmerizing effect reminiscent of a priestess. This song showcases a distinct compositional style. It possesses an ancient quality, enriched by dynamic melodies and harmonic variations. These elements reflect a solid artistic vision.

    Rosalind Powell Strong

    Next is “God If You’re Listening to Me,” another song that feels ritualistic. It carries an introspective tone, with vocals supported by background harmonies. This creates an almost suspended atmosphere, reminiscent of a metaphysical space. The depth of this track engages the listener on a profound level, inviting them to explore their own thoughts and emotions.

    Following this is “Life,” a track with a bouncy rhythm. It has hints of medieval melodies, giving it a timeless quality. At times, the sonic choices bring to mind a fascinating blend of artists such as Björk, Enya, and Kate Bush, mixed in a peculiar and original way. This comparison is not about imitation, but about emotional freedom, vocal personality, and the courage to create a universe that does not follow common rules.

    Strong – Sound and Atmosphere

    One of the standout tracks is “River,” characterized by a nostalgic melody. The song captures a unique essence, hypnotizing listeners like sirens from ancient mythology. The emotion it conveys touches the soul. This track showcases Powell’s ability to connect deeply with her audience.

    Another noteworthy song is “The Edge.” It opens with a piano motif, inviting listeners to dream and explore imaginative landscapes. The delicacy of this piece evokes the first snow gently settling on a grassy field, creating an emotional visual. Its refinement is both gentle and intense, leaving a lasting impression.

    “Dice” follows, featuring melodies that enchant the listener. The music seems to draw one into a trance-like state, akin to an odalisque dancing before them. This piece feels connected to the life force of Gaia, highlighting the immense energy surrounding us. The bucolic themes resonate throughout this song, enhancing its beauty.

    Strong – Performance and Production

    Powell’s vocal capabilities shine throughout the album. Each note she delivers is filled with a rich emotional depth that elevates the music. Her ability to convey complex feelings through her singing is one of the album’s highlights. The voice is truly fantastic. It is expressive, unique, and full of personality. She knows how to be delicate, mystical, theatrical, and intense, always keeping the listener inside her world.

    The album closes with “I’ve Been Sick.” This song introduces a noir quality, showcasing a more playful side of Powell. There’s a theatrical element in how the track unfolds, with a lively melody that draws you in. It embodies a different energy that contrasts with earlier pieces yet remains in harmony with the overall theme of the album.

    This is an album for listeners who love music with imagination, mystery, melody, and soul. A work that does not simply entertain, but invites you into a private universe made of ritual, nature, emotion, and sound.



    Unique

    🔥 If you love this music: Discover More


    Find Rosalind Powell here:
    Spotify | Instagram

    For fans of:

    Björk • Enya • Kate Bush


    The post Rosalind Powell Strong Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

  • Sargassi “Un giorno qualunque” Review

    Sargassi “Un giorno qualunque” Review

    The song opens with a strumming guitar accompanied by distorted chords, expanding the auditory spectrum. This introduction paves the way for an alternative rock sound reminiscent of Oasis. As the artist’s voice enters, it reveals a unique vocal style combined with singer-songwriter elements. The song develops well, featuring appealing dynamics. The verse gradually empties, building anticipation before launching into the chorus.

    Sargassi Fuori il videoclip di

    Listeners can also sense influences from 90s rock. Lyrically, the song captures introspective moments when one feels lost yet aspires to embark on a more aware journey towards a better future. This introspection resonates deeply, creating a relatable atmosphere.

    The artist’s approach is somewhat psychedelic, further emphasized by the accompanying video. In the video, animated drawings come to life using stop motion techniques. This artistic choice enhances the song’s emotional depth, inviting viewers to dive into the visual and auditory experience. The combination of rock elements and psychedelic influences provides a rich listening journey.

    Sargassi  “Un giorno qualunque” – Sound and Atmosphere

    The transitions throughout the track are executed smoothly. The instrumentation complements the lyrical themes, allowing for a full-bodied experience. The careful construction of verses and choruses creates a sense of progression that is both satisfying and uplifting.

    Lyrically, the contemplation of self-discovery and the quest for personal evolution permeate the song. This narrative captures the essence of fleeting moments where clarity might be absent, yet hope persists. The emotional weight of the lyrics is balanced by a vibrant musical arrangement, making for a holistic representation of the artist’s vision.

    Sargassi “Un giorno qualunque” – Performance and Production

    Every element in the song works synergistically to elevate the overall experience. The instrumentation piques interest and draws listeners in, while the lyrics invite introspection. Together, they form a multi-dimensional piece that stands out in the current music landscape.

    The artist’s ability to intertwine these aspects deserves commendation. The psychedelic influences in the accompanying video add depth, enriching the overall presentation. This work encourages listeners to reflect on their own journeys.

    For anyone seeking a fresh alternative rock experience, this song is worth a listen. It is a powerful exploration of self and resilience, beautifully crafted and delivered. The artistic approach, musically and visually, connects deeply with the audience. The energy and passion embedded in the performance truly shine.



    Instense

    🔥 If you love this music: Discover More


    Find Sargassi here:
    Spotify | Instagram

    For fans of:

    Oasis


    The post Sargassi “Un giorno qualunque” Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

  • AlCe E’ una bomba Review

    AlCe E’ una bomba Review

    This track begins with a siren, immediately grabbing attention. It transitions into a danceable energy that envelops listeners, evoking the festive atmosphere of a community gathering. The joyful vibes draw you in, reminiscent of the cheerful spirit of village parties where one can truly let loose. The song features a blend of ska and reggae elements that entwine with Mediterranean influences.

     AlCe E' una bomba

    The brass section enhances the music, instilling a unique vibrancy that brings to mind the energy of songs like “L’ombelico del mondo” by Jovanotti. It’s an ideal summer anthem, perfect for those evenings when you want to unwind and enjoy yourself. The bass line, in particular, stands out as exceptional, echoing the signature phrasing of renowned bassist Saturnino.

    Though the music radiates joy, the lyrics delve into profound themes. They shed light on the issues plaguing today’s world, including conflicts and political interests that lead to turmoil. The artist endeavors to provoke thought with this juxtaposition of upbeat melodies and serious subject matter.

    E’ una bomba – Sound and Atmosphere

    The composition successfully balances cheerful instrumentation with a deeper meaning, portraying a sense of nostalgia layered within the joyful exterior. It’s a beautiful song that I wholeheartedly recommend to everyone looking for music that makes you think while you dance.

    Overall, AlCe’s single “E’ una bomba” is more than just a festive tune. It serves as a reflection on contemporary struggles wrapped in a vibrant musical package. The rich textures and rhythmic elements provide listeners with a meaningful experience. This song invites us to confront serious issues while simultaneously celebrating life through music.

    E’ una bomba – Performance and Production

    The artist’s ability to weave intricate themes into the fabric of the music speaks to their skill. Their thoughtful approach invites listeners to consider the weighty subjects while enjoying the rhythmic pulse of the song. This balance is not effortless; it requires a nuanced understanding of the synergy between music and message.

    “E’ una bomba” stands out not just as a catchy track but as a vessel for deeper exploration. This single undoubtedly reflects a talented artist’s vision. It’s refreshing to encounter music that celebrates life while also staying aware of the world’s complexities.

    Listeners can truly immerse themselves in the dynamic blend of influences. The song inspires movement and thought, making it valuable for those seeking



    Solid

    🔥 If you love this music: Discover More


    Find AlCe here:
    Spotify | Facebook

    The post AlCe E’ una bomba Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.