So maybe you do all already know about the self-titled fifth album from Uni Boys. But as someone who tries to stay on top of the best things going on in power pop, it would be downright neglectful for me to not weigh in on this absolute gem of an album. I do my best to be more measured in my takes than I used to be, but I can’t help thinking this 12-track long player could stand toe-to-toe with numerous late ’70s/early ’80s power pop albums that are considered standards of this musical style. Of course Reza Matin and Noah Nash nail the vintage power pop sound, from the ringing guitars to the soaring harmonies to the heartfelt lovelorn vocals. But it’s the quality of their hooks and songwriting overall that just can’t be denied. These guys know how to write a tune! One song sounds like it should be the single. Then the next one does too, and it just keeps going that way until the album is over. There are no sub-par tracks or drastic departures from the formula. Circa the later ’90s, when I was scouring every record store I could get to in a quest to acquire every power pop album released between 1976 and 1982, if I would have across a record like this, I would have absolutely flipped my shit! 

This record (as do all the Uni Boys’ records) models itself after the classics. But it never settles for being a knock-off version. Uni Boys have essentially made their own classic power pop album in 2026. “I Don’t Wanna Dream Anymore” would fit in perfectly on any of those famous compilations of power pop singles (anything that reminds me of The Jags has to be good!). “Maybe I’m Wrong”, “Want You Back,” “You’re So (Phisticated),” and “Genevieve” are very much in the same vein. “You’ll Curse His Name Again” is ’70s power pop by way of classic ’60s pop a la The Lemon Twigs, etc. “Abra” is so laidback California smooth that it could easily turn up on someone’s yacht, and I am all about that! When the band ventures a little outside the textbook power pop box, the results are extraordinary. “Sin Your Life Away” lays down a later ’60s psych-ish pop touch and absolutely stuns. “No Need To Serve a Purpose” is giving Brian Wilson vibes in all the best ways. 

So there you have it: better late than never, my first Uni Boys review! It’s pretty awesome to be living in a moment where bands like this are getting their proper attention and respect. Even the most cynical Boomer or Gen X crank who hasn’t liked a power pop record in 40 years would be hard-pressed to listen to this record and not fall head over heels for the Uni Boys. Get it from Curation Records!

– April 14th, 2026 –

FIRST LEG OF HEADLINE U.S. TOUR KICKS OFF JUNE 3 IN DETROIT

SEVERAL FESTIVAL APPEARANCES ON DECK

NEW ALBUM THIS CONSEQUENCE OUT NOW VIA METAL BLADE

Killswitch Engage – Jesse Leach, vocals; Adam Dutkiewicz, guitar; Joel Stroetzel, guitar; Mike D’Antonio, bass; and Justin Foley, drums – have just added more tour dates to their upcoming 2026 tour schedule.

The band will first embark on a headline tour, which kicks off June 3 in Detroit and runs through June 27 in San Francisco, and includes appearances at Milwaukee Metal Fest and DC Warped Tour Weekend. Support will come from Machine Head, Iron Reagan, and Havok.

They will then head to Canada in August for a headline run, from August 5 through August 16. Machine Head and Malevolence will support. The Canadian trek includes appearances at the Rock La Cauze Festival and Burt Block Party.

KsE have also added more U.S. dates in September, with Machine Head, Rivers of Nihil, and Judiciary. Those dates run from September 19 through October 1 and include appearances at Louder Than Life and Aftershock.

“We are all beyond excited to get back on the road in support of our latest album This Consequence,” says Leach. “This upcoming run will see us bringing two distinct and devastating lineups across Canada and a small run around the United States. Each lineup is built to deliver a unique and crushing experience.”

He elaborates, “For our Canadian dates, we’ll be hitting major cities alongside the legendary Machine Head and the relentless force that is Malevolence. This is a power trio bill designed to level every stage we step on pure intensity, groove, and aggression. Canada, roll up!“

He continues, “For our United States run, we’re bringing a different kind of devastation. Joining us are once again the legends Machine Head, the prolific heaviness of Rivers of Nihil, and the raw, unfiltered intensity of Judiciary. This lineup delivers a dynamic blend of atmosphere, technicality, and sheer hardcore aggression!“

Leach finishes, “Two unique lineups, one mission: To tear it up everywhere we go. Hell yes, my friends!“

The artist pre-sales begin today at 12pm PT and run through Thursday, August 16 at 10pm local time. The general on-sale is set for Friday, April 17 at 10am local time.

All upcoming dates are below. Get tickets HERE.

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE ON TOUR:
WITH MACHINE HEAD, IRON REAGAN, + HAVOK:
06/03 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore
06/05 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore
06/06 – Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee Metal Fest*
06/07 – South Bend, IN – Four Winds Field
06/09 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz
06/11 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
06/12 – Boston, MA – Roadrunner
06/13 – Bethlehem, PA – Wind Creek Event Center
06/14 – Washington, DC – DC Warped Tour*
06/16 – Orlando, FL – Hard Rock Live
06/17 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle
06/19 – Dallas, TX – South Side Ballroom
06/20 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
06/21 – San Antonio, TX – Boeing Center at Tech Port
06/23 – Albuquerque, NM – Revel Entertainment Center
06/24 – Tempe, AZ – The Marquee
06/25 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Palladium
06/27 – San Francisco, CA – Warfield
*KsE Festival Appearance

WITH MACHINE HEAD + MALEVOLENCE:
08/05 – Ottawa, ON – Hard Rock Live
08/07 – Victoriaville, QC – Rock La Cauze*
08/08 – Toronto, ON – QET
08/09 – London, ON – Centennial Hall
08/11 – Thunder Bay, ON – Community Auditorium
08/13 – Winnipeg, MB – Burt Block Party*
08/14 – Saskatoon, SK – TCU Place
08/15 – Edmonton, AB – River Cree Entertainment Centre
08/16 – Dawson Creek, BC – Ovintiv Centre
*KsE Festival Appearance

WITH MACHINE HEAD, RIVERS OF NIHIL, + JUDICIARY:
09/19 – Cleveland, OH – Jacobs Pavilion
09/20 – Louisville, KY – Louder than Life*
09/21 – Moline, IL – The Rust Belt
09/23 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium
09/24 – Salt Lake, UT – Union
09/25 – Missoula, MT – Kettlehouse Amphitheater
09/27 – Spokane, WA – Gesa Pavilion
09/28 – Portland, OR – Roseland
09/29 – Tacoma, WA – Temple Theatre
10/01 – Sacramento, CA – Aftershock*
*KsE Festival Appearance

Photo by: Travis Shinn

KsE‘s latest album THIS CONSEQUENCE is out now via Metal Blade. Get it here. The album arrived alongside a hugely successful Winter/Spring 2025 tour, yielded a Top 5 single with “I Believe,” which peaked at No. 3, and landed the band on the covers of Revolver and Outburn. The album was another reminder of why KsE, who have earned several gold and platinum certifications alongside three Grammy nominations, remain one of the most enduring bands of the modern metal scene.

ABOUT KILLSWITCH ENGAGE:
Killswitch Engage first shook the structure of heavy music upon climbing out of snowy industrialized Western Massachusetts in 2000. A musical outlier, the band pioneered a union of thrashed-out European guitar pyrotechnics, East Coast hardcore spirit, onstage hijinks, and enlightened lyricism that set the pace for what the turn-of-the-century deemed heavy. 2002′s Alive Or Just Breathing became avowed as a definitive album, being named among “The Top 100 Greatest Metal Albums of the Decade” by Decibel and celebrated by everyone from Metal Hammer to Revolver. Not only did they bust open the floodgates for dozens to follow, but they also garnered three GRAMMY® Award nominations in the category of “Best Metal Performance” in 2005, 2014, and 2019, respectively, a gold certification for The End of Heartache [2004], and a platinum certification for As Daylight Dies [2006]. The group landed three consecutive Top 10 debuts on the Billboard Top 200 with Killswitch Engage [2009], Disarm The Descent [2013], and their career high best bow at #6 with Incarnate [2016]. The latter two releases, along with 2019′s Atonement, would also both capture #1 on the Top Rock Albums and Top Hard Rock Albums charts. The band’s total streams are well over 3 billion to date, while they’ve remained consummate road warriors who’ve sold out countless headline tours and have shared stages with everyone from Iron Maiden to Slipknot to Slayer to My Chemical Romance to Mastodon to Parkway Drive, which is a testament to their ability to cross genres and appeal to all fans of hard rock. KsE have remained a featured attraction at every major North American and European festival through the years. The band recently celebrated an astonishing, 25-year career as one of the most vital and genre-defining bands of the ’00s and continues its incredible legacy and released This Consequence, which boasted the biggest radio hit of the band’s career with “I Believe.” The song peaked at No. 3 on the charts, with the album garnering significant press accolades, including Forbes, a Revolver cover, and SPIN.

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE ONLINE:
https://www.facebook.com/killswitchengage
https://x.com/kseofficial
https://www.killswitchengage.com
https://www.instagram.com/killswitchengage
https://open.spotify.com/artist/37394IP6uhnjIpsawpMu4l
https://www.youtube.com/user/killswitchengagetv

Buy iTunes Artist Page Artist News

A Place To Kill have shared a handful of snippets of tracks from their forthcoming self-titled debut EP. The industrial metal project are set to drop that seven-song outing on June 05th, with pre-saves now available at hypeddit.com/c2yvvd. This fledgling endeavor is a union of Richard Patrick, vocalist/guitarist, etc. of multi-platinum industrial rockers Filter, and…

The post A Place To Kill (Filter, Etc.) Tease New Songs appeared first on Theprp.com.

Satsuma Anodyne Review

The opening track, “Ash And Dust,” captivates with its arpeggio. From the very beginning, it reaches deep into the soul, establishing an atmosphere that is intense and nostalgic. The song features a lengthy intro, lasting around a minute, before the vocals emerge. The sound evokes a blend reminiscent of Radiohead, Grant Lee Buffalo, and Smashing Pumpkins. As the track gradually progresses, it draws the listener deeper into the artistic world of Satsuma.

Following this opener is “Love My Lies.” This track continues in a minimalist fashion, presenting dark and nostalgic tones that harken back to the ’90s music scene. The vocal delivery is heartfelt, demonstrating the artist’s passion for creating music that resonates on a personal level. The emotion in the vocals carries a weight that is recognizable and relatable, establishing a strong connection with listeners.

Next is “Touch Of Your Breath.” This track stands out as introspective, with a gentle guitar strumming providing a delicate foundation for the vocals. The light pads in the background enhance the auditory experience, opening up the musical space. This song embodies a nighttime intensity, evoking a sense of introspection and calm.

The EP concludes with “Scorched Earth,” a track characterized by its raw sound. Here, the music shifts to a grunge-like quality, marked by powerful guitar riffs. This song has a genuine feel, reminiscent of a time when music was often driven by authentic emotion and instinct. In an era dominated by artificial intelligence, “Scorched Earth” emerges as a breath of fresh air. It reminds listeners of the real emotions that music can evoke.

Anodyne – Sound and Atmosphere

Overall, Satsuma’s “Anodyne” presents a refreshing experience for fans of ’90s music. Each song is crafted with attention to detail and a deep sense of feeling. The EP showcases a range of emotions, from intense nostalgia to introspective calm. The minimalist approach taken in many tracks allows the focus to remain on the artist’s voice and message.

This EP is particularly notable for its authenticity. In a time when many artists rely on technology, Satsuma’s work shines through with its organic sound. The emotional weight in the music is palpable. It serves as a reminder of why music resonates so deeply with listeners.

Anodyne – Performance and Production

The arrangements are thoughtful, with each instrument playing a specific role. The guitar, vocals, and pads work in harmony to create distinct moods. The emotional journey throughout the EP is clear, providing an engaging listening experience.

Fans of alternative rock, especially those with an affinity for the ’90s, will find much to enjoy in this EP. The blend of nostalgia and innovation is skillfully balanced in Satsuma’s work. Each track weaves a story that resonates emotionally and intellectually.

The EP represents a heartfelt return to the roots of music that speaks to the heart. As the final notes of “Scorched Earth” fade away, listeners are left with a sense of satisfaction.

Overall, Satsuma’s “Anodyne” is a rewarding addition to contemporary music. It deserves a place on playlists, especially for those yearning for a touch of nostalgia intertwined with fresh perspectives.

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Nostalgic

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Find Satsuma here:
Spotify | Instagram

For fans of:

Radiohead • Grant Lee Buffalo • Smashing Pumpkins

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The post Satsuma Anodyne Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

Last month we got the fantastic news that Widowspeak are returning with their first new album in four years. The indie folk-rock duo introduced Roses with the eminently enjoyable “If You Change,” and they’ve followed it up another good one called “No Driver.” The guitars are going nuts on these new tracks. “No Driver” essentially…

The post Widowspeak – “No Driver” appeared first on Stereogum.

With three previously released bonus tracks.

The post Drowning Pool Announce Expanded 25th Anniversary Edition Of “Sinners” appeared first on Theprp.com.

Lacuna Coil – House of Blues San Diego – April 11, 2026

Lacuna Coil played a rousing show in the 1500-capacity House of Blues San Diego on Saturday night. The House of Blues is located in the Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego, and has a main standing room only floor, surrounded from above by a balcony on three sides. The venue features excellent sight lines and superb sound in a space large enough to draw top-name talent but intimate enough to feel like you’re close to the artist even when you’re in the back.

When I first arrived in the photo pit at the House of Blues San Diego, 30 minutes before the opening band Vowws went on stage, I struck up a conversation with two guys up against the rail wearing Lacuna Coil shirts. I asked them what time they’d arrived to ensure they’d get a good spot on the barricade. They said that they’d been waiting on the sidewalk since 2:00 pm for the doors to open at 6:30 pm, and they weren’t the first ones to arrive. This is typical of Lacuna Coil fans – they are extremely loyal, and willing to do anything to see their band up close.

Lacuna Coil

Italian gothic metal band Lacuna Coil was formed in 1994, and was the first female fronted band to play Ozzfest in 2004. The twin vocal attack brought by Cristina Scabbia’s soaring and at times operatic melodies mixed with Andrea Ferro’s aggressive delivery is an interplay that perhaps shouldn’t work on paper, but blends seamlessly on stage. Their breakthrough came in 2002 with the Camalies album, featuring the song “Heaven’s a Lie”, which helped launch them into the mainstream.

The majority of Saturday’s concert featured songs from 2025’s album Sleepless Empire, including “Oxygen”, “Gravity”, and “Hosting the Shadow”, among five others. Cristina and Andrea spent much of the night at the front of the stage, closest to the fans – making eye contact and singing directly to them. There is an obvious bond between Lacuna Coil and their supporters – and the band made a tangible effort to reinforce that connection on Saturday.

Lacuna Coil is:

• Andrea Ferro – Vocals
• Marco Coti Zelati – Bass
• Cristina Scabbia – Vocals
• Richard Meiz – Drums
• Daniele Salomone – Guitar

Setlist:

1. Layers of Time
2. Reckless
3. Hosting the Shadow
4. Kill the Light
5. Die & Rise
6. Spellbound
7. Heaven's a Lie XX
8. Scarecrow
9. Blood, Tears, Dust
10. Gravity
11. Oxygen
12. In Nomine Patris
13. Nothing Stands in Our Way

Encore:

14. The Siege
15. I Wish You Were Dead
16. Swamped XX
17. Never Dawn

Escape the Fate

Escape the Fate is a solid band with great songs, attitude, and on-stage presence. They are talented musicians, and worked really hard on Saturday to convert anyone in the audience that wasn’t already on board. Since moving on after Ronnie Radke’s dismissal in 2008, they have continued to make great music and supported it with a blistering touring schedule year after year.

Vocalist Craig Mabbitt paced from side to side at the front of the stage during much of the show, giving fans everywhere on the floor a visual, while Matti Hoffman on guitar struck rock-star poses and ripped it. Robert Ortiz looked super-cool behind the kit with mirrored sunglasses and beat the drums to a pulp, while Erik Jensen stepped away from his previous bass duties to play guitar and sing. The new song “Déjà Vu” was met with excitement, and their set was filled with songs from their entire catalogue. This is a fun band to see, and they work hard to ensure a great show.

Escape the Fate is:

• Craig Mabbitt – Vocals
• Robert Ortiz – Drums
• Erik Jensen – Guitar
• Matti Hoffman – Guitar

Vowws

I didn’t know Vowws before the show, and was immediately struck by the lack of light on stage. As a photographer, I depend on light – concert lighting can be tricky at times, but on this night, there was simply none. After a while, white light flickered on via strobe-style lighting behind the two artists, creating a nanosecond of backlight, but still no light on their faces. Eventually, there were short pulses of light during the three songs photographers were allowed in the pit, but pressing the shutter at the exact moment as the flash, all while hoping the camera would have time to focus, proved elusive. Only the last song of their set provided any actual illumination that resembled typical concert lighting, but by then, I was at the back of the room.

Artsy lighting aside, the Australian death-pop duo was really well received by the San Diego audience. They had a very different performance style than the other two bands – both Rizz on keyboards and Matt on guitar stayed in their respective spots, and didn’t stray far into the darkness. The music was multi-layered and more ethereal than straight-up in-your-face metal, but people were digging it, and they proved to be a good fit for the night’s event.

Vowws is: @vowwsband

• Matt James Campbell – Guitar/Vocals
• Rizz – Keyboards/Vocals

Brooks Robinson Photographer & Writer

Brooks Robinson is an LA-based concert photographer, and 30+ year freelance camera operator for film, television, and music videos. He has photographed some of the largest film/TV projects in history, and hundreds of music videos in MTV's heyday.

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