Blog
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WACKEN OPEN AIR anniversary kicks off successfully!
The warm-up shows of the previous days have already set the tone for the most important and wonderful week of the metal year. Following the traditional Wacken Firefighters concert, a performance by Skyline and a DJ set at the Camping Plaza by festival founder Holger Hübner, he shared his excitement: “Everything has gone according to plan during arrivals so far. The atmosphere […] -
Usher Warns Fans After Viral Nashville Incident: “Don’t Bring Your Ass Up Here If You Don’t Want To Be Here”
The onstage seduction routine has been a part of Usher’s live show for a very long time. He basically does a variation on Janet Jackson’s old “miscellaneous uncs shoot poison” routine. Usher tells the crowd that he needs one sexy lady to share the stage with him, and then that one sexy lady comes up and grinds on him while he sings to her. Usher is good at that kind of thing, but it can lead to some extremely funny awkwardness if the one sexy lady isn’t into it. That’s what happened last weekend in Nashville.
The post Usher Warns Fans After Viral Nashville Incident: “Don’t Bring Your Ass Up Here If You Don’t Want To Be Here” appeared first on Stereogum.
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GODSMACK Expands “Rise Of Rock World Tour” With New Fall 2026 Dates
Today, multi-platinum hard rock powerhouse Godsmack announces newly added fall 2026 U.S. dates for their massive Rise of Rock World Tour, extending one of the band’s most explosive touring years to date, with Dorothy joining as direct support and special guest for the October dates.
The newly announced October run kicks off Friday, October 9 in Airway Heights, WA at Northern Quest Resort & Casino and continues through major markets including Idaho Falls, Lincoln, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Cincinnati, Atlantic City, and Uncasville, where the band will return to Mohegan Sun Arena on Saturday, October 24. The venue serves as the namesake of the band’s current live album and film, Live at Mohegan Sun, out now via Primary Wave.
A thunderous, career-spanning performance that captures the band’s unmatched live chemistry and the full weight of a legacy built across 20 million albums sold, 27 Top 10 singles, 13 No. 1 hits, and four GRAMMY nominations, Live at Mohegan Sun stands as both a celebration of Godsmack’s history and a bold step into their next chapter. The release is available worldwide now here.
The tour expansion announcement arrives as Godsmack are currently overseas performing to massive sold-out crowds across the European festival circuit, including this weekend’s Bulgaria show that drew more than 16,000 fans, further cementing their reputation as one of hard rock’s most powerful and enduring live acts. Following decades of chart-topping success, sold-out tours, and a catalog that has become foundational to modern rock, the band’s Rise of Rock World Tour, with Stone Temple Pilots and Dorothy, continues to connect with fans around the world through a high-impact live show built on seismic riffs, anthemic hits, and the raw intensity that has defined Godsmack for more than 25 years.
Tickets for the newly added fall dates will be available through a series of presales beginning this week. VIP packages and the Artist Presale begin Wednesday, July 29 at 10 AM local time, with the Artist Presale password LEGENDS. Local presales begin Thursday, July 30 at 10 AM local time. All presales end Friday, July 31 at 9 AM local time, with the public on sale beginning Friday, July 31 at 10 AM local time. All Godsmack tickets and additional information are available here.
The newly announced dates arrive alongside the release of Godsmack’s latest live album and film, Live at Mohegan Sun, a career-spanning concert release that captures the band’s explosive energy and enduring live chemistry. Among its highlights is the fan-demanded video for “Battle of the Drums,” the iconic percussion showdown between Sully Erna and Shannon Larkin that has become one of the most celebrated moments in Godsmack’s three-decade career.
Frontman Sully Erna calls the “Battle of the Drums” performance, a live spectacle perfected over decades, one of the night’s most meaningful moments. “It’s an intricate piece. Me and Shannon have worked on it for decades and really perfected it into a spectacle,” says Sully Erna. “Live at Mohegan Sun captures a moment we’ll always carry with us: the energy, the connection, and the gratitude we feel for the fans who’ve taken this journey with us. Releasing this album and being out on the Rise of Rock World Tour feels powerful. It honors where we’ve been while pushing us forward into what’s next.”
Originating in the mid-1990s and evolving into a full-scale rhythmic duel with two drum kits, rotating risers, and unmatched precision, “Battle of the Drums” remains a defining centerpiece of Godsmack’s live show. Now immortalized on Live at Mohegan Sun, the performance honors the chemistry between Erna and Larkin, celebrates the band’s classic lineup of Erna, Larkin, Tony Rombola, and Robbie Merrill, and gives fans the long-requested chance to relive one of Godsmack’s most electrifying moments.
Live at Mohegan Sun continues to build momentum, with the album’s single, the live version of “When Legends Rise,” newly debuting on the Active Rock Radio charts, marking the first time a live track has done so since 2020. The achievement underscores the deep connection between Godsmack and their audience, as fans have rallied around the band’s live recordings, long regarded as the purest expression of their sound, and propelled them into rare air at rock radio.
As the Rise of Rock World Tour continues, Godsmack is building on a legacy defined by powerhouse performances and an unbreakable connection with their fans. Following major U.S. dates and festival appearances, including headlining Rocklahoma on Friday, September 4, the band is currently overseas performing to massive sold-out crowds across the European festival circuit.
With a deep catalog powering their setlists and Live at Mohegan Sun reinforcing their reputation as one of hard rock’s most formidable live acts, Godsmack bring that global, arena-level momentum back to North America this fall for another round of explosive performances. Live at Mohegan Sun is available now in digital and physical formats, including Double Vinyl, Blu-Ray, and CD here.

The post GODSMACK Expands “Rise Of Rock World Tour” With New Fall 2026 Dates appeared first on Sonic Perspectives.
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Bite To Break In Between Review
Bite To Break In Between Review
From the very first guitar riff, one can sense an intense atmosphere. The introduction is dominated by powerful guitar tones that strike like a dark avalanche. When the drums kick in, they assault the listener with a relentless rhythm, perfectly complemented by the shredding guitar riffs that hint at influences from Black Metal.

As the song progresses, it plunges into a raw intensity. The vocals emerge forcefully, delivering lyrics in a direct manner with no mercy. The growling voice resonates with an urgent despair that pulls the listener into its depths. This band excels at creating moments in their music that shift dramatically in rhythm and mood. A notable example occurs around the 1:45 mark, where the guitar solo becomes more rock than metal. The technical skills displayed in this section point to a thoughtful composition that avoids drowsiness.
Following that, the song dives back into its core essence, evoking thrash metal vibes that generate an almost dystopian atmosphere. This band possesses a clear understanding of sound, and their authenticity shines through. They rely solely on their capabilities, demonstrating musical talent without digital embellishment. Their skill in execution and composition truly impresses.
In Between – Sound and Atmosphere
At 3:05, a significant change occurs, injecting fresh energy into the track. The transition brings forth a feeling akin to a descent into a brutal underworld. This song explores the struggle of existing in the liminality between life and death, intertwining themes of hope with despair. The lyrics evoke images of isolation and inner decay, painting a bleak picture with their sonic narrative.
The climactic moments create a visceral experience, allowing the audience to resonate with the feelings being expressed.
The band’s musicianship is on full display throughout the piece, with each member contributing to the cohesive whole. The guitar works are intricate, peppered with psychedelic elements during an impressive solo segment. This not only showcases their technical ability but also enriches the emotional weight of the music.
In Between – Performance and Production
“In Between” represents a powerful exploration of existential themes, wrapped in heavy melodic textures. The relentless energy keeps the listener engaged, and the transitions enhance the narrative flow. Each segment contributes to a well-rounded piece that invites introspection while maintaining an energetic drive.
Bite To Break delivers a potent single that does not shy away from expressing complex emotions through a blend of musical styles. Their ability to traverse harsh territories in lyrical content and musical arrangement is fantastic.
Unique
If you love this music: Discover More
The post Bite To Break In Between Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
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CEREMONIAL WORSHIP stream new ETERNAL DEATH album at Black Metal Promotion
Today, Greek black metallers Ceremonial Worship stream the entirety of their highly anticipated third album, Between Sleep and Death, at the Black Metal Promotion YouTube channel. Set for international release on July 31st via Eternal Death, hear Ceremonial Worship‘s Between Sleep and Death in its entirety exclusively HERE. Hailing from Hellas itself, Ceremonial Worship formed in 2016 as the singular creation of High Priest C.W. A […] -
King Sans announce debut noise-punk album ‘Sell The Cow’
Chicago-based noise-rock duo King Sans have announced their debut full-length album, Sell The Cow, set for release on 21st August via Dipterid Records. Formed by Jake Steven James (guitars, synths, vocals) and Izabella Rose (drums, vocals), the band fuse harsh soundscapes, driving alternative rock, and unexpected melodic restraint. Exploring themes of resilience and preserving humanity … Continue reading King Sans announce debut noise-punk album ‘Sell The Cow’ -
RAHATY – Pa Vesh En’s Death Metal Alter Ego Announces Debut Album “Bestial Lustmord”
Sentient Ruin Laboratories has announced a new partnership with Rahaty, the death metal alter ego of Belarusian raw black metal musician Pa Vesh En. The project’s debut album, “Bestial Lustmord,” will be released on August 28, 2026. Although Rahaty preserves some of the murky and oppressive atmosphere associated with Pa Vesh En, the new project […] -
ONLY ECHOES Present New Single And Video For “Born Adrift” Ahead Of Upcoming Full-Length

Watch “Born Adrift” HERE: https://youtu.be/Kqd1QdFLebE
Denver-based instrumental post-metal band ONLY ECHOES present the title track of their forthcoming full-length Born Adrift. The album isscheduled to arrive on August 14, 2026, via Braeburn Records.
“As a whole, this song really feels like you are lost at sea and fighting for your life, but that you haven’t given up yet”. Share ONLY ECHOES.
“That is kind of the idea behind the title and the theme of the album to an extent. It is a heavy emotion, but not a claustrophobic one. It’s the idea that this fight is difficult and it’s going to stay difficult for the rest of the journey, but that it is still worth taking”.
ONLY ECHOES deliver “Born Adrift” with a striking impact. Wave after wave of intense heaviness brings the track’s concept to life. Rhythmic shifts, catchy lead hooks, and uplifting moments not only provide movement but also a sense of anticipation. Shadowy passages feel weighted and inescapable but they are not dwelled upon without hope for too long.

Born Adrift Track-list:
- Born Adrift – 5:48
- Tempest – 8:41
- So Tightly Bound – 6:12
- Inter – 2:05
- Steps Ahead Of Drowning – 7:09
- Shimmering Death – 5:14
Alternating between light and shade, ONLY ECHOES deploy carefully curated changes in the track’s pace as well as through their instrumental layering. The structure of “Born Adrift”, while exploring periods of turmoil and relief, is emotionally complex as the music rises and falls before meeting an abrupt end.
Watch “Born Adrift” HERE: https://youtu.be/Kqd1QdFLebE
“Born Adrift” encapsulates key aspects of the band’s sound that are also explored elsewhere across the album’s track list. With this single release, ONLY ECHOES demonstrate their darker side as this is the heaviest offering found on the forthcoming Born Adrift.
Born Adrift was produced, engineered, and mixed by guitarist Austin Minney at All Aces Studio, with mastering handled by Brad Smalling at Evergroove.
The album artwork features an original 1876 engraving by Gustave Doré, reimagined with color and illustration work by Celeste Hayes (@chayesart). Born Adrift arrives August 14, 2026 via Braeburn Records.
ONLY ECHOES:
Austin Minney – Guitar
Dustin Yourishin – Guitar
Ben Rosenberg – Bass
Zach Sirotkin – DrumsConnect with ONLY ECHOES:
Official Website: https://www.onlyechoesmusic.com
Bandcamp: https://onlyechoes.bandcamp.com/album/sunsickness
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/onlyechoesdenver
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/only_echoes_denver/?hl=en
Source: EARSPLIT PR

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Ozzy Haunted House Announced for Universal’s Horror Nights
The Ozzy-themed haunted houses will incorporate Ozzy's music and album art into the amusement park festivities. Continue reading… -
EPITAPHE – French progressive death metal visionaries announce new album “III”
French progressive death metal visionaries EPITAPHE are set to release their highly anticipated third full-length album, “III”, on September 11 through Aesthetic Death (CD + LP) and Gurgling Gore (MC). Stream the first ‘single’ “Windswept” at THIS LOCATION. Following the overwhelming acclaim received by “II”, EPITAPHE return with their most ambitious and fully realized work to date. Rather than departing from the artistic path that established the band’s identity, “III” refines, expands and […]