Along with Guilt Trip, LANDMVRKS and more.
The post Terror, Dying Wish, Ecca Vandal, Etc. Among Taco Bell’s 2026 ‘Feed The Beat’ Participants appeared first on Theprp.com.
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Ocularis Infernum Strife and Ascendance Review
Ocularis Infernum Strife and Ascendance Review
From the very beginning, Ocularis Infernum demonstrates a solid and unique vision with their single “Strife and Ascendance.” The refined sounds of the introduction create an atmosphere that leaves listeners uncertain of where this musical experience will lead them. Following this atmospheric intro, the deep, rough, and instinctive growls enter. This vocal style is complemented by distorted guitars that emphasize treble frequencies, reminiscent of the Norwegian black metal scene of the 1990s.
The song develops an episodic quality, establishing a more atmospheric setting rather than a purely sinister one. This approach allows the listener to become immersed in a landscape that blends darkness with beauty. As the chorus arrives, the band introduces epic orchestral arrangements. These additions elevate the song to a grand level without losing the essential drive that characterizes black metal. The transitions in tempo are executed with precision, launching into classic black metal patterns as the drums accelerate, enhancing the intensity of the piece while maintaining atmospheric interludes.
At around the one-minute-forty-second mark, listeners experience a moment that feels like a descent into the depths. This section captures a significant turning point in the composition. A little after the two-minute mark, it becomes apparent how innovative the band’s vision truly is. The music empties, transforming into a sound that is almost fantastical. The atmospheric shifts take on a slightly medieval quality, evoking a pastoral moment that lends a cinematic feel to the music.
Strife and Ascendance – Sound and Atmosphere
This dynamic quality — the shifts in harmonies, timbres, and atmospheres — makes “Strife and Ascendance” an extraordinary musical journey. At certain moments, it instills hope in the listener, while at others, it propels them into the abyss. This interplay between light and darkness is skillfully executed. The richness of the composition ensures that listeners are not just passive spectators but active participants in the unfolding narrative.
Ocularis Infernum successfully creates a multifaceted experience through the masterful manipulation of their sound. Each musical shift invites listeners deeper into their intricate world, ensuring that the song remains engaging throughout its duration.
Strife and Ascendance – Performance and Production
In terms of production, the mix effectively captures the complexities of the arrangement. Every element is given ample space to breathe, allowing the listener to appreciate the intricacies of each layer. The overall clarity ensures that no part of the composition is overshadowed, showcasing the band’s meticulous attention to detail.
“Strife and Ascendance” is a remarkable work that transcends genre boundaries. It intertwines elements of black metal with orchestral grandeur, creating a fresh perspective on a well-established genre. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone interested in exploring innovative music that challenges conventions.
A singular piece like this deserves to be experienced in its entirety. It invites repeated listens, each revealing new layers and depths. Ocularis Infernum has carved out a unique niche for themselves with this single, and I eagerly anticipate their future projects.
Unique
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The post Ocularis Infernum Strife and Ascendance Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
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Susan Boyle & Franz Ferdinand’s Alex Kapranos Link Up For Irn-Bru
The Scottish are really celebrating their World Cup win. Belle And Sebastian did so by releasing the victorious anthem “It Only Takes One Lion” yesterday, and now Susan Boyle and Franz Ferdinand’s Alex Kapranos have linked up for a triumphant Irn-Bru ad.
The post Susan Boyle & Franz Ferdinand’s Alex Kapranos Link Up For Irn-Bru appeared first on Stereogum.
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Colin Edwin & John Wesley’s Voyage 35 shares new version of Porcupine Tree classic “Even Less”
Voyage 35, the Porcupine Tree-inspired project led by former bassist Colin Edwin and longtime live guitarist John Wesley, have released a new video featuring their interpretation of “Even Less,” the track originally featured on Porcupine Tree’s 1999 album Lightbulb Sun. The band first released the reimagined version of “The Nostalgia Factory”.
Check out the interview with Edwin and Wesley of Voyage 35 here.
“There’s a fine line between respecting an original source but taking it somewhere different and making something your own, we like to think we’ve managed to do just that. Hopefully, you’ll agree and the chemistry of all four participants, Colin Edwin, John Wesley, Lorenzo Esposito Fornasari and Alessandro Vagnoni, is on display in a blindingly obvious manner. The video footage comes from our rehearsal sessions, but we can’t wait to do this for real in front of those who have been waiting a long time to see this music performed again.”
Created with the goal of bringing lesser-performed Porcupine Tree material back to the stage, the group is set to tour the UK and Europe this September. Recently, Edwin and Wesley revealed the full lineup, adding keyboardist Lorenzo Esposito Fornasari, known as “Lef” from O.R.k., along with drummer Alessandro Vagnoni, another O.R.k. collaborator who has occasionally stepped in for Pat Mastelotto.
Reunited with that original visual magic, Voyage 35 will head out on a short tour of Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK in September 2026. Fans can also look forward to some very special guests at the London show.
Tour Dates:
Fri 4 Sep Revislate, Italy Campo Sportivo
Tue 8 Sep Aschaffenburg, Germany Colos-Saal
Thu 10 Sep Utrecht, Netherlands TivoliVredenburg
Fri 11 Sep Uden, Netherlands De Pul
Sat 12 Sep Zoetermeer, Netherlands Boerderij
Tue 15 Sep Bristol, UK O2 Academy Bristol
Wed 16 Sep London, UK O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire
Thu 17 Sep Manchester, UK O2 Ritz
Fri 18 Sep Newcastle, UK The Grove
Sat 19 Sep Glasgow, UK The Classic GrandThe post Colin Edwin & John Wesley’s Voyage 35 shares new version of Porcupine Tree classic “Even Less” appeared first on The Prog Report.
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Richard Green Sad but Beautiful Review
Richard Green Sad but Beautiful Review
Upon hearing the first piano chords of “Sad but Beautiful,” silent film imagery from the 1930s immediately came to mind. The music resonates deeply, reaching the soul with its sophistication. This neoclassical project showcases Richard Green’s collaboration with talented classical musicians, notably Irene Veneziano on piano and Archimia, a string quartet. This combination of influences prompts listeners to close their eyes. It allows them to envision themselves within a beautifully nostalgic scene.
Listening to this exquisite instrumental piece transports one on a delicate and intense auditory journey. Green’s compositional abilities shine through, revealing a rare talent in crafting melodies that evoke profound emotions. In a world that constantly moves at a rapid pace, this song compels the listener to pause. It invokes a feeling akin to watching raindrops fall and appreciating the little things often overlooked from a window.
“Sad but Beautiful” is a piece that inspires reflection, serving as a refined journey where instruments converse sublimely. The interplay among the piano and strings creates an atmosphere that invites deep contemplation. Each note carries weight, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in this beauty. The music’s refinement induces a sense of tranquility and introspection.
Sad but Beautiful – Sound and Atmosphere
Throughout the song, the arrangement remains consistent in its emotional impact. The harmonious interaction encourages the audience to lose themselves in the moment.
This journey takes them from serene moments to more intense passages, creating a dynamic experience. The careful arrangement keeps the musical conversation engaging and thought-provoking.
Green’s ability to blend classical elements with contemporary sensibilities is impressive. The song reflects not only his personal artistry but also the collaborative spirit among the musicians involved.
Sad but Beautiful – Performance and Production
By the conclusion of “Sad but Beautiful,” one is left with a profound sense of peace. The journey through sound offers consolation and release. The music’s capacity to evoke introspection serves as a reminder of the beauty found in fragility. In this moment of stillness, one can appreciate the artistry that went into its creation.
This song stands apart not only for its melodic structure but also for the feelings it elicits. While it paints a picture of nostalgia, it simultaneously encourages an appreciation for the present. Such an inspiring work in the realm of neoclassical music deserves acknowledgment for its artistry and impact.
Sublime
If you love this music: Discover More
The post Richard Green Sad but Beautiful Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
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Squid Pisser Announce Late Summer U.S. Tour
They’ve also got some new music up their sleeves.
The post Squid Pisser Announce Late Summer U.S. Tour appeared first on Theprp.com.
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MDSKR Endlessly Review
MDSKR Endlessly Review
The artist’s sound immediately struck me with its atmospheric dark vibes. It evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the 1990s. Bands like Nine Inch Nails and Type O Negative come to mind when listening to this track. This is a sound that offers no mercy. It immerses the listener in a dark and intangible universe. The syncopated rhythms paired with rough and sharp guitar riffs create an unyielding experience.
Here we encounter a musician with considerable compositional experience. There’s a solid artistic vision that shines through the work. The song carries a heavy, dark presence throughout. It transports the audience into a twilight atmosphere that is difficult to escape. The lyrics unfold like a suspended dream of love, situated in a timeless space.
This song captures the hopelessness of time lost and the inspiration to cherish future connections with loved ones. It evokes a reflection on lost moments while still encouraging a sense of hope. The energy invites listeners to think deeply about their own relationships and the passage of time.
Endlessly – Sound and Atmosphere
The accompanying music video is strikingly minimalist yet dark. It features green hues that evoke memories of Peter Steele’s visual style. The aesthetic enhances the overall experience, underscoring the themes presented in the song. Such visual artistry perfectly complements the sonic elements, creating a cohesive representation of the artist’s vision.
The blend of heavy sounds and lyrical depth creates a multi-dimensional experience. Each moment in the song captures a range of emotions, allowing the listener to connect on various levels. The atmospheric textures add layers to the listening experience, inviting further exploration of the themes at play.
There’s an urgency in the music that feels raw and polished. The production choices lend themselves to the overall darkness without overshadowing the melodic elements.
Endlessly – Performance and Production
Fans of alternative and industrial genres will find much to appreciate in this single. MDSKR invites listeners into a world where feelings of despair coexist with an underlying promise of hope.
In a market crowded with generic sounds, this artist stands out effectively. They offer something unique that resonates with those who appreciate a deeper artistic approach. There is a clear understanding of the balance between melody and intensity.
As this exploration concludes, it becomes clear that MDSKR is an artist to watch.
Dark
If you love this music: Discover More
For fans of:
Nine Inch Nails • Type O Negative
The post MDSKR Endlessly Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
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Nita Strauss Welcomes First Child: Alice Cooper Guitarist Shares Emotional First Photos of Baby Boy
The heavy metal community is officially celebrating a massive new arrival. Renowned solo artist and long-time Alice Cooper guitarist Nita Strauss is officially a mom, introducing her newborn son to the world in a deeply personal reveal alongside her husband and manager, Josh Villalta. Breaking the news through an emotional social media statement and an exclusive national feature, the 39-year-old virtuoso has completely shifted gears from shredding arenas to navigating the chaotic world of first-time motherhood, completely captivating rock fans globally.
STREAM THE METAL BREAKDOWN DAILY BELOW:
The heavy metal universe just got a little louder and a whole lot sweeter. Nita Strauss, the powerhouse guitarist famously known for her electrifying work with Alice Cooper and her chart-topping solo career, has officially entered a brand-new chapter. Strauss and her husband, Josh Villalta—who pulls double duty as both her manager and solo band drummer—welcomed a healthy baby boy into the world on May 28.
The couple chose to announce the birth of their first child through a visually stunning, exclusive photo shoot and feature with People magazine. According to official reports, baby Maxwell James arrived at exactly 8:00 PM local time, weighing in at a healthy 7 lbs., 6 oz. The birth marks a monumental milestone for the 39-year-old guitarist, who first took her massive global fanbase by surprise when she went public with her pregnancy in an emotional social media announcement back on April 13.
The Emotional Reveal: “Destined For Greatness”
Wasting no time sharing her joy with the rock community, Strauss took to Instagram to post the very first public photos of baby Maxwell, introducing him to millions of eager followers. The guitarist’s message radiated pure gratitude and maternal pride as she looked toward the future.
“He came into this world surrounded by so much love and he’ll be loved even more with every passing day,” Strauss shared in her heartfelt message. “Max is already so special and we truly believe he’s destined for greatness.”
- Child’s Full Name: Maxwell James Villalta
- Birth Date: May 28
- Birth Weight & Time: 7 lbs., 6 oz. at 8:00 PM local time
- The Parents: Nita Strauss & Josh Villalta (Manager/Drummer)
- Media Debut: Exclusive family feature with People Magazine
The Story Behind the Name: A Deeply Personal Rock & Roll Legacy
Every aspect of the newborn’s name carries intentional, high-weight meaning for the musical power couple. Strauss closed out her viral Instagram announcement with a powerful charge to her son: “May you always live your life to the MAX, little man.”
As it turns out, that specific phrase represents the exact mindset she and Villalta held onto throughout the entire selection process. Villalta explicitly told People magazine that the goal was to give their son an ambitious title, stating, “Whatever he does in his life, we hope he does it to the max.”
The child’s middle name, James, carries an even deeper emotional resonance for the family, serving as a direct tribute to Nita’s father, James Strauss. The rock pedigree runs strictly in the bloodline; James Strauss was a highly accomplished bass player in the 1970s rock and jazz-funk outfit Jiva. Showing just how deep the musical roots go, Jiva holds the historic distinction of being the very first American band officially signed to George Harrison’s iconic Dark Horse Records roster back in 1975.
Check This Out – The Most Influential Women In Modern Metal Right Now (2026 Ranking)
What’s Next For Nita Strauss? Motherhood on the Tour Bus
For the immediate future, the world-renowned shredder is stepping away from the stage lights to soak in every single moment with baby Max, openly admitting that she is learning the ropes of newborn care completely on the fly as a first-time mother.
However, fans wondering how this will impact her relentlessly busy touring schedule got a definitive answer. Strauss has no intention of leaving her career—or her son—behind. She has already boldly laid out plans to adapt her career to motherhood, revealing that baby Max will absolutely be getting his own bunk on the tour bus just as soon as she is physically ready to get back out on the road.
“We’re excited for every phase of this new chapter, from right now as we’re learning to care for a newborn to bringing our son along for the ride on tour when the time comes,” Strauss declared enthusiastically. “It’s going to be amazing, chaotic and exciting and we wouldn’t have it any other way.”
View this post on InstagramFAQ: Nita Strauss Pregnancy & Baby Details
When was Nita Strauss’s baby born?
Nita Strauss gave birth to her son, Maxwell James, on May 28 at 8:00 PM local time.
Who is Nita Strauss’s husband?
Nita Strauss is married to Josh Villalta. In addition to being her husband, Villalta serves as her professional talent manager and performs as the live drummer for her solo musical project.
Is Nita Strauss leaving Alice Cooper to raise her baby?
No. While she is currently taking essential time off to bond with her newborn, Strauss has explicitly stated she plans to bring baby Max on tour with her once she returns to the road.
What is the significance of the middle name James for Nita Strauss’s son?
The middle name James honors Nita’s father, James Strauss, who was a prominent ’70s bass player for the jazz-funk rock band Jiva, signed to George Harrison’s Dark Horse Records.
Also Recommended – The 13 Best Metal Guitarists Right Now: Loaded Radio’s Definitive 2026 Ranking
STAY LOUD: Drop your congratulations for Nita and Josh in the comments below! Do you think baby Max is going to grow up to play the guitar or the drums? Let us know your thoughts and be sure to bookmark Loaded Radio for more exclusive rock and metal breakdowns!
TL;DR:
Shred queen Nita Strauss and husband Josh Villalta have officially welcomed their first child, a baby boy named Maxwell James, born on May 28. Weighing in at 7 lbs., 6 oz., “Max” is already capturing the hearts of the metal community. Backed by a stunning exclusive feature with People magazine, Strauss revealed the touching family history behind her son’s name—including a heavy nod to her ’70s rockstar father—and confirmed she is already planning to bring the newborn along for the ride on the tour bus when she officially hits the road again.
The post Nita Strauss Welcomes First Child: Alice Cooper Guitarist Shares Emotional First Photos of Baby Boy appeared first on Loaded Radio.
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MJ Lenderman Drops Off Zach Bryan Tour
In November, Zach Bryan announced a stadium tour with openers like MJ Lenderman, Dijon, Alabama Shakes, Ben Howard, and more. Today, Lenderman announced he’s dropping off the bill. The run kicked off in March, with the indie rocker’s shows slated for late July to early September.
The post MJ Lenderman Drops Off Zach Bryan Tour appeared first on Stereogum.
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Dark Divine Address Past Allegations Amid Growing Calls For The Band To Be Kicked Off Motionless In White’s Fall Tour
The group’s addition to Motionless In White’s fall tour has seen considerable pushback.
The post Dark Divine Address Past Allegations Amid Growing Calls For The Band To Be Kicked Off Motionless In White’s Fall Tour appeared first on Theprp.com.