Former Hanoi Rocks frontman Michael Monroe is bringing his solo show back to the States, with a run of shows locked in for April and May 2027.
Monroe‘s current touring band is stacked with veterans. Bassist Sami Yaffa, formerly of Hanoi Rocks and New York Dolls, has been by Michael‘s side since the ’80s. Guitar duties fall to Rich Jones (ex-Ginger Wildheart band) and Steve Conte, who stepped into Johnny Thunders‘ shoes in New York Dolls and has logged time with acts like Suzi Quatro and Eric Burden. Karl Rockfist, who’s drummed for Danzig, rounds out the lineup.
Monroe had to bow out of last fall’s U.S. run supporting Buckcherry after rupturing his meniscus, pulling out of that tour in August 2025.
The singer marked his 60th birthday in September 2022 with a show at Helsinki’s Jäähalli, capped off by a reunion of Hanoi Rocks‘ original lineup — Monroe, Andy McCoy, Sami Yaffa, Nasty Suicide and Gyp Casino — plus a reformed Demolition 23, the cult band Monroe fronted for a single 1994 album before it split, playing its first show since 1995.
Monroe and McCoy started Hanoi Rocks in the late ’70s, with the classic lineup solidifying by 1980. As the first Finnish rock band to break through internationally, the group cut three albums with that lineup — Bangkok Shocks, Saigon Shakes, Hanoi Rocks (1981), Oriental Beat (1982) and Self Destruction Blues (1982) — before Casino was replaced by Nicholas “Razzle” Dingley in 1982. Razzle‘s death in a 1984 accident effectively ended the band the following year.
Hanoi Rocks reunited once before, in 2002, with only Monroe and McCoy from the original lineup, releasing comeback album Twelve Shots On The Rocks before splitting again in 2009.
There’s playing old-school death/thrash, and then there’s apparently deciding that heavy metal history effectively reached its ideal evolutionary state sometime between 1988 and 1992.
Raleigh, North Carolina trio Deceptor proudly fall into the latter camp. Their debut full-length, Reign of Terror, arrives August 21 through Dying Victims Productions, but you can hear the whole thing below today.
Led by vocalist/bassist Gabriel Earley alongside guitarist Preston Lanier and drummer Andrew Harper, Deceptor trace their lineage to the period when thrash was becoming nastier, death metal was becoming stranger and the dividing line between the two was still wonderfully unstable. Across 10 tracks and a remarkably economical 33 minutes, Reign of Terror pulls from early Sepultura, Whiplash and Sacred Reich on one side, Morbid Angel, Obituary and early Gorguts on the other.
That reverence comes with a good origin story. Earley began Deceptor as a bedroom project after becoming fascinated by the stories of Jon Zazula championing young bands like Metallica and Anthrax. Lanier entered the picture in 2022 after Earley approached him at an Exodus show and handed him a copy of Deceptor’s Bound by Ritual demo; Harper joined several months later after seeing the fledgling band tear through a DIY house show.
The same DIY impulse runs throughout Reign of Terror. Aside from the album artwork, the band handled the recording’s mixing, mastering and design themselves, fitting neatly with their self-appointed designation as the “East Coast Death Thrash Militia.”
“Do it yourself, speak for yourself, and think for yourself,” the band says.
That ethos extends to the album’s subject matter, which Deceptor describe as pro-American and anti-government, drawing on themes of revolution, psychological warfare and guerrilla combat. It’s confrontational material designed to match music that rarely sits still: riffs sprint, lurch and abruptly change direction; Earley’s bass gives the record’s frequent breakdowns additional weight; and Harper attacks the kit with the kind of controlled violence that makes the band’s Gene Hoglan worship fairly easy to identify.
Most importantly, though, Deceptor understand that recreating an era requires more than simply recreating its production values. Reign of Terror has the speed, ugliness and technical ambition of its chosen period, but also the sense that these three are genuinely excited by what might happen when all of those things collide.
Stream Reign of Terror in full below. The album is out August 21 on CD and vinyl via Dying Victims Productions.
If one goes back in time to the very early days of Martin Springett the musician, he was in a band called Gateway Driver in 1973 and played in Germany with bassist Rob Burns. Rob later worked with the likes of David Gilmour, Pete Townshend, and Eric Burdon, was professor at Otago University as well as being an author of different books on music. When Martin released the wonderful ‘The Gardening Club’ album in 1983, the keyboard player John Sheard, who has since appeared on hundreds of recordings with artists such as, Rita Mcneil, Olivia Newton-John, Ian and Sylvia, Dan Hill, Rita Coolidge, Mary Margaert O’Hara, Celine Dion, and many more. This song came about after Martin survived a major heart operation, and now he is again fighting various issues he decided to finally complete the song, as he always liked it but never felt there was room for it on ‘The Riddle’. In many ways he has used musicians who document the journey he has been through, as alongside Rob and John we also have Kevin Laliberte who has worked closely with Martin for the last five years.
The quartet may never have been in the same room together (Rob still lives in NZ and the rest of the guys are in Canada), but it never feels that way, as here they sound as if the band are playing and smiling at each other as they work through a song which never feels as if it is more than eight minutes long. It is undoubtedly one of Martin’s finest pieces to date, wonderfully layered with the warmth of Camel combining with some of the detachment of Pink Floyd, all brought together with stacks of Roy Harper to make something which is truly special. I found the best way to truly appreciate this song is to put it on repeat and just let it play for a few hours as each time there is something else which comes to light, making this majestic and wonderful. Is it the multi-tracked and slightly distorted slide guitars here, or the layered keyboards there, the feeling that Martin’s acoustic guitar and vocals are always at the heart of everything, with bass which is warm and reflective, driving when needed to?
I have no idea, but yet again I can only wonder what would have happened if ‘The Gardening Club’ had received the credit it so richly deserved more than 40 years ago. Would Martin now be a household name in the music industry? Given the quality (and remarkable quantity) of his output since 2018 I can only imagine. I know I feel warmed by his friendship and feel real joy and empathy when listening to songs such as this. This is currently only available as a digital single on Bandcamp, and for just $2 what have you got to lose? If you know his music then you will delight in this, and if you have yet to come across Martin then this is the perfect introduction.
British thrash punks AWAP (Ant-Walking Alligator People) are back with their blistering new single, “Panikos”, setting the stage for their upcoming third EP, Clown Carousel, due for release on 9th October 2026. Taking aim at modern manipulation, “Panikos” draws direct inspiration from ancient lore. The band commented: This Greek myth inspired rager sees us tear … Continue reading AWAP announce new EP Clown Carousel and unleash fierce single “Panikos”
Step aboard a Prog Music Vacation like no other aboard the 2027 Cruise to the Edge. It all happens April 2-8, 2027 aboard the Norwegian Jewel, departing Miami, FL to the Western Caribbean. Surrounded by the emerald waters of the Caribbean, you will travel with some of Progressive Rock & Metal’s greatest musicians. Meet passionate Prog Fans and Iconic Bands. Dive into nonstop live performances, immersive experiences, and a vibrant community environment that feels like home. It is all here for you to enjoy!
Part Prog Rock Music Experience. Part Luxury Cruise Vacation. All CTTE.
What happens when you bring Progressive Rock & Metal fans and artists together for six days of music, connection, and luxury on the high seas? You get Cruise to the Edge 2027, a sonic escape designed for those who live for intricate soundscapes, powerful compositions, and immersive musical storytelling. This lineup unites iconic Prog voices from the golden era of the genre with today’s boundary-pushing Prog Rock and Prog Metal artists ready to be discovered. Whether your taste leans toward symphonic epics, jazz fusion, neo-prog, or heavier sounds, you’ll find your rhythm here.
Enjoy music venues throughout the Norwegian Jewel, sister ship to last year’s Norwegian Pearl. The Norwegian Jewel offers the same vibe, similar layout that is designed to make your experience unforgettable. This isn’t just a ship but your floating stage prepared for legendary music, fun and adventure. Treat yourself to something special!
The Best Progressive Rock Bands…Together on the Same Ship
Cruise to the Edge 2027 is the only place where you can experience the finest Progressive Rock bands all on one ship, performing night after night across six unforgettable days. This year’s lineup is set to raise the bar—blending returning favorites with exciting new artists ready to earn a spot on your playlist. Whether you’re rocking out under the stars or catching an intimate unplugged set by the pool, every performance is part of your all-inclusive escape. This isn’t just a Progressive Rock cruise—it’s a full-scale music festival cruise and rock concert cruise celebrating the genre’s past, present, and future.
This year’s lineup could be one of our best, bringing back some of your favorites, bands who “crushed it” in 2026 plus some exciting new Cruise to the Edge “first timer” bands ready to join the family. Don’t miss this one!
Luxury Music Cruise Comfort, Meets Festival Energy
But CTTE is more than the music—it’s the journey. Aboard the stunning Norwegian Jewel, you’ll enjoy comfortable staterooms, incredible dining, relaxing lounges, a full-service spa, pools, casino, and every amenity you need for a next-level vacation. The Jewel is designed so that you can pamper yourself, 24/7.
Your day might start with a morning painting session alongside a Prog artist, followed by a behind-the-scenes Q&A with your favorite band, and flow seamlessly into a full night of live performances. Sailing through stunning ports and the crystal-blue waters of the Caribbean, this luxury music cruise is something you don’t just attend—you feel it. In an intimate, laid-back setting, fans and artists come together to share in the music, the moments, and the magic of Progressive Rock.
Sail to 3 Incredible Ports of Call Plus Two Music-Filled Days at Sea
And when you’re not immersed in the music, you’ll be exploring three incredible ports of call: Cozumel, Mexico; Harvest Caye, Belize; and Costa Maya, Mexico. From vibrant local culture and beachside relaxation to unforgettable shore excursions, each stop adds another layer to the adventure. The 2027 Cruise to the Edge has been expanded by one day for a total of 6 glorious days of Prog Heaven! It’s the perfect blend of music, travel, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences—all in one extraordinary Progressive Rock Cruise. On this journey, you’ll dock at some of the Caribbean’s finest Ports of Call. Bask in tropical beauty, immerse in local culture, or join curated shore excursions on your Prog Rock & Metal Adventure! Check it out…
Cozumel, Mexico — Explore colonial history or beachside adventures.
Harvest Caye, Belize — Shopping, scenic views, and island culture.
Costa Maya, Mexico — Lush landscapes, snorkeling, and hidden gems.
Join Our Progressive Rock Community
Because this isn’t just a music festival at sea—it’s a community. On CTTE, you’re not just watching shows, you’re connecting. You’re sharing moments with artists and fans, discovering new favorites, and building friendships with people who get it. Kick things off with a high-energy sail-away set as the ship departs, spend your afternoons exploring or unwinding, then dive back into the music with poolside performances and late-night headliners in the main theater. This is your Prog Music Cruise Vacation, every moment is yours to design.
While Cruise to the Edge features a curated lineup of the World’s Greatest Progressive Rock & Metal Artists, fan and artist interaction is the soul of this cruise. Make lifelong friends as you network with like-minded Prog Rock aficionados in a multitude of passenger engagement activities. Enjoy Prog related events, contests, photo experiences, Q & A sessions, social activities and special behind-the-scenes moments you never saw coming. Cruise to the Edge has been described as “life changing” and “incomparable” by past passengers. We invite you to become a part of our Prog Family!
Cabin Categories & Packages
From budget-friendly options to all-out VIP experiences, there are music festival cruise deals for every taste and budget.
Pick Your Cabin. Pack Your Earplugs. Let’s Go.
Your cabin isn’t just where you sleep. It’s your private backstage pass. Whether you’re going classic in an Interior Stateroom or upgrading to a VIP suite, Cruise to the Edge offers Progressive Rock cruise prices for every kind of fan. And for those seeking the ultimate experience, our VIP concert cruise packages combine premium accommodations and exclusive benefits within our luxury cruise pricing options.
Single Occupancy Pricing
All cabins are priced at a minimum double occupancy rate. Guests booking a VIP Stateroom as a single occupancy are responsible for the full double occupancy rate. Non VIP Staterooms receive a small discount on the second cruise fare when booked as single occupancy. This discount appears in the pricing above. Single occupancy reservations are charged one Mandatory Fee Supplement only.
What Your Cabin Fare Includes
Your cabin fare includes all talent and entertainment related fees. It includes your onboard accommodations and all meals in main dining rooms and cafeterias. Casual dining options throughout the day are included. Non carbonated beverages such as coffee, tea, and juices are included. Use of pools and health and fitness centers is included. Standard onboard gratuities are included and are mandatory. These gratuities cover the maître d’, assistants, wait staff, buffet staff, stateroom attendants, and bellboys. Casino dealers and spa personnel are not included. Bar service gratuities are automatically added to drink purchases.
Mandatory Fee Supplement Details
Your base cruise fare does not include the Mandatory Fee Supplement. The fee is $400 for Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, and Club Balcony Staterooms, or $415 for Penthouse and Haven Suites.This supplement covers merchant fees, government taxes, and required charges. These fees are added during booking and charged with your balance due. Charges may include passenger facility fees, security surcharges, international departure or arrival taxes, customs user fees, immigration fees, agricultural inspection fees, and ticketing fees. These charges are subject to increase prior to departure. Any increase is invoiced to the reservation balance. These fees are non refundable.
Not Included in Your Cruise Fare
Your cruise fare and fee supplement do not include fuel surcharges if applied. Transportation to and from the ship is not included. Shore excursions, sightseeing, meals ashore, specialty dining, room service, laundry, alcoholic beverages, soda, bottled water, medical services, spa treatments, salon services, casino gaming, onboard shopping, travel insurance, and personal expenses are not included.
Don’t Miss the Boat
Get ready! The 2027 Cruise to the Edge will go on sale soon!
Christian metal outfit Demon Hunter has taken Netflix to court, filing a trademark infringement and unfair competition suit over the KPop Demon Hunters name.
Per Complex, the band’s corporate entity, Hyde Lane, filed the suit Tuesday, August 18 in the Central District of California, naming Netflix, Netflix Studios, and concert promoter AEG Presents as defendants. The complaint accuses the companies of “jealously guard[ing] and enforc[ing] their own intellectual property rights” while “willfully disregarding the rights of others in pursuit of profits.”
Demon Hunter, active for roughly 25 years and responsible for a dozen studio albums, laid out its case bluntly in the filing: “Demon Hunter [is] a well-known and celebrated metal band. Demon Hunter was formed at the turn of the century and, in the quarter-century since, it has consistently released albums, toured, and sold merchandise to a large and dedicated audience. Unfortunately, in 2025, Netflix and Netflix Studios — despite almost certainly being aware of Demon Hunter — chose to release a movie titled KPop Demon Hunters … [which] reached unprecedented levels of success, not only as a film on Netflix‘s streaming service, but also via the KPop Demon Hunters movie soundtrack album and merchandise.”
The suit also takes aim at Netflix‘s tie-up with AEG for a KPop Demon Hunters world concert tour set to hit 150 cities in 2027, arguing the reach has gone well beyond the film itself: “In short, in just a year’s time, Defendants have taken step after step to move into almost complete overlap with the goods and services offered by Hyde Lane under the Demon Hunter mark. As a result of their adoption and exploitation of the ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ brand, which is confusingly similar to senior user Hyde Lane‘s established Demon Hunter mark, junior users Netflix, Netflix Studios, and AEG have created a substantial likelihood of confusion (and, indeed, actual confusion has already resulted), leading consumers to believe the parties’ goods or services are affiliated, sponsored, or otherwise connected with one another.”
The band claims real-world mix-ups have already happened as a result of the naming overlap, and pins blame on the sheer scale of its opponent: “Even more devastatingly, by leveraging their superior resources and reach, Defendants can, and do, eclipse Hyde Lane‘s Demon Hunter marks in the marketplace and effectively misappropriate the marks’ source-identifying significance. Thus, Defendants’ greater size and strength overwhelms Hyde Lane‘s established identity, causing consumers to perceive Hyde Lane as affiliated with, sponsored by, or derived from Defendants and denuding Hyde Lane of power over its commercial fate.”
Hyde Lane casts itself as the “senior user” in the dispute, pointing to decades spent building the mark before Netflix entered the picture. The filing frames the stakes in existential terms: “The brand that Hyde Lane has carefully built over the course of the past quarter century now faces an existential crisis, thereby necessitating the filing of this action and the granting of the requested relief from this Court.”
Demon Hunter is asking the court to bar Netflix from using the KPop Demon Hunters name across recorded music, live shows and merch, plus unspecified damages.
The band’s most recent studio effort, There Was A Light Here, arrived last September through its own Weapons MFG label — its twelfth full-length. Frontman Ryan Clark and guitarist Jeremiah Scott handled production, with mixing and mastering from Chris “Zeuss” Harris, known for his work with Rob Zombie, Hatebreed and Suffocation. The title track was the exception, mixed instead by Eric Stenman (Awolnation, Thrice, Deftones).
Since forming in 2002, Demon Hunter has built a reputation as one of the acts that helped shape modern metalcore, racking up multiple Billboard 200 entries, two No. 1 Independent Albums and six Top 5 Hard Rock Albums along the way. The band currently pulls in 350,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
KPop Demon Hunters, directed by Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans, centers on fictional K-pop group HUNTR/X— Rummi, Mira and Zoey — who moonlight as demon hunters protecting their fans from supernatural threats. Since premiering on Netflix in late June 2025, it’s become the streamer’s most-watched English-language film ever. The soundtrack scored five Grammy nominations, and its breakout single “Golden” won the Oscar for Best Original Song at the 98th Academy Awards.
John Errol is a Los Angeles musician making warped, cool indie-pop that draws influences from giants of all genres: Britney Spears, David Bowie, and Nine Inch Nails. His last album was 2021’s Inferno, but today he’s back with a sinister, intriguing new track called “Float.”
Finnish modern death metal band Withered Petunia have released their new two-track single, Torn Pages. Combining death metal, melodic metal and hardcore, the release examines the effects of drug addiction on both individuals and society. Torn Pages is structured as a two-part composition presenting the subject from contrasting perspectives. The opening track, Page 1: The […]
