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ATARAXIA Summon Shamanic Spirits of the North in New Single “Alabaster”
New album “Sylfaera the Fair” completes the epic trilogy begun with “Pomegranate” and “Centaurea”
New music features glossolalia (invented language) and weaves together elements of nordic, dark and ritual folk
30th studio album to be released on 21 May 2026 via The Circle Music in Digi CD, limited marbled transparent turquoise & black LP and a limited Deluxe Black Box. Pre-orders available
As the release of their landmark 30th studio album draws near, Ataraxia have unveiled the next chapter of their latest odyssey. The new single and video, “Alabaster”, moves away from the Mediterranean rites of the previous single towards the frost-laden peaks of the North.
Taken from the upcoming album Sylfaera the Fair, the final installment of a trilogy that began with “Pomegranate” and “Centaurea”, “Alabaster” introduces a warrior-shaman into the band’s unfolding mythos.
Watch the video for “Alabaster”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJgsL7HnOoU
Stream the track: https://thecirclemusic.lnk.to/Alabaster
In the world of “Sylfaera the Fair”, “Alabaster” is a free spirit and a shaman deeply entwined with the wolf species. He roams the snow-capped Northern mountains, a formidable warrior who balances the disciplined grace of martial arts with the raw, savage power of the wilderness.
As a member of the Fellowship of the 9, “Alabaster” embodies the sacred masculine. He is a body-shifter, moving between the forms of man and wolf, his identity defined by the pale hue of his skin and fur. He is the first to arrive at the ritual grounds of Loona under the light of the full moon, acting as the vanguard who opens portals through arcane formulas.
The band comments on the track’s significance: “Alabaster acts as a bridge between the physical and the spiritual. On the night in Loona, he longs to reunite with his group soul, moving not as an individual, but as a single spiritual entity guided by powerful instinct. He knows the shadows, the tracks, and the smells of the wild. He represents that primal, intuitive force that exists within the sacred masculine.”
The track features the evocative vocals of Francesca Nicoli, set against the music that includes bouzouki, electric guitar, and ritualistic programming by Vittorio Vandelli, and keyboards of Giovanni Pagliari. The haunting uilleann pipes of guest musician Gregorio Bellodi further elevate the arrangement. Wampyrion directed the accompanying video.
Sylfaera the Fair will be available from 21 May 2026 in three distinct physical formats via The Circle Music. Options include a high-quality Digi CD, a Turquoise LP limited to 400 copies, and a Deluxe Black Box embossed in silver, limited to only 100 copies. The box set features exclusive silver vinyl, a “Travelling Stone” ritual artifact, a 16-page booklet, and a personal message from the band.
DIGITAL PRE-SAVE: https://thecirclemusic.lnk.to/SylfaeraTheFair
Ataraxia previously released the singles “Sylfaera” and “Llawara”.
Sylfaera the Fair – Tracklist:
1. Alabaster
2. Breanwinn
3. Alqua
4. Sylfaera
5. Silvertine
6. Loona
7. Llawarra
8. Muirreann (CD Bonus Track)
9. Ojos Sagrados
10. CroweaAtaraxia online:
Website: http://www.ataraxia.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AtaraxiaFB
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@atarassxia
Spotify: https://artists.spotify.com/c/artist/5wRrRxmJnNTnieaNKAzTZI/profile/overview
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/music_from_ataraxia/The Circle Music online:
Website: https://thecirclemusic.gr/
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thecirclemusicSource: 3nation
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Live Review: Metallica – Athens
Live Review: Metallica – Olympic Stadium, Athens
9th May 2024
Support: Gojira, Knocked LooseWords & Photos: Tim Finch
Athens… the home of the Olympic movement, Greek gods, and some of the worlds greatest history. And hence the modern Olympic Stadium, north of the city, is the fitting location for the thunder of Metallica’s M72 tour to kick start it’s third European leg. Having witnessed the opening nights of leg one – Amsterdam – and leg two – Munich – The Razor’s Edge team are back top open leg three!
The previous legs of the tour have seen Metallica focus on the two night, two unique sets concept. Whilst that concept continues for leg three in some locations, the majority of these shows are one night only performances and thats what we have in Greece tonight. The downside… we only get a small subsection of their vast back catalogue, the upside… the promises to be an intense affair with the manic Greek fans ready to party hard!
With the sun still burning high in the sky i’ts up to Knocked Loose to kick things off. Being used to small, sweaty clubs means jumping into a stadium-sized spotlight is never an easy task, but Knocked Loose approached it with the same unrelenting ferocity that’s built their reputation. Their sound isabrasive, punishing, and unapologetically intense and tonight it cut through the vast space with surprising clarity, driven by pummelling drums and razor-sharp riffs. Frontman Bryan Garris a constant whirlwind on the circular stage in the centre of the stadium, his piercing vocal delivery slicing through the mix while commanding a crowd that, for many, are been experiencing the band for the first time.
Across all three legs of the M72 tour so far, Knocked Loose are the most intense opening act and their aggression translated into a setting that could easily swallow lesser acts whole. Circle pits erupted in pockets across the stadium floor, a testament to their ability to convert even the uninitiated. There was no compromise, no softening of edges to suit the occasion, just pure, unfiltered intensity delivered with conviction.
Speaking of Olympic games… I am sure we all remember the opening ceremony in Paris highlighted by the firey Gojira performance. This is a band used to the big shows with arena tours and Bloodstock headline sets under their belts.
From the outset of their set this felt colossal with waves of crushing riffs, thunderous rhythms, and an almost hypnotic precision that filled the stadium with ease. Joe Duplantier’s vocals roared with purpose, while the band locked into grooves that were as punishing as they were intricate. The sheer weight of their sound translated effortlessly to the vast space, proving that their brand of progressive metal loses none of its impact outside a headline slot.
Unlike their headline sets, tonight Gojira didn’t rely on spectacle, instead they let their musicianship and presence do the heavy lifting, building towering walls of sound that resonated long after each track ended. This was a performance that demonstrated a band just a few years away from headlining venues of this size in their own right!
As 60,000 strong fans gather around the circular stage in the centre of the field, Ennio Morricone’s ‘The Ecstasy of Gold’ has a way of building the atmosphere for a show like no other and as the song dies down four figures appear from the darkness, Metallica are back in Europe again.
Tonight the band launch straight into ‘Creeping Death’ and as 60,000 of us chant ‘Die’ in unison that electric atmosphere builds, swathed in blue light the band are ready to destroy this historic Greek city. James quip’s “good evening Athens, Metallica loves you” as the band lead us through popular classic ‘For Whom The Bell Tolls’ and more modern wonder ‘Moth Into Flame’.
“We’ve got one from Load for you” James remarks as they launch into ‘King Nothing’ a welcome return for a rarely played tune from their catalogue.
Whilst previous legs of the tour have included up to three ‘72 Seasons’ a night, the band change it up for leg three with only ‘Lux Aeterna’ from the latest album getting an airing tonight.
Photo Credit: Tim Finch Photography The first of the evenings five songs from “the Black album” sees ‘The Unforgiven’ sung at full volume by thousands of Greeks in unison, followed by the ever popular ‘Fuel’ for our first pyro bursts if the evening.
After Kirk and Rob’s jam – where they fleshed out a traditional Greek ditty much to the crowds delight – the lights dimmed and James on acoustic guitar leads us into ‘Fade to Black’, sung with the levels of emotion only he can deliver.
The Black album is more prominent in the bands set than it has been in a long time with five songs throughout the evening taken from it. ‘Wherever I May Roam’ to ‘Nothing Else Matters’ through the ever heavy ‘Sad But True’ in a fifteen minute section of pure 90’s nostalgia.
The pyro launches back to life with explosions and the crackle of gunfire, which can mean only one thing… ‘One’. It may (alongside Sandman) be the bands most overplayed song, but there’s something about the live presentation and lyrical content that brings it to life.
”We’re going to go back a long way now, do any of you have the album Kill ‘em All?” James asks as the crowd roar back a response. A Lars snare roll triggers giant beach balls falling from the rafters as James is scanning the scene here in Athens tonight. A huge sing a long to ‘Seek and Destroy’ follows with the balls bouncing around the stadium with abandon. It’s a sight to behold and an awesome way to lead us to the finale.
The eight huge screens flicker back into life as the intro to ‘Master of Puppets’ kicks in, the visualiser that accompanies the song adds to the atmosphere of the epic tune. Just as the fans get ready to rest their neck from an eight minute hand banging marathon its onto set closer ‘Enter Sandman’. The fireworks light the sky as 60,000 fans pump their first in unison and Metallica bring the curtain down on the tours opening night.
As the band age gracefully the thought crosses your mind of just how many of these moments we’ll have again. No matter what that number will be, tonight’s show in Athens indicates they have no intention of slowing down just yet.
Photo Credit: Tim Finch Photography The post Live Review: Metallica – Athens appeared first on The Razor's Edge.
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NOVAREIGN New Song “Sun & Moon” Online Now ~ Album Available For Pre-Order
The epic return of Los Angeles progressive power metal group. Two years on from their last single “Ironsides” and eight years after their explosive debut, ‘Legends,’ the LA shred-lords NOVAREIGN return with some new music with a new digital single and their first music video. “Sun & Moon” is filled guitar frenzy, intricate rhythmic complexity and soaring anthemic vocals, and when we say filled we mean it cause this track clocks in over ten minutes.
While online now at all digital streaming and download platforms, make sure and view the band’s performance in all its hairy glory as they work their way through the music’s challenging and eventful passages.
“SUN & MOON” MUSIC VIDEO:
https://youtu.be/_MP5e2OWvTg?si=gMIbot4X5C3I6QiR
“This song holds a special place in my heart for many reasons. Musically, it is supposed to be a love letter to all things Heavy Metal that inspired my playing for so many years, while showcasing the bombastic talents of each member of the band in a way that I hope feels old-school and modern at the same time,” explains guitarist Balmore Lemus.
“Lyrically, it is a message from father to son to hold true to their heart and spirit through the inevitable dark times that life can and will likely present, as well as a reminder that they are a culmination of love, light, and an unbridled fire that is capable of so much more than they could even imagine.
We hope you enjoy the tune as much as we’ve enjoyed playing it live. It’s been a staple in most recent shows for a while now and man does it feel good to have it come to light, finally! Thank you guys for sticking with us this far!“
“Along the lines of this good news is that NOVAREIGN have delivered a finished album… finally it’s reality. If you follow the label you’ve noticed for the past few years us tease a new NOVAREIGN album is in the works. We have finished the master and layout delivered and the album is slated for a July 17th release. And we’re starting pre-orders today for what NOVAREIGN have entitled “Shifting The Axis Of The World” at our webstore or Bandcamp.”
NOVAREIGN gained quite a bit of traction with their 2018 album, Legends, which was praised as “a bombastic mix of epic metal” (BraveWords), “an instrumental fireworks show” (Metal Bandcamp) and “one of the most addictive power metal records I’ve heard in a long time” (Two Guys Metal Reviews).
Additionally, the ensuing live shows that followed its release included dates with Michael Schenker, Exmortus, Angra, White Wizzard, Rhapsody Ov Fire, Act of Defiance, Bonded By Blood, GloryHammer, Graveshadow, PowerGlove and Holy Grail, in addition to festivals like Mad With Power, Hyperspace, Ruinfest and Frost And Fire.
In the downtime, NOVAREIGN endured a couple of lineup changes implementing new drummer Ulises Hernandez (ex-Judicator, Anubis), while guitarist Balmore Lemus split his time with Judicator, Lunar and Dire Peril. On and off NOVAREIGN have been writing and recording the follow-up to Legends and after too much time a new effort is on the horizon.
For more information:
www.facebook.com/novareignofficialwww.instagram.com/novareignofficial
www.novareign.bandcamp.com
www.m-theoryaudio.com -
Build for tomorrow Where we belong Review
Build for tomorrow Where we belong Review
This song starts with a chaotic riff that instills excitement. Initially, the sound is somewhat muted, but within ten seconds, listeners are enveloped by the powerful sound of the band. Their style exhibits nuances reminiscent of Blink-182 and Sum 41. This track combines elements of punk rock that nod to the past while sounding thoroughly modern. The production is intense, and the execution is flawless, demonstrating that the band consists of musicians who have truly honed their skills through practice and dedication.
The rhythm section, comprising bass and drums, is tightly locked together, providing a solid foundation. This dynamic is crucial for elevating the overall impact of the track. As the guitars push forward with substantial distortion, their energy enhances the song’s punch. The vocal delivery is enriched with numerous background vocals and harmonies, broadening the overall auditory experience. This layering contributes significantly to the song’s vivacity.
Energized by its vibrant instrumentation, the song offers listeners a sense of adventure. It inspires a longing to embark on a road trip down American highways. With summer approaching, this track provides the perfect energy to kick off the season. It evokes feelings of freedom and the thrill of exploration, making it an ideal anthem for sunny days.
Where we belong – Sound and Atmosphere
Every element in this composition reflects a mature understanding of punk rock. The intensity of the musicians’ performance resonates deeply.
The strong rhythm section is fundamental to the song’s drive. The bass lines are sleek and energetic, driving the song forward. Meanwhile, the drumming is sharp and dynamic, adding layers to the beat that resonate with listeners. Together, these elements create an engaging pulse that encourages movement, making it hard to resist tapping a foot or nodding along to the beat.
Additionally, the guitar work stands out with its rich distortion. The bold riffs and intricate melodies intertwine seamlessly, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Each riff is packed with personality, establishing the band’s identity within the genre. The guitars not only complement the vocals but also elevate the overall musical experience.
Where we belong – Performance and Production
Furthermore, the production quality is worth noting. Every instrument is clearly defined, allowing listeners to appreciate the intricacies of the arrangement. The clarity of the vocals alongside the instrumentation ensures that no part of the composition feels overshadowed.
This song is a powerful anthem for anyone ready to embrace the freedom of summer. The infectious energy radiates a sense of joy and adventure. It captures the essence of exuberance and the thrill of embracing new possibilities. As the weather warms, this track serves as a perfect soundtrack for those long drives and spontaneous adventures. Listeners are left motivated and eager to step out into the world.
Invigorating
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For fans of:
Blink-182 • Sum 41
The post Build for tomorrow Where we belong Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
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The Speedways – "Luna"
It has been over a year since I last had the pleasure of writing about new music from one of my favorite bands, The Speedways. In advance of their forthcoming fourth album, The Magic Comes & The Magic Goes, The Speedways are releasing a pair of digital singles. Up first is “Luna,” which will shortly be followed by “I Shouldn’t Have Tried To Leave Without You.” The two songs will then receive a physical release on 7″ vinyl in June. Anyone who has been eagerly waiting for new Speedways tunes will be utterly delighted by “Luna.” The song was originally slated to be a B-side due to it being rather short and simple. But sometimes a band gets into rehearsing a song and, you know, the magic comes. The whole band had a sense that the song was something special. With some encouragement and creative input from producer Jez Leather, “Luna” became the lead track for the single. Matt Julian notes that the song tells the story of the day he met his ex-fiancé at Luna Fest in Portugal. Because it was written when they were still together, the vibe is sweet and optimistic. So while the song now feels bittersweet to the band, it remains faithful to its original inspiration (a vibe the music video perfectly captures). I’ve long believed that writing simple songs is one of the hardest things to do in music. But when a simple song hits the mark, it’s a beautiful thing. “Luna” is 117 seconds of pop perfection, and it immediately brings to mind classic Speedways. There aren’t a whole lot of “happy” love songs in The Speedways’ catalog, so that makes this tune stand out all the more. As a fan, I could not be more pleased. Sometimes short and sweet is exactly what we need in life! -
Drakulas – Midnight City
On their extraordinary third LP, Austin, Texas–based Drakulas take the concept they’ve been honing for years to new heights. Out on Wild Honey Records in Europe and Dirtnap Records in North America, Midnight City is not only the best Drakulas album to date but also the best new wave record I’ve heard in a couple years. From start to finish, it’s all hits and no shit.Savage Lord Mic, Sam Francisco, and Pink Rick continue to build this wonderfully immersive world of an eternal turn-of-the ’80s late night excursion into the dangerous and dimly neon-lit corners of some seedy metropolis. While not quite a rock opera, Midnight City is an album with a novel or film’s ambition — it songs full of unsettling tales and colorful characters. Yet the concept never reeks of pretension or bogs down the record. If you weren’t paying super-close attention, you might not even notice the connections between the songs. While the atmosphere is striking, the quality of the tunes is never an afterthought. As I listen to this record, I don’t hear a band in 2026 trying to sound like a band in 1980. I hear a band that sounds like it teleported here from 1980.
The style remains a perfect blend of the punk and new wave sounds that were both changing the game in the late ’70s and early ’80s — but this time, the hooks are bigger, sharper, and positively addictive. I love the way this album bobs and weaves between danceable post-punk (“Singin’ with My Tongue Cut Out,” “Sex,” “Head in the Clods”), punky new wave (“F.A.F.O.”), new wavey punk (“Is It Enough,” “Garbage Strike”), haunting synth-pop (“Wheelhouse”), and punky power pop (“White Off Your Nose,” “Guys Like Me, Girls Like You”). On this record, Drakulas come off a little like Autogramm’s evil twins, and that’s a vibe I can dig all day long. Their use of synthesizers is masterful and very old school — as if they live in a universe where modern synth-punk hasn’t been invented yet. In my old age, I’ve become far less enthralled with darker post-punk, but this album is dark in a way that is captivating, a little sexy, and oddly intoxicating.
While early ’80s retro-futurism often comes off kitschy, Midnight City feels less like goofy nostalgia and more like a vivid dream about a time and place you can never go back to but can never forget about, either. It creates an analog world I want to live in or at least visit often. None of these songs would have sounded out of place emanating from the speakers of a delinquent hangout arcade as you dominated on Galaxian back in the day. Although I can hear the influence of so many cornerstones of my record collection, I by no means find these songs lacking in creativity or originality. And as tunesmiths, these guys take a back seat to no one. As good as Drakulas’ previous releases were, this one is at another level. Whether you approach it as a piece of art or just a killer slab of punk/new wave, this is a brilliant album in any year.
https://dirtnaprecords.bandcamp.com/album/midnight-city
https://drakulas.bandcamp.com/album/midnight-city
https://open.spotify.com/album/7hS4kiiv2CpJfxbj7xVUE7
https://www.instagram.com/drakulastx/
https://www.facebook.com/drakulastx/
https://www.facebook.com/wildhoneyrecords/
https://www.instagram.com/wildhoneyrecords___/
https://www.dirtnaprecs.com/website/ -
Truse Tragic Comedy Review
Truse Tragic Comedy Review
The song opens with a bright, metallic guitar strumming that slices through the air like blades. As the guitar progresses, a solid voice enters. The vocals possess a deep tone, enriched by a slight rasp that enhances the overall performance. This creates an intense atmosphere. The composition is a rock ballad reflecting the importance of moving toward a peaceful future. The lyrics provoke thoughts on the folly of war, generating an impactful message that strives to awaken the listener’s consciousness.
The strength of the song lies in its focused message. It gradually unfolds, paralleling the deeper meaning of the lyrics. The arrangement is minimalist, designed to keep attention firmly on the song’s theme. This intentional simplicity emphasizes the lyrical content rather than embellishing it with complex instrumentation.
At the three-minute and fifteen-second mark, there is an exquisite guitar solo. This melodic and intense moment stands out, adding emotional depth. The build-up toward this solo allows for a powerful release, contrasting the earlier tranquil sections. Just before the song concludes, an introduction of pads expands the sonic space, amplifying the song’s message.
Tragic Comedy – Sound and Atmosphere
The overall composition is well-crafted, inviting listeners to ponder the themes presented. Truse delivers an important narrative through this single, encouraging reflection on significant issues. The intensity of the vocal performance coupled with the thoughtful guitar work makes this track a memorable piece.
With this song, Truse has created a noteworthy addition to the rock genre. The careful arrangement, focused on delivering a strong message, ensures that it stays relevant. As the music unfolds, it evokes a range of emotions that can resonate deeply. The strength of the guitar and vocals together creates an engaging and intense experience.
Tragic Comedy – Performance and Production
This single is a good recommendation for anyone seeking music that challenges the listener.
The addition of pads toward the end further enhances the overall feel of the track. Listeners will appreciate how these elements work together to draw attention back to the central message.
The journey through “Tragic Comedy” provides enjoyment and insight, inviting listeners into a reflective space. Truse effectively fuses artistry with meaning, making this single a must-listen.
Thoughtful
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Find Truse here:
Youtube
The post Truse Tragic Comedy Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
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Leyla Romanova Self-Control Review
Leyla Romanova Self-Control Review
“Self-Control” immerses the listener in an atmospheric beginning, blending futuristic and nocturnal sounds. The cybernetic bass line intertwines with a syncopated, industrial groove. Pads open the sonic space, creating an unstable ambiance reminiscent of the fog in a John Carpenter film.
As the listener becomes engrossed in the song, there is an irresistible pull, akin to a Berlin night filled with nightclubs. The atmosphere intensifies, and emotions rise in tandem with the rhythm, becoming more vivid and electrifying.
The inclusion of strings and choral elements surfaces gradually, evoking the style of Dario Argento’s film scores. As the composition progresses, it leans towards techno, yet retains an unsettling quality that enhances its appeal. This instrumental journey wraps around the listener, suggesting it could serve as the soundtrack for a science fiction film.
Self-Control – Sound and Atmosphere
Leyla Romanova showcases her unique vision throughout the track. Her experience in composition shines through, highlighting a robust artistic perspective. The balance of melodic elements with electronic beats maintains excitement and intrigue.
Romanova’s ability to conjure atmospheric tension through sound is commendable. The song’s structure allows for an exploration of emotions, reflecting the inner turbulence of modern life. Each element of “Self-Control” has been carefully crafted to evoke a response.
The orchestration is rich, with layers that unfold over time. This complexity invites listeners to delve deeper, discovering nuances with each replay. As the beats pulse, they create a hypnotic effect that enhances the overall experience.
Self-Control – Performance and Production
The production quality is impressive. Romanova expertly balances many sounds and elements, ensuring the track feels alive and dynamic.
Her artistic vision manifests in every corner of the composition. The interplay between light and dark motifs generates a compelling narrative arc. This adds depth, transforming the listening experience into something more profound than mere entertainment.
“Self-Control” is an exploration of emotion and sound. The intensity heightens as layers build, creating a sense of urgency that resonates deeply with audiences. The track’s progressive nature keeps listeners engaged, making it a remarkable piece.
Her distinct approach draws upon various influences while crafting a unique soundscape. This ensures that “Self-Control” remains fresh, pushing boundaries in contemporary music.
Listeners may find themselves reflecting on their own experiences as the song unfolds. The emotional core of “Self-Control” speaks to universal themes, while the artistic execution remains deeply personal. Romanova’s commitment to her craft is evident in this masterful composition.
As the track comes to an end, listeners are left in a contemplative state. The journey through “Self-Control” lingers long after the final notes fade. Leyla Romanova establishes herself as a force to watch in the ever-evolving world of music.
Atmospheric
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The post Leyla Romanova Self-Control Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
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Liva Releases “Samson & Dalila, Pt. 1” Lyric Video Featuring Vocalists Nadine Guertin and Pier Carlo Liva
Canadian symphonic power metal band Liva has released a lyric video for their track, “Samson & Dalila, Pt. 1.” The release follows the recent publication of the song’s official music video.
The track is taken from the band’s forthcoming studio album, “Ecce Mundus,” which is scheduled for release on May 29 through Wormholedeath. The song features soprano vocals by Nadine Guertin alongside death and tenor vocals by Pier Carlo Liva.
Lyrically, “Samson & Dalila, Pt. 1” is based on a medieval Latin song of lament. The track is sung entirely in Latin and focuses on the biblical story of Samson, detailing his power and his eventual downfall.
The post Liva Releases “Samson & Dalila, Pt. 1” Lyric Video Featuring Vocalists Nadine Guertin and Pier Carlo Liva first appeared on FemMetal – Goddesses of Metal.
