Theory of a Deadman and Sevendust have been circling the same lane long enough that this pairing feels less like a surprise and more like something that finally got around to happening.
Back in 2024, Stereogum’s metal column profiled REZN, a Chicago doom band that specializes in building immersive sonic environments. Around the same time, REZN released Burden, their first album for the Sargent House label. Today, they announce plans to follow that LP with Cycles In The Infinite Dream, a new record that should take them…
Today, the world’s fastest band speeds up and into its biggest, boldest, and most electrifying era to date: Dragonforce has announced Alissa White-Gluz as their newest member and first frontwoman. In a momentous union of two storied and unstoppable forces, the preeminent pioneers of extreme power metal will now be joined by one of metal’s legendary vocalists, unleashing both an intrepid evolution of the genre and the start of a seismic year ahead.
Beginning this Saturday, May 9, at Welcome To Rockville, and Sunday, May 17 at Sonic Temple, Dragonforce‘s debut live performances with Alissa White-Gluz will also kick off the 20th Anniversary of Inhuman Rampage.
As the 2006 album that birthed the Platinum-selling global phenomenon of “Through the Fire and Flames,” which spent 23 consecutive weeks on the Billboard 200 and was certified Gold, Inhuman Rampage introduced the band and their music to tens of millions of new fans and counting. With extensive touring plans to be revealed, and a 10th studio album currently in the works, Dragonforce are bringing more listeners than ever into this next chapter of their eternally joyous, adrenaline-filled journey.
Herman Li on their lineup addition: “Alissa joining the band is an expansion of everything we’ve done up to this point. Twenty years is a long time to do anything, let alone survive the music industry and still be so inspired to continue doing what we love. Together, we will honor what made Inhuman Rampage matter, while showing people exactly where we’re going next. Having Alissa in the room changes everything. She doesn’t just sing, she makes all aspects of our music better. And she sounds incredible live! I can’t wait for the fans to see her and hear what we have been working on.”
Through her work with everyone from The Agonist to Kamelot, Arch Enemy, and her newly-launched Blue Medusa, Alissa White-Gluz has become an icon synonymous with strength, independence, versatility, and creative fearlessness, representing a new standard for women at the highest levels of heavy music.
Over two decades spent on the stage, blending ferocious and melodic theatricality with lyrical themes of philosophy, psychology, ethics, and the human experience, she has built a history spanning 15+ hours of recorded music, 60+ music videos, 40+ collaborations, and 2,000+ concerts across a myriad of subgenres.
Alissa White-Gluz said about joining Dragonforce: “I am beyond excited to be bringing such iconic music to life with these amazingly skilled musicians in such a fun and inspiring environment. It feels great to showcase all the colors of my voice and utilize all my singing styles in technically challenging, deeply energizing, highly addictive songs. I am so thankful for the amazing support I have been lucky enough to receive from the metal world over this wild career I’ve built; I want to keep pushing my boundaries and delivering exceptional music and live experiences to the fans that I cherish so much.”
Just a couple of days ahead of their new album release The Silent Architect, progressive metal entity Teramaze premieres an official video for the last advance single “Enemy In The Garden”. Read more…
SCATTERBRAIN is making their Rock Sound cover debut, taking us through their inception, intentions for the project and beyond.
After years of upheaval and personal reckoning, Brian Burkheiser is beginning again with SCATTERBRAIN. A project built from survival, shaped by community and driven by renewed freedom; it finds him fully reclaiming his voice on his own terms. With a handful of singles already out, we sat down to reflect on healing, independence, and learning to embrace the chaos without letting it consume him.
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(Our writer Daniel Barkasi prepared the following preview of the 2026 edition of Fortress Festival set to take place in Scarborough, UK, on May 30-31.) Deja vu is a hell of a thing. Just like this point last year, we were preparing for experiences familiar and new – we’ll be in attendance for the annual […]
Jawdropped are moving up in the world. The charged-up young LA power pop band formed in 2024. Last year, they released their debut EP Just Fantasy, and we were into it. Now, Jawdropped have signed with Transgressive/Canvasback, and they’ve got another new track out in the world. It’s a good one. The new Jawdropped single…
From the start, the single “Lazarus” by Aj Babcock establishes a refined atmosphere. The rhythm is syncopated and unique, energizing the listener. In his vocals, nuances reminiscent of the lead singer from Muse emerge especially in the verses. Yet, Babcock’s artistic approach shows a chameleon-like versatility. There are also hints of John Mellencamp’s style within his music.
Babcock’s songwriting is deep and sophisticated. He explores alternative rock through an acoustic guitar that delivers a driving strum. The acoustic rhythm is engaging and elevates the overall vibe of the piece. Hints of Hozier’s influence are present, adding to the richness of the composition.
The arrangements are meticulous, with great attention to detail. Every element contributes to the listening experience, making it sublime. The theme, as the title suggests, revolves around rebirth and the transition from death to new life. It also invokes the metaphor of a chrysalis transforming into a butterfly. Before one can soar, there is often a need for transformation.
Lazarus – Sound and Atmosphere
Babcock’s artistry elicits strong emotions through this musical piece. He demonstrates uncommon compositional experience. He reflects profound feelings and insights that resonate with listeners. This artist is certainly one to watch, as he is capable of creating quality music.
The production quality enhances the overall texture of the song. Layering instruments effectively creates a fullness that draws listeners in. The balance between vocals and instrumentals is skillfully managed, ensuring clarity. Additionally, the song’s build-up keeps the audience engaged throughout.
Lazarus – Performance and Production
Listeners will find the lyrical imagery stimulating. The writing invokes visuals that spark the imagination. It suggests a narrative that many can relate to—facing challenges and emerging stronger. This universality is one of the song’s strengths.
The imagery presented in both the music and lyrics creates a memorable experience. Each moment in the song feels carefully constructed and meaningful. The culmination leaves a lasting impression that resonates after the music stops.
Aj Babcock’s “Lazarus” is a single packed with artistic depth and emotional depth. It merges various influences to create a cohesive and engaging whole. The track is not just a song but a narrative about rebirth and resilience. Babcock possesses the skills and artistry to produce outstanding music. He is an artist deserving of close attention in the coming years.