Music News Monthly April 2023

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April 2023 LIVEW.A.S.P. MusicNewsMonthly withSouthOfSalem NOELGALLAGHER'SHIGHFLYINGBIRDS-GHOST-VICEKILLER EVAUNDERFIRE-RIVALSONS-REDSHIFT-DIRTYHEADS- MAGNAZERO ONLYTHEPOETS-FEVERJAW-NIGHTNIGHT-JESSELYNNMADERA-LIPSTEREO FEVERJAW-DURTLE CRAIGGOULD THEKAHUNAS INREVIEW

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Photo credit: Matt Crockett

Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds today release 'Dead To The World', a remarkable new track taken from the eagerly anticipated fourth studio album 'Council Skies', due for release 2nd June via Sour Mash Records.

The epic 'Dead To The World' is "by some distance my favourite tune on the album," Noel says. "It has this film noir vibe. It's not like anything else I've ever done before. It's very melancholic, but I like that. I'm a Gemini – I'm as up as I am down, and the trick is to meet somewhere in the middle and turn that into music."

The release of 'Dead To The World' follows fan excitement as mysterious orchestral clips filmed by Noel himself at the legendary Abbey Road Studios, London emerged on social media at the beginning of the year. Watch here.

'Dead To The World' is one of several songs on the album that boast strings arranged by the hugely talented Rosie Danvers, a long-time High Flying Birds collaborator. Noel says "Rosie gets what I do. Spending a weekend recording strings in Abbey Road... that's one of the great privileges in a musician's life. It sounds majestic."

Recent singles taken from the forthcoming album, 'Pretty Boy' and 'Easy Now', were met with overwhelmingly positive reactions by fans and media alike, including significant national radio support. Earlier this month Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds released The Cure's Robert Smith's remix of 'Pretty Boy' , taking the single to a new spaced-out dimension.

'Council Skies', is available to pre-order now on CD, heavyweight vinyl with bonus 7", LP picture disc plus various digital formats including a Dolby Atmos spatial audio version. The Robert Smith remix is featured on deluxe limitededition triple vinyl and 2CD formats which also include a stunning live session version of 'Live Forever' and a remix from Pet Shop Boys. A printed handwritten lyric sheet of title track 'Council Skies' will be included with all album pre-orders via the official store.

Following the announcement of an array of UK outdoor venues & Festivals, including a huge homecoming show at Manchester's

Wythenshawe Park in August, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds have confirmed a 26 date USA tour, co-headlining with US alternative rockers Garbage. The live dates begin in tandem with the release of 'Council Skies' June 2nd and run throughout the summer – with more dates to be announced soon.

IN REVIEW

THE KAHUNAS "EXMOOR"

It's been a hot minute since indie-folk duo The Kahunas last release. Fear not though, as the couple from England's South Coast has been hard at work creating their new album.

"Exmoor" is the first single from that album, and it is a treat for anybody who enjoys catchy as you like, out of the ordinary tunes from a pair of creative pros. The Kahunas have a knack for making unique and infectious tunes, and "Exmoor" is no different. The mix of guitar and violin is, as ever, a delight and really draws you in. The constant beat throughout holds the track together, and The Kahunas' vocals complement each other perfectly.

The Kahunas formed in 2021 and have already released 2 EPs and a Live session at Cool Beans cafe, the couple prolific are songwriters and their finely tuned expressive style is as enchanting as it is pleasing to the ear. The fact that The Kahunas have not only supported the likes of Toyah Wilcox , 3 Daft Monkeys & The Christians as well as regular spots at festivals, pubs and parties is a testament to their dedication to their craft.

With the album due for release on the 14th of April, "Exmoor" is a sign of good things to come. Stream it now on Spotify. Check out their website at thekahunas.net

IN REVIEW

SONGS FROM THE CAMPFIRE

Craig Gould's latest album, due for release on 14th of April, "Songs from the Campfire," is a masterpiece of Americana folk rock that will leave you breathless from start to finish. With more musical talent than you can shake a very large stick at and a drive that seems almost superhuman, Craig has outdone himself with this collection of songs that are sure to become instant classics.

From the opening track, "The Campfire Song," you'll be transported to a place of warmth and comfort, where Craig's guitar and vocals weave a spellbinding tale of love and nostalgia. The melody is so catchy, you'll find yourself humming along before you know it.

But don't be fooled by the gentle opening, as Craig is not afraid to tackle the tough subjects head-on. "Out of the Woods," for example, deals with mental health and wellbeing, and does so in a way that is both honest and compassionate. The lyrics are raw and real, and Craig's voice carries a sense of vulnerability that is rare in today's music industry. Other tracks, such as "Ain't No Place to Hide," "Captain of the Seas," and "Burned," showcase Craig's range as a songwriter and musician.

Each song is unique in its own right, yet they all flow together seamlessly, creating a tapestry of sound that is both familiar and fresh.

What sets "Songs from the Campfire" apart from other albums in the genre is Craig's ability to tell a story through his music. Each track is a mininarrative that draws the listener in and takes them on a journey through life's ups and downs. Whether it's the tale of a lost love, the struggles of mental health, or the joys of simple pleasures, Craig's songs are always honest, relatable, and deeply personal.

In addition to the incredible music, "Songs from the Campfire" is a visual feast for the eyes, with stunning artwork that perfectly captures the essence of the album. The packaging is beautifully designed, and the attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the album's production.

Overall, "Songs from the Campfire" is a tour de force that showcases Craig Gould's musical prowess and storytelling abilities. It is an album that will stay with you long after the music has stopped, and one that is sure to become a classic in the genre. If you haven't already, do yourself a favour and pre-order your copy now at www.craiggouldmusic.com. You won't be disappointed!

EVA UNDER FIRE

Photo:Jeremy Saffer

EVA UNDER FIRE

NEW SINGLE WAR PIGS

BLACK SABBATH COVER OUT NOW

EVA UNDER FIRE first UK/European Tour As Special Guest To Skillet Kicks Off Today

Debut Album Love, Drugs & Misery Out Now

Featuring Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills, Jonathan Dörr and From Ashes To New

Eva Under Fire are thrilled to announce their own version of War Pigs, cover of the iconic Black Sabbath anthem. The track will be released via Better Noise Music and can be accessed here.

This version of War Pigs bursts with new life thanks to Eva Marie's warm, yet gritty, vocals and the backing of a majestic instrumental reimagination of the song

Frontwoman Eva Marie comments: "This cover pays tribute to yet another legend who has inspired us My early days of falling in love with rock music included OzzFest and singing along to Black Sabbath on the way to school in the back of my parents minivan so it's a bit of a full circle moment for me personally It's crazy that the lyrics in this song still ring true and are relevant today. Although the lyricism highlights the sad truth about the power hungry evils of the world, I also think it speaks volumes about how timeless this song really is. As a blue collar slave to the grind, I wanna thank Ozzy Osborne and Black Sabbath for this one Generations later, we feel heard because of your song".

The single launch follows from an incredibly successful 2022, which saw Eva Under Fire release their long-awaited debut album Love, Drugs & Misery featuring tracks with guest performances from Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills, Jonathan Dörr (formerly of

Ego Kill Talent) and From Ashes To New. Although they had to push their album back due to the pandemic, the band saw great success with singles such as Blow (ft Spencer Charnas of Ice Nine Kills), which is featured in The Retaliators soundtrack and now boasts over 8M streams across the globe, and the Sno Babies soundtrack single Heroin(e) earning over 24M streams.

Eva Under Fire are also ready to embark on their first ever overseas tour, as special guest to Skillet Eva Under Fire is an excellent live act, having toured as special guest to the likes of: Asking Alexandria, Atreyu and NOTHING MORE, and promise to deliver fiery and incendiary shows across the UK and Europe this April

In addition, Eva Under Fire will perform an exclusive performance for the Octane Accelerator Concert part of SiriusXM's Next Wave Concert Series, featuring can't-miss live performances from some of music's biggest rising stars in pop, rock, hip-hop and beyond. Hear this performance on Octane, Sirius XM Channel 37, on Monday April 17th at 5pmET, or anytime with the SXM app, search "Next Wave."

Octane Accelerator Concert: Bad Omens / Eva Under Fire / Conquer Divide

Monday April 17th 5pmET

Tuesday April 18th 12pmET

Wednesday April 19th 3pmET

Thursday April 20th 9pmET

Friday April 21st 6pmET

Saturday April 22nd 8pmET

UK/European Tour Dates

14 Apr Manchester - Academy Manchester, United Kingdom

15 Apr O2 Forum Kentish Town - London, United Kingdom

18 Apr Palais 12 - Bruxelles, Belgium

19 Apr Rockhal - Esch-sur-alzette, Luxembourg

20 Apr Capitol Hannover - Hanover, Germany

22 Apr Columbiahalle - Berlin, Germany

24 Apr Docks - Hamburg, Germany

25 Apr Stagebox - København, Denmark 27 Apr Arena COS Torwar - Warszawa, Poland

28 Apr Arena Gliwice - Gliwice, Poland

30 Apr Palladium Cologne - Cologne, Germany

02 May TONHALLE - Munich, Germany

03 May Halle 622 - Zürich, Switzerland

04 May Kulturzentrum SchlachthofWiesbaden, Germany

06 May Forum Karlín - Karlín, Czechia

07 May Gasometer - Wien, Austria

08 May Barba Negra - Budapest, Hungary

10 May Alcatraz - Milan, Italy

11 May LKA Longhorn - Stuttgart, Germany

13 May Salle Pleyel - Paris, France

14 May O13 - Tilburg, Netherlands

13 Jul Rock Fest - Cadott, WI

15 Jul Belknap Park - Grand Rapids, MI

16 Jul Ohio State Reformatory - Mansfield, OH

12 Aug Osceola County Fair Grounds - Evart, MI

07 Sep Virginia International Raceway - Alton, VA

17 Nov The Intersection - Grand Rapids, MI

TICKETS: https://os.fan/evaunderfire/signup

30 Sep The Machine Shop - Flint, MI
01 Oct The Machine Shop - Flint, MI
03 Nov Wally's Pub - Hampton, NH
Photo:Jeremy Saffer

Rival Sons have announced their longawaited return to the UK & EUROPE this autumn taking their two forthcoming new albums, DARKFIGHTER and LIGHTBRINGER on the road, across Europe for a 30-date run.

DARKFIGHTER, is set to arrive worldwide June 2nd 2023 and is available for pre-order / pre-save now [album art / track-listing below].

The 2x GRAMMY® Award-nominated band, known for their electrifying, well-honed live shows, will be kicking the tour off in Camden, London at the Roundhouse on Friday 13th October, just across the road from where they played their first ever European show, 12 years ago. The tour then runs through the UK, including a date at the infamous Barrowlands in Glasgow, then continuing with multiple dates in France, Germany, Poland, and Scandinavia.

Scott Holiday (guitarist) comments: "Dear friends on the other side of the pond, DARKFIGHTER is coming for you! AND LIGHTBRINGER is coming for you too! We're finally able to come back to you and bring you NEW music! Music that has been firmly situated in our hearts.

Nothing makes me happier than to think about experiencing these albums together and making them into something entirely new and different every night. Let's make something symbiotic, alive, that we'll want to remember forever!"

The tour dates went public on Friday the 14th of April and are on public sale right now and will be accompanied by Meet & Greets where possible (available through the Rival Sons app https://www.rivalsonsapp.com/ ) With presale available NOW.

GHOST

Fresh off winning Best Rock Album of the Year at the iHeart Radio Music Awards, Ghost announces the coming of PHANTOMIME, a five-song covers EP intended from the start to follow last year's international chart-topping opus IMPERA. A diverse and spellbinding sampling of the GRAMMY Award-winning band's musical DNA, PHANTOMIME is comprised of covers of classics and deep cuts by Television, Genesis, The Stranglers, Iron Maiden and Tina Turner. PHANTOMIME pays tribute in equal measure to every one of these unlikely bedfellow, influences while stamping them all with Ghost's undeniable sonic signature.

The announcement of PHANTOMIME's impending release also solves the mystery of Ghost's recent "Jesus Is Coming" campaign, as referenced in the Good Friday premiere of the newest instalment of the band's long-running webisode series, Chapter 17: Nap Time. PHANTOMIME's May 18 release via Loma Vista Recordings is heralded by Ghost's interpretation of Genesis' 1992 satirical stab at televangelists "Jesus He Knows Me," available now to stream and download.

This second coming of "Jesus He Knows Me" is accompanied by an Alex Ross Perry-directed video that will surely make the case that one person's beauty is another's blasphemy. Culminating in a climactic ritual that must be seen to be believed, Ghost's visual interpretation of "Jesus He Knows Me" rises to the occasion in unholy fashion and then some

GHOST

"Jesus He Knows Me"

GHOST RE-IMPERATOUR USA 2023:

Wed Aug 02 – Concord, CA – Concord Pavilion

Fri Aug 04 – Auburn, WA – White River

Amphitheatre

Sat Aug 05 – Airway Heights, WA – BECU Live at Northern Quest

Mon Aug 07 – West Valley City, UT – USANA

Amphitheatre

Tue Aug 08 – Denver, CO – Fiddler's Green

Amphitheatre *

Fri Aug 11 – St Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino

Amphitheatre

Sat Aug 12 – Milwaukee, WI – American Family

Insurance Amphitheater

Mon, Aug 14– Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music

Theatre

Tue Aug 15 – Chicago, IL – Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island

Wed Aug 16 – Cincinnati, OH – PNC Pavilion at Riverbend Music Center

Fri Aug 18 – Syracuse, NY – St. Joseph's Health

Amphitheater at Lakeview

Sat Aug 19 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center

Sun Aug 20 – Bridgeport, CT – Hartford HealthCare

Amphitheater

Tue Aug 22 – Indianapolis, IN – TCU Amphitheater at White River State Park

Wed Aug 23 – Burgettstown, PA – The Pavilion at Star Lake

Thu, Aug 24 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live

Fri Aug 25 – Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage

Pavilion

Sun Aug 27 – Nashville, TN – Ascend Amphitheater

Tue Aug 29 – Simpsonville, SC – CCNB

Amphitheatre at Heritage Park

Wed, Aug 30 – Jacksonville, FL – Daily's Place

Thu Aug 31 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union

Amphitheatre

Sat Sep 02 – The Woodlands, TX – The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presented by Huntsman

Sun Sep 03 – Austin, TX – Germania Insurance

Amphitheater

Tue Sep 05 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota

Music Factory

Thu Sep 07 – Albuquerque, NM – Isleta

Amphitheater

Fri Sep 08 – Phoenix, AZ – Talking Stick Resort

Amphitheatre

Mon Sep 11 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum ^

Tue Sep 12 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum ^

* Non-Live Nation Date ^ Amon Amarth Not on This

Date

DURTLE releases

"We're Installing Three New Elevators", album illustrates the universal experience of youth in the city

FEVERJAW releasenewsingle ‘SWEETENER’

Durtle is a Brooklyn band that is changing the wave of New York's music scene. They combine the iconic sounds of the city's streets with rock, metal and trap influences like City Morgue and Alice in Chains. They have performed live extensively, rocking audiences all over the States and beyond

With their new album, "We're Installing Three New Elevators" the duo illustrates the universal experience of youth and brings us an intimate look at the neighborhoods and clubs of New York The city is a place of opportunity, but also of darkness, and this album reflects the upheavals and disturbances that keep people down.

The fast guitars, hard-hitting drums, and extreme vocal delivery invite us to dance, mosh, and let go of our humdrum day-to-day routines. With their new album, Durtle isn't waiting for the new wavethey are bringing it to life.

Check out "We're Installing Three New Elevators" right now on Spotify and Youtube

linktr.ee/durt.le

The South-Wales based rock trio Feverjaw return with their second release of 2023, ‘Sweetener’. This new single is as intense as it is melodic, capturing the listener immediately and demonstrating why Feverjaw are one of South Wales’s most promising rock bands As fans have grown to expect, the chorus is anthemic and real arms in the air stuff

Taken from Feverjaw’s forthcoming new EP ‘Intention Of Malice’, ‘Sweetener’ serves as a stand out track from the EP with its hard hitting drums and melodic lead guitar

Earlier this year Feverjaw released the acclaimed single ‘When You Know’ which touched on new ground for the trio. They have steadily been building their audience and their reputation as a band to watch.

Feverjaw are Dale Hawkins (vocals, guitar), James Carey (bass) and Lewis Bligh (drums). The trio are an incredible live act with a sound that delivers driving guitars, anthemic choruses and undeniable hooks.

linktr.ee/feverjaw

MAGNAZERO

TheGreatNothingdebut LP-APsychRock JourneytoNowhere

www.magnazero.com

Following the critical success of their debut EP ‘All Must Go’, LA psych-rock trio Magna Zero release their first LP, The Great Nothing. FFO Floyd, Radiohead, Tool, Sabbath, Rush, QOTSA, The Cure, The Doors, Jane’s Addiction, NIN. Rich in sonic versatility, the eleven songs of Magna Zero’s The Great Nothing are a thrilling joyride past distant stars towards the mystic void, which ultimately lies within each of us and is the key to inner peace.

As the songs explode and whisper, caress and shred, hope for a compassionate future emerges intact. The band describes The Great Nothing as a journey to ‘be free and let go,’ to ‘give up oneself to find the self’, and to ‘become nothing by paradoxically experiencing unity with everything’.

Featured Tracks: Endure, Step Into The Light, We Are All, Eat You Up

Sunday Chapel was written and produced by Dave Herrera and is a story about how the Chapel is the rock for his family and the community through thick and thin, baptisms, weddings and funerals, the Chapel will always be there even at the end and generations thereafter.

Herrera said "we all need a rock and a place to support us during the good and bad times" Herrera wrote the track with the help of Cory Coppin, Kale Coppin co-writers and Dave Herrera produced the track. Herrera continues to put his spin on Country music as he combines heavy drum beats, electric guitars, dobro, bass and the storytelling of country music with his new music

Along with his singles, Herrera takes pride in creating music videos that are entertaining for all ages The music video for "Visiting Nashville" now has 440K+ views and rising You can check out several of his music videos on YouTube which include Hella Country, Hollywood Sign, My First 69, Shades, Hollywood Sign, Boys were Back Intown and an unofficial and unmixed version of the video for Hell of a Holiday.

Herrera is currently in the studio and will embark on live shows in 2023. Herrera is continuing to work on more music, coming soon!

DAVEHERRERA
SundayChapel www.daveherreralive.com

W.A.S.P.

For over forty years one name has been synonymous with the words 'shock rock', in fact if it weren't for W A S P and front man Blackie Lawless it is possible that the term shock rock might not even exist A lot of time has passed since W.A.S.P. introduced their own unique blend of music and theatrics to a world that was definitely not expecting it. Many people actively fought against the band and their music, with their shows bringing condemnation from religious groups and even governments at one point.

Despite the controversy and the difficulties that the band faced because of it, Blackie Lawless pushed on and carried the band to not only

LIVE REVIEW - NEWCASTLE 22nd MARCH 2023

mainstream success but also building a world following of loyal fans. Those loyal fans have stuck with the band through thick and thin and that was clear in the number of people queuing outside Newcastle City Hall. People of all ages waited eagerly for the doors to open. It may have been a cold night but that didn't phase the army of W.A.S.P. fans. The City Hall filled up fairly quickly, the posters didn't say it was sold out but I struggled to see any space in the stalls and the balconies seemed full, or at least the parts I could see.

First up was South of Salem A British metal band who played a solid set and got the crowd warmed up nicely. There was plenty of energy in their performance and they certainly didn't hold back as they belted out a seven song set It is amazing that a band with so much energy and talent is as yet unsigned. Whether they are signed to a label or not didn't bother the Newcastle crowd as they lapped it up If you have yet to hear South of Salem, do your ears a favour and check them out today.

As South of Salem left the stage, the atmosphere was electric and the crowd seemed to be in fine voice, singing along to Faith No More among others, as they waited for the main event.

As the crew got busy setting up the stage, their were cheers as Elvis, Blackie's microphone stand was put in position. A few blast of smoke (directly at the crowd at one point, not sure if that was meant to happen or not) and the stage was set. A back drop of carnival style posters mixed with skulls and a whole load of amps made for a good looking set

P h o t o s : D a v i d W e d d l e 2 0 2 3

As W.A.S.P. stood with their backs to the crowd, they played the intro to the first song of the night which was an epic medley that incorporated 'On Your Knees', 'The Flame', 'The Torture Never Stops' and 'Inside The Electric Circus'. A lengthy first song which really seemed to go down well with the crowd, their earlier vocal warm up being put to good use throughout

The band were all over the stage, making sure they filled the space well and Blackie Lawless' vocals sounded fantastic. W.A.S.P. played through a selection of their best known songs including 'Wild Child', 'The Idol' and of course the epic 'Chainsaw Charlie'. During the final song of the night 'I Wanna Be Somebody', Blackie Lawless made full use of his iconic, ornate microphone stand Elvis, climbing upon it to the delight of the fans.

The concert was a huge success, I had read a few negative comments online before the show about lip syncing, short changing on the number of songs etc but in all honesty I didn't witness any lip syncing, the set list may look short on paper but in reality it is a full and heavy as you like show Quintessentially W A S P albeit without the fake blood and raw meat this time

The fans all looked and sounded like they got what they wanted from the show and Blackie Lawless and the ban t show and one that wil o come.

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P h o t o s : D a v i d W e d d l e 2 0 2 2
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JESSE LYNN MADERA

DanNavarroproducedversionofJohnnyCash’s“Unchained”by JesseLynnMadera,“…aforcetobereckonedwithintheworldofmodernAmericana.”

California singer-songwriter Jesse Lynn Madera, will release her version of “Unchained,” the haunting, yet gripping, song originally recorded by Johnny Cash in 1996. The track was produced by powerhouse artist, songwriter, and producer, Dan Navarro (Lowen & Navarro), and engineered by multi GRAMMY award-winning producer/engineer Jim Scott, whose credits include Tom Petty, Tedeschi Trucks Band, and The Chicks (and Dan Navarro).

With Madera’s soulful and powerfully vulnerable vocals at the forefront, it is a striking track with warm electrics, lilting accordion, and a gorgeous acoustic guitar solo performed by Navarro. The single was recorded at Plyrz Studios in Santa Clarita, CA with additional vocals by Brian Whelan (Dwight Yoakum), Taras Prodaniuk (The Richard Thompson Trio), Jimmy Paxson (Lindsay Buckingham), Scott, and Navarro. Madera has been drawn to the song for over a decade and long dreamed of recording it. “I connected with this song probably because of my family’s history with depression and anxiety,” she shares. “This song is a prayer, and I feel every word of it.

This character knows who she is and what could be. It’s really a hopeful and truthful song.” It’s really a hopeful and truthful song, and I wish I’d written it! I do believe that Jude’s penning of “Unchained” was a gift and a heroic act.”

This was the first time, Navarro, has worked with Madera. “Jesse Lynn Madera possesses a voice and vision that burrows deep into the heart of things,” he praises. “She owns it, and, in short order, owns you. It was a rare gift to work with her.” “It takes a lot of courage to go after a tune made famous by Johnny Cash,” Scott believes. “The classic Jude Johnstone song ‘Unchained’ is now artistically Jesse Lynn Madera’s.”

“Unchained” is being serviced to Americana, Non-Comm and Folk radio and available on all streaming platforms. It is the first official offering from her forthcoming album Belle Sent Me, a tribute to her grandmother and poet Belle Clayton, which will be released in 2023 Interview requests should be directed to Kate Richardson at The Richlynn Group.

www.jesselynnmadera.com

VICE KILLER

The County Durham based alternative indie fourpiece Vice Killer release their new single 'The Red Sky' on April the 7th. This is their first release of the new year and follows last year's acclaimed single 'Past Life'.

With a sublime lead guitar sound that serves as a vehicle for the track along with a solid, captivating beat and yearning vocals from frontman Thomas Gilling, 'The Red Sky' is Vice Killer's most thought provoking and engrossing release to date. This new single sets Vice Killer apart from their contemporaries and demonstrates the north-east band's diverse songwriting style to the full.

'The Red Sky' was recorded in Liverpool's Motor Museum with Al Groves (Oasis, The 1975, Jake Bugg). On recording with Groves, Thomas Gilling said "This was the first time we'd ventured out of Newcastle to record,

we'd spoken to a lot of producers but Al stood out as one of the best. We learnt how to make the most out of a song, not to just go into the studio and hit record. Al wasn't shy of telling us when we weren't up to scratch...he really put his own stamp on the track. especially in the bridge, using dreamy synths and giving it a somewhat spacey sound."

Vice Killer released their debut EP in 2021 and they quickly gained momentum, headlining sold-out shows in Sunderland and Newcastle in 2022 and they were also featured on BBC Introducing. Their growth is impressive and 'The Red Sky' is sure to add fuel to the fire.

Vice KIller are Thomas Gilling (lead vocals/guitar), James Langan (lead guitar), Jack Langan (bass)and Lewis Muir(drums). The band play a sold out show at Castle Eden cricket club in early April, HMV Newcastle (free entry) on the 15th and finally a headline show at Hartlepool's IDOLS on Friday the 12th of May.

ONLY THE POETS

Only The Poets have shared their anthemic new single 'JUMP' via EMI Records. Produced by King Ed (Baby Queen, Dylan) and mixed by Dan Grech (Vaccines, Liam Gallagher) it's an urgent, attention-grabbing next step from a band already inspiring fervent support from their fastgrowing fanbase.

"So if you're gonna run, I'll run with you/ Falling off the edge of the deep blue/ My mother always warned me when I was young/ But if you're gonna jump I'll jump in too," singer Tommy Longhurst promises. A rousing call to arms set to widescreen, galloping riffs, it bridges the gap between sparkling indie-pop and the everyman swagger of Bruce Springsteen and, more recently, Sam Fender. Longhurst says,

"JUMP! is about all the times when you need to follow your heart and not your head. Too often in life we don't take the leap, always wondering about potential problems and over thinking. It's a song all about being completely unapologetic about jumping into something new and exciting, whatever that might be."

Comprised of Longhurst, bassist Andy "Roo" Burge, guitarist Clem Cherry and drummer Marcus Yates, the Reading four-piece have established themselves as one of the UK's biggest emerging live acts in just a few short years. Unsigned until recently, the band's DIY ethos saw them build things from the ground up, playing student house parties, pub circuits and small venues to selling out 1,600-capacity venues in the UK and across Europe.

ONLY THE POETS

'JUMP' THE NEW SINGLE OUT NOW

"We did it the old school way," Lockhurst says. "We all come from hard-working backgrounds, and we understand you have to put the work in. So building a fanbase through live shows just made sense. We'd drive up to Stockton-on-Tees and play in front of two people or get booked for tiny festivals, whenever we could play we would. Even though initially the rooms were small, for us to be playing music together was just an amazing feeling. And then when you start to see it building it all becomes a hundred times more intense."

Growing up in Reading and nearby Banbury, the Reading Festival loomed over the band, dropping an annual hint (notably witnessing Arctic Monkeys' first headline slot) that a "small town existence" wasn't the only option thanks to music. They began creating their own songs, Longhurst's autobiographical lyrical honesty and raw feelings combined with big horizon-filling melodies inspired by 90's British indie instantly connected with audiences.

Following sold out tours across the UK and Europe last year – and a massive run on the continent in support of Lewis Capaldi earlier in 2023 – Only The Poets have announced a European tour for this spring, with reduced ticket prices for fans who financially struggle to attend Due to overwhelming demand, additional dates have already been added in Prague and Warsaw The tour culminates in London on 3rd May for their headline show at London's Shepherds Bush Empire.

ONLY THE POETS LIVE DATES:11TH APRIL –PALLADIUM – WARSAW

12TH APRIL – PALLADIUM – WARSAW

15TH APRIL – SIMMCITY – VIENNA SOLD OUT

16TH APRIL – ROXY – PRAGUE

17TH APRIL – ROXY – PRAGUE

18TH APRIL – METROPOL – BERLIN

20TH APRIL – EWORK – COLOGNE UPGRADED

21ST APRIL – MELKWEG MAX – AMSTERDAM SOLD OUT

23RD APRIL – TRIX – ANTWERP

3RD MAY – SHEPHERDS BUSH EMPIRE – LONDON

LIPSTEREO

LIPSTEREO OFFERING ‘FEEDBACK’ TO LOVERS OF ROCK

‘Feedback’ is the latest instalment from LIPSTEREO’s new EP, 'Modern Mythology' which was produced by legendary Australian record producer, Mark Opitz AM.

The bass guitar intro to 'Feedback' is melodic and meditative and sets the scene for an unexpected rock ‘n’ roll diversion of the senses. The song is a departure from the all-out assault of their debut single, ‘Stop’ which has gained international radio recognition in over four continents.

‘Feedback’ cascades into a wall of guitars that Opitz literally invented (AC/DC, The Angels, INXS).

The beauty of the melody cannot be understated.

I’ll remember the good times baby

I’ll remember the childish things we’ve done I remember the bad times lately

So I forget all the lessons that we learned (‘Feedback’ – lyrics)

The song is as simple as it is memorable. It is a popular live favourite on their university campus shows whilst their ever-growing fanbase finds solace in the sentiment of the song. It is actually a powerful bittersweet rock song with an outer pop veneer. ‘Feedback’ captures lead singer Sam Stranges' reflections, “realising what the good times are and knowing that they won’t last forever.”

REDSHIFT

REDSHIFT release single 'Entropy' taken from their upcoming album redshiftband.bandcamp.com

Recorded at Axe and Trap Studios in Wells with Ben Turner (Hey Colossus, Part Chimp) and Joshua Boniface, mixed and engineered by BenTurner and mastered by Jamie King (Between The Buried And Me), Laws of Entropy is musically more extreme, more technical and more left field.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the album, the band state: "Being a young man with the world at your feet, thinking you can live the life you want and then realising it's not as easy and giving into the struggles and pressures of life, suffering a mental breakdown, eventually asking for help and then dying. Each song is a step in this journey. The 21 minute closer deals with all these themes from start to finish."

Ahead of the album's release comes its leading single 'Entropy' and accompanying music video, released today, April 14th. In much the same vein, Entropy is a song about the absurdity and the anxiety of an existential crisis.

Bath-based progressive-metal three-piece Redshift are pleased to announce the release of their second studio album 'Laws Of Entropy', on April 28th 2023.

Formed in 2017, influenced by the likes of Dream Theater, Rush, Opeth and Between The Buried And Me, Redshift released their debut album 'Cataclysm' in 2019. Tackling a mighty concept album for their debut might have seemed like a brave task, but it certainly paid off, receiving rave reviews from the likes of Distorted Sound Magazine, Uber Rock, Power Play Magazine and Metal Temple. Based around honour and love and depicting the story of a devastating apocalyptic event, Cataclysm was a bold, dark and adventurous debut record that pulled no punches.

Their upcoming second album Laws of Entropy follows closely in its footsteps; a concept album exploring the journey through life from birth to death.

"We can all experience this at some point in our lives and this was an expression of the emotional journey from my personal experience. The words and feelings put into the song come from a place of uncertainty about what I was doing, where I was going, why I had made certain choices, the ones that worked out and the ones that I regret. At the time I wrote the lyrics, I was stuck in a job I didn't like, single, and hadn't had a sense of direction as to where I was going. At some points, I could be annoyed with myself and then laugh at myself. Sometimes, I experienced much darker thoughts with the depression I was going through. I managed to see a counselor, which did help me get a better grip on things but at the same time made me feel more peculiar and a bit mad. The end result was Entropy, (nervous breakdown, the musical)," explains lyricist Liam Fear.

DIRTY HEADS

Photo: Anthony Duty

DIRTY HEADS New EP, Album and Tour

Dirty Heads will kick off their Island Glow Summer tour June 13 with stops across the country through the end of Summer. The first half of the Dirty Heads Island Glow tour will feature Yelawolf as direct support and Lupe Fiasco set to join as direct support in July. Tickets for all dates are on sale now. For more information please visit www.dirtyheads.com.

Southern California alternative rock band Dirty Heads are celebrating the release of their new EP Midnight Control Sessions: Night 2, available now on all streaming platforms. The EP features unreleased songs recorded during the Midnight Control album sessions. Pro-surfer and singer Ivy Miller (known as Ivuss) and performance artist Alex Vince are featured on the previously unreleased track "John Linen." The first single off of the new EP, "Rescue Me," is an ode to California and flip of a Red Hot Chili Peppers hook. "Rescue Me" is currently #16 on the alternative radio charts and climbing. Fans can stream Midnight Control Sessions: Night 2 here https://dirtyheads.ffm.to/mcsessionsnight2.

"John Linen isn't about anything. Sometimes you just wanna make music that makes you feel a certain type of way. Sometimes you just wanna create cool shit for cool shit's sake." – Dirty Heads vocalist Jared Watson

"I've been good friends with Jared and his family for a few years now so when Jared called me up and told me to come by the studio I said "sure! Would love to see the dirty heads in action." Thinking I'd be a fly on the wall ...unbeknownst to me Jared had a little secret plan... next thing I know I'm in the studio singing an outro with Jared as my voice coach." – Ivy Miller (Ivuss)

In 2022 Dirty Heads released their highly anticipated 8th studio album Midnight Control via Better Noise Music. The album featured 10 all-new songs, including their take on Joe Walsh's 1978 hit "Life's Been Good", "Heavy Water" feat. Common Kings and "Island Glow." Midnight Control debuted in the Top 10 on Billboard's Alternative Albums chart, Digital Albums chart, Rock Albums chart and the Independent Albums chart.

Midnight Control reaffirms the band's stand-out track record with all eight of their albums having appeared in the Top 10 of Billboard's Top Independent Albums Charts & Billboard's Top Alternative Albums Charts. Fans can stream Midnight Control now.

Dirty Heads are currently out streaming some of the biggest alternative acts in the U.S., with over 2 BILLION total streams on-demand + programmed.

Worldwide, the band has over 1.29 MILLION digital track sales and 2.6 BILLION on-demand streams since 2018. The bands 8th studio album Midnight Control racked up over 43 million streams since its release in 2022 and continues to average over 4 million streams per month.

Dirty Heads' take on Joe Walsh's "Life's Been Good" has been streamed over 17 million times since its release in 2022 and climbed to the top 5 on the Mediabase Alternative chart. Statistics via U.S. and Global Music Connect.

Music News Monthly 2023 www.musicnewsmonthly.com

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