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Blood Incantation – Absolute Elsewhere | Album Review

In an album of stargates and messages, this message is that Blood Incantation just released one of the  best metal albums of 2024. This is the prog death metal magnificence that many people have been craving, all in the depths of space. Riffs and wailing guitars for days, a death growl to rattle anyone’s senses, and an experience broken down into segments. It’s a massive time warp of an album that you get lost in the elements and every second feels worth it. If the idea of being in space has ever terrified you, listen to this album. Space may still be terrifying, but now it’ll sound amazing. 9/10

Blood Incantation Absolute Elsewhere Album Review
Blood Incantation “The Stargate”

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“Blood Incantation’s latest album, Absolute Elsewhere, released on October 4, 2024, marks a significant evolution in the band’s sound, blending progressive elements with their signature death metal roots. This ambitious project features two extensive compositions, “The Stargate” and “The Message,” each divided into multiple movements that push the boundaries of genre. The album incorporates influences from 1970s prog rock, ambient music, and even cosmic themes, showcasing a daring fusion of styles that includes contributions from notable artists like Thorsten Quaeschning of Tangerine Dream. Critics have lauded Absolute Elsewhere for its intricate arrangements and technical prowess, noting its accessibility despite its complexity. This release not only cements Blood Incantation’s place in the metal scene but also redefines what extreme music can encompass, making it a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike.” (Perplexity) #BloodIncantation #AbsoluteElsewhere

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Blood Incantation Absolute Elsewhere Album Review

Green Day BANNED In Las Vegas | The Podcast That Rocked

The Podcast That Rocked for 10/1/24. Discussion on Green Day getting banned from Las Vegas radio, news on Oasis, The Cure, Spiritbox, Poppy, and more. 

Green Day BANNED In Las Vegas | The Podcast That Rocked on YouTube
Green Day BANNED In Las Vegas | The Podcast That Rocked on Spotify

Discussion Topics: 
Green Day VS Las Vegas 
-Louder Than Life 2024 was a muddy mess but pulled through 
Oasis announce US tour dates for 2025 
-Corey Taylor VS Clown in Slipknot Hot Ones Challenge 
-The Cure return with new music; upcoming album Songs Of A Lost World 
Ill Nino confirm split with singer Marcos Leal 
-Bad Omens go Gold 
-Upcoming albums/tours 

The Podcast That Rocked | Every Tuesday 8PM EST on https://www.youtube.com/@rockednet 

Spiritbox “Soft Spine” ft. Poppy – Live from Louder Than Life
Slipknot’s Corey Taylor VS Shawn “Clown” Crahan | Hot Ones Versus
The Cure – Alone (Official Lyric Video)

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Luke = https://www.instagram.com/rocked_net 
Alex = https://www.instagram.com/voiceofalex 
Rowan = https://www.instagram.com/bl3at0r

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“Green Day, the iconic punk rock band known for their anthemic sound and socially charged lyrics, has recently found themselves at the center of controversy after being banned from two Las Vegas radio stations. This decision came in response to frontman Billie Joe Armstrong’s inflammatory remarks during a concert on September 20, where he referred to Las Vegas as “the worst shithole in America.” His comments were directed at the city’s role in the relocation of his beloved Oakland Athletics baseball team, which has sparked outrage among fans and locals alike. In retaliation, KOMP 92.3 and X107.5 announced they would no longer play Green Day’s music, stating that Armstrong’s comments crossed a line with Las Vegas residents. This incident highlights the band’s complex relationship with their fanbase and the ongoing tensions surrounding sports team relocations, further complicating Green Day’s legacy in the music industry as they continue to navigate their place in contemporary culture amidst such controversies.” (Perplexity) 

Metallica In 2025 + Riot Fest Recap | The Podcast That Rocked

The Podcast That Rocked for September 24, 2024. Discussion on Metallica touring in 2025, Riot Fest 2024 recap, and more.

Metallica In 2025 + Riot Fest Recap | The Podcast That Rocked on YouTube
Metallica In 2025 + Riot Fest Recap | The Podcast That Rocked on Spotify

Discussion Topics: 
Metallica In 2025 
Riot Fest 2024 and the return of Slayer 
Chester Bennington’s mother left in the dark 
Perry Farrell gets help 
Skillet gonna Skillet 
Hank Azaria on tour 
Weird Al with Puddles tour 
Other Tours/Albums 

The Podcast That Rocked | Every Tuesday 8PM EST on https://www.youtube.com/@rockednet

Click here for What Went Down At
Riot Fest 2024!

Poppy “hey there”

“Metallica’s highly anticipated M72 World Tour is set to continue into 2025, featuring an exciting lineup of 21 new North American shows from April to June. This extension promises to deliver the band’s signature No Repeat Weekends, where each night showcases entirely different setlists, ensuring a unique experience for fans attending multiple shows. The tour will kick off at the Sick New World Festival in Las Vegas on April 12 and includes stops at major stadiums, such as Nissan Stadium in Nashville and Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, marking the band’s first performances at these iconic venues. Fans can expect support from renowned acts like Pantera, Limp Bizkit, Suicidal Tendencies, and Ice Nine Kills throughout the tour. Tickets go on sale starting September 27, with pre-sales available for fan club members and select cardholders. The M72 tour not only highlights Metallica’s enduring legacy but also their commitment to community, with a portion of ticket sales benefiting local charities through their All Within My Hands foundation.” (Perplexity) 

What Went Down At Riot Fest 2024

Riot Fest 2024 at Douglass Park in Chicago, IL has come and gone. After questions about venue, a return from retirement, a three night farewell, and lots of weather jam-packed into a three-day weekend, the attendees of Riot Fest and Riot Land will have much to remember after a triumphant festival.

Day One Coverage | September 20th, 2024

Riot Fest 2024 Day One #Shorts

Fall Out Boy

The headliner of Day One was the band representing Chicago’s faithful. The barricade was filled with people wearing face paint and impossibly long eyelashes for the group. In a concussive-blast filled performance, Fall Out Boy went through the band’s discography dating over 20 years to give the city and the FOB diehards what they wanted. The show had the biggest songs and a surprise performance from Tim McIlrath from Rise Against. Fall Out Boy performing at Douglass Park felt like the victory lap for Riot Fest as the festival ended exactly how the wanted.

Sum 41

The farewell tour for Sum 41 included a stop in Chicago. The band performed at a small club in the city along with this festival performance to make sure everyone in Chicago got to experience Sum 41 live one last time. The Tour Of the Setting Sum included instructions on how to give the Sum 41 salute with one finger on the left and four fingers on the right, both hands held high. Even in the brutal heat, Derrick Whibley said he was still going to ask everyone to move. The crowd did not hold back even if everyone was baking in the heat in the afternoon.

Suicidal Tendencies

One of the most heartwarming moments of Day One (for me at least) was seeing how happy Jay Weinberg was blasting drums with Suicidal Tendencies. It was the hits from several decades with a reinvigorated lineup. The energy from Mike Muir is still something to behold as his charisma and crowd direction are still top notch performance-wise. It’s been years since I’ve seen Suicidal Tendencies live and I’m glad I got to see this version as the live show still has so much life.

Hot Mulligan

This was my first experience with Hot Mulligan. I clearly have been missing out because everyone at main stage knew every song and were singing along. This was a fun group performance with Nathan “Tades” Sanville trying his best (and succeeding) to rile up the crowd. This felt like a good introduction to a group who knew how to work a big crowd on an emo and pop-punk filled day. Hot Mulligan fit in well with Day One’s lineup.

Drug Church

I have been listening to Drug Church for the past few years but this was my first time seeing them live. It was when the crowd at barricade starting trying to jump so high that people almost fell into the pit that I realized I was not the only one moved by Drug Church’s music. This band has a bigger reach than I previous thought and I’m happy about that. The more bands that play on side-stages to big crowds who come just for said bands, the better.

The Aces

Straight out of Utah comes The Aces. I lived in Provo for almost five years so I understand the plight of living in a jam-packed city that still shuts everything down at 10PM. This was the mellow session with great instrument work that helped mellow people out mid-day. I need to give this band a deeper dive into their backlog because there was a lot of good material being played with a refreshing sound that isn’t brash or synthetic.

The Warning

I was aware of the hype around The Warning due to the big TV spots as well as the solid album that came out earlier this year. I’m happy that seeing them live reinforced my belief that The Warning are destined to be a big thing. Monterrey’s sisters are a good representation of rock as well as women lead music that stands on their own in the genre. We want “More” of The Waring. I hope some of you got that reference because I think it’s clever.

Polaris

Polaris was one of the bands to make sure the main stages got something heavy. Coming from Australia, this was one of the bands that fans came for to specifically make a circle pit. The sound was loud and groove-filled without pushing people away. Polaris was a good fit for their time of the day and helped add variety to the main stage styles. The performance included several songs from the band’s latest album Fatalism which just came out this month.

Winona Fighter

Seeing the comradery onstage within Winona Fighter made me happy to see this group. Starting the show with checking into each other’s shoulders, Winona Ryder performed a solid set including their latest song “I Swear To God I’m (FINE)” that just released two days ago. The message from Coco saying that there is no room for men attacking women is also a good message to share. Scroll below for their Dad Joke and to hear what they have coming up.

Winona Fighter Dad Joke | Riot Fest 2024 #Shorts

Action Adventure

Opening up one of the main stages was TikTok sensation Action Adventure. Any band who has t-shirts covering Tony Hawk’s Underground and Talladega Nights will always be OK in my book. Based out of Chicago, the hometown pop-punk group makes it a point that every one should be represented. The group will be touring with Tiny Moving Parts to close out 2024.

People R Ugly

The first band I saw at Riot Fest 2024 was the charmingly named People R Ugly. If there ever was a more subgenre defining name for a young group, than I’m not sure what it would be. My favorite part was hearing the back and forth sass between band members.

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Day Two Coverage | September 21th, 2024

After an eventful and successful Day Two, the blazing sun basked over Douglass Park with Riot Land thriving and the butter statue of John Stamos doing it’s best not to melt. In terms of “festival feeling”, Day Two felt the most multi-genre and varied in terms of music and events. From Beck to NWA Wrestling, Day Two had something for everyone. In true Riot Fest fashion, the Riot covers all walks of life.

Riot Fest 2014 Day Two #Shorts

Taking Back Sunday

My Day Two ended with Taking Back Sunday performing over 20 years of music for the emo faithful. The performance was interesting to say the least as it was a silhouette style showing with the band members blacked out from the lighting for most of the set (the photos below are the best I could get while in the photo pit). The microphone swinging was demonstrated and the fans at barricade were singing along, but I admit something seemed off from my viewpoint for TBS.

NOFX

The farewell tour of NOFX is coming to an end. I caught Fat Mike & comapny’s fifth to last performance on Saturday night and in true NOFX fashion, Fat Mike talked about how he was drunk on stage and that he couldn’t smell anything since 1992. While this weekend has many odd fans behaving wildly for the NOFX performances (giant flag and a fan climbing on stage for starters), it was still a celebration on stage for NOFX as many friends and family were present. Huge crowd to send off NOFX this night.

L. S. Dunes

Back-to-back performances for L. S. Dunes at Riot Fest for two years. The difference is that the 2024 performance felt significantly more put together and presentable. Greene sounded strong and the visuals and energy from the stage definitely made for a better presentation while this super-group shared new music and big songs for the crowd. The band is still putting out new music, including “Fatal Deluxe” which came out a day before this Riot Fest performance.

Basement

My first time hearing Basement and it brought back memories from when I first discovered the group. After a technical delay where singer Andrew Fisher mimed to the crowd that he was thankful for everyone’s patience, Basement powered through and completed their set. When you have a good crowd that can wait an extra three minutes, it makes the experience much better for the band.

Sincere Engineer

Many people came to see Deanna of Sincere Engineer scream and sing to Chicago. There was something about her raw performance that captivated many. The amount of corndogs in the crowd was uncountable and I think that proves that her song “Corndog” along with her strong live performance all confirm that corndoggery is a good thing.

Sincere Engineer Day Joke | Riot Fest 2024 #Shorts

Health

This was my second time seeing Health this year (the first being in March on their headline tour). There was an earthquake of bass that permeated the Douglass Park grounds. The music was heavy and digital and incited a trance into the crowd. Health continue to sound great live. You can check out a Dad Joke from Jake and upcoming plans for Health in 2025.

Health Dad Joke | Riot Fest #Shorts
Lord Of The Lost Dad Joke | Riot Fest 2024 #Shorts

Day Three Coverage | September 20th, 2024

We complained for two days about the heat and dust. As a result, Mother Nature trolled us and gave us several inches of rain and enough mud to fill a canyon. Serves us right for complaining, but hats off to the Riot Fest squad as the entire festival went on with every band performing and the return of the legendary Slayer went as planned. Even Mother Nature wouldn’t try to get in the way of Slayer and Slayer fans.

Riot Fest 2024 Day Three #Shorts

Slayer

When Slayer retired in 2019, it felt a decent ending to one of the Big Four. A long multi-leg tour with the world covered in tour dates. Now comes Riot Fest 2024 with the exclusive Midwest performance of Slayer and their first performance since their Los Angeles retirement show. After a video package talking about Slayer’s history and showing clips, the opening notes of “South Of Heaven” were heard and the Chicago faithful knew it was time to unleash everything for the band.

This was my third time seeing Slayer live. It might have been the shock and excitement of seeing Slayer perform again after being away for almost five years, but hearing them play and listening to Tom Araya’s speech about karma made me appreciate that Slayer hadn’t aged a day.

Rob Zombie

The final performance of Rob Zombie in 2024 happened at Riot Fest as the dead man praised Chicago for welcoming him and his band to the city. After getting the thumbs up from security, Rob Zombie got the ladies to get on the shoulders of any big person in front of them they could find (his words). Sunday was the heavy day music wise for Riot Fest, and having Rob Zombie perform as the lead in to Slayer’s return was a great choice. Have a loud party before the onslaught happens.

Lamb Of God

It was a long road trip for Lamb Of God to eventually get to Chicago. After co-headlining the Ashes Of Leviathan Tour with Mastodon, Lamb Of God took the main stage to the thoroughly soaked crowd. It was ferocious and this was where the pits started expanding through the crowd. There is something about Richmond’s metal heroes that incites a Riot, and Riot Fest is the perfect place to get all that pent up aggression out in an appropriate place.

Strung Out

My first time seeing Strung Out. I had only heard the name before and was unfamiliar with the music. I’m glad I caught this set as they had a great sound and had the consummate professional attitude on stage. The NOFX World Stage had a good crowd for this group and I feel like I’ve been missing out for not checking out Strung Out sooner.

GWAR

During a downpour on Day Three of Riot Fest 2024, several members of GWAR came by the press area to talk. During this time, one of the GWAR members went to the porta-potty and another GWAR member kept him inside. Friends don’t let friends get out of a porta-potty.

GWAR At A Porta-Potty #Shorts

Gel

With a preshow mud wrestling pit in the crowd, it appeared that Gel was right at home performing a hardcore set for the waterlogged and muddy main stage crowd. It only took one song for several pits to open and body surfers to come in while hearing songs from Gel’s latest EP Persona. This was my second time seeing Gel this year (first at Sick New World). Gel has quickly become a go to band for the gym and to hear something aggressive.

Saxsquatch

The best way to open a rock festival is with jazzy rock covers by bigfoot in sunglasses playing saxophone to a slow circle pit. Everything I just said was accurate and holds up to what Saxsquatch offered to Chicago in the opening of Day Three. Listening to the cover of “Careless Whisper” with a groovy beat and saxophone felt fitting as the downfall was about to start at Douglass Park. Saxsquatch brought the rain and we all danced with him while soaked.

Saxsquatch Jazzing In The Rain | Riot Fest 2024 #Shorts

Over the course of 2024, many people have been aware of the challenges Riot Fest have been thrown. A forced venue change, a return to Douglass Park, and getting the clearance for everything with limited crunch time would spell disaster for most festivals or organizations. Most organizations are not Riot Fest. The staff and team were able to pull all of this off despite the turbulent events leading to September 20th-22nd. Once again, Riot Fest confirms that this festival can stand on it’s own and succeed despite any circumstances, and wildly succeed while surviving.

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What Went Down At Riot Fest 2024

“Riot Fest 2024 has once again captivated music lovers with its vibrant celebration of alternative music, art, and culture in Douglass Park, Chicago. Held from September 20-22, this year’s festival showcased over 90 acts across five stages, featuring headliners such as Fall Out Boy, Beck, and Slayer. Attendees enjoyed a diverse lineup that included punk, rock, hip-hop, and metal performances, alongside unique attractions like the RiotLand interactive experience and a wedding chapel where nearly 40 couples tied the knot. The festival also embraced local culture with food vendors and art installations, making it a must-visit event for fans of all ages. With its eclectic mix of music and community spirit, Riot Fest 2024 solidified its reputation as one of the premier music festivals in the U.S.” (Perplexity)

Wardruna Announces New Album, Birna (Jan. 24, 2025)

wardruna
Photo credit: Morten Munthe

Wardruna, the globally renowned purveyors of Norwegian-tinged post-rock-meets-folk, return with their sixth album, Birna, on Jan. 24 via Sony Music/By Norse Music. The 10-song collection offers another powerful exploration of, and contemplation on, the natural world, with visionary composer Einar Selvik searching for the voice of the bear.

A preview of the 2025 album arrives with today’s release of “Himinndotter” and its accompanying video. Filmed in Norway’s Rondane National Park, renowned for its rugged landscape and free-roaming reindeer, the dramatic landscape is the perfect backdrop for the Tuukka Koski-directed video.

“’Himinndotter’ (Sky-daughter) is part of a six-song exploration of the bear on our upcoming album, Birna (She-bear),” Selvik shares. “The title plays on the globally common notion of the bears’ mythical origin as a celestial being. ‘Himinndotter’ also features a guest appearance from the Norwegian choir, Koret Artemis.”

The heartbeat of the dormant bear, around nine beats per minute, can be felt throughout Birna. This cyclical process, so embedded both in nature and the worldview of older cultures, drives Selvik’s every creative work. Birna nurtures the insight that has been at the core of Selvik’s philosophy from the beginning: sowing new seeds whilst strengthening old roots.

Birna was written and recorded over a three year period with music by Selvik and longtime collaborator/vocalist Linda-Fay Hella, and lyrics solely written by Selvik. Performers on the album, in addition to Hella and Selvik, include Eilif Gundersen (bukkehorn, lur, flute, backing vocals), HC Dalgaard (drums, percussion, backing vocals), Sondre Veland (percussion, backing vocals), John Stenersen (mora-harp) and Arne Sandvoll (percussion, backing vocals).

Wardruna will simultaneously release “Live at the Acropolis” on DVD/Blu-Ray. Featuring a September 2023 performance from the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the film includes the full show with additional interviews and behind-the-scenes footage.

Birna and “Live at the Acropolis” pre-orders are available now with the new album available on limited-edition vinyl, CD and digitally.

Wardruna tour dates:

October 3 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre (with special guest, Chelsea Wolfe)
October 6 Mexico City, MX Auditorio BB SOLD OUT
October 9 Santiago, CL Teatro Caupolican
October 12 São Paulo, BR Terra SP
November 7 Milan, IT Teatro Degli Arcimboldi
November 8 Zurich, CH The Hall
November 9 Paris, FR Salle Pleyel (with special guest, Jo Quail) SOLD OUT
November 11 Hamburg, DE Laeiszhalle SOLD OUT
November 12 Berlin, DE Tempodrom
November 14 Lyon, FR Amphithéâtre 3000
November 15 Frankfurt am Main, DE Jahrhunderthalle
November 16 Nürnberg, DE Meistersingerhalle SOLD OUT
November 17 Vienna, AT Konzerthaus
November 20 Halle, DE Händelhalle
November 21 Prague, CZ Forum Karlin
November 23 Utrecht, NL Tivoli Vredenburg SOLD OUT
November 24 Utrecht, NL Tivoli Vredenburg SOLD OUT
November 26 Düsseldorf, DE Tonhalle SOLD OUT
January 23 Melbourne, AU Palais Theatre
January 25 Sydney, AU Enmore Theatre
January 27 Brisbane, AU Fortitude Music Hall
January 30 Auckland, NZ Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre

Special guest Jo Quail on March UK and IE dates
March 17 Liverpool, UK Philharmonic
March 18 Birmingham, UK Symphony Hall
March 19 London, UK Royal Albert Hall
March 21 Bristol, UK Beacon
March 22 York, UK Barbican
March 23 Dublin, IE Olympia Theatre
March 25 Glasgow, UK SEC Armadillo
April 26 Oslo, NO Operaen SOLD OUT
April 27 Oslo, NO Operaen SOLD OUT
April 29 Trondheim, NO Olavshallen
May 2 Kristiansand, NO Kilden
May 3 Stavanger, NO Konserthuset
May 4 Bergen, NO Grieghallen

June 7 Reykjavik, IS Harpa
July 30 to August 30 Rasnov, RO Rockstadt Extreme Fest

Birna tracklisting:

1.    Hertan
2.    Birna
3.    Ljos til Jord
4.    Dvaledraumar
5.    Jord til Ljos
6.    Himinndotter
7.    Hibjørnen
8.    Skuggehesten
9.    Tretale
10.  Lyfjaberg

From the Runaljod album trilogy (2009, 2013, 2016), exploring old Norse myths, traditions, and language through the 24 proto-Norse runes, the sound of Wardruna evolved and blended into the stripped down, acoustic compositions on Skald (2018). The group’s most recent album, Kvitravn (White-Raven) (2021), explored Northern sorcery, spirit-animals, animism, and the act of creation – the ever-interchanging prolific relationship between the skaldic poet and nature itself. The record charted in 13 countries, including #1 in Canada and Austria, and #2 in Germany. Wardruna has performed at multiple manmade historical locations including Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Acropolis, Bulgaria’s Ancient Theater of Philipoppolis, as well as locations set amidst natural wonders such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. Alongside his work with Wardruna, Einar Selvik has composed music for large tv and game productions such as “Vikings” and “Assassin’s Creed – Valhalla,” he gives tutorials and lectures on Old Norse literature, musicology, instruments and philosophy, and he has worked with renowned artists such as Mari Boine, Tina Guo, Matoma and Eivør, including appearances on Norwegian, Danish and Polish national television.

Vended – Vended | Album Review

This is an aggressive and at times relentless metal album from a younger band born into the genre. Produced by Chris Collier who also worked with Korn and Prong, this self-titled release is a proper introduction for those who haven’t already been introduced to the group. The rhythm section can get brutal and the vocals from Griff can be biting in the heavy moments while also sounding clear and focused in other parts. This is a short album with five tracks running under two minutes. The intensity compounds in the biggest moments however to give a big impact. The anger is matched with strong riffs and this fits well with many contemporaries in heavy music. I was not expecting to enjoy so much of this right off the bat. Vended proved on their debut that they are serious and know how to make an introduction. 8/10

Best Tracks: 
“Serenity”
“Disparager”

Vended – Vended | Album Review
Vended “Serenity”

“Vended, the rising metal band from Des Moines, Iowa, is set to make waves with their self-titled debut album releasing on September 20, 2024. This highly anticipated album marks a significant milestone for the five-piece group, which has been gaining traction since their formation in 2018. Produced by Chris Collier, known for his work with Korn, the album features 13 powerful tracks, including previously released singles like “The Far Side” and “Nihilism.” Vocalist Griffin Taylor emphasizes that this album embodies the band’s aggressive and emotional essence, aiming to fill a void in today’s music landscape. As Vended embarks on their North American tour alongside Slipknot and Knocked Loose, fans can expect an electrifying experience that showcases their raw energy and unique sound.” (Perplexity)

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Vended Vended Album Review

Seether – The Surface Seems So Far | Album Review

I am happy to say that Seether fans can enjoy what is a solid new entry in the band’s catalog. Their last two albums have seen the band attempt to expand on their usual “post-grunge” formula, and The Surface Seems So Far continues that trend while still retaining enough similarities to their early work that things feel like a natural evolution.

This album has Seether really showing off their musical capabilities, continuing to find what is a great balance between post-grunge and alt metal. Judas Mind, and Dead On the Vile are probably my favorite songs off the album as they highlight the band’s dynamic range and deliver an exciting first listen. On the other side of the spectrum, songs like Beneath The Veil and Paint the World are much more reminiscent of the more straightforward post-grunge that was the band’s earlier work, but the vocals and instrumentals are delivered so strongly that they still stand out on their own. Overall, there is something here for both newcomers and lifetime fans of Seether to enjoy.

Seether “Judas Mind”

While there is much to enjoy, not every track is a winner. Songs like Illusion, Same Mistakes, and Try To Heal follow too closely to that “post-grunge” blueprint, making them feel somewhat unremarkable compared to the stronger tracks. They’re by no means bad, but all I can think about listening to them is, “yeah, that was a Seether song” and that was about the end of it. Unfortunately, those underwhelming tracks prevent me from fully embracing the album as a whole, as I’m more likely that I’ll return to it just for specific songs rather than to listen to it in full.

Also this was a slight issue I had, but it felt like there were times the instrumentals overpowered the vocals, especially at times when Shaun Morgan’s voice was filtered with audio effects. It’s a shame because Shaun’s vocals are on point throughout the entire album and hearing everything clearly together leaves you mesmerized. While it isn’t egregious—there are certainly worse cases of bad mixing—it’s frustrating when I have to replay sections to decipher the lyrics, especially when you take into account that I had this issue in a quiet environment and was focused solely on listening.

Overall, there’s enough here to satisfy both longtime fans and casual listeners. However, I don’t believe it will be regarded as anything more than just a slightly above average addition to Seether’s legacy.

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“Seether’s highly anticipated album, The Surface Seems So Far, is set to release on September 20, 2024. This marks the band’s ninth studio album, showcasing their signature blend of emotional depth and powerful rock sound. The album features tracks like “Judas Mind” and “Illusion,” crafted over an 18-month period, reflecting both personal experiences and the band’s evolution. With its unapologetically aggressive tone, The Surface Seems So Far promises to resonate with fans old and new, solidifying Seether’s place in the rock music landscape. Pre-orders are available now, allowing listeners to dive into this compelling new chapter of Seether’s musical journey.” (Perplexity)

Seether The Surface Seems So Far

Trivium + Bullet For My Valentine Announce Co-Headlining 2025 North America Tour

Today, heavy metal pioneers Bullet for My Valentine and Trivium announced their 2025 co-headlining “The Poisoned Ascendancy Tour,”featuring special guests August Burns Red across all dates, Sylosis, and Bleed From Within on select dates — see routing below.

The tour is in celebration of both bands prolific albums — Bullet for My Valentine’s The Poison and Trivium’s Ascendancy, which turn 20 years old in 2025. Each will be performed in their entirety on this tour. 

“We are super excited to announce we are coming back to the USA in 2025 with our friends Trivium, to bring you the ‘Poisoned Ascendancy Tour,'” says Bullet For My Valentine. “We’re going to be celebrating 20 years of our debut album The Poison and Trivium’s Ascendancy. It’s the metal tour of 2025, so don’t miss out.”

“This is a celebration for the old fans that were there at 9am at Ozzfest to catch a couple songs from a band in Iron Maiden shirts,” says Trivium. “It’s for the new fans that have been listening to the deep cuts but never caught them on a recent tour. And lastly, it’s for both BFMV and us to take a moment to reflect on how amazing these 20 years have been, how fast they’ve gone, and how important these albums are for the both of our bands. Having August Burns Red, Bleed From Within, and Sylosis joining us only makes this more special. We can’’t wait to play Ascendancy for you!”

Produced by Live Nation, the 26-city tour kicks off on March 30 at PNE Forum in Vancouver, BC making stops across North America in Las Vegas, Chicago, New York and more before wrapping up in Raleigh, NC at Red Hat Amphitheater on May 18. 

TICKETS: Tickets will be available starting with artist presales beginning Tuesday, September 17. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on sale beginning Friday, September 20 at local time here.

Limited VIP packages are available from both artists including a meet + greet. For more info on VIP packages please visit here.

THE POISONED ASCENDANCY 2025 TOUR DATES: 
3/30 — Vancouver, BC — PNE Forum#&
4/1 — Seattle, WA — Paramount Theatre#& 
4/3 — San Francisco, CA — The Masonic#& 
4/4 – Wheatland, CA — Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Sacramento — Hard Rock Live#&
4/5 — Reno, NV — Grand Sierra Resort*#&
4/8 — Denver, CO — Fillmore Auditorium#& 
4/10 — Las Vegas, NV — Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort#&
4/11 — Inglewood, CA — YouTube Theatre# 
4/12 — Phoenix, AZ — Arizona Financial Theatre#& 
4/15 — Dallas, TX – Gilley’s — South Side Ballroom#&
4/16 — San Antonio, TX — Boeing Center at Tech Port#&
4/17 — Houston, TX —  Bayou Music Center#&
4/19 — St. Louis, MO — The Factory#^ 
4/20 — Omaha, NE — Steelhouse Omaha#^ 
4/22 — Ashwaubenon, WI — EPIC Event Center*#^
4/23 — Grand Rapids, MI — GLC Live at 20 Monroe#^ 
4/25 — Prior Lake, MN — Mystic Lake Casino Hotel- Showroom*#
4/26 — Chicago, IL — Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom#^ 
4/27 — Detroit, MI — The Fillmore Detroit#^ 
4/29 — Pittsburgh, PA — Stage AE*#^
4/30 — Philadelphia, PA — The Fillmore Philadelphia#^ 
5/2 — Boston, MA — MGM Music Hall at Fenway#^ 
5/3 — Laval, QC — Place Bell#^
5/4 — Toronto, ON — Great Canadian Resort Theatre#^
5/6 — Washington, D.C. — The Anthem#^ 
5/7 — New York, NY — The Rooftop at Pier 17#^ 
5/9 — Bethlehem, PA — Wind Creek Bethlehem — Wind Creek Event Center#^
5/11 — Nashville, TN — The Pinnacle*#^
5/13 — Corbin, KY — Corbin Arena*#^
5/14 — Atlanta, GA — Coca-Cola Roxy Theatre#^ 
5/17 — Charlotte, NC — Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre#^ 
5/18 — Raleigh, NC — Red Hat Amphitheater#^ 

*Not A Live Nation Date
# August Burns Red
& Sylosis
^ Bleed From Within

Metallica To Headline Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival

Fans asked and Danny Wimmer Presents delivered—Metallica is headed to Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival for the first time ever in 2025! Metallica has been the #1 most requested act to play the destination event, and to celebrate the occasion, they are bringing two full headlining spots for a “No Repeat Weekend.” Metallica will close out both Friday and Sunday nights of the four-day festival weekend, taking place on May 8, 9, 10 & 11 at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.

This will be the band’s first time back to Columbus since 2017 and is their only appearance in the region in 2025. The partnership between Metallica and DWP began when the band headlined two nights with two unique sets at multiple DWP events in 2021, and DWP is thrilled to be able to bring them to Sonic Temple in 2025!

In addition to the band’s anticipated performances, fans will be able to enjoy a variety of Metallica onsite experiences all weekend long, including the BLACKENED Whiskey Bar and BLACKENED Burger Bar, featuring a collaboration between BLACKENED Whiskey, celebrity chef Chris Santos and Metallica. The BLACKENED Burger Bar is where exceptional spirits, culinary creations, and the power of music collide in a fusion of flavors and rock, receiving rave reviews as the favorite fan experience and food selection of DWP 2024 festivals.

A favorite onsite haunt, The Dive Bar, will also be back, along with the Sonic Temple live art program, which will be bigger than ever in 2025. Featured artists from last year’s art program include Terry Urban (who will be designing a limited-edition hoodie for Sonic Temple 2025), Jay HowellMonster Steve, Lamour Supreme and AWAL.

Fans can sign up now for the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival email list HERE to participate in the exclusive pass presale opportunity, which begins Monday, September 23 at Noon ET. Passes will go on sale to the general public beginning Wednesday, September 25 at 10 am ET and will include 2-Day Rock Royalty Reserved packages (with reserved seats for the first time in the history of the festival, as well as commemorative gifts). Columbus Owners Club and RV Camping purchasers will have the first chance to renew their passes for 2025 at 10 am ET on Monday as well.

“Every year we ask our fans who they want to see at Sonic Temple, and the answer this year was clear—Metallica! We’ve been trying to get Metallica to Sonic Temple for the last five years, and are ready to bring two nights of Metallica to Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio next May,” said Danny Wimmer, Founder of Danny Wimmer Presents. “This is just the start; we’ll have more than 100 bands playing across 4 stages for 4 days, including Rob Zombie and Alice In Chains in direct support for Metallica. We’re so excited about this lineup that we’ll be announcing artists daily for the next month, so there’s a lot for fans to look forward to.”

Watch the official Metallica x Sonic Temple 2025 festival announcement trailer here:

In addition to MetallicaDWP is pleased to announce two of the biggest artists in rock and metal will be playing in direct support: Rob Zombie on Friday, May 9 and Alice In Chains on Sunday, May 11. More than 100 bands will take the stage across the four-day weekend, for the biggest year ever of the Pinnacle of Rock Festivals in America. More acts, including two additional headliners, will be announced daily beginning September 20. Stay tuned to official Sonic Temple social media channels, website and app for the latest information.

Fans can enjoy the complete Sonic Temple experience with a 4-Day weekend pass, which will be available as Field GA, Stadium GA, VIP, as well as Columbus Owner’s Club pass. A limited number of 2-day Rock Royalty Reserved and 2-day Field and Stadium GA passes will be available as well. Single day suites will also be available.

In service of our fans, passes can be secured starting at $1 down, with 7 months to pay them off in full.

A limited number of RV camping sites will be available onsite. Fans can also book an official Sonic Temple festival hotel via Jampack, offering access to nearby hotels, shuttle service and other exclusives.

Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival is produced by Danny Wimmer Presents, one of the largest independent producers of destination music festivals in America. Now in its fourth year, Sonic Temple takes place at the Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio.

As fans eagerly await the return of Sonic Temple, why not celebrate Louder Than Life’s monumental 10th Anniversary next weekend in Louisville? This is your chance to join the celebration!  Both single-day and 4-day weekend passes are still available for purchase, and can be picked up on-site at the box office.  Don’t miss out on the ultimate Louder experience while you count down the days to Sonic Temple.

Jane’s Addiction Implodes Onstage | The Podcast That Rocked

The Podcast That Rocked for 9/17/24. Jane’s Addiction implodes on stage and cancels tour, Warped Tour returns in 2025(?), and more. 

Jane’s Addiction Implodes Onstage | The Podcast That Rocked on YouTube
Jane’s Addiction Implodes Onstage | The Podcast That Rocked on Spotify

Discussion Topics: 
-Jane’s Addiction implodes onstage after fight; band cancels tour 
-Warped Tour to return in 2025 
-Green Day goes Double Platinum with Dookie 
-Starset’s immersive live show 
-Upcoming albums, tours, and more. 

The Podcast That Rocked | Every Tuesday 8PM EST on https://www.youtube.com/@rockednet 

Jane’s Addiction Boston 9-13-2024 Perry Farrell Flips Out

Starset | Immersion: The Final Chapter LIVE #Shorts

Hosted by: 
Luke = https://www.instagram.com/rocked_net 
Alex = https://www.instagram.com/voiceofalex 
Rowan = https://www.instagram.com/bl3at0r 

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“During a recent concert in Boston, Jane’s Addiction faced a shocking onstage altercation that led to the cancellation of their entire reunion tour. The incident occurred on September 13, 2024, when lead singer Perry Farrell confronted guitarist Dave Navarro mid-performance, resulting in a physical fight that culminated with Farrell throwing a punch. This confrontation was captured on video and quickly circulated on social media, leaving fans in disbelief and questioning the band’s future. Following the altercation, the band announced the difficult decision to cancel the remainder of their tour due to ongoing concerns about Farrell’s mental health and the safety of performances. In their statement, they expressed deep regret for not being able to fulfill their commitments to fans, emphasizing the need for a break as a collective to prioritize well-being.” (Perplexity)

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