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The Used announce Fall Headlining Tour

the Used
Photo Credit: Anthony Tran

ock icons The Used have announced they will be hitting the road this fall on a cross-country headlining tour joined by special guests Sleeping With Sirens and Dead American. The tour will be making 24 stops throughout the United States, kicking off on September 5 in Birmingham and making stops in Boston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Denver, and more before wrapping up in Paso Robles on October 11. Tickets go on sale on June 30 at 10am local time.

For a full list of dates and to purchase tickets, please visit https://theused.net/

Upcoming The Used Tour Dates

June 28 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex^ (LOW TICKET WARNING)

June 29 – Reno, NV – Grand Theatre @ The Grand Sierra Resort^ (SOLD OUT)

July 1 – Irvine, CA – FivePoint Amphitheatre^ (SOLD OUT)

July 2 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre^ (SOLD OUT)

September 5 – Birmingham, AL – Avondale Brewing Company#

September 6 – Myrtle Beach, SC – House Of Blues#

September 8 – Harrisburg, PA – Southside Stage Harrisburg#

September 9 – Alton, VA – Blue Ridge Rock Festival*

September 12 – Buffalo, NY – Buffalo Riverworks#

September 13 – Boston, MA – Roadrunner#

September 15 – Sterling Heights, MI – Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre @ Freedom Hill#

September 16 – Indianapolis, IN – White River State Park#

September 17 – Chicago, IL – Riot Fest*

September 19 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore#

September 20 – Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theater#

September 22 – Maryland Heights, MO – Saint Louis Music Park#

September 23 – Omaha, NE – Steelhouse Omaha#

September 25 – Tulsa, OK – The Criterion#

September 27 – Flagstaff, AZ – Fort Tuthill Park – Pepsi Amphitheater#

September 28 – Las Vegas, NV – House of Blues#

September 30 – Riverside, CA – Riverside Municipal Auditorium!

October 1 – Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Sacramento – Hard Rock Live#

October 3 – Grand Junction, CO – Las Colonias Park Amphitheater#

October 4 – Denver, CO – The Mission Ballroom#

October 7 – Seattle, WA – Showbox SoDo#

October 8 – Garden City, ID – Revolution Concert House#

October 10 – San Francisco, CA – Fox Theatre#

October 11 – Paso Robles, CA – Vina Robles Amphitheatre#

* Festival Appearance

^ w/ Don Broco + girlfriends

# w/ Sleeping With Sirens + Dead American

! w/ Dead American only

The Used’s recently released their newest album, Toxic Positivity. Described as a “day-in-the-life journey of a depressed, anxiety-ridden person” by vocalist Bert McCracken, the tell-all record shares the highs and lows of depression and addiction through a cohesive body of work, speaking to the ever-changing headspace that he was experiencing at the time of writing. “This record is quite tough for me to listen to,” he adds, “because it’s a reflection of times in my life that have been some of my lowest ever.”

The album has gained notice by outlets like Loudwire, KNOTFEST, New Noise Magazine, Lambgoat, Alternative Press, Celeb Secrets, and more, and “Giving Up” is currently in rotation on SiriusXM’s Alt Nation.

Fans can stream Toxic Positivity now at https://theused.ffm.to/toxicpositivity

Sleeping With Sirens released their most recent album, Complete Collapse, in October 2022. The sixth studio album finds the band continuing to hone their mix of unflinchingly honest lyricism, unforgettable riffs, and pulse- pounding percussion while boldly exploring new creative frontiers. On Complete Collapse, Sleeping With Sirens cut straight to the bone, as they process life in modern times.

For as long as he can remember, McCracken has used music as an outlet to lay bare his innermost thoughts and emotions. For 23 years, that writing has enabled The Used to deeply resonate with fans the world over. Exploding off the back of universally adored rock anthems such as “The Taste Of Ink,” “Take It Away” and “Pretty Handsome Awkward,” the many millions of streams and record sales (including the platinum-certified The Used and In Love And Death) their career has yielded are one thing; the human connection formed between artist and audience is priceless, however. To that end alone, The Used can consider themselves four of the luckiest and richest men in music.

Toxic Positivity speaks of the strength of the band’s collective collaboration and also their innate, unquenchable thirst to create. “I think we have no choice but to write and write and write,” says McCracken. “It has always just been in us, and we’ve had to get it out. I read a quote once that said you either work your entire lifetime on four great pieces, or you write thousands of pieces and become great that way. Everything that we feel, I think it always makes for a good song.

In that regard, McCracken is humble to a fault, for the simple fact that the songs within Toxic Positivity are far more than merely good songs. They mark the latest chapter in a truly great career. And, like those that have come before them, they will truly matter. 

Follow The Used:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Best Music Of 2023 (So Far) 

A casual look at some of the best music of 2023 (so far) in rock, metal, alternative, indie, and more.

Best Music Of 2023 (So Far)

Click here for a video on the
Top 10 WORST 2000s Rock Bands
(according to Google Bard)

Check out links to music discussed below:

Avatar – “The Dirt I’m Buried In” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JPtxtSK-Cs 


BABYMETAL – “Metalizm” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gz9_j1SpX5E 

Baroness – “Last Word” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7vROjNY9Gk 

boygenius – “Not Strong Enough” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bIX_ouNJsTs 

Enforced – “Hanged By My Hand” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1kHtoirxX8 

Foo Fighters – “Rescued” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hgBqnHGXTUw 

Future Palace – “Malphas” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfgEGrxysUc 

Knocked Loose – “Deep In The Willow/Everything Is Quiet Now” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4KYH7LK2_0 

Linkin Park – “Lost” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NK_JOkuSVY 

Periphery – “Wildfire” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pFKSiOkRzb4 

Powerwolf – “No Prayer At Midnight” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmcz6sCFvN4 

Scowl – “Shot Down” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuLQhr9Y5eo

Sleep Token – “Vore” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zDjAtG_y5A 

Spiritbox – “The Void” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hRgHHuk3hc 

3TEETH ft. Mick Gordon – “Merchant Of The Void” = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ty0WY3G-HUw 

Check out more of our videos below: 
Top 10 BEST 2000s Rock Bands (from Google Bard) = https://youtu.be/y4CqbNOTCiU 
10 Awful Rock Star Interviews = https://youtu.be/Oht9LLa1kM8 
Top 10 WORST Metal Albums Ever (from Google Bard) = https://youtu.be/H0DxIaaUIO0 
Top 10 BEST Debut Rock Albums = https://youtu.be/OWs2Szn4o1A

Motley Crue + MGK = HELL | The Podcast That Rocked

The Podcast That Rocked for 6/23/23. MGK joined Motley Crue in Hell (fest), Noel Gallagher Bashes GNR, Rob Halford supports Josh Kiszka of Greta Van Fleet, and more. 

Motley Crue + MGK = HELL | The Podcast That Rocked on YouTube
Motley Crue + MGK = HELL | The Podcast That Rocked on Spotify

Discussion Notes: 
0:00 – MGK joined Motley Crue on stage at Hellfest 
2:41 – Noel Gallagher bashes Oasis over Glastonbury 
4:09 – Rob Halford supports Josh Kiszka in LGBTQ+ 
5:35 – Baroness announce STONE 
6:39 – Dethklok announce Dethalbum IV 
7:51 – Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart is stuck 
8:17 – Thank you YouTube Members and Patrons

Click here for a video on the
Top 10 BEST Debut Metal Albums!

Motley Crue “The Dirt” with Machine Gun Kelly, Hellfest 2023
Baroness “Last Word”
Dethklok “Aortic Desecration”

Thanks to everyone who has been downloading/streaming the podcast weekly. I looked up audio analytics and saw that the podcast is doing well on Apple Podcasts. If you can leave a review for the show, that would help a ton. It’s free to do and only takes a minute. Until then, we hope to see you all on New Music Night every Sunday at 7PM on Twitch.

___

From Google Bard: “The Podcast That Rocked is a music podcast that covers news, interviews, and deep dives into the world of rock, metal, alternative, and everything in between. The podcast is hosted by Luke Spencer, who is also the editor-in-chief of Rocked.net.

The Podcast That Rocked is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. The podcast is also available on the Rocked.net website.

If you’re a fan of rock music, then you should definitely check out The Podcast That Rocked. It’s a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest news, hear interviews with your favorite artists, and learn more about the history of rock music.”

ASKING ALEXANDRIA Reveal First Official Radio Single “Psycho” Music Video

Asking Alexandria
Credit: Danny Worsnop

#1 Active Rock radio-charting British rock outfit ASKING ALEXANDRIA have established themselves as one of the most important rock bands of this generation through years of hard touring, four RIAA Gold-certified singlestwo #1 albums and several Top 10 hits. The band—Ben Bruce (lead guitar), Danny Worsnop (vocals), Cameron Liddell (rhythm guitar), Sam Bettley (bass) and James Cassells (drums)—will release their anticipated eighth full-length studio album WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? this fall via Better Noise Music. The album’s debut track “Dark Void” was released in May and saw the band return to their metalcore beginnings has already amassed 5 million streams and 1 million video views to date. ASKING ALEXANDRIA have today (June 16) shared the album’s electrified first official radio single “Psycho” along with releasing the vindictive, heavy-hitting track “Bad Blood across digital platforms. Stream both tracks HERE. Watch the “Psycho” music video below or directly via YouTube HERE.

“‘Psycho’ is one of those songs that is talking about when you feel trapped inside your own head, trapped by your own vices and your own downfalls,” explains BRUCE. “Whether it’s being stuck in a relationship that doesn’t work for you, or feeling like you can’t stop drinking or doing drugs, or maybe you’re stuck in a job that you hate, and you’re just battling yourself in your own head wondering ‘why am I still here? Why do I keep doing these things?’. Ultimately, at the end of the day we all feel a little bit crazy…a little bit like a Psycho. It’s just a fun song that we can all relate to, and stylistically we thought to ourselves ‘how do we make a song that sounds like it could live on the ‘Like A House On Fire’ album, but also like it could live on the ‘From Death to Destiny’ album?’. So musically, from a writing standpoint, it was a really enjoyable experience to meld those two eras of Asking Alexandria together and see what that might look like.”

Earlier this week ASKING ALEXANDRIA announced a co-headlining tour with THE HU, the acclaimed Mongolian rock sensation and Better Noise Music labelmates. The “Psycho Thunder” tour will kick off this fall and also includes labelmates Bad Wolves and opening act Zero 9:36. Tickets are on sale now at https://www.askingalexandria.com. The UK-based rockers will make their way overseas in July for three festival appearances—Rock Fest (WI), Inkcarceration Festival (OH) and Louder Than Life (KY)—before the co-headlining tour commences August 30 in San Antonio, TX. Throughout the trek, which ends October 8 in Los AngelesASKING ALEXANDRIA will appear on additional festival dates including Rocklahoma (OK), Blue Ridge Rock Festival (VA), and Louder Than Life (KY). See full dates listed below.

ASKING ALEXANDRIA Tour Dates:

6/16   Dessel, BE – Graspop *

6/17   Clisson, FR – Hellfest *

6/19   Bochum, DE – Zeche Bochum

6/20   Leipzig, DE – Taubchenthal

6/22   Oslo, NO – Tons of Rock

6/24   Nummijarvi, FI – Nummirock *

6/26   Tallinn, ES – Helitehas

6/27   Riga, LT – Palladium Riga

6/28   Vilnius, LI – Loftas

6/30   Warsaw, PL – Progresja

7/2     Budapest, HU – Budapest Park

7/4     Bucuresti, RO – Quantic Club

7/8     Malakasa, GR – Rockwave Festival *      

7/14   Cadott, WI – Rock Fest *

7/15   Mansfield, OH – Inkcarceration Festival *

7/21   Louisville, KY – Louder Than Life *

8/30   San Antonio, TX – Boeing Center at Tech Port #

9/1     Dallas, TX – The Factory In Deep Ellum #

9/2     Pryor, OK – Rocklahoma *

9/3     Houston, TX – 713 Music Hall #

9/5     Atlanta, GA – The Eastern #

9/7     Baltimore, MD – Rams Head Live #

9/8     Philadelphia, PA – Franklin Music Hall #

9/9     Alton, VA – Blue Ridge Rock Festival *

9/11   New York, NY – Terminal 5 #

9/12   Boston, MA – House of Blues #

9/13   Bethlehem, PA – The Wind Creek Event Center #

9/15   Harrisburg, PA – Harrisburg Midtown Arts Center #

9/16   Johnstown, PA – 1st Summit Arena at Cambria County War Memorial #

9/17   Sayreville, NJ – Starland Ballroom #

9/19   Cleveland, OH – TempleLive #

9/20   Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit #

9/22   Ft Wayne, IN – Piere’s Entertainment Center #

9/23   Louisville, KY – Louder Than Life *

9/25   Chesterfield, MO – The Factory #

9/26   Chicago, IL – Riviera Theatre #

9/27   Greenbay, WI – EPIC Event Center #

9/29   Milwaukee, WI – The Rave/ Eagles Club #

10/1   Council Bluffs, IA – Harrah’s Stir Cove #

10/3   Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium #

10/4   Salt Lake City, UT – The Union #

10/7   Las Vegas, NV – The Industrial Sound #

10/8   Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern #

# “Psycho Thunder Tour” with The HU, Bad Wolves and Zero 9:36

* Festival Date 

Follow ASKING ALEXANDRIA online at:
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | YouTube | Spotify | Deezer | Tidal | Apple Music | Amazon

SEVENDUST Release Music Video for “Holy Water” from Upcoming 14th Album

Sevendust
photo credit: Chuck Brueckmann

With their latest single “Everything” currently in the Top 25 at Active Rock radio and celebrating weeks as one of the top most-added songs at the format, GRAMMY® Award-nominated SEVENDUST is releasing another piece of music for fans. “Holy Water” is the new song being released from Truth Killer – the band’s 14th studio album slated for worldwide release on July 28  via Napalm Records.

“Holy Water” is an upbeat rocker that is now available via all digital service providers. The band – Lajon Witherspoon, Clint Lowery, John Connolly, Vince Hornsby and Morgan Rose – have filmed a music video that captures the same passion that SEVENDUST delivers with their unforgettable live performances. The video is the second clip directed by J.T. Ibanez (P.O.D., Loveless, Orianthi) for the Truth Killer release.

From the introspective opening of “I Might Let The Devil Win” to the classic SEVENDUST sound of “Fence,” the twelve songs on Truth Killer demonstrate that the band sounds as relevant today as they did on their 1997 self-titled debut. “Truth Killer,” “No Revolution” and “Holy Water” combine elements of the classic SEVENDUST sound with modern updates, pointing their lyrical lens at the world today and showcasing the musical diversity that has won the band a legion of loyal fans. The first song released was the album closer, “Fence,” accompanied by a claymation music video directed and animated by Ollie Jones. 

The band also released a music video for “Everything” – the first official single from Truth Killer – that was directed by J.T. Ibanez and can be seen here. Producer, friend and collaborator Michael “Elvis” Baskette returned to produce Truth Killer.

Pre-Order Truth Killer HERE

Truth Killer tracklisting:
1. I Might Let the Devil Win
2. Truth Killer
3. Won’t Stop the Bleeding
4. Everything
5. No Revolution
6. Sick Mouth
7. Holy Water
8. Leave Hell Behind
9. Superficial Drug
10. Messenger
11. Love and Hate
12. Fence

SEVENDUST Truth Killer will be available in the following formats:
-1CD 6p. Digisleeve
-1LP Gatefold Vinyl BLACK       
-1LP Gatefold Vinyl MINT – North American retail Only           
-1LP Gatefold Vinyl *Die Hard* MARBLED BLUE/WHITE/BLACK (Slipmat, Record Butler) – Napalm Mail Order Only, limited to 300
-1LP Gatefold Vinyl GLOW IN THE DARK – Band Mail Order Only, limited to 500
-1LP Gatefold Vinyl CURACAO TRANSPARENT – Band Mail Order Only, limited to 500
-1LP Gatefold Vinyl GOLD – Band Mail Order Only, limited to 500
-1LP Gatefold Vinyl ORANGE TRANSPARENT – Band Mail Order Only, limited to 500
-Music Cassette NEON YELLOW TRANSPARENT – Napalm Mail Order Only
-1CD 6p. Digisleeve + Shirt “Truth Killer” Bundle – Napalm Mail Order Only
-Digital Album

With a reputation as being one of the best live bands and recently making headlines as the band you “don’t ever, ever, ever want to go on after,” SEVENDUST is getting ready to begin a long run of tour dates to support Truth Killer. The tour resumes in August with Alter Bridge and Mammoth WVH. The band also recently announced the Machine Killer Tour – a co-headline run with Static-X – that is a reunion run that is over two decades in the making kicking off in October. As a band who loves to bring the music to their fans live, 2023/2024 will be busy years for SEVENDUST. More information on all upcoming tour dates and ticket and VIP info can be found here: https://sevendust.com/pages/tour

SEVENDUST 2023 Tour Dates:
Aug 1 – Buffalo, NY – Outer Harbor Event Complex *
Aug 2 – Asbury Park, NJ – Stone Pony Summer Stage *
Aug 4 – Charles Town, WV – The Event Center at Hollywood Casino *
Aug 5 – Grantville, PA – Hollywood Casino Outdoors *
Aug 7 – Richmond, VA – Virginia Credit Union LIVE! *
Aug 8 – Cleveland, OH – Jacobs Pavilion *
Aug 10 – Quebec City, QC – Agora Port de Québec *
Aug 12 – Mashantucket, CT – The Premier Theater (at Foxwoods Resort Casino) *
Aug 13 – Johnstown, PA – 1st Summit Arena *
Aug 17 – Fayetteville, AR – JJ’s Live *
Aug 19 – Corpus Christi, TX – Concrete Street Amphitheater *
Aug 20 – San Antonio, TX – Boeing Center at Tech Port *
Aug 22 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre *
Aug 23 – Cincinnati, OH – Andrew J Brady Music Center *
Aug 25 – Grand Rapids, MI – GLC Live at 20 Monroe *
Aug 26 – Milwaukee, WI – The Eagles Ballroom *
Aug 28 – Fargo, ND – Outdoors at Fargo Brewing *
Aug 29 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore *
Aug 31 – Council Bluffs, IA – Harrah’s Stir Concert Cove * 

October 6 – Houston, TX – 713 Music Hall ^
October 7 – Dallas, TX – The Factory Deep Ellum ^
October 8 – Little Rock, AR – The Hall ^
October 10 – Atlanta, GA – The Tabernacle ^
October 11 –  Murfreesboro, TN – Outside at Hop Springs ^
October 13 – Greensboro, NC – Piedmont Hall ^
October 14 – Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore ^
October 15 – Lancaster, PA – Freedom Hall ^
October 17 –  Detroit, MI – The Fillmore ^
October 18 – Ft. Wayne, IN – The Clyde ^
October 19 – Gary, IN -– The Hard Rock ^
October 20 – Clive, IA – Horizon Event Center ^
October 22 – Chesterfield, MO – The Factory ^
October 23 – Kansas City, MO – The Midland Theatre ^
October 24 – Tulsa, OK – The Tulsa Theatre ^
October 26 – Denver, CO – The Fillmore Auditorium ^
October 27 – Albuquerque, NM – REVEL ^
October 28 – El Paso, TX – Speaking Rock ^
October 30 – Tempe, AZ – The Marquee ^
October 31 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues ^
November 1 – Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern  ^

* Opening for Alter Bridge
Machine Killer Tour with Static-X, dope, Lines of Loyalty

Follow Sevendust:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Youtube

Slipknot “Live at MSG” Vinyl Coming August 18

SLIPKNOT LIVE AT MSG DOUBLE VINYL SET TO BE RELEASED AUGUST 18 
WITH EXCLUSIVE PACKAGING + COLORWAYS 

Slipknot has always bent the world to its own collective will. One of the countless examples occurred on February 5, 2009, when the band did what few could have predicted when they’d started: Slipknot headlined the World’s Most Famous Arena — Madison Square Garden. The band’s MSG set is now the stuff of legend, being on the heels of the band’s first Number One album in the U.S. (All Hope Is Gone), and only months before they would headline the UK’s Download Festival for the first time. The New York City show was eight months and nine countries into the All Hope Is Gone World Tour, and as such, their performance was ruthless and jaw-dropping, and a perfect document of the era for the band.  

On August 18, the concert will be made available for the first time ever on vinyl to celebrate the 15th anniversary of Slipknot’s fourth album, 2008’s chart-topping and influential All Hope Is Gone.

Pre-orders are available here.

Click here for a video on the
Top 10 BEST Debut Metal Albums!

The release will feature new art by the band’s M. Shawn (clown) Crahan.

The limited edition, custom-colored vinyl was hand-selected by the band.  

The variants are as follows:
All Retail: Black 
Knotfest Exclusive 1: Coke Bottle Clear With Silver Splatter
Knotfest Exclusive 2: Light Blue With Silver Splatter
D2C Exclusive 1: Clear With Silver Splatter
D2C Exclusive 2: Lemonade With Silver Splatter
D2C 3: Black Ice With Silver Splatter

TRACK LISTING:
SIDE A:

A1. (sic)[3:55]
A2. Eyeless [4:15]
A3. Wait And Bleed [2:44]
A4. Get This [4:28]

SIDE B:
B1. Before I Forget [4:22]
B2. The Blister Exists [6:37]
B3. Dead Memories [4:03]
B4. Left Behind [3:28]

SIDE C:
C1. Disasterpiece [5:09]
C2. Purity [6:26]
C3. Everything Ends [4:22]
C4. Psychosocial [5:41]

SIDE D:
D1. Duality [5:26]
D2. People = Shit [4:10]
D3. Surfacing [4:49]
D4. Spit It Out [7:35]

___

From Google Bard: “Slipknot is an American heavy metal band formed in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1995. The band’s current lineup consists of Shawn Crahan (percussion, backing vocals), Sid Wilson (turntablism, sampling), Mick Thomson (guitar), Corey Taylor (lead vocals), James Root (guitar), Alessandro Venturella (bass), and Jay Weinberg (drums).

The band has been known for its distinctive visual appearance, which features nine members wearing individual masks and jumpsuits. The masks have become a signature part of the band’s image, and each member has their own unique mask that reflects their personality and role in the band.”

IDLES Bring Joy As A Live Act To The National

A strong beat and strobe lights. Those were the constants of last night’s sold-out performance from IDLES at The National. Whether it was Joe Talbot directing the crowd into two sides, or the band dancing on stage to the percussion, the strong beat and strobe lights kept going on stage for over an hour in Richmond, VA.

From that opening beat, there was a quick energy that lasted through the night. Only two songs in and there were crowd surfers and a guitarist playing on the barricade. A long setlist and even more sweat were given out at the venue. This was my first time seeing IDLES and the most noticeable feature was how good the band sounded live. This is a group that can match their clarity and performance from the studio to a live audience without needing any assistance.

Along with that clear sound, it also sounded raw. This was a concert from talented individuals who felt the music and were able to provide the experience without a heavy backtrack. It proves that punk (or whatever classification you want to give to a band like IDLES) can still exist in a time where AI-assisted music and laptop-created backtracks are taking over stages. If anything, IDLES proved last night why a raw performance stands out better than something artificial.

Click here for a video on
10 AWFUL Rock Star Interviews

IDLES Live At The National
IDLES “GREAT”

https://www.facebook.com/idlesband/
https://www.instagram.com/idlesband/

___

From Google Bard: “IDLES are a British rock band formed in Bristol in 2009. The band consists of Joe Talbot (vocals), Mark Bowen (guitar), Lee Kiernan (guitar), Adam Devonshire (bass) and Jon Beavis (drums). They have released four albums: Brutalism (2017), Joy as an Act of Resistance (2018), Ultra Mono (2020), and Crawler (2021).

IDLES are known for their energetic live performances, their politically charged lyrics, and their blend of post-punk, hardcore, and electronica. They have been praised by critics for their originality, their raw energy, and their ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.”

Vexed – Negative Energy | Album Review

Panic. Labored breathing. An overbearing ominous feeling. Seconds later, VEXED drops in with an intensity to reel you in on their album opener, “PTSD”. For the Napalm Records signees, the three-piece is one of the fresher bands on the scene, but one that commands attention to every new listen. After sharing the stage with the likes of Spiritbox, Static Dress, Caskets, and more, with only four years under their belt so far, VEXED have risen from up-and-comers and have plenty of eyes and ears on them in 2023. With sophomore LP Negative Energy finally arriving, their year’s set to be a big one, with Tech Fest and Misery Loves Company shows on the way.

Lead single “Anti-Fetish” bends the hell out of some notes in its opening riff before we get the first taste of Megan Targett with a voracious vocal delivery. Of the single, the band shares: “Anti fetish is us confronting the constant comparisons and ungrounded hate that bands receive. It’s become completely accepted in the scene to cross the line of constructive criticism and just dive bomb into hatred and prejudice. This song is us setting the record straight by calling out the blatant discrimination.” In a scene obsessed with calling records “mid” and punching down, VEXED stands tall and content in supreme metallic hardcore form. Lyrically, “We don’t talk about it” paints a picture of suppression vs. the necessitation to have an outlet. Sonically, it benefits from an accompanying hi-hat ride to not just be a straight up -core track.

“X my <3 (Hope to die)” shows off some range from Targett and continues the groove well, but perhaps leans into its theme a bit too comfortably. Alternatively, “Panic Attack” sounds just like that with a monstrous riff from the opening seconds and a blistering vocal speed in its verse; verbalizing the loss of control with a chaotic instrumental backdrop feels accurate and succinct. VEXED’s best breakdown on Negative Energy goes to “Lay down your flowers” which gave me a swift kick to the teeth right before a Sabian Lynch (Alpha Wolf) feature that fits like a glove. “There’s no place like home” throws in some record scratches aplenty, so don’t be shocked to see this banger hit the “nu_metal moment” rotation.

VEXED is at their peak when they’re pumping out fast-paced, virulent tempos, and that’s the stage set on “Extremist”. On the other hand, in the back half of Negative Energy, songs like “Default”, where singing and melody sneaks its way in, there’s certainly some depth that the group could serve to explore more instead of a non-stop onslaught. There’s no too much of a good thing, but variety is the spice of 13-track albums – and I was surprised to see this vulnerability come to fruition after eight straight heaters. Single “Trauma Euphoria” has the chorus fans will be shouting back live, still bringing the heavy everywhere else in the track, including a well-placed guitar solo to close it out. A six-minute procedural in “It’s not the end” makes it the highlight song on Negative Energy, stretching out VEXED’s creativity and scope into a stellar listen.

VEXED wraps up Negative Energy with a soft instrumental “DMT” ahead of closer “Nepotism”. Not afraid to showcase their brutality one last time, it’s the lyrical icing on the cake, taking privilege to task and making a mockery of it. The track placement is curious, as I would have placed this with the heavy front-end of the album and had “DMT” end the flow more smoothly, but at the end of the day, there’s no weak tracks on Negative Energy. It’s evidence that VEXED may be young, but they’re hungry and show a talent that meets and can even exceed bands who have been doing it three or four times as long as them. I’m excited for VEXED’s future, as Napalm Records has found a gem and has well-put faith in them.

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Vexed Releases New Song “Trauma Euphoria”

UK Alt-Metal Act VEXED Releases Dynamic Third Single “Trauma Euphoria”
& Official Music Video | Watch HERE!

New Album, Negative Energy, out this Friday, June 23 via Napalm Records | Pre-Order NOW!

UK alt-metal band VEXED have revealed their third new single, the dynamic “Trauma Euphoria”, together with an official music video! This Friday, the fast-rising act will drop their aggressive new offering, Negative Energy – the successor to their disturbingly honest, highly-lauded debut, Culling Culture.

Standout track “Trauma Euphoria” features some of the most impressive guitar work on the new album – heavier than ever before. Gifted lead vocalist Megan Targett’s brutal growls and beautiful, crystal clear clean vocals create an impactful contrast, captivating the listener.

Vexed “Trauma Euphoria”

Megan Targett on “Trauma Euphoria”:
“Experiencing a traumatic event or grieving a major loss comes with a myriad of feelings. Denial, depression, anger and sadness are the most common ones you hear about. However, there is one that I’ve found nobody speaks of; Euphoria. Small moments of time where you forget that you’re grieving and slip back into the person you were before the event. It’s like a euphoric experience that’s heightened by the fact your brain hasn’t felt any hit of dopamine in such a long time.

However, that sudden realization when you remember the trauma and snap out of the high has you crashing 10X harder. Feelings of guilt and shame take over and you fall deeper into the dark depths of your depression and grief. This dark place becomes a safe space in your mind, as leaving it can cause more pain and isn’t worth the fall. You can become addicted to suffering and this song is a love letter to it.”

Negative Energy Tracklisting:
1. PTSD
2. Anti-Fetish
3. We don’t talk about it
4. X my <3 (Hope to die)
5. Panic attack
6. Lay down your flowers
7. There’s no place like home
8. Extremist
9. Default
10. Trauma Euphoria
11. It’s not the end
12. DMT
13. Nepotism

Haunting intro track “PTSD” sets a stage of dread for the carnage to come, building up to the all-consuming, panic-stricken lead riff of crushing single “Anti-Fetish”. Blistering with disorderly intensity, VEXED confront the constant comparisons and ungrounded hate that bands receive. “We don’t talk about it” – featuring pitch-shifted verses emulating a disguised voice – explores childhood trauma and survivor’s guilt. “Panic attack” centers on mental health issues, representing terror and frustration through heavy riffs and grooving vocals. Furious “Lay down your flowers” (feat. Alpha Wolf vocalist Lochie Keogh) showcases extreme vocals and bombarding drums, while disturbingly groovy following track “There’s no place like home” draws inspiration from ‘The Wizard of Oz’. The unbelievably heavy “Extremist” gets straight to the point, kicking off with fast and demanding vocal rhythms, while “Default”, on the other hand, displays multifaceted lead singer-to-watch Megan Targett’s high-soaring clean vocals juxtaposed against her menacing deep growls. The album’s most emotional offering, “It’s Not The End”, serves as a magnificent dedication to a loved one passing away while manifesting their legacy, before sliding into instrumental interlude “DMT” – cradled by lo-fi beats with hints of 808, delivered in fresh VEXED style. Intense album finale “Nepotism” wraps up Negative Energy with a knot of rage before slowly fading out into darkness. Negative Energy proves itself as a stunning, devastating musical conduit – ventilating the band’s pain-stricken burdens and breathing life into their fresh approach, delivered with a vengeance.

Negative Energy achieves pinnacle musicianship and gripping, profound and brave lyricism. Instead of opting for forced positivity like many of their contemporaries, the Hertfordshire three-piece channel every ounce of their Negative Energy into these 13 tracks – recharging themselves for an uphill battle. 
 
The band states:             
“We are so proud to present to you our second album. Since our first release, we have each endured traumatic experiences, surrounded by death, betrayal, pain and grief.  In order to find any strength, we first had to accept that we weren’t okay, then take our trauma and face it head on, sharing our vulnerability, fears and weaknesses.  Instead of forcing ourselves to try and be positive we put all our negative energy into the album in order to begin our own repair and to overcome.”

VEXED is:
Megan Targett – Vocals
Jay Bacon – Guitar
Willem Mason-Geraghty – Drums
 
VEXED online:
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Website
Napalm Records

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From Google Bard: “Vexed is a British alt-metal band from Hertfordshire, England. They formed in 2016 and released their debut album, Culling Culture, in 2021. The album was met with critical acclaim, with many reviewers praising the band’s brutal sound and honest lyrics.

Vexed’s music is a fusion of heavy metal, hardcore, and alternative rock. Their sound is characterized by their aggressive guitars, pounding drums, and raw vocals. Their lyrics often deal with dark themes such as death, betrayal, and pain.

The band’s current lineup consists of vocalist and guitarist Ben Carter, bassist Matt Wilkinson, and drummer Tom Ashton. They are signed to Napalm Records and have toured extensively throughout Europe and the United States.

In 2023, Vexed released their second album, Negative Energy. The album is even heavier and more aggressive than their debut, and it continues to explore the band’s dark and personal themes. Negative Energy has been met with critical acclaim, and it has been praised for its brutal sound and powerful lyrics.

Vexed is one of the most exciting new bands in heavy music. They are a force to be reckoned with, and their music is sure to leave a lasting impression.”

Kvelertak Share “Skoggangr” Video

Your favorite punked-up, black metal-adjacent, classic rock-worshipping Norwegian group KVELERTAK are back! Their new album Endling arrives on September 8 via Rise Records/Petroleum Records. Pre-order it here.

The band has shared the lyric video for “Skoggnagr.” Watch it here

“‘Skoggangr’ was the first song we wrote for Endling. It’s a song about Helmut Von Botnlaus, whose life history and written records have inspired many of the lyrics on the album,” the band explains. “It all takes place in the heathlands and mountain area of the south-west coast of Norway, where  Helmut was born. This is where he spent most of his secluded life, living off what the earth can provide him with while fighting anyone trying to destroy the surrounding nature. Wind 
turbine and real estate developers, look out!”

“From Lindtjørnsknuten I keep watch, looking towards Bjerkreim where the war is lost. String my bow, sacrifice a tick, stomping to the beat of an old slått.”  —Helmut  

Thematically, the album continues on the path of 2020’s critically acclaimed Splid — which received press accolades from Stereogum, MetalSucks, Kerrang!, Revolver, Invisible Oranges, Blabbermouth, Guitar World, and more — by delving further into local lore and legend, though guitarist Vidar Landa summed it up best. “On Endling, we tell the stories of the extinct and dying men and women of Norway. Old and new myths, culture, and rituals come to life — the folklore that doesn’t fit a TV series concept. Vikings and trolls are for television. This is the real deal.”

 “As the sun fell, at the time when oxen are unyoked, following the trail cut by the footsteps of Rasmus Vardal, the marauders of rock came riding again, screaming Kielland is dead, long live Kielland!,” exclaims the band.

ENDLING TRACK LISTING:
Krøterveg Te Helvete
“Fedrekult”
“Likvoke”
“Motsols”
“Døgeniktens Kvad”
“Endling”
“Skoggangr”
“Paranoia 297”
“Svart September”
“Morild”

Follow Kvelertak:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram