Italian metal titans Lacuna Coil announce their 10th studio album Sleepless Empire – their first collection of new songs since 2019’s Black Anima – with their new single “Oxygen”. “Oxygen” comes with a mesmerizing music video, filmed in Latina and directed by Daniele Tofani, that shows singer Cristina Scabbia in the lead role.
Cristina Scabbia commented on the track and her experience filming the video: “‘Oxygen’ is a powerful exploration of emotional struggle and inner conflict. The lyrics convey a sense of drowning in a toxic environment, both literally (in the video) and metaphorically, where attempts at salvation, represented by ‘oxygen’ are somehow futile. This song encapsulates the feeling of struggling to break free from what holds us down, when the journey is filled with difficulty. It’s a raw anthem of vulnerability, resilience, and the courage to face what seems insurmountable. Having to stay in the water for so many hours during the video shoot was cathartic for me, the realisation that the pleasant sensation of floating could in an instant become dangerous and deadly if I wasn’t careful was very fitting with the song’s theme.”
Inspiration to create Sleepless Empire came during the sessions for Comalies XX(2022), the acclaimed remake of their breakthrough record of the same title. Writing and recording took place in northern Italy between Milano (the band’s hometown) and Como, where SPVN Studios are located. As with their previous albums, production was done in house with Marco “Maki” Coti Zelati at the helm, and artwork was hand curated by the talented Italian artist Roberto Toderico. Two other very special talents enrich the album, namely the guest vocalists: Lamb of God‘s Randy Blythe on the song “Hosting the Shadow” and New Year’s Day‘s Ash Costello on “In The Mean Time”.
As a token of the band’s love for the gaming world (which we’ve seen in past endevours such as their card game “Horns Up” and their collaboration with Zombicide for which they wrote the track “Never Dawn”), the band have created an oracle “game” to be played with custom made dice available only in the box set version of Sleepless Empire.
The new album is comprised of 11 tracks; each one is a richly textured soundtrack to a specific time and place. With Sleepless Empire, that place is dark, cinematic, and unmistakably true to the unique characteristics that have given Lacuna Coil such a celebrated entry in the annals of heavy music. The band shares: “‘Sleepless Empire’ captures, through our eyes, the chaos of a generation trapped in a digital world that never stops, where social media consumes identity and every day pushes us one step closer to becoming soulless zombies. We find ourselves in between, having witnessed a full analogic world and the modern one, confronting the evolution and searching for a true meaning of it all. Throughout every song, the journey is an undercurrent of rebellion, a desperate cry to reclaim oneself in an era that seems to have lost its sense of time and reality.”
–Ltd. Deluxe CD Box Set with symbolic dice oracle –Ltd. CD Digipak –Ltd. CD Digipak (US version) –black LP & LP-Booklet –black LP & LP-Booklet (US version) –Ltd. white LP & LP-Booklet –Ltd. deep blood red LP & LP-Booklet (exclusive Sony Music Entertainment Italy version) –Ltd. Sparkle Rainbow LP & LP-Booklet –Ltd. transp. glow in the dark LP & LP-Booklet (exclusive band version) –black LP & LP-Booklet (US version) –Ltd. ultra clear LP & LP-Booklet (US version) –Ltd. silver LP & LP-Booklet (US version) –Digital album
Sleepless Empiretrack-listing
1. The Siege 2. Oxygen 3. Scarecrow 4. Gravity 5. I Wish You Were Dead 6. Hosting The Shadow (feat. Randy Blythe) 7. In Nomine Patris 8. Sleepless Empire 9. Sleep Paralysis 10. In The Mean Time (feat. Ash Costello) 11. Never Dawn
Later this month, Lacuna Coil will embark on their UK & Ireland headlining tour with Finnish nu metal group Blind Channel. Tickets are available here.
Summer festival dates to follow with more to be announced soon…
Lacuna Coil tour dates
w/ Blind Channel
October 12, 2024 – Lyon, France – Le Transbordeur Club October 15, 2024 – Belfast, Ireland – Limelight October 16, 2024 – Dublin, Ireland – Academy October 18, 2024 – Bournemouth, UK – O2 Academy October 20, 2024 – Manchester, UK – Academy October 21, 2024 – Glasgow, Scotland – SWG3 October 22, 2024 – Wolverhampton, UK – KK’S Steel Mill October 24, 2024 – Nottingham, UK – Rock City October 25, 2024 – London, UK – Roundhouse October 26, 2024 – Bristol, UK – O2 Academy
Lacuna Coil tour dates
June 6-8, 2025 – Metal Fest OpenAir – Czech Republic August 8, 2025 – Bloodstock Festival – England August 9-10, 2025 – M’era Luna Festival – Germany
The Podcast That Rocked for 10/8/24. Three Days Grace reunite with Adam Gontier while keeping Matt Walst, 30 Seconds To Mars VS YouTube, and more.
Three Days Grace With Two Singers? | The Podcast That Rocked on YouTube
Three Days Grace With Two Singers? | The Podcast That Rocked on Spotify
Thanks to Factor75 for sponsoring today’s podcast episode. Use my link to get 50% off your first Factor box and 20% off your next month of orders! https://strms.net/factor75_rockednet
Discussion Topics: -Three Days Grace with Two Singers -Fred Durst VS Universal Music Group -30STM VS YouTube -Ministry announce final album -Bewitcher accused of bank robbing -Carla Harvey explains leaving Butcher Babies -Poppy launches new “Variety” program -Albums/Tours/etc
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The Downfall Of 30 SECONDS TO MARS
Improbably Poppy | Official Teaser | Veeps
SEPTEMBER MOURNING – SPIT YOU OUT
“Three Days Grace has made waves in the rock music scene with the exciting announcement of Adam Gontier’s return to the band, alongside current lead vocalist Matt Walst. Gontier, who originally left the group in 2013 due to personal reasons, is now set to share vocal duties with Walst, creating a unique collaboration that fans have eagerly anticipated. Both singers expressed their enthusiasm about the reunion, with Gontier stating it felt “seamless” and like they had “picked up where we left off,” while Walst highlighted the inspiring experience of blending over 20 years of Three Days Grace’s legacy into new music. This unprecedented arrangement allows fans to enjoy the best of both worlds, as Gontier’s iconic voice from hits like “I Hate Everything About You” and “Never Too Late” merges with Walst’s contemporary sound. The band is currently working on new material, promising an exciting future for their dedicated fanbase.” (Perplexity)
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Three Days Grace With Two Singers? | The Podcast That Rocked
Sometimes rock star behavior is displayed in a total meltdown in front of a live audience. As a follow up to a previous video, this video looks at 10 INSANE Onstage Rock Star Meltdowns.
10 INSANE Onstage Rock Star Meltdowns
Thanks to Factor75 for sponsoring today’s video. Use my link to get 50% off your first Factor box and 20% off your next month of orders! https://strms.net/factor75_rockednet
“Onstage rock star meltdowns have become infamous for their chaotic and unpredictable nature, often captivating audiences and leaving a lasting impression. Ronnie Radke, the lead vocalist of Falling In Reverse, is known for his dramatic outbursts, including a notorious incident where he stormed off stage mid-performance, leaving fans bewildered and sparking discussions about his volatile behavior. Similarly, Perry Farrell, frontman of Jane’s Addiction, has had his share of meltdowns, notably during a performance where he confronted audience members directly, showcasing the raw emotions that can surface in the heat of the moment. These incidents highlight the intense pressure and emotional turmoil that rock stars can experience, turning what should be a celebratory event into a spectacle of frustration and unpredictability. Such meltdowns not only entertain but also serve as a reminder of the human side of these larger-than-life performers, revealing the struggles behind their rock star personas.” (Perplexity)
It’s as if Motley Crue were desperate to prove how edgy and cool they used to be forty years ago, tried to remind us, but actually don’t know how embarrassing they’ve become in 2024. Putting aside a hilariously cringe filled Beastie Boys cover, The Crue try everything from complaining about TikTok, January 6th riots, and the woke crusade. The EP works around Neil’s lack of vocal prowess, the music is like YouTube’s royalty free hard rock library, and the title track makes sure everyone know’ the worse thing about life is not being able to be bad because the internet will call you out on it. The efforts of John 5 are absolutely wasted here. We need to make a rescue mission to get him out of this nightmare, while Mick Mars laughs hysterically somewhere. The music and writing are not even out of touch, they are straight up outdated. I can’t believe how desperate this group has gotten. Just kidding it’s Vince Neil I totally believe it. Motley Crue, proud of never getting cancelled, is now proud of sounding like the embarrassing bar band that makes people leave.
Mötley Crüe Cancelled Album Review
Mötley Crüe “Cancelled”
“Mötley Crüe has made a significant return in 2024 with their latest EP, “Cancelled,” released on October 4. This three-track effort marks the band’s first new music in nearly three decades and features the title track, a cover of the Beastie Boys’ classic “(You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party!)”, and the previously released “Dogs of War,” which has already climbed to the Top 5 on rock radio charts124. Produced by Bob Rock, known for his work on their iconic album Dr. Feelgood, the EP showcases the band’s enduring energy and creativity, with a fresh sound that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners alike12. Alongside this release, Mötley Crüe has announced an exciting Las Vegas residency for 2025, promising immersive concerts that reflect their storied 40-year career24. The “Cancelled” EP not only revitalizes Mötley Crüe’s presence in the rock scene but also sets the stage for a thrilling future as they continue to captivate audiences worldwide.” (Perplexity)
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’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
___ Blood Incantation Absolute Elsewhere Album Review
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
“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)
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
“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)
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 Fatalismwhich 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.
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, 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
From the Runaljod albumtrilogy (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.
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)
