Sludge/Stoner Metallers HEALER Release New Song RED WAVES And Announce New EP 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 out on July 10th! (Fléau Records/Ace Of Wands)

HEALER is something of an all-star band on the Tours sludge scene. Founded in late 2022, it brings together former members of Verbal Razors, Toekan, Beyond The Styx, and Crack House, who indulge in a french importation of the sound and intent of the Savannah, Georgia USA sludge scene. A precise and meticulously crafted confrontation of heavy, anvil-like riffs gives way to highly effective melodies. The resulting atmospheres are heavy and tormented, yet captivating. This alternation extends to the vocals of Jibus and Hardno, the raspy register of one occasionally contrasted with the clearer, more ethereal tone of the other.

Following Deconstruction, released last year and composed in the same creative burst, Desolation is the second installment in a trilogy of EPs. And it's safe to say that it already have what it takes to comfortably establish the band as a new force to be reckoned with on the French heavy scene. These 17 minutes deliver a relentless barrage of blows, fueled by punk and hardcore aggression, while also offering moments of sheer heaviness and dissonance from doom metal. 

This formula proves more than fitting for the true atonement undertaken by HEALER, who, through this saga, strive to illuminate childhood traumas. This is particularly evident in the lens of overachieving in the face of parental pressure, as suggested by the sublime artwork designed by Wizp. A little name-dropping to conclude this presentation? Because you don't change a winning team, the mastering was once again entrusted to an international figure in this galaxy: Jonathan Nuñez, guitarist of Torche!

Let’s go for a neck-slapping experience, right here right now:

The release of Desolation will be preceded by a handful of great gigs, and in good company:

Live Dates:

27/05 : Tours @ Le Jéricho w/ Zig Zags + Stalemate
28/05 : Rouen @ Le 3 Pièces Muzik'Club w/ Plomb
05/06 : Orléans @ Dropkick Bar w/ Cancer Bats + Maze
18/06 : Clisson @ Hellfest (Purple Stage)

Links

Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

Thanks to Vous Connaissez PR for the details.

Doom/Stoner Metallers Sea Of Snakes Release New Single “Behind The Mask” — First Taste of Upcoming EP Magmantus

Los Angeles doom metal outfit Sea of Snakes have released their crushing new single “Behind The Mask,” out now on all streaming platforms.

The track serves as the first preview of the band’s upcoming EP Magmantus, scheduled for release April 2.

Built on sludgy, riff-driven foundations, “Behind The Mask” blends the weight of doom metal with the grit of stoner rock and flashes of ’90s heaviness. Driven by pounding drums, thick low-end and melodic yet powerful vocals, the song delivers a dark and confrontational atmosphere that reflects the band’s evolving sound.

Lyrically, the track explores themes of hypocrisy and false virtue — questioning the figures people blindly idolize and the moral façades that often hide self-serving intentions.

Formed in Los Angeles in 2021 by guitarist Jim McCloskey, Sea of Snakes quickly established themselves in the underground heavy scene. The band debuted with the EP World on Fire, and after several lineup changes solidified with:

Line Up:

Jim McCloskey – Guitar
Greg Noriega – Bass
Chris Lowbridge – Drums
Jason Busiek – Vocals

Drawing influence from decades of heavy music — from early ’70s psychedelic rock to ’80s metal and ’90s grunge — Sea of Snakes channel those elements into a modern doom sound rooted in thick riffs, dark atmosphere and raw energy.

“Behind The Mask” offers the first glimpse of the band’s upcoming EP Magnamantus, a release that further expands their sonic approach while staying grounded in heavy, riff-driven songwriting.

Listen to the single here: Spotify | BandCamp

Links

LinkTree | BandCamp

Sludge/Stoner Metallers HOT RAM Release New Song BLACK WEED From Upcoming New EP NEAR FALL

HOT RAM is an Atlanta based Stoner Metal band formed in 2016. It was during this time that Billy Konkel, HOT RAM founder, while working as a sound man in local Atlanta’s clubs, realized that he needed to be on the other side of the microphones and that he had a lot of music to write. Konkel enlisted Gordon White (Tetsu Nakasaka a local bassist/guitar player to play drums. Gordon brought along Dee Flores on bass and together they recorded 2017’s E.P. “Leave A Beautiful Corpse”, 2018’s “Where Light Goes to Die”, and 2021’s “Electric Medicine”.

In 2020, Covid did a number on the band as Gordon White moved to Japan, and Flores left the band to take care of his ailing father, just as “Electric Medicine” finished production and was released in 2021. Konkel played on with different drummers and bass players until settling with the current line up of Dwayne Jones on drums (Sourvein/Order of the Owl/Royal Thunder) and Jerimy McNeil on bass (Dayglo Mourning/Decibel Guitar Company).

HOT RAM has played shows with The Maryland Doom Fest 22 & 23, Snowblind Fest, Crowbar, Slomosa, Conan, Black Tusk, Howling Giant, and Heavy Temple while simultaneously working on a new album. Konkel was dealing with some personal issues during this time, with the loss of his grandmother in 2021 followed soon afterwards by his mother’s diagnosis of cancer and eventual passing, making 2021 through 2024 difficult but fruitful years.

Billy Konkel and HOT RAM powered through all life’s obstacles and delivered 2026’s new E.P. “Near Fall”, (self-released on their home imprint Second Down Records) The album’s title was inspired by watching copious amounts of pro wrestling with his wrestling obsessed wife. “Near Fall” epitomizes and accurately describes the last few years that Konkel and HOT RAM were pinned to the mat for a 2 count (a “Near Fall”) and always getting back up to live another day….

“Near Fall” began recording in 2022, tracking drums at Leadbelly Studios and the rest of the album was recorded and mixed by Konkel at “Dark Overlord Studio” an over 100 year old warehouse/punk house. 

The opener “Vimana Swamp” is an about an ancient spaceship that crashed into a southern
swamp and hidden in obscurity waiting for a return trip home. 

“Black Weed” Is about the smoking of the green: getting high and then Netflix and chilling with Lucifer himself from these self proclaimed “ High Priests of Dank Majik”. 

Lastly “Ironbound” lays up huge slabs of riffage —enough to tranquilize an elephant, lyrically forged with the hammer and brimstone of the Crusades.

HOT RAM’s “Near Fall” E.P. is for anyone that’s been on the ropes with little hope, but digs deep and finds the passion for dusting yourself off and not giving up!

February 2026 is the 10th anniversary of HOT RAM, and they look for it to be their brightest and loudest year yet. They start off the New Year opening for “High on Fire” in January, following it up with a couple of still un-announced festival dates this spring and summer to build some tour runs around what is expected to be a busy year.

FFO: Melvins, High on Fire, Clutch, Black Sabbath, Acid King

Near Fall Credits:

Billy Konkel Guitar/Vocals
Brian Ricks Drums
Jerimy McNeil Bass (Black Weed/Ironbound)
Dan Giampietro Bass (Vimana Swamp)
Drums recorded @ Leadbelly Studio-Matt Washburn
Guitars/Bass/Vocals/Mixed @ Dark Overlord Studio-Billy Konkel
Mastered @ Sound Artillery Studio-Jonathan Nunez (Torche)

HOT RAM 2026:

Billy Konkel - Guitar/Vocals
Jerimy McNeil - Bass
Dwayne Jones - Drums

Links

Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

Thanks to Desert Bloom PR for all of the details.

Near Fall is available to buy on CD/DD/Vinyl from January 30th 2026.

BLAZONER Announces First Single "I'm In Love With My Car" From Upcoming Covers EP Sonic Chambers

Fredericksburg, Virginia heavy rock trio BLAZONER has released "I'm In Love With My Car," the first single from their upcoming covers EP Sonic Chambers, due out February 13, 2026. The track offers an electrified and harmony rich reinterpretation of the classic QUEEN deep cut.

The band approached the recording with a mix of respect, intensity, and playfulness. Drummer Andy Murray takes the lead vocal, a nod to Roger Taylor’s original performance, while Brian Carnes and Stephen Sullivan join him to build thick, layered choruses that showcase the trio’s signature multi vocal sound. The band recorded an extensive number of vocal tracks to capture the fullness and dramatic lift that makes the original song such a standout. Longtime friend and producer Jeff Covert helped guide the arrangement and brought extra clarity and dimension to the performance.

"I'm In Love With My Car" marks the first look at Sonic Chambers, a collection born from a spontaneous decision to record a few favorite covers in the studio. What began as a simple session quickly evolved into a five track EP that celebrates the music that shaped BLAZONER’s sound and spirit. The single highlights their ability to blend heavy rock power with melodic precision while staying true to the emotional core of the source material.

Listen below:

About BLAZONER:

BLAZONER is a heavy rock power trio from Fredericksburg, Virginia, built on the belief that loud music should feel both massive and melodic. The band leans into thick, saturated riffs, driving rhythms, and vocal harmonies that hit as hard as the instruments behind them. Their sound blends the grit of stoner rock, the pulse of classic heavy rock, and the swirling textures of psychedelia, creating a style that feels raw, hook driven, and unmistakably their own.

Formed by Andy Murray, Brian Carnes, and Stephen Sullivan, BLAZONER is powered by the natural chemistry the three share when they play together. Every member sings, which gives the band a vocal identity rarely found in heavy music. Whether delivering gritty leads or layered harmonies, the voices of all three members work together to add color and emotion to the band’s thick wall of sound. The result is a blend of heaviness and melody that stands out both live and on record.

BLAZONER came out of the gate with a commitment to playing hard, writing often, and letting instinct lead the way. Since releasing their first music in 2023, the band has grown quickly through high energy performances that showcase their volume, intensity, and connection as performers. Crowds respond not only to the weight of the riffs and the immediacy of the songs, but also to the sense that the band is having as much fun onstage as anyone in the room.

Their music reflects a wide range of influences, yet everything is filtered through the same core approach. Play loud, play with purpose, and make songs that feel alive. Whether crafting originals or reimagining the tracks that shaped them, BLAZONER focuses on movement, emotion, and the thrill of a great groove hitting at full power.

BLAZONER continues to evolve as they write, record, and perform, always pushing toward a heavier, tighter, more expressive version of their sound. For the band, heavy music is more than a style. It is energy, teamwork, and a constant exploration of what three people can create when they trust every instinct and hold nothing back.

BLAZONER Is:

Andy Murray — drums and vocals
Brian Carnes — bass and vocals
Stephen Sullivan — guitar and vocals

Connect with BLAZONER:

Bandcamp: https://blazoner.bandcamp.com/album/escape-to-electric-land
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1VxuvmkoQn/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blazonerband?igsh=MTNqMGplYXh2NHlrNA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@blazoner?si=a5PLZSKRjAmk4vB0
Spotify: https://spotify.link/Z17LAAz7KXb
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/blazoner/1709365327

Track Listing: 

Jumpin' Jack Flash

I'm In Love With My Car 

In The Beginning 

Copache  

Travellin' In The Dark

Thanks to C Squared Music for the details.

Doom Metal Act GRIM COLOSSUS Drops “Flesh Of The Fallen Star” Lyric Video Off Upcoming EP “Unhallowed Blasphemies”!

Swedish doom metaller GRIM COLOSSUS has released the lyric video of the song “Flesh Of The Fallen Star,” included in the new EP “Unhallowed Blasphemies” slated for release on November 28th.

“Unhallowed Blasphemies” features four songs inspired by H.P Lovecraft stories. As in the previous work, “Unhallowed Blasphemies” has the same dark atmospheres with haunting riffs and dramatic vocals telling tales of horror.

“Flesh Of The Fallen Star” is the story known as "Colour Out Of Space", where a meteorite crashes onto a farm, and the impact of it leaves a strange, otherworldly color that infect and mutate the land around it, and time itself.

Watch the lyric video of “Flesh Of The Fallen Star” here: https://tinyurl.com/murjdyfn

Stream/download the single on

YouTube Music: https://tinyurl.com/mwjx8k9w
Apple Music: https://tinyurl.com/ytb5263x
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/4v75jjye
Deezer: https://tinyurl.com/jn9r46k2

Pre-order the EP “Unhallowed Blasphemies” on Bandcamp: 

A dark and dreary sound with a focus on heavy riffs, and a gloomy atmosphere, accompanied by haunting lyrics and vocal style has been the goal of GRIM COLOSSUS, the one-man band hailing from Sweden, on the island of Hönö right outside of Gothenburg.

Inspired by epic and traditional doom metal bands such as Candlemass, Solitude Aeturnus, Trouble, among other great metal acts whose influence can be heard through the music, and was apparent for new fans since the beginning of the debut EP in 2022.

What originally started as a few jumbled musical ideas with no goal in mind, quickly became something with a life of its own, after lighting a spark within.

Though hints of the aforementioned influences can always be heard, GRIM COLOSSUS is growing more and more into its own sound and identity with every new release.

All music was written, recorded and produced by Magnus Berglind. Logo by Misanthropic Illustrations. Photos by Magnus Berglind. Lyric video by @dead__man on Fiverr.

Discography:

“Where Shadows Dwell” (2022, Independent, EP)
“Slain By The Author” (2023, Independent, Single)
“Jag Längtar” (2023, Independent, Single)
“Descent Into Madness (2024, Independent, Full-Length)
“Dimman” (2024, Independent, Single)
“Unhallowed Blasphemies” (2025, Independent, EP)

Follow GRIM COLOSSUS:

Bandcamp | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Thanks to The Metallist PR for all of the details.

Doom Metal Artist GRIM COLOSSUS To Release Lovecraft-Inspired New EP “Unhallowed Blasphemies” on November 28th!

Swedish doom metaller GRIM COLOSSUS has announced that his new EP “Unhallowed Blasphemies” will be released on November 28th. The work follows the full-length “Descent Into Madness” released in 2024 and it is available for pre-order on Bandcamp.

“Unhallowed Blasphemies” features four songs inspired by H.P Lovecraft stories. As in the previous work, “Unhallowed Blasphemies” has the same dark atmospheres with haunting riffs and dramatic vocals telling tales of horror.

You can have a foretaste of what you might expect from the EP with the single “The Whisperer.” Inspired by “The Whisperer In Darkness,” it is the story of a man who investigates strange, crustacean-like bodies found after a Vermont flood, leading him to an eccentric hermit who has been plagued by an Alien race from the hills near his house. Stream it on Bandcamp and the main digital services:

Bandcamp: https://grimcolossus.bandcamp.com/album/unhallowed-blasphemies
YouTube Music: https://tinyurl.com/52kfwn5w
Apple Music: https://tinyurl.com/4shjwubp
Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/ywrmunar
Deezer: https://tinyurl.com/3tunvmeu

A dark and dreary sound with a focus on heavy riffs, and a gloomy atmosphere, accompanied by haunting lyrics and vocal style has been the goal of GRIM COLOSSUS, the one-man band hailing from Sweden, on the island of Hönö right outside of Gothenburg.

Inspired by epic and traditional doom metal bands such as Candlemass, Solitude Aeturnus, Trouble, among other great metal acts whose influence can be heard through the music, and was apparent for new fans since the beginning of the debut EP in 2022.

What originally started as a few jumbled musical ideas with no goal in mind, quickly became something with a life of its own, after lighting a spark within.

Though hints of the aforementioned influences can always be heard, GRIM COLOSSUS is growing more and more into its own sound and identity with every new release.

Tracklisting:

1. The Whisperer
2. Flesh of the Fallen Star
3. Unhallowed Blasphemies
4. Forever Caught, Forever Lost

All music was written, recorded and produced by Magnus Berglind. 

Logo by Misanthropic Illustrations. 

Album cover art made by Diko Nursyahra (@dikonursyahra.art)

Photos by Magnus Berglind. 

Lyric video by @dead__man on Fiverr.

Links

Bandcamp | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Thanks to the The Metallist PR for the details.

Psych/Stoner/Shoegaze Rockers Filthy Hippies Release New EP WAVES Via Mongrel Records

Cape Town shoegazers deliver an emotive journey through reverb, reflection, and raw beauty.

Alternative rock/psychedelic shoegaze band Filthy Hippies unveil their long-awaited new EP, Waves, out today via Mongrel Records.

Following the release of their acclaimed single “Honey,” the EP sees the band diving deeper into their signature haze of reverb-soaked guitars, dreamlike vocals, and emotionally charged lyricism. Across its tracks, Waves captures fleeting moments of beauty and loss, swelling and breaking like the tides that inspired its name.

“Waves’ is best described by a lyric from ‘Air’; ‘It’s like hearts, melting into flames,” says the band. “We just tried to capture simple moments and put them into relatable songs.

Formed in 2018, Filthy Hippies have built a loyal following within South Africa’s underground rock scene through their lush, layered soundscapes and DIY approach. Blending elements of shoegaze, alternative rock, and psychedelic textures, they craft songs that are as introspective as they are expansive.

Buy / Stream Waves

The new EP showcases the band at their most confident and cohesive yet — a collection that flows effortlessly between vulnerability and distortion, reflection and release. Waves feels both intimate and cinematic, solidifying Filthy Hippies’ reputation as one of the most compelling acts to emerge from Cape Town’s alternative scene.

Links

Facebook | Instagram

Exciting space rock collective MONKEYS ON MARS to unveil interstellar extract off forthcoming EP: "Seasonal Pyres".

Photo credit: Liss Eulenhertz.

Thrilling heavy psych/prog outfit MONKEYS ON MARS are made up of Swiss quartet Monkey3 and French trio Mars Red Sky. The band unleash a first track taken from their eponymous debut EP, out this October 17th 2025 on Mrs Red Sound. "Seasonal Pyres [Tiny Flames Edit]" comes with its vintage dreamy lyrics video.

MONKEYS ON MARS is more than a simple collaboration, it is a bold fusion of two heavy psych/prog forces. Self-titled EP delivers two expansive space-prog journeys, clocking in at 11 and 13 minutes. The music perfectly blends their dreamlike yet dark soundscapes. Monkey3 bring kraut-infused effects and convincing heavy riffs to Mars Red Sky's tortured melodies. All carried by a pachydermic rhythm section: two drums, two basses. “Seasonal Pyres” showcases the crystalline voice of Mars Red Sky's frontman Julien Pras while “Hear The Call” is entirely instrumental.

MONKEYS ON MARS release “Seasonal Pyres [Tiny Flames Edit]”, a distilled version of the original track. The video was directed by Sébastien Antoine.

MONKEYS ON MARS - "Seasonal Pyres [Tiny Flames Edit]" official music video

'Monkeys On Mars' was recorded by Guillaume Desboeufs (Monkey3) at The Missing Link Studio (Lausanne, Switzerland) and Benjamin Mandeau (recording and mix) at Cryogene Prod Studio (Bègles, France). Mastering by Alexis Bardinet at Globe Audio Studio in Bordeaux, France. The record is dropping on October 17th 2025 through Mrs Red Sound at the following formats: vinyl, CD, digital.

MONKEYS ON MARS debut EP 'Monkeys On Mars'
Out October 17th 2025 on Mrs Red Sound
Vinyl, CD, digital: PRE-ORDER

Artwork: Johrice

MONKEYS ON MARS will perform a series of special shows thanks to Doomstar Bookings and 3C Tour to present their forthcoming EP in full. A big 2026 tour announcement is planed by the end of September.

Info & tickets

17.10.2025 SELESTAT [FR] Rock Your Brain
18.10.2025 ANTWERP [BE] DesertFest Belgium
19.10.2025 DUISBURG [DE] Bora
31.10.2025 VALLET [FR] Westill Festival
16.08.2026 CARHAIX [FR] Motocultor Festival

MONKEYS ON MARS ARE:

Julien Pras: vocals, guitar (Mars Red Sky)
Boris De Piante: guitar (Monkey3)
Jimmy Kinast: bass, vocals (Mars Red Sky)
Jalil Perrenoud: bass (Monkey3)
Mathieu Gazeau: drums, vocals (Mars Red Sky)
Walter Albrecht: drums (Monkey3)
Guillaume Desboeufs "dB": keys & sounds (Monkey3)

Links

Instagram | BandCamp | Official

Thanks to Shake Promotion for the details.

Psych Stoner Metallers NinjaWitch Announces New EP Frequency of Gods — Pre-Orders Live Now!

Knoxville, TN – The cosmic void is stirring once again. Following the crushing impact of their debut Order of the Red Horse (2024), Knoxville space doom titans NinjaWitch return with their new EP Frequency of Gods , set for release on September 12, 2025 . Pre-orders are now live on Bandcamp, with the track “Star Ghost” streaming today as a preview of the heaviness to come.

Forged from cosmic distortion, thundering doom, and hypnotic groove, Frequency of Gods expands NinjaWitch’s interstellar assault with five colossal tracks!

Recorded, engineered, mixed, and mastered by Danielle Fehr at The Wizard Productions , the EP captures NinjaWitch at their most otherworldly yet—an unholy alliance of psychedelic atmosphere and bone-crushing riffs. Fans of Monster Magnet, Hawkwind, and Black Sabbath will find themselves pulled into a black hole of sound where doom meets space rock mysticism.

NinjaWitch is no stranger to the underground spotlight—recently featured in Decibel Magazine (read here) and confirmed to perform at the Tennessee Metal Devastation Music Fest on October 11th, 2025 , their momentum is undeniable.

With Nathan Wright’s commanding vocals, Herb Himes’ blazing leads, Haley Clark’s riff wizardry, John Springer’s earth-rumbling bass, and Brandon Clark’s devastating percussion, NinjaWitch continues their ascent as one of the most exciting new forces in doom.

Frequency of Gods is available now for pre-order via Bandcamp in digital high-quality formats, with “Star Ghost” streaming immediately for those who can’t wait to drift into the abyss.

EP Details:

Title: Frequency of Gods
Release Date: September 12, 2025
Genre: Cosmic Space Doom

For Fans Of: Monster Magnet, Hawkwind, Black Sabbath

Listen/Pre-Order: https://ninjawitch.bandcamp.com/album/frequency-of-gods

NinjaWitch Lineup:

Nathan Wright – Vocals
Herb Himes – Lead Guitar
Haley Clark – Guitar
John Springer – Bass
Brandon Clark – Drums

Follow the band at these links:

https://ninjawitch.bandcamp.com
https://www.facebook.com/NinjaWitchBand/
https://www.instagram.com/ninjawitch_official/

Thanks to Metal Devastation Radio for the details.

Get Ready to Ride the Fuzz – WITCHRIDER Unleash Their Boldest Sound Yet with METAMORPH

Mark your calendars for August 15th – Austrian stoner rock powerhouse WITCHRIDER is back with a vengeance. Their new 6-track EP, METAMORPH, is a high-octane evolution of the band’s signature style: heavy, fuzz-laden riffs paired with brooding, catchy melodies and emotionally raw lyrics. It’s a sonic journey through personal struggles and visceral moods, all delivered with unmistakable intensity.

Breaking away from the more polished tones of their previous release Electrical Storm, METAMORPH leans into a rawer, more unfiltered sound. As frontman Dan explains, “It took several attempts and studio setups to capture the direct, raw power of the drums and blend them with our heavy guitars to build the wall of sound we had in mind.”

Formed in 2012, WITCHRIDER have built a reputation as a must-see live act. Their explosive performances and gritty vocals have drawn comparisons to early Queens of the Stone Age and Foo Fighters — and with good reason. The band’s chemistry on stage is undeniable, their sound unapologetically loud and emotionally charged.

After making waves with their song Bad Boy featured in the final season of the US hit series Shameless, WITCHRIDER is once again proving why they’re one of Europe’s most exciting names in underground rock. With METAMORPH, they’re not just back — they’re reborn.

METAMORPH tracklisting:

1. Witchrider - Used to be a King
2. Sound of the Presidents
3. Hold My Mind
4. Safe to Say
5. Wake me Up
6. Alive

Pre-order:

EU/WORLD: https://eu.fuzzoramastore.com/en/witchrider-metamorph-limit-300-lp-ep-clear-w-print.html

USA: https://us.fuzzoramastore.com/en/bands/witchrider/witchrider-metamorph-limit-300-lp-ep-clear-w-print.html

Bandcamp: https://fuzzoramarecords1.bandcamp.com/album/metamorph

Turn up the volume. Feel the fuzz. This is WITCHRIDER.

For more info:

https://www.witchridermusic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/witchriderband
https://www.fuzzoramarecords.com/
https://www.facebook.com/Fuzzorama

Thanks to Grand Sounds Promotion for the details.

Portland's Stoner Metallers MORDBEAR Delivers Crushing Debut EP Due To Release June 06th 2025

MORDBEAR EP Details

Release: June 6, 2025
Genres: Stoner Rock, Doom Metal, Acid Metal.
Format: EP,DR.
FFO: Sleep, Om, & Acrimony
Label: Dipterid Records

Tracklist:

1. Like The Dead
2. A Mirror with a Sea of Flames
3. The Alchemist

The Lowdown

Emerging from the rainy gloom of the Pacific Northwest, Mordbear arrives with a debut EP that fuses gritty stoner-metal grooves with surreal storytelling and a heavy dose of acid-fried mysticism. Built on a foundation of ‘70s proto-metal and acid rock, but firmly grounded in the present, Mordbear is the sound of three seasoned musicians channeling personal mythologies, literary references, and esoteric philosophies into towering riffs and wild sonic turns.

Mordbear is the collective force of Tyler Balthaser (guitars, vocals), Nico Martinez (bass), and Erik Larson (drums), each bringing years of experience from vastly different musical backgrounds—from hardcore and jazz to psych and doom. Their chemistry lies in the process: “I write demos for the songs, bring them to the guys, and we work them out until we have something that we are excited about... with the Mordbear footprint on them,” Tyler shares.

The self-titled EP showcases three tracks that function less like a conceptual arc and more like a collection of strange transmissions from the minds of its creators. As frontman and songwriter Tyler Balthaser puts it: “There isn't too much of a specific thread between the songs — two I've worked on in one form or another for a few years now, and one, ‘The Alchemist,’ is pretty new for all of us.”

But what links them is an uncanny ability to turn off-kilter ideas into heavy, head-nodding anthems. The opener, 'Like the Dead,’ was inspired by a surreal conversation with a hippie veterinarian, recounting a theory about global warming, rabid bats, and a Southern California zombie outbreak: “The theory itself and especially the source and setting stuck it in my head, until it was time to write lyrics for what was the first song for this project.”

‘A Mirror with a Sea of Flames’ pulls its title from Tom Wolfe’s ‘The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test,’ conjuring visions of DMT-fueled trips and side-mirror firestorms on a school bus full of proto-hippies winding through the hills of New York in the mid ’60s. Commenting on the inspiration spark, Tyler says: “The text and imagery felt like they were prime for a stoner metal song to me, and shoe-horning dimethyltryptamine into a song’s lyrics alone was worth it.”

Photo credits: Peter Subaiya.

Meanwhile, ‘The Alchemist’ explores an eerie modern parable about self-transformation and the cost of ambition in a capitalist world: “Early interests in esoteric schools of thought taught me about alchemy—really just an early form of chemistry, but also an allegory for refining yourself into a better version through introspection and intention,” Tyler shares, while taking a more literal approach, reflecting on our hypercapitalist society: “It can feel like you need to trade your life for a small amount of gold just to get by, and people seem to be willing to trade more and more for a smaller piece.”

At its core, Mordbear is a debut that doesn’t just introduce a band—it builds a world. One that is chaotic, cinematic, and just strange enough to feel true. 

The debut EP arrives June 6 via Dipterid Records. Pre-order from now on here.

Links

BandCamp | Instagram

Thanks to Discipline PR for all of the details.

Polish Stoner/Doom Rock Vand VOLT RITUAL presents single "The Giant Awaits" from upcoming "Swamp Lake City" EP

VOLT RITUAL are on their quest for the ultimate riff. The band was formed in Bielsko-Biała, Poland in the middle of year 2020. First rehearsals took place in an abandoned and cold house – anyway, a volt ritual requires only electricity. Since the beginning they have been focused on delivering heavy riffs and high-energy grooves. Main sources of inspiration were, and are to this day, Fu Manchu, Monster Magnet, Black Sabbath and Electric Wizard.

Self-titled debut album got released in June 2022 and from that time the band actively plays live shows with fellow riff mongers. December 2022 brought a new single “Droga 2023”, departure of founding member, drummer Marcin and arrival of Tomek, whose drumming skills take the band’s sound to the new level. With Tomek on board the band recorded an EP “Return to Jupiter” which got released on February 2, 2024 and brought answers to all questions about ancient ruins, cold outer space and high voltage. In the middle of the year Joanna took over the low frequencies department.

Year 2025 brings a new EP titled “Swamp Lake City” and of course more live shows.

Band comments their upcoming release: "These two songs have been with the band since the very beginning, yet they needed some time to get their final form. Armed with classic stoner riffs we wander through the Solar System and face the ultimate gothic horror"

Music for new EP was recorded in 2024 and all were mixed and mastered by Roch Gablankowski. Cover artwork was done by Mateusz Węgrzynkiewicz. Album will be released on February 2, 2025 on digital format (pre-save) and limited CD.

PREMIERE!

Listen to the "The Giants Awaits" song

at 666MrDoom Youtube channel https://youtu.be/TsVC5I8mkCo

at Rob Hammer Youtube channel https://youtu.be/vadTTJnXDs4

Tracklist:

1. The Giant Awaits
2. Miasto Wśród Bagien

Thanks to Solid Rock PR for all of the details.

Belgium's Doom/Sludge/Stoner Rockers HRAEFN unleash new EP of unsettling Psychedelic Doom n' Roll on November 15th

Founded in 2021, Belgian outfit HRAEFN are a compelling metal trio, covering a lot of ground: influenced by heavy, stoner, as well as doom metal, they express themselves in a unique music style. Call it psychedelic doom n’ roll, if you will. Think purified and iconic riffs with some progressive tendencies, matched with eerie and emotive vocals to create pieces that sound like fever dreams, psychotic episodes, prayers of the damned. But what makes the borderline heavy/doom metal of HRAEFN really stand out, is the level of musicality and the collar-grabbing quality of their work.

The second EP of HRAEFN, “RESEARCH INTO INFINITY”, features Terence ‘Doom Foot’ Gevaert (Carneia, Her Fault) on the drums, who joined the band late 2023 and adds some extra firepower to the trio. This new release showcases some more southern/stoner influences in Michael Sremos’ (Witch Which?, Heavy Fox) heavy metal guitar playing, which really fits Tonny van Bavel’s (Staat van Genade) clean but fierce vocals and squirming bass playing. There’s a lot to unpack in this 3-song EP, but the surprises are discomfortingly pleasant.

IN THE BAND'S OWN WORDS:

"There is something about how we interact as a band. We get together with all our experience, our different influences and our pretty distinct playing styles and somehow this intense, fiery and psychedelic music comes out. Stuff we also don't always understand, but it does seem to understand us. Together we become this entity. We become HRAEFN.

Influence-wise, we all come from pretty different musical planets. Everybody has his own set of influences, so it's difficult to point in one or two specific directions. Michael is influenced by Death, Metallica and Black Sabbath, Terence would mention stuff like Candiria, Bowel and Kyuss, whereas Tonny's vocal style derives a lot from bands like Windhand and Mars Red Sky..."

WHAT'S NEXT:

“We're constantly creating new tracks and trying to re-invent everything we do. We don't like to stick to one particular thing or style. Creativity is something that really drives us, and to be able to put out more music is always a tough but very rewarding process. But of course we also really want to hit the stage again now with our new drummer and play for crowds, so we're working on a series of gigs in 2024 and 2025 as well. This is our main priority in the coming months.”

HRAEFN - Research Into Infinity

Album out Nov 15th, 2024
Self-released (Digital)
Antwerp, Belgium
FFO: Monolord, Melvins, Acid King
Recorded & mixed by Frank Rotthier
Mastered by Jens Larsson at Larsson Mastering

HRAEFN is:

Michael Sremos - Guitars
Terence Gevaert - Drums
Tonny van Bavel - Bass/Vocals

Tracklist:

1. Research Into Infinity (6:36)
2. Arcadia (5:22)
3. Worldeater (8:46)

Links

Official | Facebook | BandCamp | Instagram

Thanks to Good Boy PR for all of the info.

French Sludge Doomsters Kaalbaår Unveil Full EP Details for Hail Mangoth; New Single Out Now

Recently, French Sludge/Doom Metal band Kaalbaår announced their signing to Octopus Rising to release their debut EP Hail Mangoth, which is set for release on November 8th. Today, the band unveils the full EP details and a brand new single!

EP tracklisting and cover art are as follows:

1. Mighty Bong
2. Cult of the Void
3. Necroflame
4. Moon Pope

The new single 'Mighty Bong' is now streaming on YouTube or you can watch below:

Kaalbaår was born during the pandemic in 2020 in the South West of France. While the world was locked down, 4 dudes united their passion for fuzz pedals and out of the grave vocals to create the band.

Inspired by bands such as Sleep, Monolord and Bongzilla, Kaalbaår creates a visceral sludge/doom to perpetuate the glory of Mangoth.

After playing several shows in and around Toulouse since it’s birth, Kaalbaår is decided to spread the unholy voice of Mangoth to everyone.

For more info:

https://www.facebook.com/kaalbaartheband

https://kaalbaar.bandcamp.com/
https://www.argonautarecords.com/

Thanks to Grand Sounds Promotion for all of the details.

RESTLESS SPIRIT announce new digital EP "The Doomed and the Dead... Live" & US Tour Dates October 2024

Rejoice, all ye disciples of doom and sludge, RESTLESS SPIRIT release a string of good news:

The trio from Long Island has announced a digital live EP entitled "The Doomed and the Dead ... Live" to be released on October 2, 2024. The recording took place at the RPM Fest in Massachusetts, USA in September 2023. And even better: the Americans already serve the digital single 'Lord of the New Depression (Live at RPM Fest)' as a delicious appetiser right now.

On top of this revelation, RESTLESS SPIRIT will be joining THE OBSESSED as the direct support on all dates of their 30th Anniversary of The Church Within tour in the US this October! Please see below for all confirmed dates.

Lord of the New Depression (Live at RPM Fest)' is now available below:

RESTLESS SPIRIT comment: "The track 'Lord of the New Depression' has been a staple in our set since our second EP, which turned releasing it on our first ever official live recording into a no-brainer". 

Singer and guitarist Paul Aloisio writes. "It's one of the shorter songs in our discography but still contains all the hallmarks of our sound, which makes it both a nod to our longtime supporters and an introduction for those just getting into us that have not yet discovered our earlier works. After hearing the live recordings from RPM Fest in Massachusetts last September, we figured that it was time to release something that showcases our live sound. It was an awesome event all around with a great community taking part, and we were more than happy to be there and have our performance captured."

You can pre-order the EP from the following link: http://lnk.spkr.media/restless-spirit-live

Tracklisting

1.Judgement and Exile (Live at RPM Fest)

2.All Furies (Live at RPM Fest)

3.Cascade Immolator (Live at RPM Fest)

4.Lord of the New Depression (Live at RPM Fest) 

5.From the Dust Returned (Live at RPM Fest)

RESTLESS SPIRT support THE OBSESSED - (30th Anniversary of The Church Within US tour)

02 OCT 2024 New Kensington, PA (US) Preserving Underground

03 OCT 2024 Cleveland, OH (US) The Winchester

04 OCT 2024 Detroit, MI (US) Sanctuary

05 OCT 2024 Chicago, IL (US) Reggies, Music Joint

07 OCT 2024 Kansas City, MO (US) MiniBar

08 OCT 2024 Oklahoma City, OK (US) 89th Street

09 OCT 2024 Denton, TX (US) Andy's

10 OCT 2024 Austin, TX (US) The Lost Well

11 OCT 2024 Houston, TX (US) Black Magic Social Club

12 OCT 2024 New Orleans, LA (US) Siberia

14 OCT 2024 Orlando, FL (US) The Conduit

15 OCT 2024 Atlanta, GA (US) The Earl

16 OCT 2024 Raleigh, NC (US) Kings

17 OCT 2024 Richmond, VA (US) Cobra Cabana

18 OCT 2024 Baltimore, MD (US) The Ottobar

19 OCT 2024 Brooklyn, NY (US) Union Pool

20 OCT 2024 Cambridge, MA (US) Middle East, Upstairs

RESTLESS SPIRIT will be touring in support of their latest album "Afterimage". Please find details below:

In the case of RESTLESS SPIRIT, the band name says it all, and in more than just one way. Their third album, "Afterimage", embodies the East Coast trio's aim of never wanting to sound exactly like before. Long Island deep-fried guitars meet pounding rhythms and emotionally raw vocals. Where the predecessor "Blood of the Old Gods" (2021) sometimes ushered the listener into twisted complexity, "Afterimage" delivers short, sharp shocks that hit straight home.

 

Lyrically, "Afterimage" is also born out of a restless spirit. Driven by tragedy and personal loss, singer and guitarist Paul Aloisio has put his heart and soul into the album. Confronted with a choice to deal with his pain in a healthy way or go down a destructive path, the singer and guitarist opted for the former but months later found his words to be prophetic for doing the latter. Deciding that artistry requires honesty, Alosio wanted to share his experience as a message to others in similar situations that they're not alone in their despair. "Afterimage" might well be read as a cautionary tale.

 

Embarking on their musical journey very early in life, the band's core of Aloisio and bassist Marc Morello met the summer before Kindergarten and grew up discovering music side by side. Channelling influences like BLACK SABBATH, TYPE O NEGATIVE, and THE SWORD and incorporating aggressive modern metal, unabashed stoner-doom pummelling, energetic changes, and stirring, earnest vocals, their band was finally christened RESTLESS SPIRIT in 2019. Their debut full-length "Lord of the New Depression" (2019) fit equally well into the stoner, doom, and sludge molds, while on "Blood of the Old Gods", the three-piece developed a more varied, melodic approach with added complexity.

 

Discontent at being sometimes labelled 'progressive', RESTLESS SPIRIT, true contrarians that they are, avoided overly-long songs and excessive ornamentation on "Afterimage", intentionally eliminating anything that might distract from the new album's direct, crushing immediacy.

 

On the live front, the Long Island band has undertaken several tours in support of "Blood of the Old Gods" and shared stages with the likes of CROWBAR, THE OBSESSED and CANNIBAL CORPSE.  They will return to the road in winter 2023/24 to present "Afterimage".

 

With "Afterimage", RESTLESS SPIRIT deliver a massive punch to the gut that actually feels damn great once the initial pain subsides.

 

Line-up

Paul Aloisio – guitar, vocals

Jon Gusman – drums

Marc Morello – bass

Links

www.facebook.com/restlessspiritny

www.instagram.com/restlessspirit_

https://twitter.com/Restlessspirit_

Thanks to Magnetic Eye Records for all of the details.

Netherlands Heavy Rockers HELL VALLEY HIGH Release Self-Titled EP

The Netherlands-based, groove-driven heavy rock band Hell Valley High has released its self-titled EP via Argonauta Records today.

The band comments on the EP: “We are very excited to release our self-titled debut EP. After the great (and overwhelmingly positive) response to the first two singles and our recent addition to Desertfest Antwerp, it feels like the time is right to share an entire EP worth of material with everyone. We’ve been working hard since these recordings and have more music coming to you later this year through Argonauta. The songs on these EP are very dear to us, and we’re immensely proud of them. We hope listeners will enjoy listening to them as much as we did creating and recording them!"

Choose your favorite digital platform to listen to the EP here: https://ingrv.es/hell-valley-high-n1q-7

EP tracklisting and cover art are as follows:

01. Blameless
02. Future Nomads
03. To Each His Own
04. The Grind

Hell Valley High is a groove-driven heavy rock band, based in Utrecht, The Netherlands. The quintet combines thick, heavy riffing, throbbing bass parts and pounding drums with powerful vocals and punk rock energy.

The band’s music is inspired by the likes of Fu Manchu, Truckfighters, Red Fang, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Karma to Burn, Kyuss, Monster Magnet and Black Sabbath.

Hell Valley High is comprised of seasoned musicians who have played a lot of shows in The Netherlands and toured Europe extensively. The group features ex-members of Wildebeast, Filthy Felons, Note to Amy, Apehanger and Junkyard Safari and is currently rocking the stages.

For more info:

https://www.facebook.com/hellvalleyhigh

https://www.instagram.com/hellvalleyhigh

https://www.facebook.com/ArgonautaRecords

Thanks to Grand Sounds Promotion for all of the info.