Category: Music
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Chris Braide shares video of cover of T-Rex’s Cosmic Dancer
Chris Braide pays tribute to childhood music hero Marc Bolan with new album There Was A Time – The Songs of Marc Bolan (LouderSound)
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Watch Linkin Park play new single The Emptiness Machine live on The Tonight Show
Nu metal heroes Linkin Park took over Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight Show and performed the first single from upcoming comeback album From Zero (LouderSound)
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“Our influences are really hard, dark rap tracks.” How Sweden’s Thrown became breakout stars of metalcore’s most aggro subgenre: pissedcore
Mixing metalcore, groove metal and hip hop, Sweden’s Thrown have become unlikely poster boys for a new subgenre (LouderSound)
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Poppy teams with former Bring Me The Horizon and Fever 333 members for metallic new single They’re All Around Us
Former Bring Me The Horizon man Jordan Fish produced the heavy new Poppy track, which was also co-written by ex-Fever 333/The Chariot guitarist Stephen Harrison (LouderSound)
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“We’ve been trying to get Chuck D to do something with us again.” Anthrax talk collabs, politics and using Dave Grohl’s studio to record their new album
It’s been almost a decade since the last Anthrax album, but the thrash titans have been hard at work (LouderSound)
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“Bands that went from beauty to absolute hideousness attracted me – Van der Graaf and King Crimson managed to create fragile music that was then utterly destroyed”: The roots of Tim Bowness’ Powder Dry
Struggling to express conviction, the serial band member and collaborator went it alone for his most experimental album to date… although he didn’t use the pedalboard Peter Hammill lent him (LouderSound)
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Bill Bruford comes out of retirement to join Pete Roth Trio
Having retired from live and recorded performance on 2009, Bill Bruford returns to live music with jazz band Pete Roth Trio (LouderSound)
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“Plenty of evidence to suggest a future exists beyond the shadow of their family tree.” Vended’s self-titled debut finally goes some way to shaking off that Slipknot tag
Griffin Taylor and Simon Crahan set out their vision for world domination with Vended’s self-titled debut (LouderSound)
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“What the world needs now, is rock, sweet rock”: The Darkness invoke God as they launch new album Dreams On Toast
The Darkness announce new album, release The Longest Kiss single, and announce UK tour (LouderSound)
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“It works because of the unlikely mix of people involved – and he takes a similarly maverick approach to its songs”: Jordan Rudess’ Permission To Fly
Dream Theater keyboardist hired former Enid singer Joe Payne and a cosmetic dentist to perform material around lyrics by his daughter (LouderSound)
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“Vivian is still battling cancer, we’ve still got a one-armed drummer. But these are obstacles that we just mock”: Joe Elliott on why Def Leppard won’t be retiring any time soon
Def Leppard frontman Joe Elliott on the US tour, not selling out, guest appearances, retirement and the next album (LouderSound)
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“John Lennon doesn’t have to do this, why should I?”: Pink Floyd, Syd Barrett, and the creation of See Emily Play
Written by co-founder Syd Barrett, See Emily Play gave the fledgling Pink Floyd their first UK Top 10 single (LouderSound)
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“Hustle, write, be authentic, collaborate”: Blues-rocker, radio host and award winner Elles Bailey on how to succeed in the music industry
British blueser Ellles Bailey begins a UK tour in late September (LouderSound)
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“It felt as though there were three guitars behind me that night”: The night Jimi Hendrix saved Engelbert Humperdinck
Crooner Engelbert Humperdinck reveals how Jimi Hendrix became his guitarist – for one night only (LouderSound)
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“Steve Perry could hit high notes that other singers could only dream of”: Every Journey album ranked, from worst to best
From stadium-filling rock to the ultimate lighter-waving ballads, AOR titans Journey and their various frontmen have done it all (LouderSound)
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“The most melodic, hook-filled and engaging record of their career.” Crows dazzle in the darkness on excellent third album Reason Enough
London post-punks Crows evoke the spirit of Joy Division, PiL and ghosts of the past on album three (LouderSound)
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Talking Heads’ debut album set for CD and vinyl reissue – check out acoustic version of Psycho Killer
Talking Heads: 77 will be re-released in November featuring a new remaster of the original album, outtakes, rare cuts and more (LouderSound)
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“You can get lost in the kitten vortex for hours.” A wide-ranging interview with The Jesus Lizard’s David Yow, taking in new album Rack, a try out for Nirvana, acting, a sadistic witch, and a cat riding a goat
The Jesus Lizard are back, and David Yow has things on his mind (LouderSound)
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“We put so much work and love into the Imposter Syndrome album and we’re so excited to finally bring that to the stage”: Viral shredder Sophie Lloyd announces debut US concert, shares cover of Alice Cooper’s Poison
Guitar virtuoso Sophie Lloyd will play her first-ever US headliner at the Whisky A Go Go in January (LouderSound)
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“I got high on mushrooms with Brent Hinds from Mastodon.” How Zeal & Ardor went from grotty squat-punks to one of the most innovative bands in extreme metal
Zeal & Ardor’s new album Greif continues Basel’s fine tradition of flashing their backsides at power and authority (LouderSound)
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“I acknowledged my masochistic side… my self-destructive nature peaked”: Louise Patricia Crane can’t escape her dark aspect, so she’s brought it into the light on her new album
Former The Eden House vocalist was determined to be brutally honest about herself on Netherworld, with assistance from Jakko Jakszyk and Ian Anderson (LouderSound)
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“It’s the metal tour of 2025, so don’t miss out!” Trivium and Bullet For My Valentine add North American dates to Poisoned Ascendancy world tour; August Burns Red, Sylosis and Bleed From Within supporting
One of 2025’s most exciting tour packages is going stateside, with some stellar support acts added in (LouderSound)
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Amazon mark the return of Prime Big Deal Days with 4 months of Amazon Music Unlimited for free
Amazon’s Prime Big Deal Days will take place in October – and they’ve kicked off the announcement with an awesome offer on Amazon Music Unlimited (LouderSound)
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This piano cover of Lamb Of God’s Laid To Rest is the most elegantly metal thing you’ll hear today
Youtuber Catherine Fearns has given Lamb Of God the classical treatment, and it sounds shockingly good (LouderSound)
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Polish proggers Amarok to play first ever UK show headlining next year’s Prog For Peart
Prog For Peart 2025 will take place at The Northcourt music venue in Abingdon, Oxfordshire on July 18 and 19 (LouderSound)
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Mogwai share video for brand new single, the six-minute keyboard-led God Gets You Back
Scottish post-rock quartet Mogwai also announce world tour for 2025 (LouderSound)
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“Nightwish sound heavier and livelier than they’ve been for years.” Yesterwynde proves Nightwish remain the undisputed heavyweight champs of symphonic metal
Yesterwynde is as much a chance for Floor Jansen to spread her wings as it is a showcase of Nightwish’s incredible ambition (LouderSound)
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Matt Berry shares brand new single, the colourful psych of I Gotta Limit
Matt Berry will release his California psychedelia-inspired new album Heard Noises in January (LouderSound)
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“This is a punk move from us.” Benefits unveil new direction with new single Land Of The Tyrants, announce UK and European shows
Benefits deliver first new material since their debut album, Nails (LouderSound)
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“Every time I hear it on the radio it’s like, ‘I’m glad they’re playing this instead of Crazy Train!’” Slayer’s Kerry King names his favourite Ozzy Osbourne song, and it’s one of his most obscure
When we asked Slayer’s guitarist to name the best Ozzy Osbourne track, he picked the deepest of deep cuts (LouderSound)
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Pixies share UK and European tour dates for 2025, unveil new single Motoroller
Boston’s finest tease forthcoming The Night the Zombies Came album with single number four, Motoroller (LouderSound)
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Arena, Wobbler, Antimatter and more all lined up for Winter’s End 2025
Winter’s End Progressive Rock Festival takes place in Chepstow from April 24-27 (LouderSound)
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Rob Halford says another Judas Priest album is “inevitable”: “This band thrives on the metal that we make”
Mere months after Judas Priest released 19th album Invincible Shield, their frontman is already looking towards a followup (LouderSound)
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“It’s hard to be angry young men at our age, but there are some pretty heavy duty lyrics here. Sometimes you’ve got to speak up”: When Marillion defied expectations (again) with Sounds That Can’t Be Made
The band deliberately – but doubtfully – pushed boundaries with the subjects they explored on their 17th studio album (LouderSound)
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“It’s very important to me that I make people feel something”: Meet Bywater Call, your new favourite Canadian jazz-trained blues-rock band
Bywater Call are purveyors of good ol’-fashioned Americana and southern blues rock – from Toronto, Canada (LouderSound)
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Fastball’s Tony Scalzo used to work the graveyard shift at a bagel store: Now he’s celebrating more than 30 years of “a certain degree of success”
Originally formed in the early 90s, Texan alt.rock band Fastball are back with album number nine (LouderSound)
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“I wanted to go back to being a cult band, which is what I had sought all along”: After 35 years, Monster Magnet know exactly what they want
“It’s all-energy. It’s rock excitement, psychedelic glory and space-rock hooks” – Dave Wyndorf (LouderSound)
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Our tiny minds have just been blown by a man playing Jimi Hendrix’s Voodoo Chile (Slight Return) on a whammy clavinet
Australian keyboardist Lachy “The Hendrix of the keyboard” Doley does things we’ve never seen done before (LouderSound)
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A new animated video for Thin Lizzy’s classic Jailbreak has been launched
The Jailbreak video coincides with new mixes of Thin Lizzy’s 1976 albums Jailbreak and Johnny The Fox, and a Classic Rock cover story (LouderSound)
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“Pre-order now, and we’ll throw in, at no extra cost to you, anxiety, depression, band breakups, loss of self, suicidal thoughts and ideation, and, of course, everyone’s favourite: cancer!” Blink-182’s Mark Hoppus announces tell-all memoir
Watch Blink-182 vocalist/bassist Mark Hoppus attempt to sell his forthcoming memoir Fahrenheit-182 via an amusing infommercial (LouderSound)
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“We will be armed with a sonically fresh attack.” The Prodigy announce Disrupta tour dates
Liam Howlett: “We never turn down the chance to play the UK” (LouderSound)
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“Unfortunately, my breaking point resulted in inexcusable behaviour”: Perry Farrell apologises after violent onstage altercation
The Jane’s Addiction frontman’s statement comes after the band’s reunion tour was cancelled (LouderSound)
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“Never ever thought it would end like this and I’m heartbroken”: REO Speedwagon to cease touring due to “irreconcilable differences”
AOR giants REO Speedwagon, who have just finished their Summer Road Trip with Train, will stop performing at the end of the year (LouderSound)
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“Our hearts are broken.” Jane’s Addiction cancel US tour and announce hiatus, with bandmates claiming that Perry Farrell’s “mental health difficulties” have left them them “no alternative”, for their own safety
Following onstage altercation in Boston, Jane’s Addiction are now on hiatus again (LouderSound)
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“Get rid of the guitar player and get somebody else. Nobody cares.” Kiss’ Gene Simmons urges Morrissey to reunite The Smiths without Johnny Marr, but there’s a plot twist
The strained relationship between Morrissey and Johnny Marr just got a little more complicated (LouderSound)
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Watch thrash legends Testament perform live with 11-year-old on guitar
Guitar prodigy Maya Neelakantan joined Testament onstage in Vegas last week (LouderSound)
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“We played a cave underground. There was water on the floor and all our electrical stuff was in the water.” How Slift became heavy music’s least likely viral sensation
From playing in caves and kitchens to becoming Youtube stars during the pandemic, Slift are psychedelic rock’s quirkiest success story (LouderSound)
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Arena announce 30th anniversary tour dates for April and May 2025
UK prog rockers Arena celebrate their 30th anniversary with an extensive jaunt around UK and Europe (LouderSound)
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“People are gone. Craig’s out. Chris is out, Joey’s out, Paul’s out. The band is different.” Slipknot’s Shawn ‘Clown’ Crahan admits the band aren’t as “close” now as they were 25 years ago
After lineup changes and the deaths of Joey Jordison and Paul Gray, Clowns says Slipknot “will never be like” how it was in the early days (LouderSound)
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Experimental pop duo MEMORIALS remix Jane Weaver’s Univers
Jane Weaver and MEMORIALS will perform a special end-of-year show at Hebden Bridge’s Trades Club in December (LouderSound)
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“There’s some screams on there. It’s cool that people appreciate it. It’s also a bit annoying.” Opeth’s Mikael Åkerfeldt is slightly irritated by all this talk about his growls
We’re all happy that Opeth are screaming again, but Mikael Åkerfeldt isn’t happy with how happy we are (LouderSound)
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“The original idea was to sell my songs to a publisher, not that I should be a singer or a performer”: An unexpected interview with Kate Bush while she was writing Hounds Of Love
In 1984 Mick Wall was surprised when he rattled off a hopeless request for a chat – and received an invitation to visit the Def Leppard fan at her home-from-home (LouderSound)
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Watch Gojira’s fiery Olympic Games performance get projected onto the Arc De Triomphe
Paris celebrated its recent hosting of the Olympics by blaring death metal from a national monument, complete with fire and spotlights (LouderSound)
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“Dynamic pricing not included”: Supergrass announce tour to celebrate 30th anniversary of debut album I Should Coco
The I Should Coco tour will be Supergrass’s first live dates since appearing at the Taylor Hawkins tribute show (LouderSound)
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“My God. This is horrific… I’m feeling violated”: Real Brian May slams fake Brian May TikTok ticket scam
Brian May voices displeasure after a fan brought the scam to his attention (LouderSound)
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“A lot of squawking that overshadows everything else”: Sir Lord Baltimore conjure up the right sounds on Kingdom Come, but about those vocals…
Hailed as a proto-metal classic, Sir Lord Baltimore’s debut album is perhaps more 60s than 70s (LouderSound)
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The best new rock songs you need to hear right now
Including The Damn Truth, DeWolff, Cardinal Black and five other bringers of the rock’n’roll noise (LouderSound)
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“A testament to a lifetime of rock’n’roll greatness”: Listen to Tom Morello play on fiery new MC5 single Heavy Lifting
Heavy Lifting is the title track of the fourth MC5 album Heavy Lifting, out next month (LouderSound)
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“Rapturously received souvenirs of an ever-evolving journey”: Big Big Train hit the right notes on A Flare On The Lens
Big Big Train please their passengers on live album A Flare On The Lens (LouderSound)
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“Even the most fervent of believers can run out of divine inspiration”: Stryper’s songwriting falls short on When We Were Kings
Stryper are still fighting the good fight on 15th studio album When We Were Kings (LouderSound)
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“His liveliest album for decades”: Nick Lowe hooks up with Mexican wrestler-faced surf rockers Los Straitjackets on Indoor Safari
Pub rock elder statesman Nick Lowe gets gnarly (LouderSound)
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“The sun will rise and fall, and BB King will play the blues”: The incredible life of BB King
BB King was the greatest bluesman the world has ever seen. We look back at his life, with a little help from his friends (LouderSound)
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“That’s the problem with me, you see. I’m a lunatic”: The true story of Marc Bolan’s final days
Marc Bolan, the Guru Of Glitter, was killed in a car crash in 1977 – just as his career was on the rise again. This is the story of his final hours (LouderSound)
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Jane’s Addiction cancel next show after bust-up and guitarist Dave Navarro posts cryptic “goodnight” message on social media
The future of Jane’s Addiction looks bleak as band cancel show and guitarist Dave Navarro seemingly bids farewel (LouderSound)
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“It has brightened my spirit to see how many have posted about Ric, praising his originality, flair, and brilliance”: Revisiting Billy Corgan’s tribute to late Cars leader Ric Ocasek
The Cars frontman and famed producer died five years ago this weekend and his passing prompted eulogies from an array of fellow musicians (LouderSound)
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“It was very bittersweet and not an easy decision for us to arrive at”: Michael Stipe looks back on the day that R.E.M. split up
The R.E.M. frontman has had a lot of time to reflect on his band’s work in the years since and here’s what he thinks (LouderSound)
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“It was early days for the band. We’d gone out on a limb… it was by no means certain that the response would be positive”: Genesis’ early fears for Foxtrot
Barely planned, recorded in fits and starts and complete with one of King Crimson’s Mellotron, their 1972 album was, they believe, the moment they began to be taken seriously (LouderSound)
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Perry Farrell’s wife Etty gives her account of his onstage bust-up with Jane’s Addiction bandmate Dave Navarro
Etty Farrell describes Perry as a “crazed beast” after he swung at Navarro during chaotic Jane’s Addiction Boston show (LouderSound)
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Kiss icon Gene Simmons gives new Linkin Park lineup his backing
The Demon from Kiss says Linkin Park should get the same chance as other acts who lost original members (LouderSound)
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Chaotic Jane’s Addiction show ends early as Perry Farrell takes a swing at a shocked Dave Navarro
Singer Perry Farrell has onstage altercation with guitarist Dave Navarro during Jane’s Addiction gig in Boston (LouderSound)
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“Antics leaked 10 days after we finished it… you’d go to every city and someone would be talking about it”: Interpol on the premature release of their brilliant second record as it turns 20
Fans got to hear the New Yorkers’ excellent second three months ahead of release in 2004, and the indie-rockers think it might have worked in their favour (LouderSound)
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“When we first playing Reading, we got everything thrown at us. The whole crowd hated us.” Bring Me The Horizon’s Oli Sykes on the hurdles the metal giants overcame to become one of Britain’s biggest bands
The Sheffield quartet released their debut EP 20 years ago this month, and there were plenty of bumps on the way to eventual triumph (LouderSound)
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Pearl Jam cover Ted Nugent’s Stranglehold but give the lyrics an anti-gun update. Ted Nugent, as you might imagine, is not happy about it.
Left-leaning Pearl Jam won’t be surprised that right winger Ted Nugent doesn’t love their take on his song (LouderSound)
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The Cure tease the release of Songs of a Lost World, their first album in 16 years, with a poster outside the English bar where they played their very first gig
It appears that The Cure’s long-awaited Songs of a Lost World album will finally emerge on November 1 (LouderSound)
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The 12 best new metal songs you need to hear right now
Mastodon, Within Temptation and Nightwish are among the best new metal songs this week. Plus, vote for your favourite! (LouderSound)
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“I’d like to thank everyone who’s bought my new album and helped make it Number 1.” David Gilmour celebrates his third solo UK number one album with Luck And Strange
David Gilmour scores his third solo UK number one album (LouderSound)
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“A brilliant bloke who left you feeling better about life every time you ran into him.” Tributes paid to Rachel Stamp/Sham 69/All About Eve drummer Robin Guy following his death
A GoFundMe fundraiser has been started to help drummer Robin Guy’s wife, following his death on September 8 (LouderSound)
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Supergrass tease second reunion with announcement coming next week
The Britpop quartet’s iconic debut turns 30 next year – and it looks like they’re planning to celebrate it (LouderSound)
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“Raw and confessional – but their musical approach soothes the barbs of the subject matter”: Pure Reason Revolution’s Coming Up To Consciousness
Sixth album examines our final destination and demonstrates there’s no rule book for grieving (LouderSound)
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“80 per cent of the people I meet are very boring people.” In 1975, Deep Purple’s Ritchie Blackmore named his favourite guitarist, and shared his brutally honest thoughts on the ’70s music scene
In a typically forthright 1975 interview, Ritchie Blackmore offered his thoughts on the music business, and his peers (LouderSound)
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“He’s the king of death metal.” Opeth’s Mikael Akerfeldt and Fredrik Akesson name the greatest death metal band of all time, and discuss their own journey through the genre
From inverted crosses in flowerbeds to failing to blow Morbid Angel off-stage and petty larceny, Opeth talk their journey through death metal (LouderSound)
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“I’m the rock’n’roll rebel that everybody’s mother likes to hate”: Watch Ozzy Osbourne talk about capturing the hearts of America in this 1986 The Tube interview with Paula Yates
The Prince Of Darkness spoke about his childhood, early jobs, going double-platinum in America and more in this archival interview with The Tube host Paula Yates in 1986 (LouderSound)
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Cool new prog you really must hear from Teramaze, Joe Deninzon & Stratospheerius and more in Prog’s Tracks Of The Week
Awesome new proggy sounds you really should check out from Kanaan & Ævestaden, Fen, Jon Hunt and more… (LouderSound)
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“I want to take my fans into a world like they’ve never experienced before.” Hans Zimmer announces UK 2025 arena tour
German film score composer and music producer Hans Zimmer will play dates in Leeds, Glasgow, Dublin, London and Manchester (LouderSound)
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“I love being a poser!” Five minutes with Fernanda Lira of fast-rising Brazilian death metallers Crypta
Can you be trve while rocking a Beyonce tattoo? Accoridng to Fernanda Lira, hell yeah (LouderSound)
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Big Big Train share new clip of The Connection Plan
Big Big Train A Flare On The Lens vinyl and Blu-ray release is out now! (LouderSound)
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“We were nobodies, anonymous and faceless, but it felt like maybe we had a shot.” The new issue of Metal Hammer is a bumper celebration of Slipknot’s debut album – and comes with an exclusive patch and charm
The latest issue of Metal Hammer magazine comes with two gifts and 28 pages of Slipknot (LouderSound)
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Korn kicked off their 2024 North American tour with some rare cuts – including one classic song not played in 25 years
Korn, Gojira and Spiritbox are officially on the road, and Korn are packing bangers (LouderSound)
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Richard Wright features in David Gilmour’s new video for the title track of Luck And Strange
David Gilmour will play two rehearsal shows at Brighton Centre on September 20 and 21 (LouderSound)
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“No pale rehash of former glories, but a genuine triumph in a state-of-the-art setting”: Jon Anderson And The Band Geeks’ True
Team player returns to prog with collaborators he discovered covering Yes songs (LouderSound)
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Bret Michaels plots 40th anniversary Poison reunion in 2026
Bret Michaels hopes classic lineup can get together for 40 dates to celebrate four decades of Poison (LouderSound)
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Eric Clapton slams the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a “frat boys club”
Guitar God Eric Clapton says he was suckered into getting involved with the “establishment” Rock Hall (LouderSound)
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All hell breaks loose! Inside Thin Lizzy’s first hit album and the campaign to break America – only in the new issue of Classic Rock
Also in this issue: Motörhead, Jerry Cantrell, Jon Anderson, The Cold Stares, Fleetwood Mac, Terrorvision, Michael Schenker, Idles, The Hot Damn!, Bad Religion, Paul Gilbert and more (LouderSound)
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“America is so divided. Trump is clearly unhinged.” Punk priestess Patti Smith still fears for all our futures
Patti Smith isn’t a Donald Trump fan (LouderSound)
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Rolling Stones and Speaqua launch portable speaker that doubles as a bottle opener
The Rolling Stones unveil their collaboration with Speaqua in the shape of the bottle top-popping Cruiser H2.0 and the floatable Barnacle Pro 2.0 and Barnacle Vibe 3.0 portable speakers (LouderSound)
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Listen to Within Temptation’s Sharon den Adel team up with Ukrainian metallers Blind8 on new single Labyrinth
Blind8 with join Within Temptation on their upcoming European tour (LouderSound)
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“Will we bring the tour overseas? We’re exploring options…” Lamb Of God’s Randy Blythe and Mastodon’s Brann Dailor talk their new collab single, their history together and what the future may hold
We talk to Brann and Randy about their epic new collaboration Floods Of Triton – and whether there’s more to come (LouderSound)
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Aphrodite’s Child’s classic third album 666 to be released as five-disc box set
New 666 box set features remastered versions of the original 1972 album and the 1974 Greek mix (LouderSound)
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60 years of US Beatlemania celebrated in 1964 mono box set
The Beatles: 1964 US Albums In Mono features seven albums which have been cut from their original mono master tapesand pressed on 180g vinyl (LouderSound)
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“Delivering a cerebral, skilful and inventive blend of prog and metal, they’ve remained proudly on the periphery of fashion”: The best Dream Theater songs featuring Mike Portnoy (to date)
In anticipation of the drummer’s appearance on their 16th album, we present a list that many thought would never be added to (LouderSound)
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“We’ve vastly improved since our 80s heyday!” Tears For Fears announce very first live album
UK pop proggers Tears For Fears will also release Tears For Fears Live (A Tipping Point Film) in cinemas in October (LouderSound)
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Frost* share behind-the-scenes footage in video for their new single Moral & Consequence
UK prog rockers Frost* will release double concept album Life In The Wires in October (LouderSound)
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“I met Brian May and said, You’re the reason I used to spend months and months on end in my garage trying to build a f***ing guitar.” How Queen inspired Radiohead’s Thom Yorke to follow his dreams
At the age of seven, Thom Yorke decided to become a rock star, thanks to Queen (LouderSound)
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Saga singer Michael Sadler reveals cancer diagnosis
Canadian singer Michael Sadler’s wife reveals cancer diagnosis in social media post (LouderSound)
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Listen to Lamb Of God and Mastodon’s explosive new team-up single, Floods Of Triton
Two of modern metal’s greatest bands have united, and the results are killer (LouderSound)
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Watch footage and check out the monstrous 26-song setlist from Linkin Park’s second comeback show at the Kia Forum in California last night
Linkin Park kicked off their 2024 comeback mini-tour with a setlist stacked with hits and some rarities (LouderSound)
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“Dissonant, angular and blearily psychedelic, it absolutely reeks of madness.” Black metal icon Gaahl has made one of this year’s weirdest extreme metal albums with Trelldom’s …By The Shadows
Trelldom only return when they have something to say, and new album …By The Shadows… proves well worth the 17 year wait (LouderSound)
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“The four-note phrase is arguably the most recognisable motif of the entire Pink Floyd catalogue”: Seven powerful moments that help make Wish You Were Here so unique
…and two of them occur before a single note is heard of the band’s 1975 classic (LouderSound)
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“Rack is an incendiary device of an album”: The Jesus Lizard shine as brightly as ever on the irresistible, fascinating Rack
Kings of noise the Jesus Lizard have returned to reclaim their crown (LouderSound)
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“It’s my swan song life story”: 50 years ago Terry Slesser was Paul Kossoff’s singer in Back Street Crawler – now he’s finally releasing a solo album
Forever Blue, recorded by Terry Slesser and the Back Street Crawler Band, completes a remarkable journey for the singer (LouderSound)
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“This renaissance of heavy metal is worldwide”: From Gojira at the Olympics to crazed teenage fans, Rob Halford is incredibly excited about the state of heavy metal
As Judas Priest gear up for their US tour, Rob Halford enthuses about the state of metal and reflects on debut album Rocka Rolla (LouderSound)
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“Phil Mogg sings so unusually so it’s difficult to copy, but Axl did a fantastic job”: Michael Schenker’s track-by-track guide to his new album My Years With UFO
Michael Schenker’s My Years With UFO features contributions from Axl Rose, Slash, Roger Glover, Joey Tempest and many more (LouderSound)
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Megadeth drummer hits out at fashion brand for “stealing” heavy metal imagery
Hoodie includes Soilwork album art which has caught the attention of Megadeth and Lamb of God members (LouderSound)
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Mike Portnoy doesn’t regret leaving Dream Theater despite massive success of his recent return to the band
His return to Dream Theater has gone down very well. So does Mike Portnoy regret leaving in the first place? (LouderSound)
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Jon Bon Jovi credited with saving life of woman on bridge in Nashville
The Bon Jovi frontman reportedly spoke with a woman in crisis and helped her to safety – on World Suicide Prevention Day (LouderSound)
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“When I’m onstage my job is to be God. And I’m pretty good at it.” An epic, exclusive, revealing and sporadically very amusing interview with The Sisters of Mercy’s iconic frontman Andrew Eldritch
New line-up, new songs, new positivity: lords of darkness The Sisters Of Mercy aren’t all doom and gloom you know (LouderSound)
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“It’s not going to happen. There’s only three people left and we’re not talking.” David Gilmour says that anyone holding out hope for a Pink Floyd reunion should “dream on”
In a new interview, David Gilmour also shares his thoughts on why record companies aren’t seeking out the next Pink Floyd (LouderSound)
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Crippled Black Phoenix return with epic new single Goodnight, Europe (Pt 2)
Crippled Black Phoenix celebrate their 20th anniversary with two new albums in Novmeber (LouderSound)
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“They arrested a girl who had a blank piece of paper. She was making the point that even doing that would send someone to jail”: Iamthemorning’s Marjana Semkina hated mixing politics with art – until her native Russia’s war on Ukraine
Her second solo album, Sirin, finds her in a more confident and assertive place – she’s even reverted to the original spelling of her name (LouderSound)
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“The debut album we always dreamed of bringing to you”: Queen announce Collector’s Edition “rebuild” of first album
Newly retitled Queen I, the 2024 edition of Queen’s 1973 debut has been remixed, remastered and expanded (LouderSound)
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4 brilliant new metal bands you need to hear this month
From Folterkammer’s femme-dom black metal to Belushi Speed Ball’s ‘pizza thrash’, Dermabrasion’s occulty goth rock and the bizarre alt. metal of Battlesnake, these are the bands you need to hear in September 2024 (LouderSound)
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David Gilmour announces two special rehearsal performances in Brighton
David Gilmour will play two rehearsal shows at Brighton Centre on September 20 and 21 (LouderSound)
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Nene Valley Rock Festival confirms 2025 event
Next year’s Nene Valley Rock Festival will take place at Grimsthorpe Castle from September 4 to 7 (LouderSound)
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Post-rocker A.A. Williams shares powerful new single Splinter
Dark rocker A.A. Williams is currently undertaking a 26-date US headline tour (LouderSound)
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“I told Noel Gallagher that Oasis sounded like Guns N’ Roses. We gave them some crazy speed and they were up for the next three days.” You can blame The Brian Jonestown Massacre for Oasis nearly splitting up in 1994
That messy LA gig on Oasis first North American tour which led Noel Gallagher to walk out on the band? Blame the support act (LouderSound)
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“Top-shelf Pete Steele, sans any Playgirl spreads.” Unto Others have crafted the goth rock album of the year with Never, Neverland
The Oregon goth rockers embrace the dark side on album three (LouderSound)
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Iron Maiden celebrate The Future Past with new vinyl releases of Powerslave and Somewhere In Time
Powerslave 40th anniversary edition will be reissued on zoetrope picture disc, while Somewhere In Time will arrive on yellow vinyl with tour lenticular (LouderSound)
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“I never mind faking it. I had a filthy cold on the night, so vocals were grabbed from other shows. It’s only artifice when you pretend it’s something it isn’t”: Peter Gabriel explains his passion for the video medium
Nearly 30 years after Sledgehammer cleaned up at the MTV Awards, he was pushing boundaries again with his Back To Front concert movie (LouderSound)
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With sales of more than 40 million, these are the Toto albums you should definitely listen to
A group of talented musicians with a bunch of tracks among the top of the AOR pops, Toto are among the genre’s big boys – and these are their best albums (LouderSound)
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UK consumer rights group advises Oasis to “do the right thing” and refund fans after dynamic pricing ticket uproar
Consumer advocates Which? suggest that Ticketmaster may be guilty of breaching trading regulations (LouderSound)
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“I’ll be honest with you – the devil was my best friend at one time”: Southern rockers Van Zant are on the road to redemption with Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ comes from the Lynyrd Skynyrd and 38 Special duo’s seventh album Always Look Up (LouderSound)
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Toto announce the Dogz Of Oz UK and European tour with Christopher Cross
Toto will play 20 shows across the UK and mainland Europe early next year (LouderSound)
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Refused announce 2025 North American farewell tour as singer Dennis Lyxzén recovers from heart attack
Swedish hardcore punk heroes Refused will tour North America one last time before calling it a day in 2025 (LouderSound)
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Mark Tremonti says Creed are here to stay
Guitarist Mark Tremonti is working hard to make future room for reunited Creed in his jam-packed schedule (LouderSound)
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“I’ve recently become the father of a new baby daughter, born outside of my marriage.” Dave Grohl reveals that he has become a father for the fourth time, promises to try to regain his family’s trust and “earn their forgiveness”
Dave Grohl shares news that he has become a father to a fourth daughter, outside his marriage (LouderSound)
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“Spinal Tap is demanding that the Trump campaign refrain from playing Sex Farm at their rallies.” Legendary English rockers Spinal Tap forbid Donald Trump from turning his presidential campaign up to 11
Spinal Tap bassist Derek Smalls warns Donald Trump not to plough through the band’s metaphorical beanfields (LouderSound)
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Watch ‘The Battle of Britpop’ play out on a football pitch, as Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher squares up to Blur’s Damon Albarn in this resurrected archive footage
Revisiting one of the world’s truly iconic sporting encounters, as elite athletes Liam Gallagher and Damon Albarn faced off in a kickabout in an East London stadium (LouderSound)
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“Heavy music with a message and aesthetic that transcend the genre.” Idles, Quicksand, Cult Of Luna, Touche Amore and more to honour departing hardcore legends Refused with The Shape Of Punk To Come Obliterated tribute album
The Shape Of Punk To Come Obliterated will be released as part of a special 25th anniversary edition of Refused’s 1998 album (LouderSound)
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“One of the most intense tracks we’ve ever released.” Watch the video for Jinjer’s pulverising new single Rogue
What do we think of the new Jinjer single? (LouderSound)
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“My goal has always been to make explosive music.” Rocket From The Crypt, Hot Snakes, Drive Like Jehu legend John Reis announces UK and Ireland shows with new band Swami & the Bed of Nails
The band are touring their debut album All Of This Awaits You (LouderSound)
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“The ultimate musical island-hopping adventure!” Listen to new Nightwish single An Ocean Of Strange Islands now
The latest preview of new Nightwish album Yesterwynde is here (LouderSound)
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“This machine sues fascists.” Jack White makes good on his promise to sue Donald Trump for “flagrant misappropriation” of The White Stripes’ Seven Nation Army
Artists including Garbage, Joe Satriani, Cat Power, Jason Isbell and more applaud The White Stripes’s lawsuit against Donald Trump (LouderSound)
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“I realised on the very first tour that this was no kind of life… Should I be excited about leaving my family? No”: Neil Peart’s love, pain and thoughts on playing live before Rush bowed out
Drummer reflected on his favourite support act, the album he’d love to re-record, his approach to writing books and accepting he’d grown up as much as he ever would (LouderSound)
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Jazz Sabbath to release third album The 1968 Tapes
Jazz Sabbath have also been added to the 2025 Cruise To The Edge bill (LouderSound)
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Previously unreleased Klaus Schulze album to be released
Unreleased Klaus Schulze album 101, MILKY WAY will be released in November (LouderSound)
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Steve Rothery, Ray Wilson and John Hackett to guest with Steve Hackett at the Royal Albert Hall
Steve Hackett’s Genesis Greats Lamb Highlights & Solo Tour takes place in the UK throughout October (LouderSound)
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“There’s a few stations that’ll play my music; very few, and usually after midnight”: Frank Zappa’s final print interview, and the 12 words he signed off with
In 1993 a future Prog writer landed a magazine interview with his hero – neither of them knowing it would his last (LouderSound)
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The releases you should definitely listen to on Neat Records, the label dominated the UK metal scene during the NWOBHM years:
Run from an office above a bingo hall, Neat Records released the debut recordings by Venom, Raven, Tygers Of Pan Tang and more (LouderSound)
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“Smile at your scared opponent and help them. If he’s swinging wildly, chill him out”: The Gospel according to Duff McKagan
Addiction can be beaten. Understand money. Put your partner first. Don’t hold grudges. Clothes maketh the man. These are among the things that shape Duff McKagan’s world view (LouderSound)
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“My little girl can’t wait to tell her friends at school”: Justin Hawkins responds to viral footage of Taylor Swift singing I Believe In A Thing Called Love at the US Open
Tennis wasn’t like this in our day (LouderSound)
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“The best is yet to come!” Heart announce rescheduled Royal Flush Tour dates for 2025
After Heart postponed this year’s live activity on doctor’s orders, the band have confirmed their first shows for 2025 (LouderSound)
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Wish you were here? David Gilmour stuns tiny Brighton pub with live rendition of Pink Floyd classic
David Gilmour performs the title of Pink Floyd’s 1975 album Wish You Were Here with daughter Romany at music pub The Neptune Inn (LouderSound)
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“It was important for us to press the reset button”: Joe Perry on touring with Kiss and the making of Aerosmith’s Honkin’ On Bobo
With a back-to-basics blues-oriented just recorded, Aerosmith in 2003 were more determined than ever to let the music do the talking (LouderSound)
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“He says, ‘Here you are, my good man’ and he hands me this glass of champagne.” How a wayward flying bass led to Nirvana’s Krist Novoselic meeting Queen legend Brian May for the very first time
The 1992 MTV Awards was a memorable evening for Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic, in more ways than one (LouderSound)
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“In the indie world, you’re not meant to be successful.” Snow Patrol’s Gary Lightbody on dealing with superstardom after being written off as “damaged goods” by the music industry
Snow Patrol are back with their first album in six years, The Forest Is the Path. Their time in the music business has been a rollercoaster, as frontman Gary Lightbody acknowledges (LouderSound)
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Watch Pulp premiere new song Spike Island on the opening night of their American tour
Could a new Pulp album be on the way? Speculation grows after the band debut a fourth unreleased song live (LouderSound)
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“A lot of songs for the next record are already in demo phases.” Kerry King already has his sights set on a second solo album
The Slayer guitarist also doesn’t rule out doing smaller releases around tours going forward (LouderSound)
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“Chester was one of a kind. Emily is also one of a kind.” Mike Shinoda dismisses criticism of Linkin Park’s decision to continue
If it features Linkin Park members, sounds like Linkin Park and carries on Linkin Park’s legacy, you can probably just call it Linkin Park (LouderSound)
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“An exceptional, cathartic album that showcases Delilah Bon as a welcome disruptor on the UK alternative scene.” Evil, Hate Filled Female gives new meaning to the phrase ‘Slay, queen!’
Deliah Bon’s second album is one worth celebrating (LouderSound)
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New Oceans Of Slumber album Where Gods Fear To Speak is a vengeful prog metal monster that needs to be heard
The newest offering from prog metal veterans Oceans Of Slumber is more than worthy of their impressive catalogue (LouderSound)
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Zetra’s debut album sounds like a black metal band swapped screams and blastbeats for croons and synthesisers, then rehearsed on the set of a 70s Doctor Who episode. And it’s not bad!
Zetra haven’t mastered their formula yet, but their debut album is promising all the same (LouderSound)
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Imagine Dragons announce UK and European stadium shows as part of their 2025 Loom tour
Imagine Dragons line up summer stadiums and arenas tour in Europe (LouderSound)
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Rick Wakeman leads tributes for Sky and War Of The Worlds bassist Herbie Flowers
Herbie Flowers, who also worked with David Bowie, T-Rex, Lou Reed and many more, has died aged 86 (LouderSound)
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“A comedy with teeth.”1995’s Blur vs Oasis ‘Battle of Britpop’ to be dramatised in a new play staged in London next year
Novelist (and former British record industry A&R man) John Niven is writing The Battle, about the rivalry between Blur and Oasis (LouderSound)
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“Music is sacred.” Jack White announces three intimate ‘pop up’ shows in the UK this coming weekend
Jack White reveals last-minute plans for three British gigs (LouderSound)
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Reissued compilation shines light on Decca’s heavier psychedelic era
The Psychedelic Scene will be released on vinyl for the very first time in October (LouderSound)
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“It’s nobody’s ***ing business, and he’s our brother.” Slipknot’s Clown on why the band rarely discuss their much-missed former bandmate, Joey Jordison
Joey Jordison died in 2021 at the age of 46 (LouderSound)
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“Along the lines of Bridge Across Forever or Spock’s Beard’s V.” Neal Morse announces new prog outfit Neal Morse & The Resonance
Neal Morse & The Resonance will release new album No Hill For A Climber in November (LouderSound)
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“The greatest rock’n’roll band ever to come from Finland”: The Hanoi Rocks albums you should definitely listen to
Hanoi Rocks’ early records and electrifying live shows saw them tipped for superstardom, but fate dealt them a catastrophic blow (LouderSound)
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“It was sounding great, then halfway through the loop stops… We turned into a sort of working men’s club band!”: Marillion’s late-career hit single didn’t stop people asking Steve Hogarth about Fish
You’re Gone, from 2004 album Marbles, was their first Top 10 entry since 1987, and the track came about in a non-standard manner for the band (LouderSound)
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Herbie Flowers, bassist for Lou Reed, David Bowie and many more, dead at 86
The death of Herbie Flowers, author of the iconic bassline that powered Walk On The Wild Side, has been confirmed by his family (LouderSound)
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The best new rock songs you need to hear right now
Including Jerry Cantrell, David Gilmour, Thundermother and five other custodians of the rock’n’roll flame (LouderSound)
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“I’ve not done Taylor Swift’s numbers, but I don’t give sh*t because I’m proud of the songs I did”: As Fish prepares to leave the business behind, he reflects on Marilion, going solo, and life after music
After next year’s farewell tour Fish is leaving music and the bright lights behind to live with his wife (and 13 sheep) on a Scottish island (LouderSound)
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“What’s the difference between a Lada and a sheep?”: Brian Johnson on the worst and best cars he’s ever owned
In 2009 AC/DC vocalist Brian Johnson joined the ranks of celebrity authors – but forget the sex, drugs and rock’n’roll, it was all about cars (LouderSound)
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“They’re called The Experience, man. You’ve gotta see them”: In December 1966 Jimi Hendrix released Hey Joe: Five days later he played a casino in a hotel basement
In late 1966 writer Chris Welch saw The Who play at a tiny East London club. Later that day, he saw Jimi Hendrix in an even smaller venue (LouderSound)
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Actors, artists, transvestites, junkies and wannabes: How Lou Reed made the defining album of his career
Rudderless after the Velvet Underground, Lou Reed ditched New York for London and hooked upwith David Bowie: The rest is history (LouderSound)
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Rob Halford has no plans to retire while Judas Priest “can still deliver the goods”
Judas Priest’s 73-year-old frontman says band’s energy and love from the fans keep the “heavy metal machine rolling” (LouderSound)
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“I didn’t want James Hetfield to smell the alcohol on me”: Robert Trujillo stayed up drinking until 5am before his Metallica audition
The day before auditioning for the biggest band in metal, Trujillo was up partying all night with Lars Ulrich (LouderSound)
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“The crowd was booing us and spitting on us, the entire set”: Trivium’s Matt Heafy remembers being bullied by his heavy metal idols
Some veteran bands were extremely jealous as Trivium blew up in the mid-2000s (LouderSound)
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“Over the years I’ve realized I thrive most when I’m actively working with my bandmates behind the scenes”: Linkin Park’s Brad Delson steps back from live lineup
Delson will be replaced onstage by Alex Feder for the foreseeable future (LouderSound)
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Metallica’s James Hetfield, actor in new western film, doesn’t seem to like acting: “Next time I’m asked to do something like this, remind me to say no”
Hetfield has a role in western thriller The Thicket, currently in cinemas, alongside Game Of Thrones star Peter Dinklage (LouderSound)
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“Our producer played the intro to Nevermore and I was just blown away”: How U.K. became Witherfall guitarist Jake Dreyer’s prog heroes
Astonished by the world of Allan Holdsworth and Bill Bruford in particular, he’s happy to explain how you’ll hear the supergroup in his own band’s material (LouderSound)
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“It’s never a closed chapter. I helped start the band.” David Ellefson doesn’t rule out Megadeth return
Ellefson was dismissed from Megadeth in 2021 following a sex scandal, but seems open to rejoining the thrash icons (LouderSound)
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“I was like, ‘What do I do?’. I chose the band”: English Teacher’s Lily Fontaine on how she turned her back on the world’s best job to become a Mercury Prize-winner
The English Teacher singer and guitarist can finally rest easy that she made the right choice (LouderSound)
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The 10 best cover versions by Smashing Pumpkins
Billy Corgan and crew’s renditions of hits by U2, Hole, Fleetwood Mac, Depeche Mode, The Cure and, umm, Natalie Imbruglia (LouderSound)
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“For all its flights of fancy it’s not ironic; it finds him rooting for hard-grafting, often veteran grapplers”: The prog credentials of Luke Haines’ 9 1/2 Psychedelic Meditations On British Wrestling
The former Auteurs mastermind went further off-piste than ever with his 2011 album, which only runs to 30 minutes but delivers a real experience (LouderSound)
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Will Oasis release a new album as part of their comeback? According to Liam, it’s “already finished”
Liam Gallagher says a new Oasis album is “in the bag” (LouderSound)
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Linkin Park tickets for LA and New York shows sell out fast as vocalist Emily Armstrong addresses criticism over previous support of actor later convicted of rape
Ticket sales for Linkin Park comeback get off to a flying start as new singer speaks out under fire (LouderSound)
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“I’m not very good at ignoring people who slag us off”: the story of Radiohead’s My Iron Lung, the song that changed everything for Thom Yorke & co.
The Oxford band were determined to show there was more to them than Creep, and they wrote just the song to do so (LouderSound)
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“The great albums were not made under a microscope. They were made by living, breathing people who were excited by what they were doing”: How Kiss fought back against the music industry with Sonic Boom
In 2009, Kiss released Sonic Boom, an album that called back to past glories (LouderSound)
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The 10 best Britpop B-sides, featuring Oasis, Supergrass, Ash, Elastica, Blur and more
It wasn’t all about Parklife, Alright and Live Forever, you know. Here’s some Britpop magic you might have missed… (LouderSound)
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Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds announce plans for 18-date North American tour
Nick Cave Cave & The Bad Seeds reveal dates for their first tour in North America since 2018 (LouderSound)
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“I composed this score for the legions of infamous characters in these haunted houses to elicit a sense of emotional terror.” Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash to release limited edition Music Of Universal Studios Hollywood – Halloween Horror Nights album
Horror buff Slash has released a ‘spooktacular’ new album, but if you want one, you better hurry (LouderSound)
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“I knew what each word meant, and it described exactly from moment to moment what that day was about.” The true inspiration behind David Bowie’s ‘Heroes’ has been revealed
‘Heroes’ documents a special day during Bowie’s Berlin residency (LouderSound)
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Listen to Unfinished, the last song Eddie and Alex Van Halen ever recorded together
Unfinished will be included in the audiobook of Brothers, Alex Van Halen’s forthcoming memoir (LouderSound)
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“One of the most singular, unique and influential catalogues in music history.” Every Talk Talk album ranked from worst to best
The complete studio output of Mark Hollis’ groundbreaking, hugely influential band, re-reviewed and ranked (LouderSound)
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Hardcore punk band American Nightmare are suing Cody Rhodes, the WWE Undisputed Champion
WWE wrestler Rhodes has been calling himself “The American Nightmare” for several years, sometimes to the chagrin of the band of the same name (LouderSound)
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“I told you all we were gonna get back together 1 fine day.” Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher swaggers back on to social media, tells fans they can buy “Kneeling only” tickets for next year’s reunion tour for “100 thousand pounds”
Liam Gallagher is feeling “smug” about the Oasis reunion, still doesn’t care about the distinction between there, their and they’re (LouderSound)
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“I feel lucky to be a part of this band. It’s been life changing for me.” Rage Against The Machine bassist Tim Commerford announces first ever UK and European shows with his band 7D7D
RATM bassist Tim Commerford is coming to Europe with 7D7D for the first time, for a tour starting in Lisbon and ending in London (LouderSound)
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The 15 best new metal songs you need to hear right now
Linkin Park, Opeth and Spiritboxare among the best new metal songs this week. Plus, vote for your favourite! (LouderSound)
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Rolo Tomassi release live version of To Resist Forgetting from upcoming album Live At The Electric Ballroom
The UK mathcore mavens’ new live disc is out on September 27 (LouderSound)
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Alice In Chains’ Jerry Cantrell drops new atmospheric solo single, Afterglow
Jerry Cantrell has shared another track from his star-studded forthcoming album, I Want Blood, which is set to feature appearances from members of Metallica, Guns N’ Roses and Faith No More (LouderSound)
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Spiritbox return with ultra-heavy new single Soft Spine
The metalcore mavericks have unveiled a crushing new track ahead of their US tour with Korn later this month (LouderSound)
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Order your limited edition Pure Reason Revolution x Prog bundle – featuring a signed lyric sheet and art print!
There are only 200 available, so get yours now! (LouderSound)
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Order your limited edition Leprous x Prog bundle – featuring an exclusive t-shirt!
There are only 200 available, so get yours now! (LouderSound)
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Awesome new prog you really must hear from God Is An Astronaut, Tomo Katsurada and more in Prog’s Tracks Of The Week
Great new proggy sounds you really should check out from Lowen, Pipe-eye, Red Cain and more… (LouderSound)
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Why isn’t drummer Rob Bourdon part of the new Linkin Park? The band explain
Bourdon was a founding member of Linkin Park, but has been replaced by Colin Brittain (LouderSound)
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“Reminiscent of a deeper, darker version of UFO”: Phil Mogg ponders his own mortality on the brilliant Moggs Motel
Mogg-nificent (LouderSound)
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Ebony Buckle announces new single Think I Just Saved My Own Life
Australian pop progger Ebony Buckle will release her second album Hearts Get Started later this year… (LouderSound)
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Hear Opeth go full prog on new single §3
Their last single was a death metal comeback. Now, Opeth are showing their proggy side again. (LouderSound)
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Lazuli announce England and Ireland tour dates for March 2025
French prog rockers Lazuli will be airing brand new material on their March live dates (LouderSound)
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Jon Anderson graces the cover of the new issue of Prog, which is on sale now!
Plus IQ, Alan Parsons Project, Leprous, Pure Reason Revolution, Meer, Dave Foster Band and loads more… (LouderSound)
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“I hear this screaming from behind me: Simon! Simon! Start the bloody song!” How Deep Purple entered their Mk IX era, inspired by the tedious complications of modern life
Deep Purple might never have been fashionable, but with a new guitarist on board and a brand new album, they look likely to be around for some time yet (LouderSound)
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“One can spot a steely glint in his eye – despite the subject matter, he’s hardly feeling sorry for himself here”: David Gilmour’s Luck And Strange
Fifth solo album carries all the Pink Floyd mastermind’s trademarks, but there are notable differences too (LouderSound)
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The UK Government is to investigate Ticketmaster over Oasis ticket sales
The news comes in the wake of fan fury over Ticketmaster’s ‘dynamic ticketing’ policy (LouderSound)
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“Billie looked scared, then ran off and they all zoomed off on golf carts”:Green Day rushed offstage in Detroit after drone flies into stadium: Suspect arrested
Video shows the dramatic moment Green Day were rushed offstage (LouderSound)
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“All the blood rushed into my fist and I decked him. He fell to the ground like a tipped cow”: What happened the night Vince Neil punched Izzy Stradlin
A feud between Motley Crue and Guns N’ Roses came to a head at the MTV Awards in 1989, and it still hasn’t been resolved (LouderSound)
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“Southern rock, blues rock, what does it matter what you tag it when the tracks are this good?”: The Cold Stares prepare for a big future on The Southern
Finger-picking good Kentucky-fried blues (LouderSound)
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“A case of what might have been”: The Dead Daisies revert to meat-and-potatoes type on Light Em Up
After inspired work with Glenn Hughes on board, Dead Daisies album seven is a step backwards (LouderSound)
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“A tightly convoluted blend of NY postpunk, art-rock and fusion”: 80s’ King Crimson shine brightly on Sheltering Skies
Enter the post-prog maelstrom (LouderSound)
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“Imbued with tropical, fado or flamenco vibes, as if recorded in a hammock on a private beach somewhere”: Luck And Strange finds David Gilmour in relaxed, reflective form
David Gilmour’s fifth solo album muses on heavy concernsbut dreams of cool evenings on the Mediterranean (LouderSound)
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“We didn’t really plan this far!” English Teacher win the 2024 Mercury Prize for debut album This Could Be Texas
Mercury Prize judges: “This Could Be Texas reveals new depths on every listen; the mark of a future classic” (LouderSound)
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“It’s good to see you again.” Linkin Park introduce new vocalist Emily Armstrong at livestream concert, announce new album From Zero, new single The Emptiness Machine, world tour dates
Linkin Park are back, with a new singer, new single, new album, and world tour (LouderSound)
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“Head and Fieldy are born-again Christians. I don’t choose sides. I’ve got Christian friends and Satanist friends”: How a reunited and rebooted Korn put religious differences aside to make The Paradigm Shift
In 2013, former Korn guitarist Head rejoined his ex-bandmates to make The Path Of Totality – this is how it happened (LouderSound)
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Lenco spin a hat-trick of new turntables to suit every budget
Lenco unveil three new record players at consumer and electronics show IFA Berlin – and all three should be of interest if you’re looking for a well-price turntable (LouderSound)
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Delain return with new single Dance With The Devil, announce EP for November
Dutch symphonic metal crew Delain will release their Dance With The Devil EP on November 8 (LouderSound)
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Marillion announce new deluxe edition of This Strange Engine
Marillion’s 1997 album This Strange Engine will be released on CD/Blu-ray and vinyl in November (LouderSound)
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Coma Rossi announce English tour dates for October
UK and Germany-based prog duo Coma Rossi released their second album Void earlier this year (LouderSound)
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Does vinyl really sound better than other formats?
Vinyl is often lauded for its warm sound, but is the experience of listening to a record tangibly different from digital or CD? We take a closer look (LouderSound)
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John Lydon announces massive I Could Be Wrong, I Could Be Right 2025 spoken word tour across the UK and Ireland
Punk legend John Lydon is coming to a town near you next year, “untamed, unscripted and uncensored” (LouderSound)
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“A flood is coming… and most of you will die”: Mastodon tease split release with Lamb Of God
Two icons of 2000s metal will be teaming up for… something, on September 12 (LouderSound)
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Earthside share striking new video for We Who Lament
Cinematic US prog rock quartet Earthside will release new album Let The Truth Speak in November (LouderSound)
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“There was so much unreleased cool stuff still to reveal.” Weezer announce 30th anniversary ‘Blue Album’ reissue featuring 36 previously unreleased recordings and a “12 sided die for all your Dungeon Mastering needs”
Listen to Weezer’s “third practice” recording of Undone – The Sweater Song as a taster for their upcoming ‘Blue Album’ reissue (LouderSound)
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“Do you want to see a fight or do you want to see a show?!” Watch Slipknot brawl with Mushroomhead fans during 1999 gig in resurfaced video
Slipknot got into an infamous brawl with fans of rival masked hellraisers Mushroomhead in 1999, and video of the carnage has finally made it to Youtube (LouderSound)
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“Robert Fripp was triggering sounds and I just responded… I told him I was feeling more comfortable, and he said: ‘You mean like you’re no longer being auditioned?’”: The series of incidents that led to Jakszyk, Fripp & Collins’ A Scarcity Of Miracles
The reunion of two bandmates who’d fallen out badly in the 70s, combined with the energy of a lifelong fan, resulted in a stunning album that assembled the leading lights of Crimson’s final era (LouderSound)
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“I imagined cutting my hair to have a green reverse mohawk like Keith Flint.” Leprous vocalist Einar Solberg picks the 10 records that changed his life
The songs that turned Leprous’s leader from teenage raver to prog metal maestro (LouderSound)
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“I’m an R&B singer in the body of a metal guy”: Why Armored Saint recorded a cover of a Four Tops classic
American metallers Armored Saint are steeling themselves for a US tour with W.A.S.P. via the magic of Motown (LouderSound)
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“I broke his nose. He chipped one of my teeth. We went and played the next day in Georgia and it was great”: How Poison’s career imploded
In 1991 Poison were ready to consolidate a year of enormous success at the MTV Music Video Awards… but it all went wrong in the most disastrous way (LouderSound)
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What happened when we went record shopping with Tyler Bryant & The Shakedown
“When I toured with Jeff Beck I never missed a single soundcheck. I’d sit on the side of the stage, just soaking it in” – Tyler Bryant (LouderSound)
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“We’re taking a step back from the soap opera”: The ongoing saga with The Quireboys ends as the Black Eyed Sons emerge from the wreckage
Members of The Quireboys and Down n’ Outz combine for an all-star album featuring Joe Elliott, Ryan Roxie, Charlie Starr and more (LouderSound)
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To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Gene Simmons’ pronouncement that rock is dead, here are the Top 10 other examples of Gene Simmons repeating his theory
PS. Rock is very much alive, pass it on (LouderSound)
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“It’s dangerous when you’re a kid shooting up drugs. Me and two other guys made it out alive. The others are dead or in prison”: How Mastodon transcended tragedy and trauma to make Crack The Skye
The story of Mastodon’s 2009 prog metal masterpiece, Crack The Skye (LouderSound)
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“The execution of the plan failed to meet expectations.” Oasis add two more Wembley Stadium shows to reunion tour following fans outrage at unexpected ‘dynamic pricing’ hikes for tickets
Oasis add two September Wembley Stadium shows to their 2025 reformation tour (LouderSound)
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10 great Britpop-era indie bands who could reform to ease the pain of fans who missed out on Oasis tickets
Bummed at missing out on Oasis tickets? Us too. The Verve, Supergrass, Elastica, Super Furries… we need you back now, please (LouderSound)
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Watch comedians Rob Beckett and Romesh Ranganathan annoy the hell out of an extreme metal band in new clip from TV show Rob And Romesh Vs
‘Rob And Romesh Vs Heavy Metal’, featuring Scottish metal stars Bleed From Within, is broadcast in the UK tonight on Sky Max (LouderSound)
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“It was an intimidating show.” King Crimson bassist Tony Levin recalls the only gig ever played by Mothers Of Invention spin-off band Aha, The Attack Of The Green Slimebeast, with a dance troupe, a body-painted Danny DeVito and an audience of two people
Aha, The Attack Of The Green Slimebeast, featuring Tony Levin and three members of The Mothers Of Invention, only ever played one show, but it was a memorable one, involving gunpowder, a sex toy and a near-naked Danny DeVito (LouderSound)
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Order your limited edition Mimi Barks x Metal Hammer bundle – featuring an exclusive t-shirt, a signed art print and two temporary tattoos
There are only 300 available, so get yours now! (LouderSound)
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“Gary Wright split from Spooky Tooth, declaring the album ‘an utter failure’… but he was wrong”: Ceremony did more for prog than anybody realised at the time (except the French)
Their 1970 collaboration with avant-garde composer Pierre Henry bombed almost everywhere, but pioneered an approach that later became its own sub-genre (LouderSound)
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David Gilmour says it would be a “dream” to sell Pink Floyd’s catalogue, not because of the financial gain, but to get out of the “arguments”
The guitarist notes how when it comes to making decisions within the band, it’s often “three people saying yes, but one person saying no” (LouderSound)
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“We’ve been working on new stuff for months. And we need to go home.” Mastodon drummer hints new music to come “really, really soon”
Brann Dailor teases that new Mastodon music “might” come sooner rather than later (LouderSound)
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A Day To Remember, Alkaline Trio, New Found Glory, Less Than Jake, Neck Deep among first bands announced for Slam Dunk 2025
First raft of bands announced for UK’s premier pop-punk and emo fest (LouderSound)
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Marko Hietala shares video for the darkly gothic new single Frankenstein’s Wife
Former Nightwish bassist and vocalist Marko Hietala starts a European tour with former bandmate Tarja later this month (LouderSound)
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Stuckfish share video for Sarah Bernhardt-inspired Shadows and Moonbeams
UK prog rockers Stuckfish will release their brand new album IV in September (LouderSound)
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“Bass solo, take one”: Watch Metallica’s new (Anesthesia) Pulling Teeth music video, featuring never-before-seen photos of Cliff Burton
The clip is promoting an online exhibition to the late bassist, hosted on the Metallica website (LouderSound)
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Gojira share small update on next album, reveal it will “take a clear step forward and upward” from Fortitude
Gojira‘s Joe Duplantier says the band’s follow-up to 2021’s Fortitude will be “meaningful” and “impactful” (LouderSound)
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“It’s over. I don’t want to string anyone along.” Black Midi frontman Geordie Greep confirms band break-up, says “nothing’s meant to go on forever.”
“People go down different paths, find out they’re into different things” (LouderSound)
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“It certainly rocks!” Nick Fletcher announces new album A Longing For Home
John Hackett guitarist Nick Fletcher will release new album A Longing For Home in October (LouderSound)
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Queen’s Brian May reveals he was recently rushed to hospital after suffering minor stroke: “The good news is that I can play guitar”
Queen guitarist Brian May shares details of his recent health scare which left him unable to move one of his arms, reassures fans he is now doing okay (LouderSound)
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Did Kelly Osbourne just unmask Slipknot’s mystery keyboardist?
Umm… oops? (LouderSound)
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“I’m too stupid for this”: Spiritbox tease new music with weird online puzzle thing
The Canadian metalcore mavericks seem to be readying a new single for later this week (LouderSound)
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“I went to Rio for a show. I told my wife I’d just been for a helicopter ride and I was now sitting on gorgeous white sand… She hung up on me!” The need to deceive loved ones inspired Caravan’s Paradise Filter
Canterbury pioneers’ 14th album was surprisingly lacking in their traditional Ealing Studios views of England, containing more serious observations on modern life instead (LouderSound)
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Back in the 80s, someone thought it would be a good idea to launch a sports-themed AOR version of the Village People: The result was the All Sports Band
It was Ronald Reagan’s fault, really (LouderSound)
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“There’s a reason why it’s sold more than all the other AC/DC albums combined”: Why I love Back In Black, by Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott
Def Leppard man Joe Elliott on Mutt Lange, Hells Bells and replacing Bon Scott (LouderSound)
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Want to torment someone you hate in the afterlife? Death metal pioneers Deicide have launched their own ouija board
Deicide’s official spirit board arrives as the band embark on their Banished By Sin tour of the US (LouderSound)
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The Emerson, Lake & Palmer albums you should definitely listen to
One of the great British prog bands, a power trio and a supergroup, ELP left a legacy that includes some classic prog-rock albums (LouderSound)
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“This presidency isn’t a surprise to me. You could see it coming a mile away. But the scope of the corruption is unparalleled”: How Ministry’s Al Jourgensen tried and failed to bow out with the George W Bush-baiting The Last Sucker
In 2007, Al Jourgensen was talking about retiring – and it was mostly down to the US President (LouderSound)
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“I love Radiohead more than I could possibly love anything other than my kids.” Why In Rainbows is Charlotte Church’s favourite Radiohead album
“Basically I really like Radiohead” (LouderSound)
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“I was sitting in a bar and a friend came in and said, Bono from U2 just phoned my mother trying to find you.” How Depeche Mode/Nine Inch Nails producer Flood got to work with U2, and why working with Brian Eno made him “reappraise everything”
When U2 came calling for British recording engineer Mark ‘Flood’ Ellis, he assumed it was an April Fool’s joke (LouderSound)
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Listen to the atmospheric title track of Klone’s upcoming album The Unseen
French proggers will release their tenth full-length album, The Unseen in November (LouderSound)
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“Devin Townsend was sick but he jumped right in. He treated the music like it was his own, which meant the world to me”: It’s all going well for Anthony Vanacore since he left America for China, formed OU, hooked a star producer and never looked back
The first Chinese prog act to sign to a major Western label, they’re speeding past this year’s II: Frailty and already working on album number three – with an associated animated series (LouderSound)
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Listen to Eddie Vedder team up with members of AC/DC and Red Hot Chili Peppers for new version of Tom Petty’s Room At The Top, one of 21 Petty covers on the soundtrack to Bad Monkey
The soundtrack to new Apple TV+ show Bad Monkey features Tom Petty covers recorded by Eddie Vedder, Weezer, The War On Drugs, Larkin Poe and more (LouderSound)
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“If the Church won’t condemn this atrocity, it won’t only be bulls slowly haemorrhaging.” Morrissey has written to the Pope urging him to end the Catholic Church’s blessing of bullfights
He might not be able to get Johnny Marr to reform The Smiths, but Morrissey is now seeking to make a new alliance, with Pope Francis (LouderSound)
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Why your choice of stylus and turntable cartridge matters
Everything you need to know about your turntable stylus and the differences between Moving Magnet, Moving Coil and Ceramic cartridges (LouderSound)
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“I sing in pictures – as I sing I see myself standing on the deck of a bloody great boat in Rime Of The Ancient Mariner”: How Powerslave pointed the way to Iron Maiden’s epic future
Iron Maiden’s monumental Powerslave album was released 40 years ago today (LouderSound)
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“We almost ended up performing with Geddy Lee… it’s better that it didn’t happen!” Anthrax’s Scott Ian explains his lifelong passion for Rush
Thrash metal guitarist recalls being impressed by Canadian trio who sounded like “a more muscular Led Zeppelin” (LouderSound)
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Iron Maiden are currently touring Australia and Steve Harris has made the TV news for his off-stage activities
Watch Steve Harris weave his way past a stranded defender before sliding the ball past a helpless goalkeeper (LouderSound)
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“No minor chords here, just major chords hitting you in the balls! I was just mesmerised!”: What AC/DC mean to me, by Kiss’s Gene Simmons
Gene Simmons pays tribute to the longevity of AC/DC, a band he first saw at the Whiskey a Go Go in West Hollywood in 1976 (LouderSound)
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“Oozing with a tangible undercurrent of dark, forbidden sex”: The Stooges’ songs that provided a perfect blueprint for rock’s future
In 1969 the Stooges shaped the future of rock’n’roll and brilliantly captured a young, fiery generation in turmoil. Punk? Grunge? Glam? So much of it started here (LouderSound)
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“He proceeded to take his trousers off between songs. The police got very twitchy”: The chaotic night Led Zeppelin jammed with Ten Years After and the Jeff Beck Group
“My last memory was of Bonham’s hairy backside disappearing, illuminated by a spotlight” (LouderSound)
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Filipino children performing Led Zeppelin’s Whole Lotta Love with uncanny precision? Step right this way
Missioned Souls are from Cebu City, Philippines, and they’ve been busy charming the internet (LouderSound)
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“I’m going to get into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame one way or another and Lars Ulrich can’t keep me out!” How Megadeth’s Dave Mustaine used old rivalries as fuel for the Endgame album
Megadeth‘s 2009 album Endgame capped a killer decade for the thrash veterans (LouderSound)
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“He took out this big knife, put it on the table with a loud thud, looked at us and said, There’s a lot of crazy people out there.” Eddie Vedder on the night Pearl Jam supported Rolling Stones legend Keith Richards
Supporting Keith Richards was a memorable experience for the members of Pearl Jam (LouderSound)
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“He’s better with me solo. He was more open to being adventurous.” Kim Deal on working again with former Pixies/Breeder engineer Steve Albini, and why his death hit so hard
Kim Deal had a long recording history with the late Steve Albini, and she says that the US indie rock community was “devastated” by his death in May (LouderSound)
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“It’s a complicated story.” Elvis Costello on why he no longer plays one of his best-known and most-loved songs, Oliver’s Army
Don’t expect to hear Elvis Costello play Oliver’s Army live onstage ever again (LouderSound)
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“I was in spandex pants, reading Karl Marx.” From birth in Harlem to graduation from Harvard to stripping, Rage Against The Machine and fighting the KKK: this is the incredible life story of Tom Morello
The Rage Against The Machine legend takes a deep dive into his unique life and career (LouderSound)
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“Nobody can stop me.” The Brian Jonestown Massacre share UK and Europe tour plans
San Francisco psych-rock band The Brian Jonestown Massacre reveal 2025 tour of the UK and Europea (LouderSound)
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Lee Abraham announces new solo album Origin Of The Storm
Galahad guitarist Lee Abraham will release his ninth solo album Origin Of The Storm in October (LouderSound)
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Listen to previously unreleased Clannad song A Royal Procession here
Clannad to release 40th anniversary edition of Legend in October (LouderSound)
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“Side Quest Summer continues!”: Watch former Slipknot drummer Jay Weinberg join King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard on stage for thrash banger Perihelion
Ex-Slipknot drummer Jay Weinberg accompanied psych wizards King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard on stage this weekend during their show in Nashville (LouderSound)
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New 10-disc John Wetton live box set on the way
Concentus: The John Wetton Live Collection, Volume I will be released in November (LouderSound)
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”Listen to as many people as possible, and don’t try and stylise yourself on one person”: Iron Maiden’s Steve Harris gives advice to young musicians and songwriters
Iron Maiden bassist Steve Harris imparts songwriting wisdom and shares advice to musicians trying to find their own sound (LouderSound)
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Jakko Jakszyk announces intimate An Evening With show for October 11
Prog readers have chance to get limited number of tickets for the event at West Hampstead Arts Club (LouderSound)
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Green Lung announce European leg of Heathen Neverland tour, share additional UK and IE dates
Green Lung will be co-headlining shows with Unto Others across Europe in 2025 (LouderSound)
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Newly restored film footage of the shoot for Heart’s iconic Little Queen cover has appeared online and it’s wonderful
“We roll into these towns like the circus” – Ann Wilson (LouderSound)
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“If the world was a fair place, everyone’s Greta Van Fleet records would spontaneously turn into Great Western Valkyrie”: Rival Sons’ fourth album finds them on top of their game
After turning heads with Pressure & Time in 2011, Rival Sons returned to the studio with a new bassist and a fistful of big ideas (LouderSound)
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“We were held together by Sellotape and sealing wax… We knew our days were numbered”: Tired, broke and losing members, Van der Graaf Generator went down fighting with The Quiet Zone/The Pleasure Dome
Peter Hammill remembers trimming down the music and the name to spend 18 months in a ferocious punk-tinged endgame that resulted in stunning live album Vital (LouderSound)
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The best new rock songs you need to hear right now
Including Tuk Smith, Warren Haynes, Terrorvision and five other leaders of the rock’n’roll pack (LouderSound)
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An expanded, deluxe edition of Tom Petty’s Long After Dark is on the way
Watch a newly remastered performance video of the Heartbreakers’ fan favourite Straight Into Darkness (LouderSound)
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“We were able to capture the spirit of Detroit”: Suzi Quatro and Alice Cooper have recorded a version of the MC5’s Kick Out The Jams
Video: Suzi Quatro guests with Alice Cooper during a riotous Schools Out in Detroit (LouderSound)
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“We had collapsed financially – I couldn’t pay the wages. I was on the verge of bankruptcy”: The chaotic story of Ian Gillan’s erratically brilliant solo career
Jazz-funk, solo hits and near-bankruptcy – this is the turbulent story of Ian Gillan’s post-Deep Purple career (LouderSound)
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Fancy seeing Oasis from the ‘nosebleed’ seats at London’s Wembley Stadium next summer? For a mere £23,603 a ticket can be yours
Oasis’ 17-date stadium tour of the UK and Ireland sold out within 12 hours, with millions of disappointed fans missing out. But secondary ticketing sites have hundreds of tickets, at vastly inflated price (LouderSound)
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From Oppenheimer to The Mandalorian, Childish Gambino to Vampire Weekend and more: 10 of the best by Oscar-winning producer and composer Ludwig Göransson
In celebration of the film score supremo and pop polymath’s 40th birthday, we celebrate his finest moments (LouderSound)
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“One of the toughest lessons I’ve learned is how to show backbone but not show your fist”: You Me At Six’s Josh Franceschi on the wisdom he’d pass on to the next wave of rock bands
The pop-rock quintet will begin their farewell tour in the US next month, and they have some advice for the groups that come next (LouderSound)
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“There was some smoking and drinking but it wasn’t a lot of drugs. We weren’t coked out of our minds or shooting heroin”: The epic story of Kyuss, the stoner metal visionaries who blazed brightly and burnt out
“There was some smoking and drinking but it wasn’t a lot of drugs. We weren’t coked out of our minds or shooting heroin”: The epic story of Kyuss, the stoner metal visionaries who blazed brightly and burnt out (LouderSound)
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“You could be a Luddite and ignore these new instruments, or you could say, ‘Let’s give it a spin.’ And I chose the latter”: How Jethro Tull embraced synths, drum machines and the 1980s – and split their fans
The tangled story of Jethro Tull’s controversial 80s albums A, The Broadsword And The Beast and Under Wraps (LouderSound)
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“I felt they were having second thoughts… I got quite angry – ‘Just stop the bus, I’ll get off, no problem’”: Ray Wilson knows what went wrong during his time in Genesis
The singer who fronted 1997’s Calling All Stations only had one serious argument with Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford – and remains glad he was there at all (LouderSound)
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Morrissey keen on “lucrative” offer for The Smiths to reunite – Johnny Marr…not so much
Morrissey says Johnny Marr ignored recent big money offer for The Smiths reunion but says he was on board (LouderSound)
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Noel Gallagher’s daughter Anais hits back at “ageism” and “misogyny” from older Oasis fans upset that they can’t get tickets for upcoming reunion tour
Some Oasis fans aren’t happy that young people got reunion tickets – Noel’s daughter says stop with the gatekeeping (LouderSound)
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“Grunge? I don’t know too many things where people are praised for having less skill”: The blazing story of Shrapnel Records, the 80s label that gave shred to the world
How guitar shredders Yngwie Malmsteen, Racer X, Cacophony and Richie Kotzen turned Shrapnel Records into the fastest label of the 80s (LouderSound)
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“Chuck Schuldiner from Death yelled at me for being drunk onstage. That was me not at my best”: Legendary drummer Gene Hoglan is interviewed by equally legendary drummers from Slipknot, Sepultura and more
Happy birthday to iconic metal drummer Gene ‘The Atomic Clock’ Hoglan – born on this day in 1967 (LouderSound)
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“The way he uses all his drum kit; no one else really sounds like that.” How Gavin Harrison’s arrival inspired The PIneaple Thief’s Dissolution
The Pineapple Thief are back with album number 12, one that perfectly encapsulates their style. Bruce Soord and Gavin Harrison talk dark lyrics, ‘cyber jamming’ and battling demons… (LouderSound)
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“I wanted to be the person who came up with the ideas and made grandiose visionary albums.” How TV soap opera director Phideaux became a prog sensation
The story of Phideaux’s 2018 album Infernal, the final part of his dystopian prog trilogy (LouderSound)
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Iamthemorning announce full band London show for November
Chamber proggers Iamthemorning will play London’s St Matthias Church in November (LouderSound)
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“In the 80s, you ordered a gram of cocaine like you ordered a beer. Doing cocaine was normal in those days”: The high times and crazy life of the Scorpions
“In the 80s, you ordered a gram of cocaine like you ordered a beer. It was normal in those days”: (LouderSound)
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“History tends to point to 1975 as something of a slump… worthy names prove it was another very good year”: Ring The Bells And Sing – Progressive Sounds Of 1975 box set
With Yes and Genesis between albums, Camel, Renaissance, Gentle Giant, Be Bop Deluxe, Soft Machine, Steve Hillage and Steve Hackett were among those proved here to be keeping the quality high (LouderSound)
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“I had a swastika t-shirt thinking I was Sid Vicious!” The chaotic rise, fall and rise (again) of iconic rasta-punks Bad Brains
Bad Brains were radical, explosive, controversial and an influence on everyone from Slayer to Foo Fighters and Fever 333 (LouderSound)
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“In the future, we are going to be everywhere”: Slipknot’s Shawn ‘Clown’ Crahan wants to play the Olympics in 2028
Will Slipknot follow Gojira’s lead and play the 2028 Olympics in L.A.? “We’d love to do it,” says Clown. (LouderSound)
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“It had a huge impact on me and helped shape who I am today”: Metallica’s Lars Ulrich on being an Oasis superfan
The Metallica drummer has loved Oasis since the early days – and even once did the lights for them at a show (LouderSound)
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“The death of my mother was the worst thing that ever happened to me. For a year my motto was, ‘Why should I play, why should I eat, for what?’”: The darkness and despair of late Type O Negative frontman and goth metal icon Peter Steele
In 2007, three years before his death, Peter Steele sat down for one of his most candid interviews ever (LouderSound)
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“You’ve got to have control over the creative side. If all you’re interested in is the music then you’re gonna get shafted”: 25 years on from the release of their debut, revisiting a 1999 interview with Muse
The rock titans’ 1999 debut Showbiz turns 25 next week and an early interview shows that Matt Bellamy & co. already had their sights set on the big time (LouderSound)
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“When I heard the synth intro to The Final Countdown, my reaction was: ‘This is nuts, we can’t use this.’ Thank God they didn’t listen to me”: The epic story of Europe, the band who were more than just a one hit wonder
From partying with Guns N’ Roses to pushing back against those poodle perms, this is the story of Swedish hard rock heroes Europe (LouderSound)
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“MTV said, ‘When we look at bands like Mötley Crüe, we know it’s a joke.’ I’m not going to be some clown for MTV”: The twisted, turbulent story of Danzig’s classic Metallica-approved debut album
Danzig’s classic debut album was released on this day in 1988 (LouderSound)
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“It’s boring. It’s over. He left our pop group when I was in my 30s.” David Gilmour says he’ll talk about his fall-out with Roger Waters “one day”, admits he doesn’t know his old friend’s post-Pink Floyd work
David Gilmour on Roger Waters, Nick Mason and Pink Floyd (LouderSound)
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The 13 best new metal songs you need to hear right now
Gojira, Zeal & Ardor and Charlotte Wessels are among the best new metal songs this week. Plus, vote for your favourite! (LouderSound)
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Every Outkast album ranked from worst to best
Hip hop’s most creatively fearless duo haven’t released a new album in almost two decades, but their influence still looms large (LouderSound)
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Every Leprous album ranked from worst to best
Ranking a back-catalogue as incredible as the Norwegian prog masters’ is a near-impossible job, but someone had to do it (LouderSound)
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“Don’t even think about using my music you fascists.” Jack White labels Donald Trump “scum”, and promises the former US President that he’ll be hearing from his lawyers
Jack White will not be voting for Donald Trump’s return to the White House (LouderSound)
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Watch Metallica’s James Hetfield act opposite Game Of Thrones’ Peter Dinklage in new clip from The Thicket
The western thriller, produced by Dinklage, hits US theatres on September 6 (LouderSound)
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“Enough character, charm and chutzpah to ensure that they transcend their obvious influences.” Palaye Royale shoot their shot for immortality on the life-affirming Death or Glory
Las Vegas trio Palaye Royale dazzle on bold fourth album (LouderSound)
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Order your limited edition Nightwish x Metal Hammer bundle – featuring an exclusive t-shirt!
There are only 300 available, so get yours now! (LouderSound)
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Marilyn Manson claims Evan Rachel Wood faked letter from FBI agent in new legal appeal
Manson (real name Brian Warner) has appealed against a judge’s decision to throw out much of his defamation suit against Wood last year (LouderSound)
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Christine McVie’s Fleetwood Mac memorabilia, wardrobe and belongings to be sold in auction as a “celebration of her extraordinary talent and enduring impact on music”
Items from Christine McVie’s career as part of Fleetwood Mac will be going under the hammer in aid of multiple charities, including MusiCares (LouderSound)
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“Their story, though well-known, still beguiles”: Mike Cormack’s Everything Under The Sun: The Complete Guide To Pink Floyd
Academic delivers trainspotterly detail with a personal touch in his in-depth analysis of the band’s work and achievements (LouderSound)
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Watch Halestorm’s Lzzy Hale cover Crawling amid rumours of Linkin Park returning with female singer
Is she teasing or trolling? Either way, it sounds great! (LouderSound)
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Cool new proggy sounds from Tim Bowness, Charlotte Wessels, Dim Gray and more in Prog’s Tracks Of The Week
Great new prog you must hear today from Koyo, Lizzard, Frant1c and more… (LouderSound)
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Breardfish share first new music since reuniting. Listen to In The Autumn here…
Beardfsh will release their brand new album Songs For Beating Hearts in November (LouderSound)
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“Those who do not learn from the past are condemned to repeat it.” Primal Scream offer a cautionary warning about our troubled world with Deep Dark Waters
Primal Scream explore colonialism, xenophobia, fanaticism, human rights and political violence on new single Deep Dark Waters (LouderSound)
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“It’s a warning to those who have crossed me”: Irish Eurovision alumnus Bambie Thug releases new single Hex So Heavy with nightmarish music video
The witchy, gothic artist also starts their UK and Europe tour tonight (LouderSound)
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Rosalie Cunningham reveals details of new album To Shoot Another Day
Rosalie Cunningham will release her third solo album To Shoot Another Day in November (LouderSound)
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“My pursuit of work and all things ego was killing me. And nearly killed me.” Slipknot’s Corey Taylor explains 2024 breakdown
The Slipknot singer cancelled a North American tour in January, saying his “mental and physical health have been breaking down” (LouderSound)
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You can now stream Gojira’s performance at the 2024 Olympic Games on Spotify, Apple Music, etc.
Relive the greatest metal moment of the year wherever and whenever you like! (LouderSound)
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Linkin Park announce next announcement
Their last announcement didn’t announce much, but will Linkin Park’s next announcement announce their long-anticipated reunion? (LouderSound)
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“I stood right at the front and watched. There was hardly anyone there”: Behind the scenes at Led Zeppelin’s first UK show, told by the people who saw it
When people turned up to a Newcastle ballroom, they expected to see The New Yardbirds. Instead, they saw the future of rock’n’roll (LouderSound)
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“He remains the world’s most influential guitarist”: Six essential posthumous albums by Jimi Hendrix
We’ve sifted through the hundreds of legally dubious and musically bankrupt albums released under Jimi Hendrix’s name since his death in 1970, and come up with six of the best (LouderSound)
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“It might be the most accessible thing the’ve put out, but they’ve hardly turned into a garage rock band”: Leprous ditch the excess baggage on Melodies Of Atonement
Einar Solberg isn’t sure their eighth album is prog, but there’s plenty of evidence to argue otherwise (LouderSound)
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“There was no food allowed backstage, only drugs and booze”: Clem Burke’s stories of Debbie Harry, Bob Dylan, Iggy Pop and more
He was a Ramone, been treated like royalty when touring withNancy Sinatra, got hot dogs from Jerry Nolan and played with Pete Townshend: He’s Blondie drummer and more Clem Burke (LouderSound)
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“Pristine pop and rock with a twist of glam and bursting with arena-ready songs”: Tuk Smith & The Restless Hearts shine on Rogue To Redemption
Former Biters frontman Tuk Smith delivers a power-pop/classic rock gem (LouderSound)
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“Every track on it either was a single or just acted like it was”: The 30th anniversary edition of Definitely Maybe is a reminder of the cockiness and verve of Oasis
The Sex Beatles’ defining moment, expanded (LouderSound)
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“A joyous anthem for an era of self-hatred”: Manic Street Preachers launch celebratory new single Decline & Fall
Decline & Fall is the first track to emerge from the Manics’ upcoming fifteenth studio album (LouderSound)
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New six-disc reissue for Porcupine Tree’s Fear Of A Blank Planet
New deluxe edition of 2007 album Fear Of A Blank Planet will be released in October (LouderSound)
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“Iggy Pop told me he got a speeding ticket while pumping out the demo!” Asian Dub Foundation’s Steve Chandrasonic on his band’s collaborations with Iggy Pop, Sinéad O’Connor, Public Enemy’s Chuck D, Stewart Lee, Primal Scream and more
Asian Dub Foundation guitarist Steve ‘Chandrasonic’ Savale gives Louder an exclusive track-by-track guide to 94-Now: Collaborations, a new album celebrating ADF’s 30th anniversary (LouderSound)
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“Bleak and hopeless, beautiful and poignant, desperately uncomfortable to listen to, yet impossible to ignore.” Revisiting Manic Street Preachers’ dark masterpiece The Holy Bible at 30
Released on August 30, 1994, the Manic Street Preachers’ third album The Holy Bible remains one of the most unique, singular albums in history. (LouderSound)
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“My doctors wanted to cut my arm off”: How Fleshgod Apocalypse turned a near-fatal accident into symphonic death metal magnum opus Opera
In 2021, Fleshgod Apocalypse leader Francesco Paoli fell in a horrific climbing accident. The singer/bassist explains how he overcame broken bones, internal bleeding and the threat of an amputated arm to make the extreme metal mavens’ poignant sixth album. (LouderSound)
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“I played it to Jon Anderson and his son. They were both crying – which was either a huge compliment or a disaster!” Is Talk a real Yes album or actually a Trevor Rabin solo work?
30 years on, band members reflect on their last LP with Rabin and Tony Kaye, giving the overlooked masterpiece the re-evaluation it deserves. (LouderSound)
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8 early Labor Day CD and vinyl box set deals that’ll rock your world
The Labor Day sales are already under way – here are the CD and vinyl box set bargains that have caught my eye (LouderSound)
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“I just thought he looked like a 13th-century serf from Monty Python”: Why Courtney Love turned Oasis’ Liam Gallagher down
Courtney Love once almost hooked up with Oasis’ Liam Gallagher, but wasn’t so keen on his “bad breath” or the fact he apparently looked like a medieval peasant (LouderSound)
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“There’s a sadness to that album.” How addiction, thrash royalty and the long tail of 9/11 oversaw Lamb Of God’s career-defining Ashes Of The Wake
Twenty years old this year, Ashes Of The Wake remains a classic of 21st century metal (LouderSound)
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“I would like to do a duet with Bonnie Tyler!” Five minutes with Hammerfall’s Joacim Cans
Hammerfall’s frontman chats power ballad karaoke, why he hated living in America and touring with Death in the 90s (LouderSound)
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Every Oasis album ranked from the worst to the best
Oasis are a British cultural phenomenon, and news of their reunion has sparked outpurings of joy across the planet. Here are the Manchester indie-rock superstars’ albums ranked from worst to best (LouderSound)
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“Like Van Halen reincarnated”: Watch 10-year-old guitarist Maya Neelakantan blaze through her Metallica-approved performance of Master Of Puppets on America’s Got Talent
Child YouTube guitar sensation Maya Neelakantan was granted permission from Metallica to play Master Of Puppets on America’s Got Talent, and wowed the judges with her sitar-infused axe-slinging skills (LouderSound)
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How to watch this weekend’s epic WWE Bash In Berlin
WWE Bash In Berlin is all set for this weekend – here’s how you can watch all the action live (LouderSound)
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“We’ve been creative little weirdos.” The Last Dinner Party share cover of Sparks’ This Town Ain’t Big Enough For Both Of Us, talk up second album plans
The Last Dinner Party: “We’ve been creative little weirdos.” (LouderSound)
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“Do you like… beer?” What happened when we accompanied sugar-sweet Japanese ‘Harajuku-core’ metallers Hanabie to the UK’s biggest rock festival, Download
Could Hanabie win over a crowd of muddy, drunk British rock fans? You bet (LouderSound)
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“I really thought this album might be the last one I ever made…”: Halsey shares time-warping trailer for new album The Great Impersonator
Halsey’s trailer for her upcoming new album The Great Impersonator takes inspiration from multiple decades: “What if I debuted in the early 2000s, the ’90s, the ’80s, the ’70s…” (LouderSound)
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“So wasteful… such a futile and pointless gesture”: Ian Anderson sent a flute into space, and William Shatner followed later. The Jethro Tull leader wishes neither of those things had happened
His desire to be associated with the space race, first shared on 1970 album Benefit, resulted in disappointment (LouderSound)
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Oasis tickets haven’t even gone on sale yet and they’ve already added more dates
Oasis have now scheduled 17 stadium shows in the UK and Ireland next year (LouderSound)
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“Oh my goodness! It’s so rousing! Especially the end!”: The soundtrack of Gene Simmons’ life
Kiss bassist, Demon and fire-breather Gene Simmons picks his records, artists and gigs of lasting significance, and names the “most dishonest” album Kiss ever made (LouderSound)
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Michael Schenker launches version of UFO classic Only You Can Rock Me aided by Joey Tempest and Roger Glover
Only You Can Rock Me comes from Michael Schenker’s upcoming album My Years With UFO (LouderSound)
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Joy Division Day in Macclesfield will celebrate iconic band and late frontman Ian Curtis
Joy Division Day will be held in Macclesfield, England, on September 7 with tours and a tribute band lined up for fans (LouderSound)
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“Mr Cain is elated with the outcome”: Jonathan Cain claims victory in ongoing legal dispute with Journey bandmate Neal Schon
To be completely frank, we’re not sure what’s going on with this soap opera anymore (LouderSound)
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Black Veil Brides wanted to make an album that replicated Metallica’s world-dominating Black Album “on every level”
On their 2014 self-titled album, Black Veil Brides were trying to “replicate” Metallica’s own self-titled epic ‘Black Album’ (LouderSound)
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“It does what great art is supposed to do, taking the artist’s experiences, however dark, and making them universal”: Nick Cave returns to the water on Wild God
The wizards of Aus finds hints of light in the darkness (LouderSound)
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Bryan Ferry hooks up with Nine Inch Nails for his first original song in more than a decade
Bryan Ferry’s new single Star was written with Nine Inch Nails duo Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross (LouderSound)
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Linkin Park countdown starts counting back up, everybody confused
You waited a hundred hours, now you may need to wait a hundred more (LouderSound)
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“The context had changed so much. I knew I had a lot of quirks and weird things, but there were only dysfunctions left”: Daniel Gildenlöw on confronting his neurodiversity via Pain Of Salvation’s Panther
The band’s 11th album, dedicated to “the outsiders,” came after he was diagnosed with ADHD and survived a battle with a flesh-eating infection (LouderSound)
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“I go to the urinal and I feel a wet stream going down my left leg.” The night ex-Beatle John Lennon peed on one of the men who launched Woodstock festival
Music business legend Artie Kornfeld recalls the night that John Lennon peed on him during his Double Fantasy recording sessions (LouderSound)
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Sleep Token, Bring Me The Horizon, Jinjer, more added to 2025 Rock Am Ring and Rock Im Park lineups
Sleep Token, Bring Me The Horizon, Jinjer, Powerwolf and others will join Slipknot in Nürburg and Nuremberg from June 6 to 8 (LouderSound)
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Gryphon to release their first ever live album
UK chamber proggers Gryphon will release Gryphon Live – A Sonic Tonic in September (LouderSound)
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There’s a metal festival simulator game coming out, overseen by a member of Sabaton
Lord Of Metal will let you manage your own virtual metal festival and is being funded by a Kickstarter campaign (LouderSound)
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Judas Priest’s Rob Halford opens up about offering guidance to fellow LGBTQ+ musicians: “I’m here. I’m queer. Get f**king used to it.”
Judas Priest frontman Rob Halford discusses counselling other gay musicians, the bigotry and hate that LGBTQ+ people still face and meeting his life partner (LouderSound)
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Godspeed You! Black Emperor make typically cryptic announcement about new album
Canadian instrumental post-rockers Godspeed You! Black Emperor will release No Title As Of 13 February 2024, 340 Dead in October (LouderSound)
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“Shane had dropped an enormous amount of acid. Mark E. Smith was out of his mind on amphetamines. I was literally one day out of rehab.” Nick Cave recalls his “disastrous” first meeting with his dear friend and “angel” Shane MacGowan
Nick Cave and the late Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan were great friends: here’s how their friendship began (LouderSound)
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“Africa is the future of metal.” Meet Arka’n Asrafokor, Togo’s first heavy metal band
Arka’n Asrafokor have had to travel 24 hours by bus just to be able to play gigs. Now, they’re starting to get the recognition they deserve (LouderSound)
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Kate Bush on her love of David Bowie: “He was just the right amount of weird, obviously intelligent and, of course, very sexy”
Kate Bush on the first time she heard and met David Bowie (LouderSound)
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Every Flaming Lips album ranked from worst to best
Ranking the audio wonders of Wayne Coyne’s Oklahoma City weirdos, from the most out-there to the truly essential (LouderSound)
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“I have a lot of compassion for them…they’ve lost good people.” What Mushroomhead think of fellow masked metallers Slipknot now
The beef between Slipknot and Mushroomhead was legendary in the nu metal era, but Steve ‘Skinny’ Felton says it was exaggerated by the media (LouderSound)
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Peter Gabriel and Steve Hackett pay tribute to former Genesis tour manager Richard Macphail
Former Genesis and Peter Gabriel tour manager and “sixth-member” Richard Macphail has died aged 73 (LouderSound)
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Fun fact of the day: Metallica use or give away 6,000 guitar picks a night
The metal superstars also haul 64 guitars around on tour and make their way through 25 drumsticks per show (LouderSound)
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Spotify are hosting fake songs by at least 30 major metal bands, including While She Sleeps, Bury Tomorrow and Thy Art Is Murder
While She Sleeps, Bury Tomorrow, Thy Art Is Murder and more have had seemingly AI-generated music uploaded to streaming services, without their involvement (LouderSound)
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“People will speculate that Mike Portnoy playing on my album means things are gonna change in Dream Theater. It’s not that at all”: When John Petrucci reunited with his old friend for solo album Terminal Velocity
Three years before the reunion actually took place, the pair got together in the studio for the first time in a decade – and the guitarist got their first song wrong (LouderSound)
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“It was spiralling out of control. You find yourself in some dodgy situations waiting outside train stations at three in the morning”: How Orange Goblin’s Ben Ward turned his life around
With their frontman now slimmed down and sobered up, Orange Goblin’s new album Science, Not Fiction is similarly fat-free, ferocious and muscular (LouderSound)
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The sounds that shaped rock’n’roll: A brief history of the Mississippi saxophone
…or the harmonica, as it’s better known (LouderSound)
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“If they were to take X-rays, you’d see that his joints have taken a serious beating”: What AC/DC means to me, by Aerosmith’s Joe Perry
Joe Perry pays tribute to the longevity of AC/DC, who first toured with Aerosmith in 1978 (LouderSound)
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“We went ahead and did it, and it exploded in everybody’s faces. It was embarrassing”: How UFO fell apart then found themselves again
After debacles with former guitarist Michael Schenker, UFO returned with a new lineup in 2004 for another shot at the big time (LouderSound)
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Watch Mick Rock’s previously unseen video for David Bowie’s Starman
The Starman footage was shot on David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust tour in 1972 and 1973 (LouderSound)
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Sum 41’s Deryck Whibley: “I am not joining Linkin Park”
Sum 41’s frontman has shot down the online rumours that he’s replacing Chester Bennington in a reunited Linkin Park (LouderSound)
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Watch Metallica’s Kirk Hammett and Robert Trujillo cover Rush anthem Working Man in Canada
The Metallica duo’s latest ‘doodle’ covered a Canadian classic turning 50 this year (LouderSound)
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“I’m 5’7” but I’ll have an operation, I’ll do something”: Ex-Megadeth guitarist Marty Friedman was denied a Kiss audition for being too short
Marty Friedman’s height cruelly cost him the chance to join one of rock’s biggest-ever bands (LouderSound)
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“I thought the remake was a cynical cash-grab. Not much cash to grab it seems.” Despite all those scathing reviews, The Crow 2024’s harshest critic is the first film’s director
Alex Proyas, director of 1994’s The Crow, has annihilated the new remake in a series of Facebook posts (LouderSound)
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“I’m terrified… I want my child to grow up able to speak her mind and to have opinions of her own”: Why Airbag had to call out cancel culture on The Century Of The Self
Guitarist Bjørn Riis says their new concept album grew with the benefit of no record label deadline – but that it was still important to set their own completion date (LouderSound)
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Watch this The Voice Australia contestant cover Britney Spears’ Toxic – with death metal growls!
Britney Spears got a metalcore makeover courtesy of the first-ever extreme metal vocalist on The Voice Australia (LouderSound)
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Johnny Marr posts cryptic response to quash any hope of a reunion from The Smiths following Oasis comeback news
Just because one iconic Manchester indie band is coming back, doesn’t mean that The Smiths will be following suit (LouderSound)
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Japanese metalcore squad Hanabie release heavy new single Metamorphose
The self-described “harajuku-core” champions will tour North America with Jinjer next month (LouderSound)
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Sabaton will release concert film The Tour To End All Tours to theatres in October
Hopefully the military-obsessed band’s foray into cinemas won’t bomb (LouderSound)
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“Melodies Of Atonement feels like a culmination of two decades’ worth of experience, energy and insight.” Leprous show exactly how they’ve become prog metal royalty
Norway’s Leprous might be ditching some of their heaviness, but Melodies Of Atonement is a prog metal masterclass nonetheless (LouderSound)
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Will Sum 41’s Deryck Whibley front a reunited Linkin Park? The internet is starting to think so…
Some oddly timed announcements from Sum 41’s singer and nu metal sensations Linkin Park have got internet sleuths theorising (LouderSound)
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“The great wait is over”: After 15 years and countless arguments, the worst-kept secret in music has been confirmed: Oasis have reunited
Oasis have announced 14 shows in the UK and Ireland next year (LouderSound)
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“I remember dissecting YYZ and learning all his different techniques… I use that stuff all the time with Dream Theater”: John Petrucci wouldn’t be John Petrucci without Rush’s Alex Lifeson
Future prog metal master discovered his Canadian counterpart at just the right time in his life – and he soon had friends including John Myung joining in (LouderSound)
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“He would have embraced rap and hip-hop because he absorbed music like a sponge. It would have become part of what he created”: What Jimi Hendrix means to me, by Eddie Kramer
Producer and engineer Eddie Kramer looks back on his association with the great Jimi Hendrix (LouderSound)
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A beginner’s guide to Taj Mahal in 10 essential videos
Highlights from the career of the man formerly known as Henry Saint Clair Fredericks (LouderSound)
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“London was implicated in the collusion of a fat music industry bloated on cocaine and bereft of direction”: How London lost its lustre
There was a time when all rock and pop roads led to London; you couldn’t move without tripping over an icon or a star. Those days are long gone (LouderSound)
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“Baby boomers and bikers are eighty per cent of our audience, but we’re seeing more and more young people”: Fito de la Parra looks back on 60 years of Canned Heat
Canned Heat drummer Fito de la Parra has survived changing trends, the deaths of all his original bandmates, and more than 40 personnel changes (LouderSound)
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Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra have played the first show of their final US tour: setlist, pics, video
The first night of ELO’s Over And Out Tour took place in Thousand Palms, CA (LouderSound)
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“We always felt like we were on the brink of the mainstream, but never crossed over.” Fictitious car crashes, flooded basements and Jackass: how CKY became unlikely MTV stars with 96 Quite Bitter Beings
Despite naming his new band after the track, ex-CKY frontman Deron Miller insists 96 Quite Bitter Beings is “nothing special” (LouderSound)
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Tim Bowness embraces electro-pop on new single Lost/Not Lost
Tim Bowness will release his latest album Powder Dry, his first for new label Kscope, in September (LouderSound)
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“A lurid, increasingly Neanderthal-minded caricature of the band’s trademark sound. It’s an absolute blast.” US hardcore brutes Nails are reborn anew on Every Bridge Burning
Eight years and more than a few band members since their last record, Nails are back and brutal as ever (LouderSound)
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Pink Floyd bassist Guy Pratt features on poignant new Pure Reason Revolution single Betrayal
UK prog quartet Pure Reason Revolution will release new album Coming Up To Consciousness in September (LouderSound)
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Devin Townsend shares first music from new album PowerNerd: watch a video for the title track here…
Devin Townsend will release his latest album PowerNerd, the first of a new trilogy of releases, in October (LouderSound)
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“I had, like, 18 whiskies”: The unhinged story of how jazz karaoke led to post-rock idol Julie Christmas waking up in bed with a tinned ham
The noise/post-rock maverick gives a bizarre anecdote about canned meat in the new issue of Metal Hammer (LouderSound)
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“This is the beginning of the journey.” Why Stranger Things’ Jamie Campbell Bower started an experimental metal band called BloodMagic
BloodMagic might only have one single out thus far, but they’ve got big plans going forward (LouderSound)
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“If memorable hooks were an offence they’d have been locked up with no chance of parole”: The Cheap Trick albums you should definitely listen to
With a pair of pretty boys and a pair of geeks and some glorious songs, Cheap Trick once ruled the pop-rock world (LouderSound)
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“From a period when the band’s theatricality had yet to spill over into pretension”: Styx successfully fight the pomp rock wars on The Grand Illusion
The Grand Illusion was the first of four consecutive triple-platinum albums for Styx, establishing them as one of America’s biggest rock acts (LouderSound)
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“When it comes to many of the classics, I don’t even know what they’re about!” How Mikael Åkerfeldt’s policy of not taking advice led Opeth to Pale Communion
Inspired by sharing records with Steven Wilson, he took a more melodic approach, added a vague title that just sounded cool, and forged them into a “journey through life that starts pretty good and ends shit” (LouderSound)
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“My eyebrows are singed, my mouth is blistered, my arms are pretty bad”: Slipknot’s Sid Wilson is hospitalised with “serious burns” following farming accident
Slipknot DJ Sid Wilson reveals he has suffered burns to his face and arms after an explosion, assures fans that he’ll still play upcoming shows (LouderSound)
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“Black metal is the only form of music since punk rock that’s not money motivated”: How members of Emperor and Amen smashed together black metal and hardcore in forgotten supergroup Scum
The story of early 2000s underground supergroup Scum, who burnt brightly for one album then vanished (LouderSound)
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“The Moors Murderers’ Manchester was the same as our Manchester”: Buzzcocks’ Steve Diggle on growing up next door to Myra Hindley and Ian Brady
The guitarist and co-founder says he had a close shave with the notorious killers as a kid (LouderSound)
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“We weren’t doing electronic music with synthesisers, but with a bank of oscillators we stole from radio stations”: Jean-Michel Jarre and the creation of Oxygène
A story of challenges, limitations, the completion of its 40-year journey and working with Stockhausen – who “considered himself to be made of sound” (LouderSound)
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“There has been no better ambassador for the electric guitar”: Bernie Marsden, remembered
Best known for co-founding Whitesnake and as a writer of some of their classic songs, Bernie Marsden spent a lifetime walking in the shadow of the blues (LouderSound)
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“I don’t think we’re a band that will last forever. We could break up any time”: On the road with Thin Lizzy in America in the late 1970s
Thin Lizzy hit their stride between 1977 and 1979 – and journalist Harry Doherty had a front row seat for their American tours (LouderSound)
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Mötley Crüe have unleashed a cover of the Beastie Boys’ Fight for Your Right
Just what you always wanted (LouderSound)
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The reviews are in for The Crow remake, and they’re brutal
Love the original The Crow movie and thinking of watching the remake? Maybe think again (LouderSound)
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“We were blown away by what Michael Kamen did with Silent Lucidity. It gave us all goosebumps”: How Queensryche made a progressive metal landmark with Empire
Operation: Mindcrime is Queensryche’s most famous album – but follow-up Empire remains their biggest commercial success (LouderSound)
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The 11 best new metal songs you need to hear right now
Chat Pile, Oceans Of Slumber and Unto Others are among the best new metal songs this week. Plus, vote for your favourite! (LouderSound)
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Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 True Wireless earbuds review
When it comes to audio quality, these pricey buds from Bowers & Wilkins are among the best I’ve ever heard (LouderSound)
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The tracklisting for The Crow 2024’s soundtrack is pretty goth, to be fair
The controversial reboot will be soundtracked by Joy Division, Gary Numan, Enya and more when it comes out on August 23 (LouderSound)
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System Of A Down aren’t releasing a new album, but bassist Shavo Odadjian is, with new project Seven Hours After Violet
Odadjian’s new band have released their second single, Radiance, and announced a self-titled album for October (LouderSound)
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Robert Fripp, Mike Portnoy, Pat Mastelotto and more guest on new Tony Levin album
King Crimson and Peter Gabriel bassist Tony Levin will release Bringing It Down To The Bass in September (LouderSound)
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“Maybe I’ll be a bro and let them take our spot up there”: Kerry King names the band who could replace Slayer in the Big Four
Metallica, Megadeth, Anthrax and who? (LouderSound)
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Cyan share video for emotional new version of All Around The World
Modern-day prog supergroup Cyan will release new mini-album The Guardians in September (LouderSound)
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“We were trying to get to that level of the music we really loved… It’s always slightly out of reach, but my God, you can have fun trying to get there”: Tears For Fears on their mystical purpose
A King Crimson show in 1981 kickstarted the duo’s partnership, powered by all kinds of prog and never completely destroyed by their battles (LouderSound)
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Five bands you must not miss at this weekend’s Pelagic Records Festival
Pelagic Festival runs from August 24-25 at Maastricht’s Muziekgieterij (LouderSound)
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The Sheepdogs drop Paradise Alone EP led by “dumb rock song” Take Me For A Ride
Paradise Alone is the first release by The Sheepdogs on their own Right On Records label (LouderSound)
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“Unravels the horrors and joys of the world through a rouge-tinted pair of spectacles. The results are epic.” Simone Simons soars on solo debut Vermillion
After 22 years and eight studio albums with Epica, vocalist Simone Simons is spreading her wings as a solo artist (LouderSound)
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“Tchaikovsky was a sort of mentor; if it was good, ABBA or whatever, we didn’t shut anything out”: When Gentle Giant revisited seventh album Free Hand
The reissue, complete with Steven Wilson remixes, was the band’s chance to look back on what the band had liked about 1975 release, and what they hadn’t (LouderSound)
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“Monday was Heaven, Tuesday was Run To You, Wednesday was Somebody”: Bryan Adams looks back on the miraculous creation of his breakthrough album
Having paid his dues – and then some – 1984 found Bryan Adams entering a creative purple patch, writing a timeless hit of the future seemingly every single day (LouderSound)
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“Rock music is so dominated by all-male bands so it feels cool to have a super-pregnant lead singer on the cover”: Blues Pills have finally made exactly the album they wanted
Ten years, four albums and some huge changes on from their breakout debut, Blues Pills have ditched the self-imposed constraints (LouderSound)
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“I’m doing a two-hour show with a six-and-a-half-minute bass solo”: Glam icon Suzi Quatro is not resting on her laurels
Suzi Quatro on paving the way for other women in rock, social media, age and working hard (LouderSound)
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Paul McCartney just made a surprise appearance with Andrew Watt and Chad Smith at a 250-capacity club in Amagansett
McCartney sang a Neil Young classic before kick-starting a make-it-up-as-you-go-along version of a Beatles hit (LouderSound)
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Helmet cancel US tour over financial concerns and poor ticket sales
New York noise-rock heroes Helmet have pulled the plug on 14-date US tour due to kick off next month (LouderSound)
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Amazon Music Listening Party lets you rock the night with friends directly through Discord
Amazon Music Unlimited and social platform Discord join forces to let you and your friends share your own listening party through voice calls or texts (LouderSound)
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Fleshgod Apocalypse’s Opera is surprisingly moving, given it’s by a band called ‘Fleshgod Apocalypse’
A 2021 climbing accident almost cost Fleshgod Apocalypse vocalist Francesco Paoli his life. On Opera, that pain fuels the Italians’ best album to date. (LouderSound)
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Cammie Beverly shines on Oceans Of Slumber’s epic new single The Given Dream
US prog metallers Oceans Of Slumber will release album six, Where Gods Fear To Speak, in September (LouderSound)
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Former Anthrax guitarist too busy “****ing around with crazy-ass expensive watches” to think about comeback
Dan Spitz, who played on all of Anthrax’s 80s albums, became a successful watchmaker after leaving the thrash icons (LouderSound)
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“It wasn’t really till we got out and played live that we realised it was a couple of things”: Iron Maiden’s Steve Harris admits there was “maybe an issue or two” with Blaze Bayley’s voice at shows
Harris does however credit Bayley with helping “keep the band alive” in the mid-90s (LouderSound)
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“It’s about finding hope in the darkest of places”: RØRY unveils the gorgeously cathartic new single In The Bible
Alt-rock rising-star RØRY shares the new track In The Bible (LouderSound)
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Every Alien film ranked from worst to best
From Ridley Scott’s original masterpiece to newest offering Alien: Romulus, we rate the entire franchise so far (LouderSound)
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Big Big Train share new live video for Love Is The Light
UK prog rockers Big Big Train will release A Flare On The Lens on vinyl and Blu-ray in September (LouderSound)
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“The excavation of suffering body and soul.” New York noise extremists Uniform confront lifelong struggle with bulimia nervosa on harrowing, brilliant new album American Standard
Uniform dig deep into personal issues and demons for their devastating fifth album American Standard (LouderSound)
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“We will look to the horizon of the underground and beyond”: Roadburn festival announces first bands for 2025, including reunited Kylesa
The Netherlands festival has unveiled its first three bands and will host the first Kylesa show since 2015 (LouderSound)
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Hawklords announce upcoming album Relativity
Space rockers Hawklords also announce UK tour dates for November (LouderSound)
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Listen to lairy new Pendulum single Napalm, featuring Joey Valance & Brae
The drum ‘n’ bass icons have teamed up with rising hip hop duo Joey Valance & Brae for a grubby new banger (LouderSound)
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See a de-aged Fred Durst appear in trailer for suitably 2000s-themed horror/comedy Y2K
The film’s about machines trying to take the over world during Y2K. Will the Limp Bizkit frontman skin their asses raw? (LouderSound)
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Watch Tool bassist Justin Chancellor dress as Willy Wonka to prank support band onstage
Tool’s bassist mindf*cked Night Verses during the bands’ recent European tour (LouderSound)
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“He asks the tech to put a light close to him so he sweats more. He likes feeling that we’re fully engaging ourselves”: When Von Hertzen Brothers began to their ascent out of Finland
Already huge in their home country, fourth album Stars Aligned was their chance to sell their brand of prog – inspired by Queen and Pink Floyd, among others – to the wider world (LouderSound)
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The fret-meltin’ shred guitar albums you should definitely listen to
Amp-humpin’, high-octane instrumentalists! Is it music made by guitarists for guitarists? Not always! (LouderSound)
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“We’re taught to be ashamed of our accent and where we’re from”: Meet Big Special, the Black Country duo blending the blues, hip-hop and rock with beautiful fury
With Free “a huge influence” and pithy lyrics, Big Special might soon live up to their name (LouderSound)
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Nathaniel Rateliff on hanging around with Robert Plant, getting high with Willie Nelson, and the struggles behind the new Night Sweats album
Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats might not be party animals any more, but there’s no shortage of energy when it comes to their music (LouderSound)
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“Nobody wants a reggae or a hip-hop record from us”: How Blackberry Smoke keep moving forwards
Still dealing with the sad loss of their drummer, southern rockers Blackberry Smoke are gearing up for a European tour (LouderSound)
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“More hair! More clothes! Tighter pants!”: The trailer for that Paramount+ show about 80s hair metal has been unleashed
Nöthin’ But A Good Time: The Uncensored Story Of ’80s Hair Metal airs next month (LouderSound)
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Listen to Foreigner’s previously unreleased Turning Back The Time featuring Lou Gramm
Turning Back The Time comes from an upcoming, career-spanning Foreigner collection of the same name (LouderSound)
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The Black Crowes announce additional Happiness Bastards dates following Aerosmith tour cancellation
14 new dates have been added to the Black Crowes’ schedule following Aerosmith’s unexpected retirement from the road (LouderSound)
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Three years in the making, the Victrola Automatic could be the perfect turntable for beginners
Victrola “challenges the conventional approach” with their brand new automatic turntable (LouderSound)
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“We were a bunch of dirty, stinky pirates!” Order your limited edition Metal Hammer x Mastodon bundle – featuring an exclusive Leviathan t-shirt!
This Leviathan-inspired shirt – featuring artwork by Metallica, Foo Fighters and Sleep Token collaborator Luke Preece – is only available via the Metal Hammer webstore (LouderSound)
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“It feels like a vision for the future.” Nu gen star Cassyette lives up to the hype on her long-awaited debut album This World F***ing Sucks
From supporting Bring Me The Horizon to writing a Eurovision anthem, 2024 has been a massive year for Cassyette – and she’s just getting started (LouderSound)
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“He wasn’t like a mad scientist with all these live wires hanging around in the studio – the wires were all in his mind”: The prog credentials of pioneering producer Conny Plank
He helped create krautrock before his influence stretched round the progressive world via his belief that “craziness is something holy” (LouderSound)
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Canadian prog rockers Huis share brand new single Westminster Bridge
Canadian prog rockers Huis will release their fourth studio album In The Face Of The Unknown in October (LouderSound)
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Best Pro-Ject turntables 2024: Winning record players from the inimitable Austrian powerhouse
Pro-Ject’s reputation for high-quality turntables precedes itself. This handful represents some of the best of the bunch (LouderSound)
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Solstice, Ghost Of The Machine and Clive Nolan all sign for Progrock.com’s Essentials label
US label Progrock.com’s Essentials signs three top UK prog acts and will release their next albums later this year (LouderSound)
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Legendary New York metal venue Saint Vitus closes permanently
The Brooklyn bar – which has hosted shows by Megadeth, Anthrax, Converge, Nirvana and Blink-182 – was shut in February and won’t reopen its doors (LouderSound)
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The biggest rock tour of all time has officially been confirmed – and it’s Coldplay’s Music Of The Spheres world tour
According to new data, Coldplay’s latest tour has officially surpassed the likes of U2, The Rolling Stones and Elton John (LouderSound)
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“We hired male strippers to come onstage and dance”: Kittie’s Morgan Lander names her goofiest tour memory
The nu metal-era stars loved pranking their tourmates on a run of shows with Killswitch Engage, Shadows Fall and Poison The Well (LouderSound)
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Former Jethro Tull members Martin Barre and Doane Perry guest on new Chris Herin single
Tiles guitarist Chris Hern will release his star-studded debut solo album Hiding In Plain Sight in November (LouderSound)
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“It really is down to Nik Turner’s habits… I wish it wasn’t, because it would be nice if it were more spiritual”: Dave Brock on how Hawkwind got their name
It’s not inspired by a Michael Moorcock story or an ancient Japanese proverb – It’s just about spitting, farting and behaving like animals (LouderSound)
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“A new heavy metal classic for the ages”: The song Ronnie James Dio called one of the “proudest things he’d ever done”
Begun by Dio when he was fronting Black Sabbath, it transformed his career and became one of the classic metal tracks of the 80s (LouderSound)
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Black Smoke Trigger come from a small city in New Zealand but their ambition is global
With A-list album production and a Bruce Dickinson tour behind them, Black Smoke Trigger aren’t settling for anything (LouderSound)
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The Hives’ joyous video for Rigor Mortis Radio is the greatest 2 minutes and 57 seconds of anything you’ll watch today
The Hives, choreographed as they’ve never been choreographed before (LouderSound)
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“Imagine how much money is being made here”: Brian May slams the Countryside Alliance for criticising his badger culling documentary
The Queen guitarist has reacted after complaints to the BBC about his film, scheduled to be broadcast this week (LouderSound)
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“He’d cook you a breakfast like your mother, then go out trawling through the markets buying second-hand clothes”: A tribute to Phil Lynott, by the guitarists who played alongside him
Phil Lynott’s bandmates share their memories of their late,lamented, but inimitable frontman Philip Lynott (LouderSound)
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Babymetal and Electric Callboy team up with WWE for Bash In Berlin with Ratatata
One of the year’s most ludicrously fun metal anthems will officially soundtrack this month’s huge WWE show in Berlin, Germany (LouderSound)
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Ulver keyboardist Tore Ylwizaker dies
Ylwizaker passed on the night of his 54th birthday and no cause of death has yet been given (LouderSound)
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Black metal breakout stars Blackbraid return with cover of genre classic Warriors
The one-man black metal project has covered an anthem by supergroup I (Immortal, Enslaved, Gorgoroth) (LouderSound)
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Win a PRS Guitar signed by Creed!
Win a Tremonti PRS Guitar signed by all members of Creed, plus a vinyl copy of Human Clay, a subscription to Guitar World and a Classic Rock Collector’s Edition with signed setlist! (LouderSound)
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Every Eminem album ranked from worst to best
We rank Eminem’s catalogue, from overlooked debut Infinite to most recent opus, The Death Of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce) (LouderSound)
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Marshall “redefine cool” with the brand new Emberton III and Willen II Bluetooth speakers
Marshall update their portable range with updates to their popular Emberton and Willen Bluetooth speakers (LouderSound)
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“There are three songs that don’t sound like anything we’ve done before”: Anthrax have written “13 or 14 songs” for new album
The thrash metal masters haven’t released a new record since For All Kings in 2016 (LouderSound)
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The Fierce And The Dead and Brontide among first bands announced for Portals 2025
Portals 2025 takes place at London’s EartH in Hackney on May 24 and 25 (LouderSound)
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Death metal veterans Nile have crafted their best album in nearly 20 years with The Underworld Awaits Us All
No one does death metal quite like Nile. Their 10th album is a ferocious reminder of why (LouderSound)
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Amplifier announce tour dates for March and April 2025
UK space rockers Amplifier will release their latest album Gargantuan eary next year (LouderSound)
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The 12 bands that defined Arctangent 2024
From headliners Meshuggah to left-field picks like Glassing, Arctangent’s 10th birthday was another extravaganza of forward-thinking talent (LouderSound)
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“Now they’re seeing how deep the rabbit hole can go.” Avant-garde metallers Zeal & Ardor have unleashed their adventurous side on the excellent Greif
Zeal & Ardor stop just short of totally ripping up the rulebook, but fourth album Greif is a bold step forwards all the same (LouderSound)