Category Archives: News

News

CHARLES MAIMAROSIA SHARES MESMERISING NEW SINGLE ROROPAU NEW ALBUM HOTE’ HOTE’ SET FOR RELEASE FEBRUARY 21

Blending tradition with modern-yet-immersive flair, the new single Roropau from Solomon Islands-born, Melbourne-based creative Charles Maimarosia connects deeply with his Are’ Are’ roots while also showcasing his buoyant craftsmanship, with the latest single heralding the upcoming release of Maimarosia’s sophomore album, Hote’ Hote, due out on Friday February 21 via Wantok Musik, available to pre-save now.

 

A deeply authentic and soulful artist, heavily inspired by his own culture and experiences, Charles Maimarosia once again weaves a firm essence stemming from his upbringing and his continuing journey as an Are’ Are’ artist into the new track Roropau. Adapting a traditional Are’ Are’ lullaby with Andrew Robinson also working on the single’s arrangement and production, the end result for Roropau is one that celebrates both culture and nurturing beauty, as Maimarosia explains, “Releasing Roropau feels deeply personal and meaningful. It’s a moment where I get to share an intimate part of my heritage, connecting the traditional Are’ Are’ lullaby with a modern audience. The song represents both my roots and my journey as an artist. I feel a mix of pride, gratitude, and excitement to share it with the world. Roropau is a lullaby passed down through generations in Are’ Are’ culture. It’s about the connection between mother and child, the soothing power of song, and the love that nurtures and protects. My inspiration came from hearing my elders sing it and realising the beauty in its simplicity and depth. It’s my way of preserving and sharing that legacy with the world.”

 

“The foundations of my sound always come from the Are’ Are’ traditions,” Maimarosia continues, “our panpipes, our rhythms, and our storytelling. Beyond that, artists like David Bridie, who has been a guiding presence in my career, and other Pacific musicians who celebrate their heritage have inspired me.”

 

To channel the core of the original lullaby into a modern setting, Maimarosia worked alongside Andrew Robinson on Roropau, who lent his specialised understanding of arranging and production to both the latest single as well as the broader Hote’ Hote’ album, resulting in music that revels in nuance and seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary charm. “Andrew is someone who truly understands how to honour the cultural elements of the music while enhancing them with modern techniques,” shares Maimarosia. “The mixing and mastering were done by a team who have experience bringing out the best in both acoustic and world music, ensuring the song retains its organic, heartfelt essence.”

 

Opening with the rumbling percussion of Parani O’o, Maimarosia’s new album Hote’ Hote’ ultimately journeys the listener through 12 unforgettable tracks overall, each celebrating Maimarosia’s Are’ Are’ cultural heritage as well as his musical dexterity. From his impassioned and gripping vocals through to glistening guitars and ethereal panpipes, Maimarosia also enamours with his immersive storytelling that beats throughout his sophomore album, singing entirely in his native tongue while effortlessly allowing stories and themes to translate seamlessly via his delivery and musicianship. Whether balancing traditional instrumentation with swooning arrangements (Rokahanua), gifting sunny sonic vibrancy (title track Hote’ Hote’), driving-yet-stirring anthems (Nanaratana Hu’ A Kuramauri), swirling textures (Haiamasina), jubilant and jangly panpipe-driven delights (Manu Ki), toe-tapping modernity balanced with virtuosic solos (Wote’ Wote’), balmy bliss (Kiaka Ha’ Apaina), laidback vibes with hazy tones akin to floating on azure waters (Na A’ Ma Si’ O), raw and riveting emotives (A’ Mamaiuru and Nanaratana Tetemanu), or sublime updates on traditional Are’ Are’ songs (Roropau), Charles Maimarosia retains a rooted and soulful presence throughout Hote’ Hote’, with the gifted artist also physically journeying to locations to authentically inspire and enhance his overall creative vision for the project. “Some of my favourite memories making this album include sailing in traditional canoes to remote villages to find inspiration and recording sessions where the team truly understood the importance of every sound we captured,” shares Maimarosia. “Working with Andrew Robinson on arrangements was another highlight—his ability to translate Are’ Are’ traditions into a modern soundscape was incredible.”

 

“The album explores themes of voyaging, family, love, and cultural preservation,” Maimarosia continues. “It celebrates the beauty of the Pacific, the strength of community, and the stories of my ancestors. It’s also a call for unity and respect across all cultures and generations. And also my own journey from small Pi Pi Su village in Malatia  Solomon Islands to Australia and touring the world following and sharing My culture and music from the age of 17.”

 

An award-winning performer and storyteller, Charles Maimarosia is renowned for being a musician of important custom knowledge, and an artist dedicated to cultural preservation. Growing up in the remote Pipisu village of Malaita, Maimarosia developed a profound interest in ‘Are ‘Are music at a young age since inheriting his first handmade coconut shell ukulele from his father, and witnessing ‘auu rerepi’ panpipe performances and Are’ Are’ drum ensembles as a child. Starting his musical journey performing amongst his community and communicating ancient songs of his ancestors with hand-made pan pipes, Maimarosia has since gone on to tour the globe for over a decade, including as the frontman, choreographer and songwriter of the acclaimed panpipe orchestra Narasirato, as well as representing Australia and Solomon Islands at the G20 Summit in India, and on stage at the likes of WOMADelaide, the Blue Mountains Music Festival, and the National Folk Festival. Since relocating to Melbourne in 2010 to focus on his solo career and signing to Wantok Musik, Maimarosia has released a solo debut album, 2016’s Are’Are, and received the Music Victoria Diaspora Award in 2022.

 

Alongside the upcoming release of his sophomore album, Maimarosia is also set to perform some of his captivating creations live as of next month, offering fans a chance to experience his latest material in a live setting while also celebrating storytelling and traditional and modern Are’ Are’ music.

 

“Fans can expect an immersive experience,” Maimarosia reveals of his upcoming performances, “Are’ Are’ drums, panpipes, and rhythms blending with modern instruments. I want the audience to feel the heart of the Solomon Islands, the power of our stories, and the joy of coming together through music.”

 

“I am a storyteller at heart,” Maimarosia continues. “My music is an extension of my culture and my identity as an Are’ Are’ artist. I strive to blend tradition and modernity, preserving the wisdom of my ancestors while making it relevant to today’s world. At the same time, I’m constantly learning and evolving through collaboration and new experiences.”

 

“I hope this latest single and my upcoming album inspire people to value their roots and the stories that make them who they are. For me, music is more than sound—it’s a bridge between generations, a way to connect hearts and share wisdom. I’m grateful for everyone who’s been part of this journey, and I can’t wait to share it with the world.”


Roropau is out today via Wantok Musik.

Hote’ Hote’ is due out on Friday February 21 via Wantok Musik, pre-save now from https://ffm.to/cmhotehote.

 

 

CHARLES MAIMAROSIA – UPCOMING SHOWS:

 

SAT 8 FEB | ODESSA AT LEAVER’S HOTEL, CRESWICK VIC

Tickets available from: https://events.humanitix.com/charles-maimarosia-hote-hote-album-launch

 

SAT 15 FEB | GEORGE LANE, ST KILDA VIC

with special guest Pirritu

Tickets available from: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1301782

 

FRI 21 FEB | WAUCHOPE ARTS HALL, WAUCHOPE NSW

Tickets available in January 2025 from: https://wauchopearts.org.au/

 

SAT 22 FEB | RED RATTLER, MARRICKVILLE NSW

with special guest Zippy Anu

Tickets available from: https://events.humanitix.com/charles-maimarosia-hote-hote-album-launch-with-special-guests

 

SUN 23 FEB | SMITH’S ALTERNATIVE, CANBERRA ACT

with special guests Dean Abbott Band

Tickets available from: https://www.smithsalternative.com/events/charles-maimarosia-88669

 

News

News: Holy Holy hang up their halos and announce grand guest-filled Hiatus Tour

Holy Holy hang up their halos and announce grand guest-filled Hiatus Tour
Holy Holy hang up their halos and announce grand guest-filled Hiatus Tour

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After more than a decade, five albums, and countless shows across Australia and beyond, HOLY HOLY—comprising producer and composer Oscar Dawson and songwriter and lyricist Timothy Carroll—have announced they are going on hiatus. Alongside the news, the band has announced a national hiatus tour in May–June 2025 presented by triple j.

“Being in HOLY HOLY has been one of the greatest honours of my life. The memories we made and the songs we wrote will stay with me forever. I’m so grateful to our team, our collaborators and most of all our audience for how much they have given us,” singer Timothy Carroll says. “Next year, I’m moving to Sweden for a couple of years, and Oscar is living in London, so now feels like a good time to step away and work on other projects.”

Caroll continues, “We’d like to give a special shout-out to Ryan Strathie, our incredible drummer and long-time collaborator, and Graham Ritchie, our bass player and spirit guide, two of the most talented musicians we’ve ever had the pleasure of playing with and two of the most gracious and lovely people too. It’s been such a privilege working with them both.”

HOLY HOLY leave us with a catalogue of five iconic albums, a double platinum single, one platinum and four gold singles, and over 150 million streams on Spotify alone. Known for their deep, idea-dense songwriting, ever-evolving sound, and penchant for working with collaborators and guests, HOLY HOLY will play one final series of shows around the country before calling it a day for now.

“We’ve booked a run of shows at some of our favourite venues across the country and we can’t wait to share these songs with our fans one more time. We’ve always loved playing live, hanging out with the support bands, and meeting the crowd after the shows to hear their stories. This is going to be a special run. The hardest part will be picking the setlist,” jokes guitarist producer Dawson.

For this hiatus tour, HOLY HOLY promises a setlist featuring songs spanning over a decade of their work, along with a lineup of special guests. Over the years, the duo has shared the stage and collaborated in the studio with notable artists such as Sumner, Queen P, Kwame, and Clews.

“We have always loved writing and performing with other artists; sharing a song with someone creates a special kind of bond, and when you get up on stage and perform together, you become like family. So we’ll be hitting up our contact lists and seeing who we can convince to come down and party with us,” says the band.

As to whether the band will perform again in the future, the answer is uncertain. “For now, having a break and getting lost in other projects is what feels right. We’re not sure what comes next, but we’ll always love the times we had in HOLY HOLY”

Pre-sale tickets for HOLY HOLY’s A Grand Hiatus Tour are available on Thursday, 30 January, at 10:00 am local time. General on-sale tickets are available to the public on Friday, 31 January, at 10.00 am local time.

 

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HOLY HOLY – A GRAND HIATUS TOUR
Presented by triple j | Pre-sale tickets here
Friday 09 May – Adelaide – Hindley Street Music Hall
Saturday 10 May – Perth – Freo Social
Thursday 15 May – Torquay – Torquay Hotel
Saturday 17 May – Melbourne – Forum
Thursday 22 May – Wollongong – Anita’s Theatre
Friday 23 May – Central Coast – Drifter’s Wharf
Saturday 24 May – Sydney – Enmore Theatre
Thursday 29 May – Launceston – Ducane Brewery
Friday 30 May – Hobart – Odeon Theatre
Saturday 31 May – Tasmania – Forth Pub
Thursday 05 June – Gold Coast – Miami Marketta
Friday 06 June – Queensland – Kings Beach Tavern
Saturday 07 June – Brisbane – Fortitude Music Hall

Warm-Up shows:
Friday 14 February – Coffs Harbour – Hoey Moey
Saturday 15 February – Byron Bay – The Beach Hotel
Saturday 22 February – Newcastle – Over The Ditch Festival
Tickets available now from holyholymusic.com

 

About HOLY HOLY:
HOLY HOLY manifested something when they gave themselves that reverent name in 2011. Since then, Oscar Dawson and Tim Carroll have carved out a sound that blends indie pop, art rock, and bittersweet lyrics—a combination that’s deeply felt and uniquely theirs.

Liam Gallagher heard their devastating truth when he went to a show in 2019, calling them his favourite new band. The Mad Mancunian tweeted the lyrics to Sentimental and Monday to his 3 million followers: ‘Darkness is nothing but a lack of light – as you were LG x’

Dawson and Carroll met while volunteering in Southeast Asia and reconnected in 2011 during their twenties. Despite living in different parts of Europe—Carroll in Stockholm and Dawson in Berlin—they shared demos and wrote songs remotely, coming together to collaborate in share houses and flats whenever distance permitted. Soon after, they both returned to Australia and began releasing music with the Pacific EP (2013) featuring the critically acclaimed debut single ‘Impossible Like You’. Next came their debut album, When The Storms Would Come (2014). These releases introduced their distinctive style – guitar-driven with echoes of Knopfler and Young and lyrics that carry the weight of Oberst and Springsteen, filtered through a unique Stockholm (Carroll) meets Melbourne (Dawson) lens.

Their sophomore effort, Paint (2017), radiated confidence with tracks like ‘That Message’ and ‘Shadow’ and featured the triple-platinum hit ‘True Lovers’, which has since racked up over 50 million streams. My Own Pool of Light (2019) pushed their boundaries further, blending ecstatic Gorillaz-inspired pop with moments of raw introspection like ‘Teach Me About Dying’.

On Hello My Beautiful World (2021), which peaked at #4 on the ARIA Albums chart, HOLY HOLY further expanded their sound, collaborating with CLEWS and rapper Queen P. Their most recent album, Cellophane (2023), which also claimed the #4 spot on the ARIA Albums chart, solidified the band’s reputation as a “songwriting factory,” showcasing seven collaborative tracks—a testament to their commitment to amplifying Australian musicians, a cornerstone of their legacy that will endure for years to come.

With over 170 million streams across platforms, a dedicated half a million monthly listeners on Spotify, and 23 consecutive singles added to triple j—10 of which topped the station’s most-played list—HOLY HOLY has become an inescapable force in the Australian music scene. As the duo prepares for their imminent hiatus and Grand Hiatus tour, this marks the end of a remarkable chapter for one of Australia’s most influential musical acts.

 
News

Live Review: Wardruna

Wardruna

Palais Theatre, Melbourne

The meteoric rise of interest in Viking lore stemmed from the popularity of the TV series ‘Vikings’.

Out of the crucible of amazing music from the series, one of the stand out bands has been Wardruna.

The minimal stage is set with an array of instruments as the band moves onto the stage to begin the two hour set.

Opening with ‘ Kvitravn’ (White Raven) the lighting is dark and moody as we begin the journey a white raven fluttering on the screen behind Einar. From the moment Einar Selvik and his ensemble took the stage, the energy in the room shifted. Opening with hauntingly beautiful vocals layered over traditional Nordic instruments like the tagelharpa and lyre, Wardruna instantly transported the crowd to another time and place. The precision and emotion in their delivery were mesmerizing, with every note and rhythm resonating deeply.

Followed by ‘ Hertan’ ( Heart) the audience is entranced, an a spellbinding journey begins. We bear witness to songs about healing and nature. Seamlessly they move through ‘ Skugge’, ‘ Heima Thurs’ ‘ Lyfjaberg’, ‘Volupsa’ , ‘ Tyr’ not pausing for a breath. Having only just released the new album Birna, the performance is the first time many of these song have been performed, which is a rare treat for Australian audiences.

To witness a performance from Wardruna is a journey that transcends the audience to a different time and space, it is almost a profound spiritual experience that is more than just a music performance, it like witnessing a ritual or spiritual awakening.

Before leaving the stage Einar sings one last song, a poem that was written about the legendary Ragnar Lothbrock as he lay in the snake pit that claimed his life. The mournful lyrics captivate the audience as the show draws to a close.

By the time the final note faded into the auditorium audience was on their feet, delivering a heartfelt standing ovation. This being their first tour they have captured the hearts of Australian audiences that will await their return.

Wardruna’s Melbourne show wasn’t just a concert—it was an unforgettable journey into the heart of Nordic heritage, brought to life through impeccable musicianship and passion. For those lucky enough to attend, it was a night to cherish.

 

 

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News: ICE CUBE ANNOUNCES 2 EXCLUSIVE AUSTRALIAN SHOWS

ICE CUBE ANNOUNCES 2 EXCLUSIVE AUSTRALIAN SHOWS

General public tickets on sale Friday, January 31 from 11am

MELBOURNE, January 24, 2025: Ice Cube, the iconic rapper and actor, is set to electrify Australian stages in March 2025, with exclusive shows in Sydney and Melbourne, showcasing some of the biggest hits in hip hop history.

These dates are: Friday, March 7 at Sydney’s by ICC Theatre, followed by Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne on Sunday, March 9.

A partner presale will take place on Tuesday, January 28 from 11am, running until Thursday, January 30 at 10am.

My Live Nation members can secure tickets during the pre-sale which commences on Thursday, January 30 at 11am and concluding on Friday, January 31 at 10am.

General public tickets go on sale Friday, January 31 at 11am. All times are local.

For complete tour and ticket information, visit: livenation.com.au

Ice Cube first gained prominence as a founding member of the legendary rap group NWA, known for their groundbreaking album, Straight Outta Compton.  As a solo artist he continued to push boundaries with albums like Death Certificate and The Predator, these releases achieving widespread critical acclaim and cementing his status as a hip hop pioneer. His recent release Man Down debuted at No.8 on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums chart, his first top 10 solo album in the chart in 14 years, and No.2 on iTunes Hip Hop/ Rap Chart.

Beyond music, Ice Cube has made a significant impact in Hollywood, starring in and producing numerous successful movies, including the Friday series and Barbershop.

With over 10 million albums sold worldwide, Ice Cube remains a cultural icon, celebrated for his raw lyricism, social commentary and enduring influence on both music and film. As a true trailblazer in television and film, through his film and television production company, CubeVision, Ice Cube produced 50 episodes of the hit series “Hip Hop Squares” for VH1 and MTV, and he produced the award-winning, Oscar-nominated biopic “Straight Outta Compton,” which grossed over $200 million worldwide. His films, collectively, have grossed over $1 billion at the box office, with franchises such as “Friday,” “Barbershop,” “Are We There Yet?,” “21 Jump Street,” and “Ride Along” shaping the landscape of cinema.  As co-founder of the BIG3 basketball league, Ice Cube continues to make an impact, bringing in its first franchise owners, achieving its most-viewed season ever in 2024, and securing groundbreaking partnerships with title sponsors. He also launched the Ice Cube Impact Award in collaboration with the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, where he was the first recipient. His latest album, Man Down, debuted in the Top 10 on multiple Billboard charts, including Top Rap Albums, and hit #2 on iTunes’ Hip Hop/Rap Chart, proving his enduring influence. To learn more, visit icecube.com or follow @icecube.

His Australian shows promise to showcase his enduring talent and the lasting impact of his contributions to entertainment. 

ICE CUBE – AUSTRALIA 2025 

ICC THEATRE, SYDNEY – FRIDAY MARCH 7

SIDNEY MYER MUSIC BOWL, MELBOURNE – SUNDAY MARCH 9

 

GENERAL PUBLIC TICKETS: ON SALE FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 AT 11AM

Partner Presale:  Tue 28 Jan, 11am > Thu 30 Jan, 10am

My Live Nation Presale: Thu 30 Jan, 11am > Fri 31 Jan, 10am

All times are local.

For complete tour and ticket information, visit:livenation.com.au

 

CONNECT WITH ICE CUBE

Website  X  Instagram  Facebook  YouTube

 

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News: KNOTFEST AUSTRALIA ANNOUNCE SIDESHOWS!

KNOTFEST AUSTRALIA
ANNOUNCE SIDESHOWS!

KNOTFEST, the destination festival brand curated by SLIPKNOT, is returning to Australia this year, and today we are thrilled to announce a horde of headline sideshows from some of the artists on the festival lineup.

In addition to their entirely sold out Adelaide headline sideshow, SLIPKNOT will also headline in Auckland on Tuesday 11 March, while A DAY TO REMEMBER are set to perform a one and only Australian headline show in Brisbane on Monday 3 March.

BABYMETAL, SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL, WITHIN TEMPTATION, ENTER SHIKARI, HATEBREED, MISS MAY I, VENDED and SUNAMI will also perform their own headline sideshows this year, with the hill-hiking, metal music-loving stand up comic LUKE SEVEREID also set to head down under all the way from Seattle as part of KNOTFEST, interviewing bands at the festival and also performing his own sideshows.

Knotfest Member pre-sale tickets on sale Friday 24 January @ 9am local timeEarly bird pre-sale tickets on sale Friday 24 January @ 10am local time

Register here ->  https://knotfestau.com/25sideshows

General tickets are on sale Tuesday 28 January @ 10amlocal time
destroyalllines.com

Without further adieu, we present to you Knotfest Australia 2025 sideshows…
SLIPKNOT
WIITH SPECIAL GUESTS VENDED^Tuesday 4 March – AEC Arena, Adelaide^ Sold Out
Tuesday 11 March – Spark Arena, Auckland

Following their monumental performances launching Australia’s first ever KNOTFEST in 2023, SLIPKNOT will return down under in 2025 to headline proceedings for this not-to-be-missed rock and heavy music festival alongside these freshly announced sideshows.As always, attendees can expect a performance unlike any other, from a band who only get more thrilling, exciting and cathartic as time goes on. Having released a new record in 2022, The End, So Far (crowned at #1 on the ARIA Albums Chart; their fourth consecutive album to do so), SLIPKNOT refuse to rest on past glories and continue to innovate, with fan favourites including as many new songs as older. Between enduring fan-revered singles like Duality, Psychosocial and Wait and Bleed, as well as deeper cuts and newer material over the years, SLIPKNOT’s drive and creativity bleeds through their jaw-dropping live performances.

Hailing from Des Moines, Iowa, VENDED has been pushing the limits of combustible energy and raw aggression since their 2018 inception. Their bold, honest, passionate take on heavy music raises the flag for a new generation. Revolver heralded them as one of 10 Bands Leading the New Wave of Nü-Metal and they have shared stages supporting Bring Me The Horizon, Avenged Sevenfold, Korn, and Knocked Loose and headliners/festivals in North America, Europe and South America.
A DAY TO REMEMBER
WITH SPECIAL GUESTS THORNHILL & OCEAN GROVEMonday 3 March – Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane

No strangers to Australian shores, Florida-hailing quartet A DAY TO REMEMBER head to Australia for the first time since 2019 for KNOTFEST. Wielding an irresistible melting pot of metalcore, pop-punk and post-hardcore, A DAY TO REMEMBER have remained one of the most versatile and vigorous acts to emerge from the early 2000s, with the group remaining an active force from the halcyon days of Myspace and physical media through to the modern era of TikTok and streaming. In command of hundreds of millions of Spotify streams and YouTube views, seven studio albums, including two certified Gold records, entirely sold out tours in their wake, and their own curated Self Help Festival.

Melbourne purveyors of artful and engaging heavy creations, THORNHILL possess a flair for nuanced rock that has captivated on a global scale. Via their ARIA Award-nominated 2022 album Heroine, Thornhill solidified a steadfast reputation as one of the most innovative and immersive heavy acts in the Australian scene, and have gone on to amass a heaving array of accolades over the years. Recently, the band gifted some insatiable new material courtesy of standalone singles Viper Room and Obsession, as well as a live album, Live On Tour!, boasting performances captured in the wild across the globe.

OCEAN GROVE are the enigma of the heavy music landscape, blending elements of nu metal, hardcore and alternative rock to create a sound that is uniquely their own, i.e. Oddworld Music. Since their inception, OCEAN GROVE have captivated audiences with their high-energy performances, visually striking aesthetics and infectious melodies, earning them a devoted legion of followers at home and abroad. Most recently, OCEAN GROVEreleased their fourth studio album ODDWORLD, which debuted at #8 on the ARIA Australian Albums Charts.
BABYMETAL
WITH DIAMOND CONSTRUCT (BRIS)
& FUTURE STATIC (SYD)Tuesday 4 March – Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane
Thursday 6 March – Enmore Theatre, Sydney

Electrifying purveyors of kawaii metal, BABYMETAL, will bring their kaleidoscopic infusion of J-pop-meets-heavy-metal wizardry. BABYMETAL have taken the heavy world by storm since first forming in 2010. Between their exclusive global fanbase, THE ONE, ongoing chart success, including the rare feat as becoming the first Asian act to storm to the top of the Billboard Rock Albums chart, avant-garde creative aesthetics and direction, and a legion of celebrity fans, including Corey Taylor, Rob Zombie, Metallica, Deftones and Limp Bizkit, BABYMETAL unleashed their fourth studio album The Other One in 2023 and sold out their first Australian headline tour in 2023. The group also recently teamed up with German metal partystarters Electric Callboy on the hyper and heaving track RATATATA.

Hailing from Taree in NSW, metal mavericks DIAMOND CONSTRUCT fuse relentless sonic aggression with lashings of grooves, hooks and blazing modernity, with their full-throttle dexterity leading to tours with the likes of Justice For The Damned, Alpha Wolf, Stray From The Path and many more. With their sophomore 2016 EP, Event Horizon, hitting #1 on the iTunes metal charts, the group’s 2019 debut self-titled full-length album and sophomore 2024 full length, Angel Killer Zero, solidified  DIAMOND CONSTRUCT‘s blockbuster ways to the world; and 2025 is shaping up to be a monster year for the band.

Melbourne five-piece FUTURE STATIC blend a palpitating mix of alternative rock, melodic pop and progressive metal flair, cultivating a unique and refreshing brand of emotional yet heavy music. Releasing their AIR #1 Independent Album Liminality in 2023, FUTURE STATIC went on to tick off their first ever international tours, headlining in Europe and the UK and supporting Electric Callboy and TesseracT, and are currently wrapping up their debut headline Australian run. One of Australia’s most buzzed about heavy acts capable of endless light and shade, FUTURE STATIC‘s live show must be witnessed to be believed.
SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL
Thursday 27 February – Northcote Theatre, Melbourne

After obliterating Aussie crowds with their debut Australian performance as part of Good Things Festival in 2023, Russian-hailing deathcore behemoths SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL led by the formidable frontman, Alex Terrible, bring a ferocious amalgamation of deathcore and blackened metal sonic onslaught that leaves no survivors.

The band’s relentless pursuit of metal domination has led them to conquer stages across the globe, most recently supporting Five Finger Death Punch on an extensive North American run in 2024 along with performances at Resurrection Fest, Hellfest, Copenhell and Graspop.

Bolstered by Alex Terrible’s signature guttural growls and the band’s collective crushing tendencies, SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL are set to release their third studio album in 2025, with Grizzlyfollowing on from 2017’s Misery Sermon and 2021’s Kostolom. In command of hundreds of millions of streams, monster fan-favourite tracks like Demolisher, Baba Yaga and VIKING, a relentless dedication to their craft and their unwavering stance against violence, SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL endlessly captivate audiences with their brutal yet melodic compositions; and they’ll be bringing their signature brutality back to Australian stages this year.

WITHIN TEMPTATION

Monday 3 March – Princess Theatre, Brisbane
Thursday 6 March – Max Watts, Melbourne

Pioneers of dark and anthemic music, Dutch collective WITHIN TEMPTATION has captivated audiences for over 20 years, with 2025 marking the first time that the powerhouse modern rockers will perform down under.

With a career that spans eight studio albums, over four million records sold and dominating the Billboard Mainstream Rock Charts, WITHIN TEMPTATION have consistently evolved their sound, exploring within and beyond the symphonic rock genre alongside metal, atmospheric and melodic elements. Via their most recent album, 2023’s Bleed Out, WITHIN TEMPTATION tackled societal and political themes, with the album also reaching #2 in the Netherlands, and top ten chart entries in various countries, including Belgium, Germany and Switzerland.

Famed for their powerful and immersive live performances and production, WITHIN TEMPTATION have ticked off massive headline runs, performances at the biggest metal international festivals, and tours alongside Iron Maiden, Evanescence and In Flames. And after decades of existence, WITHIN TEMPTATIONwill finally grace Australian soils for their debut live appearances.

ENTER SHIKARI

Monday 3 March – Solbar, Sunshine Coast
Wednesday 5 March – Sooki Lounge, Belgrave
Thursday 6 March – King St Bandroom, Newcastle

Forming in 2003, British rockers ENTER SHIKARI exploded onto the scene via their 2007 debut album Take to the Skies, generating significant chart success and certified Gold status. A band who wield an exhilarating amalgamation of alt rock, and electronica along with drum and bass, dubstep and beyond, ENTER SHIKARIalso delve into societal and personal themes, seen most recently on 2023’s A Kiss for the Whole World, which debuted #1 on the UK album charts.With seven studio albums, multiple award wins and nominations, and a dedicated fanbase worldwide, ENTER SHIKARI have also extensively toured the globe  as headliners, as well as with the likes of You Me At Six, WARGASM and a staggering who’s who of the heavy world at high profile festivals for decades.

Most recently in Australia performing at Good Things Festival in 2023, the return of ENTER SHIKARI to Aussie shores in 2025 is yet another opportunity for fans to witnsss the group’s unforgettable onstage prowess.

HATEBREED

Tuesday 4 March – The Triffid, Brisbane
Wednesday 5 March – 170 Russell, Melbourne
Friday 7 March – Metro Theatre, Sydney

Celebrating three decades as a band in 2024, American heavy metal hardcore icons HATEBREED are set to detonate their monstrous live show celebrating their seminal sophomore album Perseverance for Australian fans in 2025. Paving the way for the fusion of hardcore and metal, Perseverance received worldwide recognition upon release in 2002, with permeating praise placing HATEBREED as forefronts of the genre.From garnering a Grammy Award nomination for Best Metal Performance in 2005 for their track Live for This, through to releasing eight full length albums, HATEBREED‘s unwavering devotion for their craft and respect from their fans and critics alike continues to elevate their dedicated exploration of every gamut of the heavy music realms, armed with a stage presence that dazzles in ferocity, empowerment and, ultimately, unity.

MISS MAY I

Tuesday 4 March – Stay Gold, Melbourne
Wednesday 5 March – Crowbar, Sydney

All the way from Ohio, MISS MAY I will lend their trademark sonic fury to the KNOTFEST experience, following the recent unveiling of their entirely re-recorded 15th anniversary version of their beloved 2009 debut album Apologies Are for the Weak.An undisputed fixture of the modern heavy music community, MISS MAY I merge passion with savagery and proficiency, constantly defying expectations while also enamouring in a live setting. Forming in 2007, MISS MAY I released their game-changing 2009 album, Apologies Are for the Weak, while still in high school, kickstarting a creative journey that has included chart success, seven studio albums, and songs that have permeated popular culture, including material featured on SAW VI‘s soundtrack and as part of the soundtrack to Saints Row: The Third.

With Apologies Are for the Weak catapulting MISS MAY I into an instant success story, the band went on to perform with Pierce The Veil, We Came as Romans and Parkway Drive, while also continuing to sharpen their wares, add to their ever-growing catalogue, and grow a diehard community of fans across the globe.

VENDED

Wednesday 5 March – The Brightside, Brisbane
Thursday 6 March – Stay Gold, Melbourne

Hailing from Des Moines, Iowa, VENDED has been pushing the limits of combustible energy and raw aggression since their 2018 inception. Their bold, honest, passionate take on heavy music raises the flag for a new generation, with Revolver heralding them as one of 10 Bands Leading the New Wave of Nü-Metal.

Over the years, VENDED have shared stages supporting Bring Me The Horizon, Avenged Sevenfold, Korn, and Knocked Loose, as well as headliners and festival slots in North America, Europe and South America. A band actively seeking to push the limits of energy and aggression at every turn, the key to VENDED‘s enduring success and popularity is the group’s authenticity, with their bold, honest and passionate music constantly turning heads at every turn.

Releasing their debut self-titled studio album in 2024, VENDEDfirmly stamped out their reputation for raw, urgent and engaging craftsmanship, with a defiant yet empowering amalgamation of introspection and reflection of the world at large. With tours in their wake alongside Jinjer, P.O.D. and While She Sleeps, VENDED‘s ultimate goal is nothing less than world domination. No compromises.

SUNAMI

Tuesday 4 March – Prince Bandroom, Melbourne
Wednesday 5 March – Manning Bar, Sydney

Originally intended as a short-lived joke band, San Fran bay area hardcore group SUNAMI formed in 2019 and swiftly gained notoriety for their violent debut live performance. The band rapidly continued past their planned time frame with the release of three EPs and, ultimately, their self-titled debut album in 2023, with Revolver crediting them as “in the upper echelon of bands dominating the hardcore zeitgeist”.

Surprise-releasing their debut self-titled album in 2023, SUNAMIsurpassed all expectations, with the self-released album barrelling into view with zero warning and sending the hardcore community reeling. From Distorted Magazine declaring “the album goes obscenely and extremely hard” through to critics praising its down-tuned riffs, riot-ready breakdowns and furious lyrics that packs a mean yet tasty punch, SUNAMI have become leaders in their genre; and their frenzied live shows have become the stuff of legend.

LUKE SEVEREID

Saturday 1 March – Sitdown Comedy Club, Brisbane
Wednesday 5 March – Stay Gold, Melbourne
Friday 7 March – Factory Floor, Sydney

LUKE SEVEREID is a hill-hiking, metal music-loving, chrome-dome-having stand-up comedian from Seattle, WA. Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest with the plaids and IPA-fueled husk to prove it, he has spent the last decade yelling jokes all over North America (and soon: THE WORLD).

LUKE‘s comedic style has been described as insightfully idiotic, aggressively absurd, and most accurately, unmedicated ADHD in action. Besides looking identical to your favorite bouncer and or bass player, LUKE was also recently in the Big Sky Comedy Festival, a semifinalist in both the Seattle and San Francisco International Comedy Competition, and a winner of Best Comedy Film at HUMP! Film Festival. Millions have enjoyed his stand-up videos online so it’s most likely he’ll be able to get a giggle or two out of you.

KNOTFEST AUSTRALIA 2025 LINEUP:

Slipknot
A Day To Remember
BABYMETAL, Slaughter To Prevail, Polaris
Within Temptation, Enter Shikari, Hatebreed
In Hearts Wake, HEALTH, Miss May I, Vended, Sunami

DATES AND VENUES:
Friday 28 February 2025 – Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne
Sunday 2 March 2025 – Brisbane Showground, Brisbane
Saturday 8 March 2025 – Centennial Park, Sydney

Tickets on sale from Knotfest.com/Australia

Find KNOTFEST AUSTRALIA Online
https://knotfest.com/australia/
News

News: Amigo The Devil (US) announces Australian tour
ANNOUNCES HIS RETURN
WITH A 13-DATE AU + NZ TOUR

TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY JANUARY 24 VIA DESTROY ALL LINES
TICKETS
PRESENTED BY: DESTROY ALL LINES

Acclaimed singer/songwriter, Amigo The Devil, has announced an extensive 13-date Australian and New Zealand Tour this August. The shows will vary between solo and full band sets – tickets on sale Friday January 24 via Destroy All Lines.

Returning just over a year on from his Australian debut in February 2024, Amigo The Devil broadens the scope of his reach and adds Tasmania and the Northern Territory to the touring schedule.

The tour will begin Friday August 1 with three solo shows in New Zealand— debuting at Loons in Christchurch, The Last Place in Hamilton and The Mothership in Auckland. From there, Amigo The Devil will play another solo show at Sol Bar on the Sunshine Coast before being joined by a full band at The Triffid in Brisbane, Factory Theatre in Sydney, Corner Hotel in Melbourne, Lion Arts Factory in Adelaide, and Amplifier Bar in Perth. A string of solo shows will round the tour out at Lyric’s Underground in Mayland’s, Railway Club in Darwin, Alter Bar in Hobart and finally Royal Oak in Launceston.

With a brilliant mind, full soul and a penchant for the obscure, Amigo The Devil, aka Danny Kiranos, has cultivated a dedicated fellowship of fans through his artistry and songwriting. His stories, from the tragic to the comedic, harkens back to a more brutal state of songwriting. His songs are greatly influenced by the honesty of Leonard Cohen, the creativity of Tom Waits and the ruthlessness of Chavela Vargas. Rather than imitate, he identifies with their authentic disregard of consequences when it comes to songwriting and releasing music. Amigo the Devil is not polished or clean – he’s all heart, with reckless abandon. His understanding of emotions is deep and instinctual, choosing to embrace one’s flaws instead of trying to change them.

The latest chapter of Amigo the Devil comes in the form of February 2024’s release of ‘Yours Until the War is Over‘ – his most disarming and singular work to date. The Australian Tour will see the debut of a handful of new tunes as well as a recounting of the old.

The 13 tracks that make up ‘Yours Until the War is Over’ together weave themes of relatable self destruction and trauma bonding with arresting authenticity. Riddled with obscure literary references – akin to Kiranos’ maniac reading habit – the album proves that this whole Amigo the Devil thing isn’t some true crime niche. ‘Yours Until the War is Over’ is a songwriter’s record. Amigo the Devil embodies the truest form of an artist in this new work. Inspired by a mantra adopted from unexpected, late-night advice, he doesn’t have to “be the story to tell the story.”

Join Amigo The Devil this August as he reminds us all of the roots, the rawness and the reality that music can offer. Tickets on sale Friday January 24 via Destroy All Lines.

For more information visit: https://www.destroyalllines.com/
For media enquiries, contact ophelia@bigmouthpr.com.au
STREAM I’M GOING TO HEAVEN

TOUR DATES
AMIGO THE DEVIL 
Australian Tour 2025
Tickets on sale now via Destroy All Lines
News

News: Spanish death metal pioneers Unbouded Terror unleash their deadly new album, Something Is Rotten In Humanity!

Unbounded Terror were one of the very first bands to emerge from the nascent Spanish death metal scene, back at the dawn of the ‘90s. Now, more than three decades later they are poised to unleash their fourth and unquestionably finest full length album. Featuring an array of decaying death metal monsters, each touched with the incomparable magic of Unbounded Terror, Something Is Rotten In Humanity is a towering achievement from these pioneers of the extreme. This is the true sound of death at its soul-shredding, mind devouring, nightmarish best!

A pall of dark atmosphere descends with the opening chords of Something Is Rotten In Humanity’s fierce and unnerving first track. ‘Fear Of Dying’ tears out of the tomb, resplendent in its unholy putrefaction, armed with chainsaw guitar riffs and choking on grave dirt. That atmosphere of shades and shadows never lifts as song after flesh ripping song emerges from the night. Incredible solos blaze like funeral pyres, otherworldly melodies playing out across the smoke-filled skies as the strange magic of Unbounded Terror takes the classic elements of old school death metal and subtly subverts them into grotesque, god forsaken forms. First single, ‘Reviving’, is a masterpiece of ancient, primal aggression, while ‘Demons In Your Mind’ captures that perfect, wicked alchemy of addictive riffs, bewitching aura and lead work that lifts everything to the next level. Crushing, unstoppable, gory and glorious, Something Is Rotten In Humanity is everything that a death metal album should be.

Produced and recorded by the band’s own Vicente J Payá (Golgotha, Sons Of Cultetc) and mixed and mastered by Davide Billia (Avulsed, Holycide, Posthuman Abomination etc), Something Is Rotten In Humanity roars and snarls like an undead beast. Meanwhile, the cover artwork, created by Juan Castellano (Furnace, Vomitory, Ribspreader etc), is every bit as ‘classic death metal’ as Unbounded Terror’s music; depicting skulls with serpentine tales flying through raging skies above turbulent twilight waters. This is a dread dream come true for all disciples of death! Something Is Rotten In Humanity will be released by Xtreem Music on CD (featuring a bonus track), 12″LP, cassette and digital formats on April 1st and horror will follow in its wake.

Follow Unbounded Terror on Facebook
Enter the online lair of Unbounded Terror here
Visit Xtreem Music here

Chris & Paul – IPR
UNBOUNDED TERROR – REVIVING
News

News: KEITH URBAN TO RECEIVE ROLL OF RENOWN HONOUR AT THE 53RD TOYOTA GOLDEN GUITAR AWARDS

News

News: FDNP ANNOUNCE REGIONAL TOUR + NEW SINGLE BLACKSTAR

FANNING DEMPSEY NATIONAL PARK RELEASE NEW SINGLE “BLACKSTAR” BONUS SONG FROM THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED DEBUT ALBUM “THE DELUGE” OUT NOW + ANNOUNCE “THE DELUGE” REGIONAL TOUR

 

News

News: GOTTHARD unleash new single & video ‘Thunder & Lightning’; STEREO CRUSH now available for pre-order

GOTTHARD unleash new single & video ‘Thunder & Lightning’; STEREO CRUSH now available for pre-order

WATCH/STREAM/PURCHASE THE NEW SINGLE

PRE-ORDER/PRE-SAVE STEREO CRUSH

Swiss hard rock legends GOTTHARD have kicked off the new year with the release of their second single, ‘Thunder & Lightning,’ from their upcoming 12-track studio album Stereo Crush. As the world remains blanketed in snow, this new track spreads spring fever with its uplifting leads and emotionally charged storyline about love, quickly capturing the hearts of fans and heightening anticipation for the band’s eagerly awaited new album.

Secure your copy [digipak-CD, jewelcase-CD, red marbled vinyl, digital] or pre-save Stereo Crush now, here: https://gotthard.rpm.link/stereocrushPR

Today, alongside the worldwide launch of pre-orders, GOTTHARD are also excited to reveal the cover artwork for Stereo Crush set to hit the shelves on March 21, 2025 via RPM. The artwork, designed by Thomas Ewerhard, who has previously collaborated with the band, perfectly encapsulates the album’s themes of honesty, rawness, and a broad spectrum of emotions.

“Freddy [Scherer; guitars] came to my house with the musical idea for this song. We started there and came up with the structure and the vocal melodies together and recorded the demo there. I then spent quite some time figuring out lyrics. The sound of the chorus riff somehow sounded electric to me, and I was thinking of words like ‘lighting,’ ‘thunder’ etc…and then I thought of the concept of how lighting never strikes twice but in this case it does, using this as a metaphor for love. Also in French, which I’m fluent in, you can say that ‘love at first sight’ is like getting hit by a bolt of lightning,” singer Nic Maeder sheds light on the track’s creation.

Watch the music video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1swDgrXvxo

Listen to ‘Thunder & Lightning’: https://gotthard.rpm.link/thunderPR

After releasing two singles, there’s no really doubt that GOTTHARD are more than ready for the future with Stereo Crush. Decorated with a powerful and contemporary production, the album delivers a series of big anthems but also a few surprises which help the Swiss icons to improve their DNA fresh and to spice up the essence of their trademark sound in an exciting way. It’s clear like Swiss glacier water: 2025 belongs to GOTTHARD!

 

Stereo Crush – Track Listing:

01. AI & I
02. Thunder & Lightning
03. Rusty Rose
04. Burning Bridges
05. Drive My Car
06. Boom Boom
07. Life
08. Liverpool
09. Shake Shake
10. Devil In The Moonlight
11. Dig A Little Deeper
12. These Are The Days

Produced, recorded and mixed by long-time producer Charlie Bauerfeind, who’s known for his work with the likes of HELLOWEEN and BLIND GUARDIAN, alongside co-producer and founding member Leo Leoni at Yellowhouse Studio, and mastered by Sascha “Busy” Bühren (TrueBusyness), with artwork once again provided by Thomas Ewerhard(AVANTASIA etc.).

More from Stereo Crush
‘Boom Boom’ OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vKHkfiegtg

Photo credit: Manuel Schütz

 

L-R:
Freddy Scherer (guitars), Marc Lynn (bass), Nic Maeder (vocals),
Flavio Mezzodi (drums), Leo Leoni (guitars)

About GOTTHARD

With 16 number one albums, a Diamond Award for selling over one million units in Switzerland, and multiple platinum records, including their quadruple platinum album “Homerun,” and several double and triple platinum albums, GOTTHARD have an unmatched legacy of successes, rounded off by over 3.5 million units sold worldwide and more than 2,000 live performances. Their tracks like ‘Heaven,’ a platinum single, and seven top 10 singles have cemented the band in the international music scene.

GOTTHARD are:
Nic Maeder | vocals
Leo Leoni | guitars
Freddy Scherer | guitars
Marc Lynn | bass
Flavio Mezzodi | drums

More on GOTTHARD:
gotthard.com | Linktree |  Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | YouTube | Spotify |

 

 

About Reigning Phoenix Music

Founded in 2023, Reigning Phoenix Music is truly the 100% independently owned vision of music industry professional Gerardo Martinezand avionics and tech entrepreneur, Sven Bogner. The blueprint is to continue to help heavy metal, extreme, hard, and heavy music thrive by partnering with an array of well-established acts, new talent, and iconic artists, by offering best services and practices in the industry. But most important is to help the artists amplify their art and talent to a winning formula for success. The label recently opened a new office in London, UK.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Reigning Phoenix Music on YouTube to stay updated and listen to ‘Best Time (live)’ along with other new tracks in the “RPM New Releases” playlist on Spotify. Subscribe here: https://rpm.link/spotifynewreleasesPR.