Music In Low Frequencies – Indulging The Senses
After a five-year silence, Portuguese blackened post-metal act Music In Low Frequencies finally return with a new full-length album titled “Catharsis”,
They continue on their path of soul-searching and emotional catharsis carried out through a combination of harsh black-metal, gloomy doom and engaging post-metal.
Formed in 2012, Music In Low Frequencies, is a gathering of three old friends that thrive throughout the music they create together. They were born from the desire of making something meaningfully intimate with hints of the harshness of our times. With that being said, it is understandable that their sound is charged with gloomy melodies, heavy riffs and doom tunes.
They released their first album “Sowing the seed” in 2014 and promoted it through Europe, headlining some shows and also playing in some important festivals in Portugal and other smaller showcases. They went through a period of time where creation was delayed by some other important matters, but soon time passed and new melodies started to follow.
Music in Low Frequencies felt they wanted to go deeper down the rabbit hole as they started to feel the urge for darker and sludgier notes. They refine and redefine their sound and “Catharsis” is born. Resembling the atmosphere of these past times, this album is the result of a period of darkness, reflection, contemplation of the soul and purgation of the spirits and it hopes to embrace all the heavy spirits we have within our minds and put them to rest. “Catharsis” wishes to indulge all the senses whatsoever, and purge all the demons we carry through our music.
Peyton Parrish – Heil og sæl: Smells like Viking Spirit
Singer Peyton Parrish captivated audiences once again with his release, “Fallen Angel,” that debuted on December 15, 2024, across all major music platforms.
This latest single is a remarkable preview from his eagerly awaited album, SOUL, which has skyrocketed to the #3 position for pre-orders globally across all genres. The full album is slated for release on January 6th, featuring the chart-topping sensation “Poetry Glass” as its lead single. Peyton is set to embark on an overseas tour beginning February 2nd in London.
Renowned for his unique blend of throaty Viking-inspired metal and post-grunge rock, Peyton Parrish has not only made a mark through original compositions but also gained widespread recognition for his inventive cover renditions. His viral rendition of the Assassin’s Creed Valhalla video game song, “My Mother Told Me,” which was included in the TV show Vikings.
In 2021 he hit viral Viking fame with “Battle Cries”, “Valhalla Calling”, “Ragnarok”, “Hail to Victory”, “War”, “We are Vikings”, “Skol”, “Fall Into Me”, “Drengr of Ragnarok’ and “For Honor”. In August of 2021 he received his first Billboard #1 with his cover of Mulan’s “I’ll Make a Man Out of You”.
In March of 2022 he received his second Billboard #1 with his cover of Hercules “Go the Distance.”
He has continued to explore a mix of heavy metal, and Viking traditions on his 2022’s album Rise of Vikingr dropping number #1 on the iTunes charts with viral hits “Dane”, “Dragur”, and “My Mother Told Me” metal version.
In 2023 his rock inspired Disney cover album The Most Magical Album on Earth gave Peyton Parrish his first Billboard #1 album. Later that same year his Viking album Skalds of Metal gave us such viral hits as “Master of War” and “God of War”.
Get your tickets here:
Elysian Pariah – Gritty Christmas Determination
Scottish Quintet Elysian Pariah release Christmas single ‘Alone At Xmas’.
Following on from the release of their debut album and single ‘Help’, Elysian Pariah unleash a stunning Christmas release in ‘Alone For Xmas’.
Reminiscent of the iconic 80s rock ballads from the likes of Mud this release showcases a softer side to the band with some stunning harmonies and incredible guitar solos.
‘It’s about being stuck away from those you love and finally after a lot of time being able to see them again!’ says frontman Will of the track.
The band plays with Human Renegade at ‘The Flying Duck’ in Glasgow this coming Friday (22nd), tickets available HERE
Alone for Xmas is OUT NOW
Elysian Pariah is:
William Moir – Rhythm Guitar and Vocals
Rebecca Glancy – Vocals and Keyboard
Euan Coote – Drums
Lewis Robb – Bass
Jay Roberts – Lead Guitar
POLAR SON – Forging A New Path
Brighton based atmospheric rock five-piece Polar Son (FKA Porshyne) have released their much anticipated new album “Wax / Wane”.
The release marks a new chapter for the band who returned earlier this year with details of their name change.
Having earned plaudits from the likes of BBC Radio 1 Rock Show, Alt Press, CLASH, Kerrang! Radio, Upset, New Noise Magazine, Music Radar, and more. Polar Son have developed a cult following for their borderless and ever evolving sound, whilst also playing alongside the likes of Black Peaks, The Physics House Band, and many more. Now having emerged from Middle Farm and Echo Zoo studios, where they recorded with Mark Roberts (Black Peaks/ Delta Sleep etc.), Polar Son are set to return with their most expansive and experimental material to date.
Following recent singles “Youth” and “Wax”, the band recently release a new track titled “Listen”, which showed a completely different side to Polar Son’s writing style. Combining cyclical math-inflected guitar riffing with brooding electronic soundscapes that creep and build around frontman Fergal Lyden’s prog soaked, Thom Yorke-esque vocal lines. The track perfectly exemplifies how the band are able to traverse their heavier sensibilities stylistic boundaries, toying with dynamics and building into new territory which is as idiosyncratic as it is accessible.
“Wax / Wane” is out now – order / stream HERE
Tracklisting:
1. Youth
2. Gangrene
3. Listen
4. Supply
5. Wax
6. Interlude
7. Ends Up The Same
8. Wane
The band’s earlier material has drawn references to the likes of Tool, Dredg, Radiohead, and Kyuss, but the new album sees them forge a sound that builds outwardly on this template. Tracks such as “Gangrene” see Polar Son orchestrate a progressive epic that features intricate riffing, ambient electronica, and epiphanic sax. Whereas “Listen” sees the band fully lean into the newly introduced electronic dynamic combining minimal math-rock riffing with dark drum machine-built beats, sub-bass, and almost euphoric synth sections – all underpinned by Lyden’s vocals which flex around the instrumentation. This can also be seen on “Wax” which showcases further diversity in the band’s evolution, combining heavy industrial instrumentation with angular guitars and hook heavy, rhythmic vocals.
Polar Son are not so much moving away from the sound that has seen them earn worldwide acclaim, but are making a direct statement that they’re not afraid to push the boundaries of their compositional abilities. Over the course of eight genre-bending tracks “Wax / Wane”, the band have forged a new path for themselves, one that gives them the freedom to explore and toy with every sonic tool at their disposal, to create a sound that almost immediately sounds like their own.
McKowski – Hymnals To Warm The Soul
McKowski – the solo alias of Mark McCausland (The Lost Brothers / The Basement) – has confirmed a surprise record for the festive season: ‘Winter Guitar Hymnals From The Boneyard’.
Available now on Bandcamp, the record will be made available to hear on all streaming services next Friday (22 December) in time for Christmas.
The album is preceded by two singles, an original composition called “Laura’s Theme”, plus “Christmas Medley”, an atmospheric instrumental that borrows from Mendelssohn and other traditional pieces.
Amongst its tracklist, listeners will find spacious renditions of traditional hymns (“Auld Lang Syne”, “Away In A Manger”, “Silent Night”, “Joy To The World”), McKowski originals worked in a festive style (“Bells of the Pygmy Pony”), an uplifting “Christmas Medley” that draws on the works of Mendelssohn and classical contemporaries, and even a Country & Western version of “White Christmas”. ‘Winter Guitar Hymnals…’ also features one brand new composition, “Laura’s Theme”, made available for the first time here. The album is dedicated to ‘Blind Joe Death’ AKA the late American fingerstyle guitarist and composer John Fahey, whose “Red Pony” is also covered here.
Taking us inside his latest creation, McKowski says:
All tracks were played and recorded by McKowski at Boneyard Studios, except “Laura’s Theme”, “Return Of Pygmy Pony”, and “Red Pony”, which were recorded in the BBC’s Foyle Studio. Mixed by St Francis Hotel who creates a pin-drop atmosphere throughout, the record was mastered by Stephen Ceresia. Additional cello sections were added by Laura McFadden.
1. Auld Lang Syne (traditional,)
Annabel Gutherz – An Inner Confidence
Canadian singer and songwriter Annabel Gutherz reveals her new single, “Eclipse,” out today on all streaming platforms.
Blending classic rock influences with modern pop sounds, “Eclipse” is a vivid and textured song that showcases an artist who has found her voice. The new single was co-written with and produced by Mikal Blue (OneRepublic, Jason Mraz, Colbie Caillat) and Bret “Epic” Mazur (Crazy Town, Prince, The Black Eyed Peas).
“‘Eclipse’ is about my tendency to compare myself to others and the impact this has on my self-esteem,” Annabel says. “I would rather be concentrated on purpose than consumed by comparison despite how challenging it may be at times, especially given the ubiquitous nature of social media. This single showcases my desire to focus on my own path and nurture my inner confidence.”
Born and raised in Montreal, Annabel Gutherz creates timeless music that speaks to the soul of what it means to be human. Combining her compelling and diaristic storytelling with honeyed melodies, distinct vocals, and her keen musical intuition, Annabel’s songs take listeners on a heartfelt journey packed with raw honesty and emotional conviction.
Listen to “Eclipse” on all streaming platforms:
https://ffm.to/ageclipse
Since the release of her 2021 album, Loose Ends, Annabel has continued to develop her sound by working with an array of esteemed collaborators, including Bleu McAuley (Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Jonas Brothers) and Bonnie Hayes (Bonnie Raitt, Bette Midler, David Crosby). Fiercely committed to her craft, Annabel also holds a baccalaureate and a master’s degree in songwriting from Berklee College of Music. With her undeniable talent and more music in the works for 2024, Annabel Gutherz is certainly an artist to keep on your radar.
Alesandra Pollack – Straight From The Heart
At the tender age of 20, Alesandra Pollack has already begun to carve out a niche space for herself in the music world.
Her journey began in the quiet suburbs of Gladwyne, Pennsylvania, where she started to write her own songs at the young age of 7. These early compositions were more than mere childhood play: they were the first signs of a burgeoning talent; a raw, innate ability to blend lyrics and melodies into something greater.
As Alesandra grew older, her aspirations stretched beyond the boundaries of her small Pennsylvania town. She set her sights on the bright lights of New York City, a place synonymous with dreams and ambition. Her acceptance into New York University was an important milestone, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Alesandra’s story. At NYU, she chose to major in vocal performance, with a concentration in the contemporary vocal style. This decision wasn’t just about honing her skills as a vocalist; it was a statement of her commitment to her art and her determination to make a mark in the world of contemporary music.
With a developing love for songwriting, Pollack has cultivated a raw and vulnerable writing style. She aims to speak to audiences of all ages about navigating the all too common struggles of loneliness, mental illness, overcoming adversity, and the human experience. The subject matter of her songs comes straight from the heart of her personal experiences. One of her main goals as an artist is to emphasize the importance of vulnerability and authenticity.
Alesandra’s journey is one of talent, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. From the quiet streets of a Pennsylvania suburb to the pulsating heart of New York City, her music has evolved, yet her essence remains the same- a young, passionate artist with a heart full of melodies and a voice that resonates with its honesty and vulnerability.
Alesandra is beyond excited to share her debut single “Deep End”, set to release on January 4th.
Here’s what she had to say about the track:
“I was seventeen when I wrote‘Deep End’. At the time, I was about to go to my third treatment center and I felt like nothing was really getting better for me- it all felt like a never ending struggle. I want to open up a conversation about mental health and bring awareness to the struggle that so many of us face”.
Etched In Embers – Jump Onboard
Billboard-charting hard rockers Etched In Embers have released their debut album ‘Obsolete’, which features their most recent single “Happy Song”.
The album consists of tracks produced by renowned producer Kile Odell (Motionless In White, Bad Wolves, Catch Your Breath) as well as others produced by acclaimed producer Chris Dawson (Any Given Sin, Shallow Side, Ovtlier).
“Obsolete is a 12 song ride that showcases the evolution of Etched In Embers. Big choruses with anthemic lyrics, laid over the top of some smoking hot guitar work sets the stage for a solid 44 minute listen.”
– Russ Rhodenizer, vocalist of Etched In Embers
Emerging hard rockers Etched In Embers are forging their way to the forefront of up-and-coming bands with their mainstream appeal combining hard rock attitude, melodic riffs, and their ability to draw in listeners with choruses that get stuck on repeat in their minds. This has allowed them to have multiple singles place on Billboard charts and be spun on terrestrial radio across the country.
Starting just three years ago in 2020, the band has worked to build a grassroots movement of fan support in their hometown Lake Ozark, Missouri as well as their region. This dedication led them to the opportunities to play shows across the country supporting bands like 10 Years, Theory Of A Deadman, Badflower, Drowning Pool, The Funeral Portrait, Any Given Sin, Kingdom Collapse, Dropout Kings, and many more.
Their previous singles, produced by acclaimed producer Chris Dawson (Ovtlier, SAUL, Any Given Sin), saw success by spinning on terrestrial radio and landing on Billboard charts. This included the tracks “Bring Me Back” peaking at #17 and “Fear” hitting #19 while also spending 8 weeks in the top 10 on the DWPresents Sponsored Blackcraft Unsigned Band Chart.
In mid 2023 the band went back into the studio, this time with renowned producer Kile Odell (Motionless In White, Bad Wolves, Catch Your Breath), to put the finishing touches on a full-length record. As a result, Etched In Embers released their debut album ‘Obsolete’ on December 15th 2023, which features their recent single “Happy Song”.
ganavya – Music To Keep You Company
South-Asian vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and composer ganavya announces her upcoming studio album like the sky, I’ve been too quiet.
Released via Shabaka Hutchings’ Native Rebel Recordings on March 15th 2024, the album features contributions from Hutchings, Floating Points, Leafcutter John and Mercury-nominated bassist Tom Herbert, and the announcement comes off the back of a rapturously received surprise guest appearance at enigmatic collective SAULT’s first ever live show at London’s Drumsheds.
Since graduating from Berklee College of Music, UCLA and Harvard, ganavya has quickly become a much-in-demand artist on the US scene who consistently confounds expectations. Hailed as “among modern music’s most compelling vocalists” (Wall Street Journal) and “extraordinary” (DownBeat), ganavya has worked with an array of luminaries including the likes of Quincy Jones, Wayne Shorter and Esperanza Spalding and on new albumlike the sky, I’ve been too quiet she presents thirteen compelling tracks which showcase her ethereal voice and numinous energy. Following the release of the album’s lead single ‘forgive me my’ in July, a new single ‘el kebda, let it go’ is released today.
Listen to ‘el kebda, let it go’ HERE.
like the sky, I’ve been too quiet is released via Native Rebel Recordings on March 15th 2024.
‘el kebda, let it go’ is out today and available to stream HERE