• Pallbearer To Continue “Foundations Of Burden” Celebration On Summer Tour

    Pallbearer have announced a summer North American tour. The trek will find the band continuing their “Foundations Of Burden” celebration.

    Tour Dates:

    With Slowhole:

    08/20 Shreveport, LA – Bear’s
    08/21 Houston, TX – Black Magic Social Club
    08/22 McAllen, TX – The Gremlin
    08/23 Austin, TX – Brushy Street Commons
    08/25 Dallas, TX – AM/FM
    08/27 Arenas Valley, NM – Whiskey Creek Zócalo

    Pallbearer:

    08/28 Tucson, AZ – Soundquest Festival

    With Ordh:

    09/01 San Diego, CA – The Casbah
    09/02 Santa Ana, CA – Constellation Room
    09/03 Los Angeles, CA – Echoplex
    09/05 San Francisco, CA – Great American Music Hall
    09/06 San Jose, CA – The Ritz
    09/08 Eugene, OR – John Henry’s
    09/09 Portland, OR – Polaris
    09/11 Bellingham, WA – The Shakedown
    09/12 Vancouver, BC – The American
    09/13 Seattle, WA – Substation
    09/14 Spokane, WA – Brightside
    09/15 Boise, ID – Shrine Social Club
    09/16 Salt Lake City, UT – Urban Lounge
    09/18 Denver, CO – Marquis
    09/19 Omaha, NE – Slowdown
    09/21 St. Paul, MN – Turf Club
    09/22 Chicago, IL – Empty Bottle
    09/23 Muskegon, MI – Rake Beer Project
    09/24 Cincinnati, OH – Woodward Theater
    09/25 Lexington, KY – The Burl

    Pallbearer commented:

    “We can’t overstate how great it’s been to revisit this record and share the experience of it with so many people over the past year. It’s always been a hugely impactful record for us, and letting it live and breathe over the course of the year has been such a joyful opportunity. We plan for these shows to be the final North American tour dates for the album so if you’ve been hoping for an chance to dwell within Foundations’ sonics, don’t miss out! We are also completely thrilled to have two captivating and masterful bands in Slowhole and Ordh along for these dates!”

  • The Pretty Reckless Premiere “Dear God” Music Video

    The Pretty Reckless have shared an official video for the title track of their latest album “Dear God.” Singer Taylor Momsen previously commented on that song:

    “‘Dear God’ is desperation set to music. When life gets that physical, that brutal, you leave your body and start begging something bigger than yourself to pull you out. That space between heaven and hell isn’t a metaphor. It’s somewhere you actually live.”

  • Have Heart Announce “The Things We Carry” 20th Anniversary Shows

    Have Heart have announced some fall U.S. shows. Those concerts will find the band celebrating the 20th anniversary of “The Things We Carry.”

    Tour Dates:

    10/23 Boston, MA – Middle East Upstairs
    10/24 Boston, MA – Big Night Live
    11/07 Oklahoma City, OK – Flyover Fest
    12/18 Los Angeles, CA – Ukranian Cultural Center
    12/19 Los Angeles, CA – The Belasco

    Vocalist Patrick Flynn commented:

    “Twenty years ago Have Heart put out a record we didn’t think would really be cared for beyond our small circle of friends in the Boston HC scene. Who heard it didn’t really matter. We just knew we had to get the feelings in our bones out and into the world in some way. Writing and playing ‘The Things We Carry‘ around the world eternally changed my life and we’d like to play it (and other tracks) to some more people this Fall. Thank you to everyone over the years who has helped us feel like the simple act of creating music really matters. Hope to see you out there. Peace & love.”

  • Mötley Crüe Bassist Nikki Sixx Blasts Ex-Godsmack Drummer Shannon Larkin Over Backing Track Claims

    Mötley Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx has blasted former Godsmack drummer Shannon Larkin following his recent backing track accusations. Larkin made those claims while defending Godsmack’s decision to hire former Dream Theater drummer Mike Mangini.

    Larkin initially said the following:

    “Godsmack uses no click tracks, no backing tracks. It’s a thing that a lot of other musicians talk about too, I notice now. I’m really noticing it. We’ve been saying it for years as we watched the advent of everybody started adding some, the rhythm guitar or something being played, but there isn’t a guy behind the amps playing it. It’s on a track.

    Oh, it’s a new thing, kinda. And backups, you see Nikki Sixx up there [with Mötley Crüe]. He’s not really singing, he looks away, but you still hear his voice. Well, it’s a track playing. But in order for those things to happen, the band has to be on a click track — and the band doesn’t have to. It’s just us, the drummer. We’re on a click, so it’s always the same every night. So it’s a homogenization of what used to be the dangerous feeling of a rock show — dangerous from the band’s aspect on stage too. You don’t know what’s gonna go on.”

    Sixx then fired back:

    “Who’s this Shannon Larkin hater?

    It’s funny how so many B- and C-level bands seem to spend more time talking about us than writing songs people actually remember. Maybe it’s jealousy, maybe it’s insecurity, maybe ticket sales are a little slow. Either way, borrowing someone else’s spotlight has never been much of a long-term career strategy.

    I genuinely feel for musicians who never figured out that the best publicity is writing great songs—over and over again, decade after decade for fans not critics.

    It reminds me of the endless bimbo podcast crowd that builds an audience by talking about everyone else instead of creating something worth talking about.

    Anyway, maybe he’s needs to take a nap before he does more press.”

  • Have Heart, Pain Of Truth, Drug Church, Comeback Kid, Etc. Set For 2026 Flyover Fest

    The lineup has been revealed for this year’s Flyover Fest. The event will take place at the OKC Farmers Market in Oklahoma City, OK on November 7-8 and it will feature: Have Heart, Pain of Truth, Drug Church, Comeback Kid, Madball, No Warning, Rotting Out, Skinhead, Downpresser, Division of Mind, Human Garbage, Act With Empathy, Ancient Ones, Basic Needs, Beyond Reach, Bloodshed, Death Rattle, Diced, Dirty Work, Enervate, Everybody Takes One, Figurine, Gumm, Kitetsu, Leash, Locked Shut, Mass Appeal, Mizery, Neolithic, Nihil, No Guard, Peeling Flesh, Prevention, Price of Life, Primitive Rage, Self Interest, Shattered Youth, Skewed, Stakes Is High, Tiger Splitter, World I Hate, and Squelching.

  • The L.I.F.E. Project Cover Suicidal Tendencies’ “You Can’t Bring Me Down”

    The L.I.F.E. Project, the band featuring Stone Sour’s Josh Rand and Paralandra’s Casandra Carson, have released a cover of Suicidal Tendencies’ “You Can’t Bring Me Down.” You can check that out below:

    Rand commented:

    “I can’t think of a better way to kick things back off after some downtime than with this track. Suicidal Tendencies’ ‘Lights…Camera…Revolution!’ is one of my top five all-time favorite records. The lyrics to this track are just as relevant today as they were the day it was released, making it timeless. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did recording it. Turn it up!!”

    Carson added:

    “This felt like the perfect song for Josh and me to cover for a lot of reasons. First off, it’s an absolute headbanger, and that’s reason enough, but beyond that, I resonate deeply with the lyrics and the message. It’s all about refusing to conform or compromise your beliefs and standards just to fit in with the crowd, and songs like that have always lit a fire in me.

    I’ve been in the music industry for over a decade now, and I’ve been criticized, doubted, and told ‘no’ more times than I can count, but I’ve never let that stop me from doing what I love or doing it my way, ‘regardless what the cost might be.’ That mindset is exactly why this song still resonates so strongly today, and why it felt like the right one for us to put our own spin on.”

  • Metallica’s Scholars Initiative Expands To 90 Schools

    Metallica’s scholars initiative has officially entered its 8th year and will now be expanding to 90 schools. As previously reported, that initiative seeks to support community colleges.

    More info was shared on allwithinmyhands.org:

    “All Within My Hands proudly announces the eighth year of its Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) with its largest grant to date: over $3.3M. Eighteen new US schools will join the MSI community in the fall, with 15 receiving $75,000 to enhance the student experience within career and technical education programs and three receiving $50,000 for specific new equipment purchases. The Foundation is also launching its first international workforce endeavor with a $250,000 / £186,000 grant to establish the Metallica Scholars Initiative in the United Kingdom in partnership with Capital City College Group (CCC).

    AWMH continues to work closely with its long-time partner, the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands, MSI’s core focus is supporting conventional trades, including welders, plumbers, and electricians, while also adding fields that will generate the jobs of tomorrow. The workforce initiative continues to evolve, supporting diverse fields for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to establish meaningful careers that provide family-sustaining wages. Year 8 includes a wide range of fields, including nursing and healthcare, optical systems technology, automotive repair, maritime manufacturing, firefighting and EMT, pipefitting, and agricultural pathways.

    Given Metallica’s global fan base and the universal need for more tradespeople, the Foundation has long envisioned expanding its workforce education program beyond the United States. As a result of MSI’s measurable success in the US, AWMH forged a partnership with Capital City College Group to bring the initiative to the UK. CCC dates back to 1828 and has over 30,000 students across 12 distinct locations throughout London. The expansion will launch in the fall, focusing on serving aspiring tradespeople preparing to enter the workforce through vocational programs.

    The initiative’s eighth iteration also marks the renewal of AWMH’s partnerships with Carhartt, Wolverine, CNH Construction, and Upstaging, Inc., as well as the addition of the Foundation’s newest partner, ServiceTitan. These corporate partners complement the Foundation’s Executive and Advisory Board Members and the broader Metallica Family, all of whom have played a role in advancing AWMH’s mission and driving its success.

    NEW MSI SCHOOLS:

    • Barton Community College – Great Bend, Kansas
    • Berkshire Community College – Pittsfield, Massachusetts
    • Central Maine Community College – Auburn, Maine
    • Delaware County Community College – Media, Pennsylvania
    • Dutchess Community College – Poughkeepsie, New York
    • Fletcher Technical Community College – Schriever, Louisiana
    • Lake Region State College – Devils Lake, North Dakota
    • Metropolitan Community College – Kansas City, Missouri
    • Monroe Community College – Rochester, New York
    • Moraine Valley Community College – Palos Hills, Illinois
    • North Central State College – Mansfield, Ohio
    • Northeast State Community College – Blountville, Tennessee
    • Northwest Mississippi Community College – Senatobia, Mississippi
    • Raritan Valley Community College – Branchburg, New Jersey
    • Riverside City College – Riverside, California
    • South Texas College – McAllen, Texas
    • Trident Technical College – North Charleston, South Carolina
    • William Rainey Harper College – Palatine, Illinois”

    Frontman James Hetfield commented:

    “This thing started as a dream. Now our program is changing lives. To expand our impact on a global scale and support even more students is so rewarding. We’re so proud of all the Metallica Scholars who have come through it and all the ones who will participate in it. It’s humbling to know we’ve been part of the journey of thousands of trade professionals doing good, hard work in the world.”

    Dr. DeRionne P. Pollard, President and CEO, AACC, continued:

    “The continued growth of the Metallica Scholars Initiative is a powerful testament to what’s possible when visionary philanthropy and community colleges come together around a shared mission. Through this partnership, 13,000 community college students have already been supported across the country, earning the skills needed for in-demand careers with family-sustaining wages. This latest, generous investment by Metallica’s foundation will reach more learners while strengthening the workforce pipelines that power local economies. We are proud to partner with All Within My Hands to scale this impact, ensuring even more students have access to life-changing opportunities in the skilled trades and beyond.”

    Peter Delgrosso, Executive Director, AWMH, added:

    “Metallica Scholars Year 8 will see our largest-scale growth yet, as we anticipate supporting close to 4,000 new students in the United States and more than 1,000 learners in the UK for a total of 5,000 across the program! This represents an approximate 40% increase in our student body, something we are incredibly excited about. Supporting people of all ages entering and ascending through trades is the right thing to do, not just domestically, but also abroad. Our Metallica Scholars have demonstrated resilience and a strong determination to succeed, which in turn motivates us to match their ambition.”

  • GWAR Launch New Fundraiser For Their Former Vocalist Chuck Varga Amid His Cancer Battle

    As previously reported, former GWAR vocalist Chuck “The Sexecutioner” Varga is currently battling cancer. As such, the band have launched a new fundraiser to assist him with medical expenses.

    GWAR commented:

    “As many of you know, Chuck Varga, a founding member of GWAR and the man behind The Sexecutioner from 1985 to 2022, is currently battling cancer. Chuck and his wife, Bambi, are facing tremendous medical, financial, and personal challenges as they navigate this difficult chapter together.

    Last month’s blood drive was an overwhelming success and we thank all of you Bohabs for your support.

    We have created a fundraiser to help cover the mounting expenses associated with Chuck’s care, including cancer treatments, hospice care, specialized medical equipment, and additional nursing support. It will also help offset the cost of maintaining their Brooklyn apartment while Bambi has stepped away from work to care for Chuck full-time.

    Funds raised will help ensure Chuck receives the care, comfort, and dignity he deserves while also providing much-needed support to Bambi as she manages the financial burdens that have come with Chuck’s illness and the challenges that lie ahead.

    As part of the fundraiser, fans will have access to exclusive Chuck Varga merchandise created specifically for this campaign, including a brand new t-shirt featuring artwork by Chuck himself. These limited edition items give supporters a chance to contribute directly while owning a unique piece of GWAR history.

    In addition, fans will have the opportunity to bid on The Sexecutioner’s Axe, the legendary weapon wielded by Chuck’s iconic GWAR character for nearly four decades. This one-of-a-kind piece of GWAR history will be offered to the highest bidder, with all proceeds benefiting Chuck and Bambi.

    For more than four decades, Chuck has been an integral part of the GWAR family and helped shape the band’s legacy from its earliest days. Through his work as a performer, artist, creator, and founding member, he helped build one of the most unique and enduring acts in heavy music history. His creativity, humor, and dedication have left an indelible mark on generations of fans, artists, and misfits around the world.”

    Bob “Bonesnapper” Gorman added:

    “Chuck Varga’s contributions to the GWAR and Slave Pit collective are enormous. The influence of his illustrations, character designs, performances, and artistic vision can still be felt throughout GWAR today. Chuck’s over-the-top underground art aesthetic helped define an entire universe and inspired generations of artists and fans around the world. His legacy will remain with us forever, and we hope this fundraiser not only helps support Chuck and Bambi during this difficult time but also serves as a celebration of everything Chuck has given to GWAR and its community.”

  • Floor Jansen Announces “Hytress” European/UK Tour

    Floor Jansen (Nightwish) has announced the dates for her “Hytress” European/UK tour. The trek will take place early next year.

    Tour Dates:

    01/14 Antwerp, BEL – Trix
    01/15 Paris, FRA – Bataclan
    01/16 London, UK – Electric Brixton
    01/22 Pratteln, SWI – Konzertfabrik Z7
    01/27 Prague, CZE – ROXY
    01/29 Warsaw, POL – Progresja
    02/04 Gothenburg, SWE – Pustervik
    02/05 Stockholm, SWE – Nalen
    02/12 Utrecht, NET – TivoliVredenburg
    02/13 Tilburg, NET – 013

    Jansen commented:

    “I’m heading back out on tour in Europe!

    In 2027, I’ll be returning to club stages across Europe with my HYTRESS Tour, together with my full live band. These new songs have been such a special journey for me, and I can’t wait to finally bring them to life on stage and share them with you.

    This music feels close to my heart. A little heavier, more direct, and deeply rooted in the sounds and influences that shaped me as an artist. I’m so excited for this next chapter and to experience it together with you.

    Floorworld and Live Nation presales start now. General ticket sales start on Wednesday, July 1 at 12:00 CET through the link in my bio, website and Bandsintown.
    https://www.floorjansen.com/tour

    I hope to see many of you there ❤️

    … and here´s my promise: there are more shows to come! :)”

  • Bad Wolves Return With New Singer Sara “Killboy” Skinner, Premiere “Paint It Red” Video

    Bad Wolves have officially returned with a new lineup consisting of drummer John Boecklin, guitarist AJ Rebollo, singer Sara “Killboy” Skinner, and bassist Derek Bolman. With this news, the band have also shared a video for their new single, “Paint It Red”:

    Boecklin said the following about recruiting Skinner:

    “When we started looking for the next voice of Bad Wolves, we weren’t looking for someone to fill a spot; we were looking for someone who could help push this band into its next chapter. The first time I heard Sara sing, I knew she was different. She has an incredible voice, undeniable presence, and the kind of versatility that allows us to take our songwriting to places we’ve never gone before. Beyond the talent, she’s brought a renewed energy and excitement into this band. Sara isn’t here to recreate the past, she’s here to help us build the future. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome her to the Bad Wolves family and for everyone to hear what we’ve been working on together.”

    Skinner also commented on the song:

    “‘Paint It Red’ is about being unafraid to tear everything down and start over — again and again if that’s what it takes. With blood, sweat, and tears, every single time. To live authentically and follow your heart, you have to be willing to rebuild when something no longer serves who you are. You can’t be afraid of change, failure, or starting from scratch. Sometimes growth means letting go of what you’ve built so you can create something even better. ‘Paint It Red’ is about having the courage to burn away what’s holding you back and the strength to begin again.”

    Boecklin added:

    “‘Paint It Red’ is a metaphor for those moments in life when being polite, diplomatic, or even democratic, no longer works. Not all the time. Not often. But there comes a point when enough is enough. There are moments when it’s time to stop asking for permission and start making decisions for yourself. To do what you want to do, regardless of the consequences. Even if it’s the wrong decision, at least it’s yours. Then you live with it. Burn it down. Tear it apart. Cause some chaos if that’s what needs to happen. There’s something freeing about reaching that point — when you know it’s time to sound the alarm and let everyone know to back the fuck off. ‘Paint It Red’ is about taking control, owning your choices, and refusing to let anyone else dictate your path.”