Elder moon release new album

 

ELDERMOON Consider Their Human Existence On ‘Egregora’

The album Egregora, from Brazilian melodic death metal group Eldermoon, embodies the concept of a non-physical entity born from collective thoughts. Represented by the red moon, it narrates a story across 10 tracks. Each track delves into various eras such as primitive life, inquisition, industrial revolution, and war for resources, showcasing the essence of human existence.

The red moon’s quest for purpose offers a unique perspective on our reality, examining themes of collectivity, faith, ambition, and selflessness. The album’s narrative, set against a bittersweet and hopeful vision of the future, leaves listeners contemplating the intrinsic traits of humanity and the dichotomy between right and wrong.

Through its storytelling and visual character, Egregora creates an immersive experience that resonates deeply with audiences. It celebrates the power of collective thought and the profound impact it can have on shaping our world and history, ultimately inspiring a new cycle of introspection and understanding.

Track-by-track (by the band):
The Elder – Upon gaining consciousness and realizing its existence, a celestial star called “the Moon” wanders through space in search of a purpose, when it finds planet Earth still inhospitable, but about to undergo a great transformation. The Moon takes an interest and marvels at what it perceives is about to happen there, analyzing everything and considering whether to interfere.

Primal Chain – In a world that has recently sprung to life, the Moon watches human beings stand out from other life forms. This is due to the effective way in which they lead the food chain at the same time as they begin to develop their more rational instincts and feelings, making the Moon see them as worthy and gift them with the knowledge of fire.

Heart Of The Wild – After human beings develop into a higher life form and unite to do so, the power they have gained, which until then had been used for survival and the collective, begins to take other directions. Humans begin to dominate each other and the Moon begins to question whether they will be able to live in harmony with nature and what the course of humanity will be.

Priestess Of The Moon (Feat. Raíssa Ramos) – The diversity of humanity’s beliefs and faith originates. The Moon observes in particular a society of priestesses who idolize her as a symbol of harmony and connection with the Earth. She is intrigued and enchanted by their quest for knowledge in order to protect the planet, life and themselves.

Timor Incogniti – The human race begins to fear the unknown, to fear what it can’t explain, what and who deviates from consolidated dogma, and a blazing hunt begins for those who diverge from their faith and science. Among the hunted is the sisterhood of priestesses, who will not bow their heads in the face of imposition through fear.

Gears In Motion – Society is rapidly advancing technologically, extracting and using all the planet’s necessary resources for ever more superior technologies, voraciously shaping nature and its structure in order to achieve progress as quickly as possible. Humanity realizes the size of its power over the entire planet and its ambition skyrockets.

Give Me More! – The limitation of the world’s natural resources begins to frustrate men. Seized by a desire to expand their conquests, they plot and clamor to exhaust the planet’s riches, whatever the cost. Demanding that the Earth do its part to serve them, they call themselves gods on Earth.

Tomorrow In Oblivion – The planet reaches its limit, and no longer able to provide and shelter for all who reside on it, a colossal war breaks out, desperate and ambitious to seize what is left on Earth. Humanity violently fragments itself to resist selfishly, not caring what happens to the rest of the groups of people. The Moon is impressed by the chaos that the lands are becoming.

Egregora – Humanity can hardly resist the great war for resources, it finds itself in a great landscape of destruction, with all its progress and structures lost. Seeing the possibility of total extinction, the thoughts of the remaining human beings are now fiercely torn between life and death. The Moon asks the Earth if these beings are still capable of redemption and of changing their ways.

Wake Of A New Cycle – The possibility of a new cycle of life begins, the Moon reflects on the possibilities of humanity restarting with the knowledge they still have left to rebuild and whether they have understood where and how they went wrong. Society is working together towards a new era and the Moon ponders the beauty of life, which always welcomes those who seek harmony. Whether the same mistakes will be made, the Moon waits and watches intently where it has always been.

Deusa da Lua (Japan Bonus Track) – The Moon understands that she is seen as a deity in various legends, and takes an interest in a people who see her as Jaci, the great savior of the nights, the lands and fortune. She interacts with and greets these beings, connecting with them and bringing them an swers so that they can triumph fairly and respectfully on Earth.

Tracklist:
01. The Elder | 02. Primal Chain | 03. Heart Of The Wild | 04. Priestess Of The Moon (Feat. Raíssa Ramos) | 05. Timor Incogniti | 06. Gears In Motion | 07. Give Me More | 08. Tomorrow In Oblivion | 09. Egregora | 10. Wake Of A New Cycle | 11. Deusa Da Lua (Japan Bonus Track)

Egregora | Released July 30th, 2024 via Sliptrick Records

Eldermoon are:
Alex Biembengut – Vocals | Allan Estalk – Guitars/Backing Vocals | Alan Sanglard – Guitars | Fabio Conelli – Bass

Band links: Official Website | Facebook | Youtube | Instagram | On Sliptrick

KID BRUNSWICK TO PLAY MUSIC VENUE TRUST’S FIRST ‘COHORTS’ TOUR

 

Following the release of his EP ‘Dead Forever’ on August 2^nd, the enigmatic, genre-bending alt rock/metal artist, Kid Brunswick, will embark on the inaugural MVT Cohorts tour. Starting in Dundee on August 5^th the fourteen-date tour will include gigs at Grassroots Music Venues in Blackpool, Stoke on Trent, Huddersfield, Swansea and Southampton before ending at Camden’s Underworld on August 21^st.

 

The MVT Cohorts our, organised by the charity Music Venue Trust (MVT), is a new initiative aiming to combat the shrinking tour circuit. Increased costs of touring, including fuel, accommodation and transport, and uncertainty about the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on ticket sales, are forcing artists, agents and managers to reduce the financial risks associated with playing extensive nationwide tours. As a result, tours are focusing on major cities and missing out Grassroots Music Venues in hundreds of towns, rural areas and smaller cities across the country; established grassroots venues are no longer being offered touring artists; music fans are no longer able to see their favourite artists, or discover new ones, without travelling to the major cities.

“Since opening in 1999 The Cluny has always been a stop on many national tours with The Arctic Monkeys, The Vaccines, Ed Sheeran and Sam Fender all selling out shows here as they were establishing their reputations. Now many tours are going to just a few of the major cities and skipping other markets, denying music fans access to exciting live music. We're excited to be part of this new initiative from Music Venue Trust to revitalise the touring circuit and bring these artists to music lovers throughout the country.” Julian Ive, venue owner, The Cluny in Newcastle.

The MVT Cohorts project will underwrite the costs of the shows, ensuring that both the artists and venues receive a guaranteed fee, removing the financial uncertainty that comes with extending tours in the UK to reach secondary and tertiary markets, thereby allowing the artists to diversify their tours and play outside the major cities and the venues to programme diverse and varied gigs.

 

Speaking about the tour Kid Brunswick said “These days, the high costs of everything make it challenging to plan tours beyond major cities, which is really frustrating. Musicians should have the chance to perform nationwide, and fans should be able to enjoy live music without travelling long distances to major cities. Thanks to Music Venue Trust, I've been able to perform in smaller towns I wouldn't have reached otherwise. This tour is amazing, I’m extremely grateful to have this opportunity to play nationwide.”

 

For future tours MVT will organise Grassroots Music Venues into ‘Cohorts’ - networks of venues each with its own distinctive identity, facility or approach but which all share a common theme and goal to support touring artists and development. A ‘Cohort’ might denote a group of venues that specialise in certain musical genres, reflect venues with a unique production style, such as seated atmospheric or small capacity, or have specific audience demographics that are underserved. Each ‘Cohort’ will form a preset and agreed touring opportunity which artists, agents, managers and promoters can tap into to support tours reaching those areas currently being left behind, helping to prioritise places and communities most in need of cultural investment. 

 

Mark Davyd, CEO and Founder Music Venue Trust, said “Everyone in the grassroots sector is talking about the huge decline in artist touring. This is the essential lifeblood of grassroots music venues, and Music Venue Trust is determined to show that the enthusiasm for live music, especially new and original live music, is still as strong as ever. We’ve got to fight back against the concept that live music will only be available in major cities in huge arenas at prices out of reach to most music fans. I’m often asked what music fans can do to support the campaign to keep music live in our communities. Here’s the answer: Get out and see an MVT Cohorts show and let’s prove to the music industry that live music still belongs to all of us.” 

 

MVT Cohorts x Kid Brunswick tour dates:

 

5/8 Beat Generator, Dundee 

6/8 Ivory Blacks, Glasgow 

7/8 The Cluny 2, Newcastle 

8/8 Bootleg Social, Blackpool 

10/8 Key Club, Leeds 

11/8 Rebellion, Manchester 

12/8 Exchange, Bristol 

13/8 Parish, Huddersfield 

15/8 Sugarmill, Stoke 

16/8 Sin City, Swansea 

17/8 The Horn, St Albans

18/8 The Joiners, Southampton 

20/8 The Forum, Tunbridge Wells 

21/8 The Underworld, London

 

Follow Kid Brunswick

YouTube | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | Spotify

 

-ENDS

Von Hertzen Brothers new album

After the profound and epic journey of their acclaimed, pandemic-era masterpiece Red Alert in the Blue Forest (2022), 

Finland’s celebrated Von Hertzen Brothers return with their ninth studio album, In Murmuration, due for release on 25th October. 

In Murmuration will be released on Von Hertzen Brothers’ own label, DoingBeingMusic, on limited-edition crystal-clear vinyl gatefold LP, CD and digital. Merch bundles will be available from the band’s website. Pre-orders will be available from 1st August. 

Von Hertzen Brothers will play album launch shows in Finland and the UK at the end of 2024 before returning to the UK, Europe and the US, including Cruise to the Edge in spring 2025.  

UK dates are as follows:

Nov 28: Troon Winter Storm Festival 
Nov 29: Buckley The Tivoli 
Nov 30: Trecco Bay Planet Rockstock 
Dec 02: London The Garage 

In true Von Hertzen Brothers style, In Murmuration creatively juxtaposes the band’s previous release. Whilst their imaginative, multi-genre hard rock and harmonies remain, the band’s artistic pendulum has swung more towards an air of optimism and renewal. The result is a work filled with big choruses, stadium rock anthems, art-rock with 90s vibes and catchy power-pop.    Tracklist:

1. The Relapse

2. A Good Life  

3. Starlings       

4. Ascension Day          

5. Beneath the Silver Stars

6. Tightrope Walker

7. The Change

8. Separation

9. Snowstorm

10. Wait for Me

Whilst the themes within the album may not be as deliberately opinionated as on previous releases Red Alert in the Blue Forest and War is Over, there is a naturally occurring sense of constant change throughout. Precise and intriguing observations on the global political landscape, the tricky human relationships of this age, resilience and personal growth all provide lyrical subject matter. The first half of the album embodies a transformation of mood, bringing forth some positivity and love, and the second half journeys through challenging relationships, a literal call for change, separation, loss, longing and a final resolution.

Vocalist/guitarist Mikko von Hertzen says: “The shapes and the overall tone of the musical content on this album could be a bit surprising to some of our newer followers, but not to those who have been listening to us from the beginning. Musically speaking, we have proudly carried the cloaks of ‘prog-wizards’ for the last two albums, but what has not been so widely discussed lately is our ability to write good pop choruses and great catchy rock anthems with good vibes. We felt like it was now time to bring forth that side of us once again. The lyrical themes still deal with the everyday struggles of being humans in this f*cked up world, it’s a source that keeps on giving, but we wanted to step out of the forest and into the sunlight to mingle, discuss and celebrate. We live in an age of constant change where everyone is trying to find a secure footing in life, sometimes full of joy and sometimes filled with utter disappointment. Amid all that, the trick is to stay alert and lean to one another. Like starlings in murmuration. After the pandemic, and now as the world has once again opened, we have somehow felt lighter in our everyday lives. We acknowledge the contradiction of course, since the world with its horrors hasn’t changed much… It would have been easy to drown in those doomsday moods, but writing these songs we felt the need to tackle these problems from a more forgiving and positive standpoint.” 

From the anthemic opener to the reflective closer, In Murmuration ebbs and flows much like the starlings after which it is named.

The instrumentation on this album has also evolved. The three brothers Mikko, Kie and Jonne, with drummer Sami Kuoppamäki, are joined by multi-instrumentalist Markus Pajakkala, who performed with the brothers on their acoustic tour in 2023. Notable for his saxophone solo on 2022's 'Peace Patrol', Markus brings a new dynamic to the album. Guests on the album include a gospel ensemble and the Budapest Art Orchestra.

Now in their 23rd year, Von Hertzen Brothers have consistently delivered music on their own terms and In Murmuration is no exception. This is their third self-produced album, the others being the award-winning Approach (2006) and War is Over (2017).

Von Hertzen Brothers are:
Mikko von Hertzen - vocals, guitars
Kie von Hertzen -  guitars, vocals
Jonne von Hertzen - bass, keyboards, vocals
Sami Kuoppamäki - drums
Markus Pajakkala - keyboards, woodwind

Von Hertzen Brothers online:  
http://www.vonhertzenbrothers.com/
https://www.facebook.com/vonhertzenbrothersofficial
https://www.instagram.com/vonhertzenbrothers/
https://www.youtube.com/@VonHertzenBrothers
https://twitter.com/vonhertzenbros
https://www.tiktok.com/@vonhertzenbrother

Rockin the movies: The Lost Boys

 You can live forever Michael, but you must feed….

The Lost Boys: A Cinematic Cult Classic

Synopsis

"The Lost Boys," directed by Joel Schumacher and released in 1987, is a quintessential American horror-comedy film that merges elements of the vampire genre with teenage rebellion and 1980s pop culture. The story unfolds in the fictional beach town of Santa Carla, California, renowned for its alarming rate of missing persons. Recently divorced Lucy Emerson moves there with her two sons, Michael and Sam, to live with her eccentric father. The town's dark underbelly soon reveals itself as Michael falls in with a gang of bikers, led by the enigmatic David. Unbeknownst to Michael, David and his gang are vampires. As Michael begins to transform, Sam and his new friends, the Frog brothers, take on the mission of saving him and ridding Santa Carla of its vampire infestation.

Too many damn vampires!

 Main Characters and Cast

1. **Michael Emerson** - played by **Jason Patric**

2. **Sam Emerson** - played by **Corey Haim**

3. **David** - played by **Kiefer Sutherland**

4. **Lucy Emerson** - played by **Dianne Wiest**

5. **Grandpa** - played by **Barnard Hughes**

6. **Max** - played by **Edward Herrmann**

7. **Star** - played by **Jami Gertz**

8. **Edgar Frog** - played by **Corey Feldman**

9. **Alan Frog** - played by **Jamison Newlander**

10. **Paul** - played by **Brooke McCarter**

11. **Dwayne** - played by **Billy Wirth**

12. **Marko** - played by **Alex Winter**

Music and Setting the Scene

The music in "The Lost Boys" plays a crucial role in setting the film's eerie yet exhilarating tone. The soundtrack fuses rock, pop, and gothic elements, reflecting the film’s dark, rebellious, and youthful energy. Notably, the theme song "Cry Little Sister" by Gerard McMann encapsulates the film's haunting atmosphere, with its ominous chants and brooding lyrics. The concert scene featuring Tim Cappello’s performance of "I Still Believe" is memorable for its raw, energetic depiction of vampire seduction and nightlife. The strategic use of music in key scenes enhances the tension, romance, and horror, making the soundtrack as iconic as the film itself.

 Soundtrack List

1. **"Good Times"** - INXS and Jimmy Barnes

2. **"Lost in the Shadows (The Lost Boys)"** - Lou Gramm

3. **"Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me"** - Roger Daltrey

4. **"Laying Down the Law"** - INXS and Jimmy Barnes

5. **"People Are Strange"** - Echo & the Bunnymen

6. **"Cry Little Sister (Theme from The Lost Boys)"** - Gerard McMann

7. **"Power Play"** - Eddie and the Tide

8. **"I Still Believe"** - Tim Cappello

9. **"Beauty Has Her Way"** - Mummy Calls

10. **"To the Shock of Miss Louise"** - Thomas Newman

Singles and Soundtrack Album

"Cry Little Sister" by Gerard McMann was released as a single and became one of the most recognizable songs associated with the film. The soundtrack album was also released and has since gained a cult following, celebrated for its eclectic mix of artists and memorable tracks that capture the film's essence.

Box Office Records

"The Lost Boys" was a commercial success, grossing over $32 million domestically against a budget of approximately $8.5 million. It was particularly notable for resonating with the teenage audience of the late 1980s, blending horror, humor, and a stylish aesthetic that solidified its status as a cult classic.

In conclusion, "The Lost Boys" remains a beloved film that deftly combines horror and comedy, with a standout soundtrack that enhances its atmospheric appeal. Its unique blend of genre elements and iconic music continues to influence and entertain new generations of viewers.

Official trailer 

Cry Little Sister

https://youtu.be/TuxdjVI-5r0?si=XD5dUQ-KHc59v076

I Still Believe: https://youtu.be/PdaaGlyu7EQ?si=7BRds0LUVKmuxM4d

https://m.imdb.com/title/tt0093437/

https://www.discogs.com/release/698713-Various-The-Lost-Boys-Original-Motion-Picture-Soundtrack

Iconic Vinyl: Black Sabbath Self Titled album

 

Black Sabbath's self-titled debut album, released on February 13, 1970, marked a significant turning point in the world of rock music, laying the groundwork for the heavy metal genre. The album's dark and eerie sound, coupled with its mysterious and controversial cover art, captured the imagination of listeners and critics alike.

The Album Cover and Controversy

The cover of "Black Sabbath" is iconic and immediately sets the tone for the music within. It features a haunting photograph of a figure clad in black standing in front of Mapledurham Watermill in Oxfordshire, England. This image, captured by photographer Keith Macmillan, evokes a sense of foreboding and mystery. The identity of the figure, often assumed to be a woman, remains a topic of speculation and adds to the album's enigmatic allure.

A notable point of controversy associated with the album cover involves the presence of a cross on the album. The band members wore large, inverted crosses as a form of protection against negative spiritual influences, which were believed to be prevalent during the recording sessions. This symbolism led to accusations of Black Sabbath being associated with occult and satanic practices. However, the band has repeatedly stated that the crosses were more a statement of rebellion and an attempt to create a unique image rather than an endorsement of any dark ideologies.

The Location: Mapledurham Watermill

Mapledurham Watermill, the location used for the front album cover, is a picturesque and historic site in Oxfordshire. The mill, which dates back to the 15th century, provided an ideal backdrop for the eerie and otherworldly aesthetic that Black Sabbath wanted to convey. The choice of this location was instrumental in creating the gothic and supernatural atmosphere that is synonymous with the band's early image and sound.

https://www.mapledurham.co.uk/the-water-mill

 Track Listing

The album "Black Sabbath" comprises seven tracks:

1. **"Black Sabbath"** - 6:20

2. **"The Wizard"** - 4:24

3. **"Behind the Wall of Sleep"** - 3:37

4. **"N.I.B."** - 6:08

5. **"Evil Woman"** - 3:25

6. **"Sleeping Village"** - 3:46

7. **"Warning"** - 10:32

Each track contributes to the album's overall dark and heavy feel, with themes revolving around mysticism, fantasy, and existential dread.

Strange Occurrences During Recording

The recording of the album was not without its peculiar incidents. The sessions took place at Regent Sound Studios and Island Studios in London over a single twelve-hour period. During this time, the band experienced several unusual occurrences, which they attributed to supernatural forces. For instance, they claimed to have seen strange figures in the studio and heard unexplained noises. These occurrences added to the band's growing reputation for being associated with the occult, further fueled by the eerie atmosphere of their music and imagery.

Success and Impact

"Black Sabbath" was a commercial success, reaching number eight on the UK Albums Chart and number 23 on the Billboard 200 in the United States. The album was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), with sales figures exceeding one million copies in the US alone. It was also certified gold in the UK. Despite mixed reviews from critics at the time, who often dismissed the album as simplistic and overly dark, it has since been recognised as a groundbreaking work that influenced countless bands and musicians.

Black Sabbath's debut album not only introduced the world to a new, heavier sound but also set the stage for the rise of heavy metal. Its success can be attributed to its raw, unpolished energy and the band's willingness to embrace dark and controversial themes. The album cover, the mysterious events during its recording, and the critical and commercial success all contribute to its legendary status. Today, "Black Sabbath" remains a seminal work, revered by fans and musicians alike for its pioneering role in the development of heavy metal music.

https://www.discogs.com/master/723-Black-Sabbath-Black-Sabbath