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Armstrong MetalFest Announces 2026 Return To Hassen Arena Following Record Breaking Anniversary

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Armstrong MetalFest officially returns for its 16th chapter on July 17 and 18 at the Hassen Arena in Armstrong, British Columbia. This announcement follows a milestone 15th anniversary in 2025 that saw record-breaking crowds and the most successful edition in the history of the event. Attendees can secure early bird weekend passes now for $179.99 until March 1, which includes access to the festival grounds and free camping. The festival continues its tradition of transforming the Okanagan Valley into a heavy metal haven featuring two full days of live music and camping.

The 2026 lineup remains a closely guarded secret until its reveal in March, though the festival has a reputation for hosting international heavyweights like Kataklysm and Archspire. Last year, the town experienced massive sets from Born of Osiris and Havok alongside the high-energy spectacle of Thrash Wrestling and the Yeti Games. West Metal Entertainment operates as a non-profit society to produce this gathering, ensuring that the regional music scene remains supported through all-ages shows and local band showcases. This commitment to the community has allowed the event to grow steadily since its 2009 inception.

The atmosphere during the mountain moshing sessions provides a unique and intense experience under the summer sun. Every weekend pass grants general admission starting at 9 am on Friday, July 17, through 10 am on Sunday, July 18. Organizers offer various vehicle and RV pass options for those looking to reserve specific spots on the grounds, though main lot parking remains available. The dedication to leaving the landscape untouched after the final riff fades highlights the professional and respectful nature of this massive metal family.

The sheer volume and community spirit found at the Hassen Arena create a definitive highlight for the Canadian metal calendar. This festival serves as a primary destination for fans from across North America who value authentic heavy music and outdoor adventure. With early bird tickets on sale, the countdown to the 2026 mayhem officially begins. This year promises to build on the momentum of previous sold-out editions to deliver another landmark weekend for the genre.

The Cribs Unveil Final Single “Never The Same” Before ‘Selling A Vibe’ Release

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The Cribs officially share their brand new single “Never The Same” today as the final preview of the highly anticipated album ‘Selling A Vibe’ arriving this Friday, January 9. The track immediately entered the A-list at BBC 6 Music following its radio debut with Steve Lamacq. This streamlined composition reflects a return to the original approach of the band by focusing on a fast, short, and stylish arrangement that trims away all excess. Lyrically, the song considers the concept of personal evolution and the complex feeling of missing a previous existence even after outgrowing it.

Gary Jarman noted that the track came together in just a few hours in Wakefield following a conversation about writing for other artists, yet the band became so attached to the result they kept it for their own record. This spontaneity resulted in a song that gets straight to the point without overthinking the technical structure. The accompanying music video marks a creative milestone as the band directed and edited the footage themselves using 8mm film captured during a tour of the United States. This candid visual documentation provides an honest look at life on the road and matches the raw energy of the music.

The dual vocal call-and-response remains a standout element that pairs perfectly with the chiming guitar layers. This record marks the first full length release from the group in over five years and follows the successful rollout of previous singles “Summer Seizures” and “A Point Too Hard To Make.” The band starts a run of release week instore and outstore shows across the UK tomorrow, January 8, before embarking on a massive headline tour in March. Most of these initial dates have already reached sold out status as the album release date approaches.

The sheer velocity of “Never The Same” proves that the band still possesses a sharp and restless creative edge.

Buy tickets for all shows HERE.

The Cribs – Instore + outstore release week shows

08 Jan – Circuit, Kingston, UK
09 Jan – Rough Trade East, London, UK – SOLD OUT
09 Jan – Rough Trade East, London, UK – SOLD OUT
10 Jan – Rough Trade, Liverpool, UK – SOLD OUT 
10 Jan – Rough Trade, Liverpool, UK – SOLD OUT
11 Jan – Pie & Vinyl (signing), Southsea, UK
11 Jan – Papillon, Southampton, UK
12 Jan – Thekla, Bristol, UK – SOLD OUT
13 Jan – O2 Academy, Oxford, UK
14 Jan – The Parish, Huddersfield, UK
14 Jan – The Parish, Huddersfield, UK – SOLD OUT
15 Jan – Oran Mor, Glasgow, UK
15 Jan – Oran Mor, Glasgow, UK – SOLD OUT

The Cribs – UK headline tour

18 Mar – Boiler Shop, Newcastle, UK ^
20 Mar – Foundry, Sheffield, UK ^ (SOLD OUT)
21 Mar – Albert Hall, Manchester, UK ^ (SOLD OUT)
22 Mar – O2 Institute 1, Birmingham, UK ^
24 Mar – Rock City, Nottingham, UK ^
25 Mar – Tramshed, Cardiff, UK ^
27 Mar – Concorde 2, Brighton, UK ^
28 Mar – Concorde 2, Brighton, UK ^ (SOLD OUT)
11 Jul – Millennium Square, Leeds, UK
26 Jul – Truck Festival, Steventon, UK

^ = Support from Courting

Emperors & Angels Kick Off 2026 With Massive Rock Anthem “Walk Into The Fire”

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Emperors & Angels officially ignite the 2026 rock season with the release of their brand new single “Walk Into The Fire” out today on all platforms. This hard hitting track delivers a blend of raw emotion and high energy sound defined by thunderous guitars and a relentless rhythm section. The song operates as a bold anthem regarding the choice to face fear and embrace risk over the safety of comfort. Every soaring vocal melody reinforces the melodic edge and fearless attitude that remains a hallmark of the band’s identity.

This release showcases the group at a peak of professional confidence by pairing arena ready choruses with a focused intensity. The technical execution on the track demonstrates a band pushing forward without compromise to secure their position in the modern rock landscape. Previous listeners will recognize the signature power and authenticity that drives the Emperors & Angels discography. The instrumentation provides a dense and driving backdrop for a lyrical narrative centered on passion and determination.

The sheer power of the central riff creates an immediate and lasting impact for any fan of modern heavy music. This recording functions as a definitive statement of intent as the group enters a new year of creative output. The melodic hooks stay present long after the final note while the rhythm section maintains a punishing pace throughout the composition. With this latest release, the band continues to build significant momentum through undeniable energy and a commitment to the rock tradition.

The transition from the opening chords to the final crescendo is a testament to the band’s growth in the studio. “Walk Into The Fire” captures a specific sensation of standing on the edge and taking a definitive leap into the unknown. The band invites everyone to experience this new chapter of their sonic evolution as they continue to carve out a unique space in the industry. This single serves as a high voltage introduction to the ambitious schedule the group has planned for the months ahead.

The Dandy Warhols Announce Covers Album ‘Pin Ups’ And Reveal New Single “Kiss Off”

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The Dandy Warhols officially announced the release of their boldly curated covers album ‘Pin Ups’ which arrives on March 20 via Beat The World Records and Little Cloud Records. This collection gathers decades of reinterpretations, deep cuts, and long-shelved recordings into one cohesive release. The Portland icons reframed tracks by artists who shaped their musical DNA, including The Cure, The Clash, and The Beatles. The lead single “Kiss Off” is out now and features Zia McCabe on lead vocals, injecting a sharp and bratty swagger into the Violent Femmes classic.

The record functions as a parallel history of the band with songs previously scattered across B-sides and tribute albums finally appearing in one place. Peter G. Holmstrƶm noted that many of these selections were tucked away on obscure projects but held deep personal significance for the group. Listeners encounter a surf-tinged version of “Goo Goo Muck” alongside a power-pop rendition of “Cherry Bomb” and a hazy take on The Cure’s “Primary”. This project follows a surge of creative momentum from their recent ‘Rockmaker’ and ‘Rock ReMaker’ releases.

The vocal performances across the three sides of the album move fluidly between reverence and total reinvention. Courtney Taylor-Taylor highlighted that nearly every artist covered on the record is a friend or a peer with whom the band shared meaningful experiences. The technical execution on “Straight To Hell” and “Lay Lady Lay” demonstrates the band’s trademark ability to blend psych-rock textures with classic pop structures. This release secures their reputation as a restless and curious force in the alternative music scene.

The ‘Pin Ups’ track listing includes:

Side One

  1. Cherry Bomb
  2. What We All Want
  3. Primary
  4. Kiss Off
  5. Goo Goo Muck
  6. Rain

Side Two

  1. Straight To Hell
  2. Sister Golden Hair
  3. Lay Lady Lay
  4. Ripple
  5. Easy Chair
  6. Blackbird

Side Three

  1. The Beautiful People
  2. Love Song
  3. Jet Boy
  4. She Sells Sanctuary
  5. Inside The Outside

Nikki Glaser Brings ā€œThe Stunning Tourā€ To OLG Stage At Fallsview Casino This August

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Award-winning comedian Nikki Glaser officially brings her shockingly honest stand-up to the OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino on Saturday, August 8, 2026. This performance serves as a major stop on ā€œThe Stunning Tourā€ following a record-breaking year for the world-renowned entertainer. Glaser arrives in Niagara Falls with a massive reputation solidified by her historic solo hosting duties at the Golden Globe Awards and a top ten ranking for global comedy tours. Tickets for the 8:00pm show go on sale Friday, January 9 through the official Ticketmaster portal.

The performance showcases the no-holds-barred style that earned Glaser the title of Comedian of the Year from The New York Times. Her career trajectory includes a standout appearance on the emmy-nominated roast of Tom Brady and the continued success of her popular iHeartMedia podcast. This tour features the sharp delivery and curious observations that define her presence on major specials like ‘Good Clean Filth’. The OLG Stage provides a state-of-the-art 5,000-seat environment for this high-profile night of fearless comedy.

The raw intensity and comedic timing of this set prove exactly why Glaser remains the best roaster on the planet.

Gypsy Pistoleros Reveal “Dark Faerie Tales” Single Ahead Of April Album And Tour

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Gypsy Pistoleros officially return with the release of their brand new single “Dark Faerie Tales” on January 23 through The New Church Records and Plastic Head Distribution. This title track serves as the first glimpse into their upcoming full length album ‘Dark Faerie Tales’ scheduled for a worldwide release on April 17. Sonic architect Dave Draper returned to the studio to produce and co-write the material which fuses sleaze-soaked punk energy with gothic grandeur and flamenco influences. The band expands upon the twisted mythology established in their previous work to deliver a record centered on decadence and rebellion.

The group details an extensive 2026 United Kingdom tour to support the new music including a headline show at London’s The Underworld and appearances at the Rebellion Punk Festival. Fans of high theater and glam punk will encounter a ten track sequence featuring “My One Desire, Burn It Up”, “King of Almost Everything”, and “Take My Hand to Nightmare Land”. The album arrives in multiple formats including three-colour vinyl and digipak CD to accommodate all collectors of the band’s eclectic style. This collection stands as the most ambitious project in the group’s history and marks a significant step forward in their genre-defying vision.

The sheer theatrical power of the title track provides a massive opening statement for this new era of Goth ’n’ Roll. Every guitar solo and vocal snarl on the record reflects a band operating at the height of their creative power. James Kennedy & The Underdogs join the tour as special guests for a run of dates that hits clubs and festivals across the country. This project secures the position of Gypsy Pistoleros as the primary outlaws of the modern glam punk circuit.

Tour Dates:

11 April – St Austell, The Band Club
16 April – London, The Underworld (SLADY, Continental Lovers, Bai Bang)
17 April – Worcester, The Marrs Bar
18 April – Pontypool, The Dragonffli
22 April – Newcastle, The Cluny
24 April – Dunfermline, The Brasshouse
25 April – Edinburgh, Bannermans
1–2 May – Beltane Gathering Festival, Wales
9 May – Ā  No Sleep Till Blackpool Festival @ The Waterloo
10 May – Stoke-on-Trent, Eleven (Matinee Show)
15 May – Nottingham, The Old Cold Store
16 May – Stockport, The Holy Diver
23 May – Breaking Bands Festival, Droitwich
Special Guests:Ā James Kennedy & The Underdogs to support throughout Tour
6–9 August – Rebellion Punk Festival, Blackpool Winter Gardens

Bren Holmes Returns With New Album ‘A Rush To The Start Line’ And Single “Ordinary World”

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Bren Holmes officially returns to the spotlight with his second solo album ‘A Rush To The Start Line’ available on CD starting February 6. This new collection of music marks a significant shift for the Los Angeles based singer and songwriter as he moves toward a diverse palette of indie rock and alt-pop. The lead single “Ordinary World (For SinĆ©ad)” serves as a propulsive and melancholic tribute to the late Irish icon SinĆ©ad O’Connor. Co-produced by Bryan Dobbs, the track features a heavy bass and drum foundation inspired by the brooding atmosphere of The National.

The ten track album demonstrates a matured approach to songwriting that draws from the punk, ska, and pop influences of the artist’s youth in Ireland. Tracks like the anthemic “Gloria” tell heart wrenching stories of resilience while “Don’t Say You Will” offers a high energy pop vibe paired with a narrative of heartbreak. The record features an impressive roster of guest musicians including bassist Paul Bushnell and guitarist Bob Boulding. This project highlights a creator who prioritizes strong melodic hooks and authentic storytelling above specific genre boundaries.

Every arrangement on the record feels incredibly cohesive and underscores a major leap in vocal confidence. The transition from the Irish rock sound of The Young Dubliners to this more personal indie pop territory is a triumph of artistic evolution. Listeners encounter a wide range of emotions from the celebratory “Shine” to the festive and reflective album closer “Song for Christmas.” The production quality remains crisp and allows the intricate guitar layers and sincere lyrical delivery to remain at the forefront of the mix.

The track listing for ‘A Rush To The Start Line’ includes:

  1. Gloria
  2. Don’t Say You Will
  3. Ordinary World (For SinƩad)
  4. Need Some Time
  5. Shine
  6. Dreamin’
  7. The Way
  8. Satisfied
  9. This One
  10. Song For Christmas

David Lee Roth Details Massive 2026 North American Tour

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Iconic vocalist David Lee Roth officially detailed a substantial 2026 North American tour titled ā€œA Night With David Lee Rothā€ following his high energy return to the stage last year. This thirty date excursion begins on April 16 in Airway Heights and stretches across major theaters and arenas through August. The upcoming performances feature an eight piece band including a powerhouse four piece group of backing vocalists to recreate the massive sound of his legendary catalog. Roth maintained a strict focus on Van Halen classics during his recent festival appearances and this trend remains a central expectation for the new year.

The tour route hits historic venues such as the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester before concluding at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. Fans in cities like Austin, Memphis, and Washington DC gain access to a setlist packed with the high octane anthems that defined the hard rock era. This run of shows represents the first extensive touring schedule for the singer since his brief retirement hiatus earlier this decade. The sheer charisma and vocal swagger on display during his 2025 performances prove that the “Diamond Dave” persona is as vibrant and electric as ever.

Tour Dates:

Apr 16 – Airway Heights, WA @ Spokane Live
Apr 18 – Grand Ronde, OR @ Spirit Mountain Casino
Apr 20 – Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
Apr 22 – Tucson, AZ @ The Rialto Theatre
Apr 25 – Albuquerque, NM @ Revel
Apr 27 – Lubbock, TX @ Buddy Holly Hall
Apr 29 – Austin, TX @ ACL Live at The Moody Theater
May 1 – Memphis, TN @ Graceland Soundstage
May 3 – Orlando, FL @ Hard Rock Live Orlando
May 6 – Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
May 9 – Virginia Beach, VA @ The Dome
May 12 – Wilmington, NC @ CCFC’s Wilson Center
May 14 – Greensboro, NC @ Tanger Center
May 16 – Washington, DC @ Warner Theatre
May 19 – Glenside, PA @ Keswick Theatre
May 21 – Niagara Falls, ON @ OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino
May 24 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues
May 26 – Schenectady, NY @ Proctors Theatre
May 29 – Hampton Beach, NH @ Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
May 31 – Wallingford, CT @ Toyota Oakdale Theatre
June 3 – Port Chester, NY @ The Capitol Theatre
June 5 – Asbury Park, NJ @ Stone Pony Summer Stage
June 7 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount
June 9 – Huber Heights, OH @ Rose Music Center at The Heights
June 11 – Fort Wayne, IN @ Foellinger Theatre
June 13 – Battle Creek, MI @ FireKeepers Casino Hotel
June 15 – Sioux Falls, SD @ The Monument
June 17 – Moorhead, MN @ Bluestem Amphitheater
June 20 – Milwaukee, WI @ Summerfest
Aug 7 – Sturgis, SD @ Sturgis Buffalo Chip

King Mala And Audrey Nuna Reimagine “Toxic” For New Valorant Season Cinematic ā€œWhy We Fight Backā€

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Riot Games launched the 2026 Valorant season with a seductive and dark reimagining of the Britney Spears classic “Toxic.” This collaboration features rising alt-pop artist King Mala alongside Audrey Nuna to transform the early-2000s hit into a brooding electronic-pop anthem. The release coincides with the debut of the “Why We Fight Back” cinematic which explores themes of vengeance and ambition through the perspective of the game’s Agents. This version of the track utilizes haunting vocals and moody production to create a soundscape specifically tailored for high stakes competitive play.

The project follows the anniversary cinematic “Why We Fight” and signals a transition into a darker narrative era for the franchise. Lead Music Supervisor Jonny Altepeter curated this version to reflect a raw intensity that aligns with the current season of content. King Mala and Audrey Nuna deliver a performance that prioritizes emotional weight over the upbeat tempo of the original recording. The track is currently available on all major streaming platforms as players begin their journey through the latest patch updates. This moody interpretation of a pop staple provides a perfect backdrop for the gritty imagery found in the new season kickoff.

Nerve Star Unleash Hard Rock Fury On New Album ‘White Hot’ Featuring Tony Bourge

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Hard rock and heavy metal powerhouse Nerve Star officially released their comprehensive new album ‘White Hot’ on February 27. The record serves as a high energy fusion of seventies hard rock, NWOBHM, and eighties metal influences. This project features the solidified lineup of Joss Thorley on bass, Chris Billinghurst and Janne Stark on dual lead guitars, Matt Oakman on vocals, and Peter Svensson on drums. The album spans thirteen tracks on digital and CD formats with a curated eight track selection available on vinyl via RSK Entertainment and Proper Distribution.

The recording process for ‘White Hot’ involved international collaboration across studios in Sweden and Raw Studios in England. Janne Stark brought decades of production experience to the sessions to ensure a sonic profile reminiscent of the dual lead guitar harmonies found in Thin Lizzy. A major highlight arrives with the final track “Richard III” which features a guest appearance by legendary Budgie riff master Tony Bourge. This closing anthem showcases all three lead guitarists and connects the band to the historic lineage of Welsh rock and heavy metal.

Every track on this release delivers unrelenting riffs and thumping bass lines designed for maximum volume. The band successfully transitioned from home demos in 2021 to a fully realized studio production through years of meticulous tracking. The addition of Matt Oakman in 2023 provided the vocal power necessary to elevate the arrangements into a professional league. This record stands as a definitive document of the group’s technical ability and dedication to the classic rock aesthetic.

The arrival of the album precedes a schedule of upcoming UK gigs and European festival appearances set for later this year. The band honed these thirteen compositions through multiple sessions to ensure every drum fill and guitar solo hits with precise impact. This collection of music reinforces the enduring relevance of loud guitars and big drums in the modern era. The collaborative spirit between the UK and Swedish members results in a cohesive and explosive listening experience.