CRAIG NEILL CLAIMS INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM WITH AWARD-WINNING INSTRUMENTAL METAL SINGLE “BALOO KA TOOFAAN” - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE





CRAIG NEILL CLAIMS INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM WITH AWARD-WINNING INSTRUMENTAL METAL SINGLE “BALOO KA TOOFAAN”



Dutch-Based Multi-Instrumentalist Takes Home Best of European Metal Honors at the 2026 InterContinental Music Awards


Release: “Baloo Ka Toofaan”
Release Status: Available Now
Genre: Instrumental Heavy Metal / Progressive Thrash / Cross-Cultural Metal
For Fans Of: Marty Friedman, Bernth, Ola Englund
Artist: Craig Neill
Label: Independent / Unsigned

SOEST, THE NETHERLANDS — September 4, 2026 — Independent multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, and engineer Craig Neill is celebrating a major international milestone following the award-winning recognition of his instrumental metal single “Baloo Ka Toofaan,” which was officially named the Winner for Best of European Metal at the 14th Annual InterContinental Music Awards (ICMA) .

The award was announced during the ICMA ceremony on August 23, 2026, marking a significant achievement for Craig and his entirely independent approach to creating and releasing music.

With more than four decades of musical experience behind him, Craig has developed a distinctive sound that combines the precision and aggression of heavy metal with progressive, technical, and cross-cultural influences. “Baloo Ka Toofaan” brings together technical guitar shredding, driving rhythm work, progressive metal foundations, Indian classical scales, and traditional rhythmic influences to create a track that refuses to stay inside conventional genre boundaries.

Rather than relying on a traditional band lineup or outside production team, Craig handles virtually every aspect of his recordings himself. From his private studio in Soest, Netherlands, he writes, performs, produces, mixes, and masters his material, incorporating live guitars, MIDI arrangements, Logic Pro, and virtual amp routing into his production process.

Most importantly, the music is 100% human-created without generative AI .

That hands-on philosophy is central to Craig's identity as an independent artist, allowing him complete control over the sound, performance, and production of his music.




“Baloo Ka Toofaan represents an uncompromising convergence of aggressive modern metal guitar work with Indian classical scales and traditional rhythmic energy. Winning Best of European Metal at the 2026 InterContinental Music Awards has been an incredible honour and milestone. Having this work recognised on a global scale reinforces my dedication to pushing the envelope as an independent instrumental artist.”




FROM SOUTH AFRICA TO THE NETHERLANDS


Originally born in South Africa , Craig ventured to the Netherlands approximately 11 years ago and quickly became involved with the Dutch metal scene.

That international journey has become an important part of his musical identity. Drawing from decades of experience while continuing to explore new techniques, sounds, and influences, Craig has established himself as a completely independent artist capable of creating music that crosses borders without sacrificing the aggression and attitude at the heart of heavy metal.

His work combines technical musicianship, hard-hitting riffs, progressive arrangements, atmospheric passages, shred guitar, and influences that reach well beyond traditional Western metal.

FOUR DECADES OF MUSIC, ONE MAN'S VISION


Craig has spent more than 40 years developing his skills as a multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, mixer, and mastering engineer .

His catalog demonstrates a willingness to move between technical musicianship, heavy riffing, atmospheric passages, and experimental influences. Previous releases include “Flatline,” “Demonic Whispers,” “Gasoline,” “Junkyard Shred,” and “Crescendo of the Damned,” the latter featuring guest guitarist 7stringer.

“Flatline” was also recognized as a 2025 ICMA European Metal Finalist , establishing a history of international recognition that has now culminated in the Best of European Metal victory for “Baloo Ka Toofaan.”

Craig is also no stranger to collaboration, having worked with notable names from the metal world while continuing to develop new material and future releases.

NEW MUSIC AND PHYSICAL RELEASE ON THE HORIZON


The “Baloo Ka Toofaan” award is only the latest chapter in Craig's musical journey.

Craig is currently preparing a forthcoming vinyl and CD release , with the official release date still to be announced. The upcoming physical release will feature a collection of fast, aggressive material built around one of the defining characteristics of Craig's music: riff after riff after riff .

The project will also feature a variety of guest musicians, bringing additional voices and personalities from the metal world into Craig's increasingly ambitious musical vision.

Alongside the forthcoming physical release, Craig is continuing to work on exciting new collaborations and upcoming releases , giving fans plenty more to look forward to as he expands his catalog.

For listeners drawn to technically demanding guitar work, aggressive riffing, progressive metal, and instrumental music that refuses to play by the usual rules, Craig's next chapter promises to turn the volume up considerably.

Craig Neill is an independent multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, mixer, and mastering engineer born in South Africa and now based in Soest, Netherlands .

After moving to the Netherlands 11 years ago and becoming involved in the Dutch metal scene, Craig continued building on more than four decades of musical experience. His instrumental metal combines technical guitar playing, progressive metal, thrash, shred, aggressive riffing, and non-Western musical influences.

Working independently from his private studio, Craig writes, performs, produces, mixes, and masters his own material without generative AI. His growing catalog includes “Baloo Ka Toofaan,” “Flatline,” “Demonic Whispers,” “Gasoline,” “Junkyard Shred,” and “Crescendo of the Damned.”

Following his 2025 ICMA European Metal Finalist recognition for “Flatline,” Craig has now claimed the 2026 InterContinental Music Awards Winner for Best of European Metal with “Baloo Ka Toofaan.”

With a vinyl and CD release in development, new collaborations underway, and additional music on the horizon, Craig Neill is continuing to build an independent metal career on his own terms.

Check out this video: 



Connect:


https://linktr.ee/craigneill

Contact: craig@theneills.nl


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29382/craig-neill-claims-international-acclaim-with-award-winning-instrumental-metal-single-baloo-ka-toofaan?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands? 09/08/26 - 09/11/26 - @thebeast

🔥 Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands? 🔥
And who will dominate next month as Band of the Month on Metal Devastation Radio?

Last month’s winners, OKL'S FRUITLOOPS, crushed the competition with a staggering 5,083,542 VOTES , claiming the title of Band of the Month on Metal Devastation Radio! You can check them out HERE !

This is the weekly championship edition of the Band Of The Month – Battle Of The Bands that we host every month on MDR!

How does it work?
Every Monday, we launch a new poll featuring bands that submit music each week on metaldevastationradio.com. Voting runs until Friday at 9PM EST .

Each Friday night , at the start of The Zach Moonshine Show , I’ll be spinning the Top Six weekly winners , and announcing the #1 band of the week live on air — getting thousands of listens on Mixcloud !

At the end of the month , all weekly votes are added up, and the band with the highest total votes becomes our Band of the Month !

Winning Band of the Month gets:

A featured post on our Facebook page, reaching thousands of fans

A front-page spotlight on metaldevastationradio.com , which pulls in hundreds of thousands of views every month

A free PR email blast from Metal Devastation PR, hitting 40,000+ contacts including labels, zines, stations, and more

Airplay every hour during general rotation

Tons of social media shares and exposure across our network

If you want the world to know who your band is, this is the easiest way to make it happen!

💥 Want in on the next battle?
Comment below with your band name and we’ll add you to next week’s poll — or email me at zach@metaldevastationradio.com with “Battle Submission” in the subject line.

Bands can compete as many times as they want , and if you enter multiple weeks in the same month, your votes combine toward the Band of the Month title!

👇 Click on the bands below to vote as many times as you like, or add your own! Poll closes Friday, September 11th at 9PM EST!








Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands? 09/08/26 - 09/11/26


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29381/who-will-rise-as-this-weeks-champion-on-the-mdr-battle-of-the-bands-09-08-26-09-11-26?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

FLIGHT OF ODIN Discusses New Double Album 'I Traveled The Crooked Path', Old-School Metal Influences And Keeping Music Human - @thebeast

FLIGHT OF ODIN Discusses New Double Album 'I Traveled The Crooked Path', Old-School Metal Influences And Keeping Music Human


Washington, D.C.-Area Doom Metal Band Talks Songwriting, Recording Without Click Tracks, The Sanctuary And Plans For A Doom Metal Opera


Washington, D.C.-area doom metal outfit FLIGHT OF ODIN recently joined The Zach Moonshine Show on Metal Devastation Radio for an extensive conversation about the band's new double album, I Traveled The Crooked Path , their evolution since forming in 2015, their approach to songwriting and recording, classic heavy metal influences, and what they have planned for the future.

Released through Riding The Dragonfly LTD , I Traveled The Crooked Path captures a band that refuses to stay inside a single musical box. Doom metal provides the foundation, but psychedelic rock, progressive music, classical influences and traditional heavy metal all find their way into the band's sound.

During the interview, FLIGHT OF ODIN also discussed the decision to release a double album, the addition of guitarist Tyler Beddow , vocalist Xyra's wide-ranging vocal abilities, the band's Washington, D.C.-area underground scene, and their commitment to preserving the human element of heavy music.

WHY A DOUBLE ALBUM?


According to the band, the decision to release I Traveled The Crooked Path as a double album came down to having a large amount of material and wanting to properly document the band's history.

The first disc features material representing FLIGHT OF ODIN's current lineup, while the second disc revisits the band's Goddess In Smoke EP material from a previous lineup.

The band explained that they wanted those earlier recordings to receive a physical release rather than remain available only digitally. The material represents an important chapter in the group's history, and the musicians who created it deserved to have their work preserved.

The result is a release that effectively bridges two eras of FLIGHT OF ODIN while showcasing the band's ongoing evolution.

SONGS THAT DEVELOP ORGANICALLY


One of the defining characteristics of FLIGHT OF ODIN's songwriting process is the band's willingness to let songs develop naturally.

Some tracks on the new album originated from older material that was reworked and reinvented, while others came together through spontaneous rehearsal-room sessions.

Instrumentals such as “Andromeda” and “Obsidian Cove” are prime examples.

“ Andromeda” developed from guitar ideas brought in by Tyler Beddow, with the other members adding their own parts until the piece evolved into something much larger.

“Obsidian Cove” began from a warm-up idea and eventually became a fully developed composition.

That collaborative approach is central to the band's chemistry.

Rather than attempting to force every song into a predetermined structure, FLIGHT OF ODIN allows its members to respond to one another and see where the music takes them.

A DOOM METAL OPERA?


The band's ambitions don't stop with conventional albums and live performances.

During the interview, FLIGHT OF ODIN revealed that they have discussed creating a doom metal opera , potentially involving other bands and incorporating extensive visual and theatrical elements.

Considering the band's emphasis on atmosphere and storytelling, the concept could be a natural extension of what they are already doing.

For now, however, the band has plenty of new music to work on.

Despite just releasing a double album, FLIGHT OF ODIN is already developing new material, with several songs taking shape that push the band's sound in new directions while maintaining its core identity.

THE SANCTUARY: FLIGHT OF ODIN'S CREATIVE LABORATORY


The band's rehearsal space, affectionately known as The Sanctuary , plays a major role in the creative process.

Located in the band's basement, The Sanctuary is designed to be a comfortable environment where the musicians can experiment without worrying about whether an idea is immediately perfect.

Fairy lights, a solid sound system and a relaxed atmosphere turn the room into something more than a rehearsal space.

The band records rehearsals and listens back to the performances afterward, allowing them to identify ideas that might have been overlooked in the moment.

FLIGHT OF ODIN is also considering filming a live performance or playthrough featuring the current lineup inside The Sanctuary.

RECORDING WITHOUT A CLICK TRACK


The band's commitment to keeping performances human carries directly into the recording studio.

FLIGHT OF ODIN records together in the same room and does not use click tracks.

Instead, the musicians allow the tempo to naturally speed up and slow down depending on the performance.

The band views those fluctuations as part of what makes a recording feel alive.

Their sessions take place at BIAS Recording Studios in Springfield, a professional facility with decades of history. The band typically records multiple songs during a session and returns later for mixing.

Mastering is handled by Mike Monseur at AXIS Audio in Nashville.

The result is a polished production without stripping away the natural interaction between the musicians.

“THE HUMAN ELEMENT” IN THE AGE OF AI


That recording philosophy led to a broader discussion about the growing use of artificial intelligence in music.

For FLIGHT OF ODIN, the imperfections are not necessarily problems that need to be fixed.

They are part of the performance.

A drummer pushing a tempo, a guitarist holding a note slightly longer, or musicians reacting to one another in real time can create moments that are impossible to completely manufacture.

The band believes that preserving that human interaction is especially important for underground music.

Technology can certainly be useful, but for FLIGHT OF ODIN, the reason to play in a band in the first place is the experience of musicians creating something together.

FROM CHOPIN TO BLACK SABBATH


FLIGHT OF ODIN's influences cover a considerable amount of musical territory.

Classical music, including Chopin , has influenced the band's approach, while rock and metal influences include Iron Maiden, Scorpions, Judas Priest, KISS, Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi , and numerous other artists.

The band also cited Nico and The Velvet Underground , Roxy Music and Bryan Ferry among their broader influences.

Those influences help explain why FLIGHT OF ODIN can move from heavy doom passages into psychedelic, progressive or melodic territory without sounding like a straightforward genre exercise.

The musicians aren't attempting to reproduce one particular era.

Instead, decades of music have become part of their collective vocabulary.

WRITING FROM THE VOCAL MELODY


Another interesting element of the band's songwriting process is the role of vocalist Xyra .

Several FLIGHT OF ODIN songs begin with vocal melodies, lyrics or musical ideas developed before the full band arrangement exists.

One example is “You Can't Stop Me Now,” which came to Xyra one morning and was reportedly written in roughly 20 minutes.

She recorded the initial idea on an iPhone before the rest of the band eventually built the full arrangement around it.

The band's approach demonstrates how songs can originate from almost anywhere.

A guitar riff.

A vocal melody.

An acoustic recording.

A rehearsal-room jam.

Even a warm-up exercise.

The important part is recognizing the idea when it appears.

“SEANCE” AND THE BAND'S MORE EXPERIMENTAL SIDE


FLIGHT OF ODIN also discussed “Seance,” which they consider one of their most ambitious compositions.

The song developed through contributions from multiple members and took on an almost automatic-writing or channeling quality during the creative process.

That experimental attitude is one of the defining traits of the band.

FLIGHT OF ODIN isn't afraid of long songs, instrumental passages, unconventional arrangements or allowing a piece to develop at its own pace.

For a doom metal band, that's hardly surprising.

But the group combines that patience with an appreciation for the immediacy and energy of traditional heavy metal.

THE WASHINGTON, D.C. METAL SCENE


Although FLIGHT OF ODIN identifies with the Washington, D.C. area, the members actually come from Leesburg and the surrounding Northern Virginia region.

They discussed the challenges facing the local original-music scene, where cover bands, tribute acts, Americana and blues can often be more prominent than original rock and metal.

The band pointed to Baltimore and Richmond as areas with stronger rock and metal communities.

Rather than simply accepting the situation, however, FLIGHT OF ODIN wants to help build the local scene.

That DIY mentality has always been an important part of underground metal culture.

THE NAME FLIGHT OF ODIN


The band's name dates back to its formation in 2015 and was inspired by Norse mythology.

Odin's legendary eight-legged flying horse provided the initial inspiration, with the concept of music serving as a kind of flight.

Although the band's lyrical and visual identity has expanded beyond its original Norse mythology focus, the name and imagery remain an important part of the group's identity.

The band's logo features Odin riding the flying horse, while the primary logo uses the band's distinctive lettering.

TYLER BEDDOW JOINS THE LINEUP


Guitarist Tyler Beddow has also played an important role in the band's current direction.

Beddow brings a technically capable and powerful approach to the guitar, including the use of a seven-string baritone on some of the band's material.

His studio and live rig includes an ENGL Fireball , Mesa 4x12 , tape echo and a Marshall DSL 100 , contributing to the band's substantial guitar sound.

The gear, however, is only part of the equation.

The band's chemistry remains the foundation of the music.

WHAT'S NEXT FOR FLIGHT OF ODIN?


Even with I Traveled The Crooked Path now available, FLIGHT OF ODIN is already looking toward the next chapter.

The band is writing new material and expects to return to the studio in November .

They are also hoping to get back onstage, while continuing to explore new visual ideas and potentially developing their Sanctuary performance concept.

And somewhere further down the road, there is always the possibility of that doom metal opera.

For now, FLIGHT OF ODIN is continuing to follow its own path.

It may be crooked.

It may be unpredictable.

But judging by I Traveled The Crooked Path , that's exactly how they like it.

LISTEN TO FLIGHT OF ODIN ON THE ZACH MOONSHINE SHOW


FLIGHT OF ODIN's complete interview with Zach Moonshine covers I Traveled The Crooked Path , songwriting, recording, classic metal influences, the Washington, D.C. underground scene, The Sanctuary, AI and the future of human-made music, as well as the band's plans for new material and live performances.

Listen to the full show on Mixcloud now:

Full Track List: 

Battle Of The Bands Top Six Winners:

1 - Another Demon - Reduced to Ash
2 - Soul Of Sheol - Paradise Is Not For Us
3 - Minstrel - Guardianes de la Noche y el Tiempo
4 - Sharp n' Loud - Armored sexy girl
5 - Mistress - Terrified eyes
6 - PS:23 - The Angel They Call Evil

The Zach Moonshine Intro

7 - Ozzy Osbourne - Over The Mountain
8 - BEHEMOTH - In League with Satan
9 - CIRITH UNGOL - All The Shadows
10 - Smoulder - Shadow Of The Vulture
11 - Darren Michael Boyd - The Day Beneath Yesterday
12 - Rise From Your Grave - Stay Awake
13 - HELLUCINATION - Petrified

Flight of Odin - Interview featuring You Can't Stop Me Now/The Ravens Eyes

14 - Riftpatrol - The Sky is Not the Limit
15 - Demon Christ - Curse You All
16 - Blind Illusion - Smash the Crystal
17 - Ministry - We Hate
18 - CREEPER - Big Bad Wolf
19 - Plusminuszero - Runner´s High
20 - THRONEHAMMER - Rise of Resistance
21 - Body Count - Last Breath


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BLIND ILLUSION’S “STAGE FLIGHT: LIVE AT THE UC THEATRE” LANDS FEATURE AT BLABBERMOUTH - @thebeast

BLIND ILLUSION’S “STAGE FLIGHT: LIVE AT THE UC THEATRE” LANDS FEATURE AT BLABBERMOUTH


Progressive Thrash Metal Pioneers Receive Major Media Coverage Ahead of October 16 Live Album Release


BERKELEY, CA | September 2026 — Progressive thrash metal pioneers Blind Illusion are continuing to make noise ahead of the October 16, 2026 release of their highly anticipated live album, STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre , and the band's latest announcement has now received major coverage from Blabbermouth .

Following the distribution of the band's official announcement through Metal Devastation PR , Blabbermouth published a full feature on September 1 covering the upcoming release, its historic lineup, and the remarkable story behind the recording.

The feature puts a spotlight on STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre , which captures Blind Illusion's historic 2025 performance at the UC Theatre in Berkeley, California, featuring the return of original Blind Illusion vocalist David White .

The performance took place during a special celebration surrounding Exodus' 40th anniversary of Bonded By Blood and on the birthday of the late Exodus frontman Paul Baloff . Blind Illusion shared the stage with Exodus, Death Angel, and Nukem for the memorable event.

For a band with roots stretching back to 1978, the release represents another significant chapter in an already legendary history.

A NEW CHAPTER IN THE BLIND ILLUSION STORY


Led by mastermind Mark Biedermann on lead guitar and vocals, Blind Illusion's current lineup features Martin Lacour on lead guitar, Avery Thurman on bass, and Phil Cosentini on drums.

The band's history is deeply connected to some of the most influential names in progressive and technical metal.

Blind Illusion's landmark 1988 debut album, The Sane Asylum , featured Biedermann alongside guitarist Larry Lalonde , bassist Les Claypool , and drummer Mike Miner . The album has since become regarded as a classic of progressive thrash metal, featuring tracks such as “Vengeance Is Mine,” “Death Noise,” “Kamikaze,” “Smash The Crystal,” and “Blood Shower.”

Biedermann's musical history also extends beyond Blind Illusion. In 1987, while working with legendary producer Sandy Pearlman , he contributed rhythm guitar and guitar leads to four songs for Blue Öyster Cult's Imaginos , working alongside musicians including Joe Satriani and Robbie Krieger of The Doors .

Blind Illusion continued evolving throughout the decades, returning in 2010 with Demon Master before reconnecting with the progressive thrash sound that defined The Sane Asylum . The band's later history included musicians such as Harald Oimoen of D.R.I. , Doug Piercy of Heathen and Anvil Chorus , and legendary Death Angel drummer Andy Galeon .

In 2022, the band released Wrath Of The Gods following Galeon's arrival, continuing Blind Illusion's long-running evolution while maintaining its distinctive place within the underground metal world.

THE RETURN OF DAVID WHITE


One of the most significant elements of STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre is the appearance of original vocalist David White , who reunited with Blind Illusion for the 2025 performance.

White's return connects the new live recording directly to the band's earliest history while showcasing Blind Illusion's continuing evolution nearly five decades after its formation.

The UC Theatre performance ultimately became the foundation for STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre .

The band's story continued to unfold after the recording, with Blind Illusion later appearing at Frost And Fire V in Ventura, California, where the band performed The Sane Asylum in its entirety live for the first time in the group's history.

COMING OCTOBER 16


STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre will be released October 16, 2026 through Hectic Records / Bleeding Priest Records .

The release will be available as a 12-inch vinyl LP , pressed at 33 RPM and limited to 500 copies .

RELEASE INFORMATION


Artist: Blind Illusion
Title: STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre
Release Type: Live Album
Genre: Progressive Thrash Metal
Release Date: October 16, 2026
Label: Hectic Records / Bleeding Priest Records
Catalog Number: Hectic 009
Format: 12-inch Vinyl LP
Pressing: Limited to 500 copies
UPC: 810213561508

CURRENT LINEUP


Mark Biedermann – Lead Guitar / Vocals
Martin Lacour – Lead Guitar
Avery Thurman – Bass
Phil Cosentini – Drums

BLABBERMOUTH FEATURE


The full Blabbermouth feature on Blind Illusion's STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre is available now:

BLIND ILLUSION To Release 'Stage Flight: Live At The UC Theatre' Live Album Featuring Original Vocalist David White


https://blabbermouth.net/news/blind-illusion-to-release-stage-flight-live-at-the-uc-theatre-live-album-featuring-original-vocalist-david-white />


With a career approaching five decades, Blind Illusion continues to prove that progressive thrash metal doesn't need to look backward to honor its history. STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre brings together the band's past and present in one historic performance, documenting the return of an original member while showcasing the continuing power of one of progressive thrash metal's enduring underground acts.

Blind Illusion – Established 1978
Progressive Thrash Metal



Check them out on YouTube: 





Connect: 


https://blindillusion.bandcamp.com/album/stage-flight-live-at-the-uc-theatre />
https://www.instagram.com/blindillusionofficial />
https://www.facebook.com/officialblindillusion />
https://ffm.to/bclink1 />
https://www.hectic.com/product/blind-illusion-live />
Contact:

David Hecht
Hectic Records
david@hectic.com


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HEXECUTIONER Announces New Single “Shapeshifter” and Upcoming Album Ascension Rock - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HEXECUTIONER Announces New Single “Shapeshifter” and Upcoming Album Ascension Rock

Psych Doom / Stoner Doom / Heavy Metal

“Shapeshifter” Single & Music Video Arrive September 25, 2026
Ascension Rock Full-Length Album Arrives October 23, 2026

Listen / Follow / Pre-Order:

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock />
Hexecutioner is preparing to unleash a new chapter of heavy, psychedelic darkness with the upcoming release of “Shapeshifter,” the first single from the band’s forthcoming full-length album, Ascension Rock .

Set for release on September 25, 2026 , “Shapeshifter” introduces listeners to the strange and expansive sonic world of Ascension Rock , with an accompanying official music video also in the works. The single will lead into the album’s full release on October 23, 2026 .

Drawing from doom metal, stoner rock, psych doom, hard rock, and traditional heavy metal, Hexecutioner crafts a sound built around massive riffs, melodic weight, psychedelic atmosphere, and a sense of ominous exploration. Ascension Rock pushes that formula into more epic territory, creating a record where crushing heaviness meets the feeling of something far more mysterious lurking just beyond the veil.

The band describes the world surrounding Ascension Rock as one of “high strangeness,” where energies of darkness and light, old and new, collide through wormholes, unseen forces, altered dimensions, and sound frequency rituals.

Following Hexecutioner’s well-received 2025 sophomore album, Tornit , Ascension Rock marks another step forward for the band. The new album features six tracks recorded with Dylan Wall at 7Hills Studio and introduces bassist Daniel McManus to the lineup alongside Erin Gravina (vocals/guitar) and Bryce Hebner (drums) .

The result is a carefully constructed slab of psychedelic heaviness designed to leave a lasting impression.

“Shapeshifter” arrives September 25, with Ascension Rock following October 23.

Hexecutioner Is:


Erin Gravina – Vocals / Guitar
Daniel McManus – Bass
Bryce Hebner – Drums

For Fans Of:

Doom Metal • Stoner Rock • Stoner Doom • Psych Doom • Heavy Metal • Hard Rock

Listen / Follow / Pre-Order:

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock />
Check out this video: 











Connect: 






https://hexecutioner.bandcamp.com/album/ascension-rock />
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hexecutioner/ascension-rock />
https://www.facebook.com/HEXECUTIONER />
https://www.instagram.com/hexecutionerband/ />



Contact: hexecutionerband@gmail.com


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DARREN MICHAEL BOYD Unveils Dreamy Instrumental Surf Rock Journey With “The Day Beneath Yesterday” - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DARREN MICHAEL BOYD Unveils Dreamy Instrumental Surf Rock Journey With “The Day Beneath Yesterday”

From the album Perpetual Night | Released January 25, 2026

Listen:
https://open.spotify.com/track/2GxaQiUs8lg9GlAeyy0t5M">
https://open.spotify.com/track/2GxaQiUs8lg9GlAeyy0t5M /> Website:
https://darrenboyd.com/">
https://darrenboyd.com/ /> Press Kit / EPK:
https://darrenboyd.com/dmb-press-kit">
https://darrenboyd.com/dmb-press-kit />
Instrumental guitarist and composer DARREN MICHAEL BOYD takes listeners on a haunting, atmospheric journey with “The Day Beneath Yesterday,” a standout track from his album Perpetual Night . Released January 25, 2026, the track blends dreamy, exotic textures with Boyd’s hard rock roots, creating an instrumental experience that is equal parts mysterious, melodic, and cinematic.

Described as Instrumental Spooky Surf , “The Day Beneath Yesterday” showcases Boyd’s approach to guitar-driven composition, where melody takes center stage and every note has a purpose.




“The Day Beneath Yesterday has a bit of a dreamy, exotic sound going on, while staying true to my Hard Rock roots. Melody is always my main focus – no wasted notes.”




The accompanying music video adds another layer of personality to the track, featuring Boyd putting a guitar through a particularly brutal visual experience. Eagle-eyed viewers may also spot a very special guest appearance from Bo the dog , who apparently had a great time watching a tornado of bubbles unfold during the shoot.

And as Boyd explains, the guitar had already reached the end of its useful life before filming, so no perfectly good instrument was harmed in the making of the video. Probably.

“The Day Beneath Yesterday” has also earned a notable distinction in Nashville, Tennessee, becoming the only instrumental Rock song currently in regular rotation on the JMA Network Music TV Channel .

Boyd’s momentum throughout 2025 and 2026 has been impressive. In 2026, he was nominated for three Josie Music Awards , including Instrumental Album of the Year for Perpetual Night , Instrumental Song of the Year for “The Day Beneath Yesterday,” and Musician of the Year – Guitarist .

His recent accomplishments also include having the Perpetual Night music video selected for the Tokyo Lift-Off Film Festival in 2026. In 2025, Perpetual Night won Best Music Video at The Alternative Film Festival in Toronto (ALTFF) , while Boyd became a three-time finalist with an honourable mention at the Guitarist Festival in Bosnia and Herzegovina . In 2024, he was named Composer of the Year at the Red Carpet Awards Show in Europe .

With Perpetual Night , Darren Michael Boyd continues to carve out a distinctive space where instrumental hard rock, atmospheric soundscapes, exotic melodies, and cinematic visual storytelling collide.



“The Day Beneath Yesterday” is out now.

CONNECT WITH DARREN MICHAEL BOYD


Official Website:

https://darrenboyd.com/">
https://darrenboyd.com/ />
Linktree:

https://darrenboyd.com/links-of-lunacy />
Listen to “The Day Beneath Yesterday”:

https://open.spotify.com/track/2GxaQiUs8lg9GlAeyy0t5M">
https://open.spotify.com/track/2GxaQiUs8lg9GlAeyy0t5M />
Press Kit / EPK:

https://darrenboyd.com/dmb-press-kit">
https://darrenboyd.com/dmb-press-kit />

https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29371/darren-michael-boyd-unveils-dreamy-instrumental-surf-rock-journey-with-the-day-beneath-yesterday?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

RISE FROM YOUR GRAVE Announces New Album Choose Your Scare, Arriving September 18, 2026 - @thebeast

For Immediate Release

RISE FROM YOUR GRAVE Announces New Album Choose Your Scare, Arriving September 18, 2026

Pittsburgh Horror Punk/Heavy Metal Outfit Returns With First New Music Since 2024’s Tales of Terror

Presave:
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/risefromyourgrave/choose-your-scare />
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania’s horror punk/heavy metal fiends Rise From Your Grave are set to unleash their new album, Choose Your Scare , on September 18, 2026 , marking the band’s first release of new music since their 2024 album Tales of Terror .

Blending the raw aggression of classic punk with the crushing influence of heavy metal, Rise From Your Grave have built a reputation in the underground for high-energy music, vivid horror storytelling, a wicked sense of humor, and an unapologetic love of all things macabre. Their sound strikes a bloody balance between punk attitude and metal muscle, making Choose Your Scare a natural next chapter for the Pittsburgh outfit.

Fans of Blitzkid, The Misfits, and Evelyn’s Casket will find plenty to sink their teeth into as Rise From Your Grave deliver another dose of horror-fueled punk mayhem.

Adding an extra dose of sinister atmosphere to the album, the song “The Phantom” features Katie Garner of Freddy VS on guest vocals. The collaboration brings another distinctive voice into the band’s twisted musical universe and adds to the album’s already formidable horror aesthetic.

Choose Your Scare was self-produced by Rise From Your Grave, keeping the release firmly rooted in the band’s own creative vision and underground DIY spirit.

Following Tales of Terror , Choose Your Scare represents the next evolution of Rise From Your Grave’s signature blend of horror punk and heavy metal. With new songs, new nightmares, and plenty of dark humor in store, the band is ready to crawl back out of the grave and make some noise.

Rise From Your Grave – Choose Your Scare
Release Date: September 18, 2026
Genre: Horror Punk / Heavy Metal
Production: Self-Produced

For Fans Of: Blitzkid, The Misfits, Evelyn’s Casket

Choose Your Scare by Rise From Your Grave



 Connect: 


https://risefromyourgrave.bandcamp.com />
https://www.instagram.com/rfyg_horrorpunk/ />
https://www.facebook.com/rfyghorrorpunk />
Contact:
Tom Gaffron
tom@rfyghorrorpunk.com


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29370/rise-from-your-grave-announces-new-album-choose-your-scare-arriving-september-18-2026?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger