BUZZED & LOADED Return With Explosive New Album Medication Nation Out August 12, 2026 - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BUZZED & LOADED Return With Explosive New Album Medication Nation Out August 12, 2026

Hard Rock Veterans Deliver Arena-Sized Hooks, Classic Rock Swagger, and a Dose of Unfiltered Rock 'n' Roll

SEATTLE, WA – Hard rock powerhouse BUZZED & LOADED are ready to unleash their third full-length album, Medication Nation , arriving August 12, 2026 via Bootstrap Records . Loaded with massive riffs, unforgettable choruses, and the band's signature blend of humor and attitude, Medication Nation delivers a fresh prescription of high-energy hard rock built for fans who still believe in loud guitars and larger-than-life rock anthems.

For fans of Ted Nugent, KISS, and Alice Cooper , BUZZED & LOADED bring the spirit of classic arena rock into the modern era with catchy hooks, swagger-filled performances, and tongue-in-cheek lyrics that refuse to take the fun out of rock and roll.

The story of BUZZED & LOADED began with a simple plan: longtime Facebook friends Buzz Brown (drums) and Rob Trosino (guitar/vocals) wanted an excuse to share tequila shots and jam through some of their favorite cover songs. But during their first gathering in July 2020 at their haunted Seattle studio, something unexpected happened. The chemistry was undeniable, and by the end of that first session, four original songs had already been written. The cover songs were quickly forgotten, and BUZZED & LOADED was born.

Built on infectious arena rock choruses, memorable guitar riffs, and a larger-than-life personality, the band channels the classic rock excess and showmanship of decades past while adding their own modern sense of humor and storytelling.

Following the band's debut album, bassist Andy Claus joined BUZZED & LOADED, replacing Roger Capps , legendary bassist and founding member of Pat Benatar. According to the band, Andy's arrival was written in rock and roll destiny after the group bonded over an unforgettable and bizarre encounter during an awards show trip to Nashville. It was the kind of wild story that could only happen in the world of BUZZED & LOADED.

Medication Nation marks another major achievement for the band, earning a nomination for Rock Album of the Year at the Josie Music Awards , held at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry last October. This marks the third consecutive BUZZED & LOADED album to receive a nomination in the category, further cementing the band's growing reputation among rock fans and industry professionals.

Over the years, BUZZED & LOADED have earned worldwide attention through appearances in print magazines and digital media outlets while continuing to expand their audience with their unique brand of hard rock entertainment. With new music already in the works, the band continues pushing forward and building on the momentum created by Medication Nation .

Speaking about the album, the band says:




"In a world that has a pill for everything we have a band that has tried every pill for you. Welcome to the dangers of Medication Nation ."




Produced by BUZZED & LOADED and mixed/mastered by Robert Trosino , Medication Nation delivers exactly what rock fans crave: powerful guitars, huge hooks, attitude, and a good dose of fun.

So raise a glass, turn it up loud, and remember:

You will never get a hangover if you stay BUZZED & LOADED!

Album Information


Artist: BUZZED & LOADED
Release Title: Medication Nation
Release Date: August 12, 2026
Genre: Hard Rock / Arena Rock
Label: Bootstrap Records

For Fans Of: Ted Nugent, KISS, Alice Cooper

Production Credits:
Produced by BUZZED & LOADED
Mixed & Mastered by Robert Trosino



Connect: 

Website:
https://buzzedandloaded.com /> Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/buzzedloaded /> Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/buzzed_and_loaded_ /> Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/1TuWPWFJqXeduStpYou2lJ /> Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/buzzed-loaded/1528406360 />
Contact: trosino@gmail.com


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29222/buzzed-loaded-return-with-explosive-new-album-medication-nation-out-august-12-2026?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

THE HAUNTED NORTH RELEASE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “SAVAGE GHOST” FEATURING MEMBERS OF BLACK LABEL SOCIETY - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE HAUNTED NORTH RELEASE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “SAVAGE GHOST” FEATURING MEMBERS OF BLACK LABEL SOCIETY

Single Out Now via White Choker Publishing LLC (ASCAP/SOCAN)

The Haunted North continue their assault with the release of the official music video for “Savage Ghost,” the hard-hitting new single featuring contributions from two standout names in modern hard rock and metal: John "JD" DeServio and Jeff Fabb of Black Label Society.

Already making an impact with its crushing riffs, dark atmosphere, and massive groove-driven sound, “Savage Ghost” now receives a full visual treatment that captures the intensity and cinematic edge of the track. The official music video brings the song’s haunting energy to life while showcasing the band’s unique blend of modern metal power, classic rock attitude, and unmistakable heaviness.

Musically, “Savage Ghost” delivers everything fans have come to expect from The Haunted North: thunderous rhythms, memorable melodic hooks, and a powerful emotional weight. The addition of DeServio and Fabb brings further depth and firepower to a track built on a foundation of experience, musicianship, and raw energy.

Formed by vocalist and producer Randy V alongside Canadian guitarist Sean Francis , The Haunted North first broke through with their 2018 debut album Monster , which featured early collaborations with both DeServio and Fabb. The current lineup, featuring Mike Delta on drums , continues to drive the band forward with a tight, explosive sound, while Fabb remains involved with select studio recordings.

Following previous releases including “21 Grams,” “Medusa,” “Black Flag Flying,” and 2025’s “The Beast,” The Haunted North continue building momentum with “Savage Ghost,” a defining release that bridges underground grit, classic hard rock swagger, and modern metal precision.

“Savage Ghost” is available now via White Choker Publishing LLC (ASCAP/SOCAN).

For Fans Of:


Black Label Society, Alice In Chains, Godsmack, Alter Bridge

Watch the official music videos:










Production Credits:


Lyrics & Vocals: Randy V
Music & Guitars: Sean Frances
Bass Guitar: John “JD” DeServio
Drums: Jeff Fabb
Produced by: Randy V
Executive Producer: Armi Jarvis
Mixing Engineer: Jerry Sutton
Recording Engineer: Drake Tucker
Master Engineer: Justin Shturtz

Label:


Independent release via White Choker Publishing LLC (ASCAP/SOCAN)

Management:


Armi “AJ” Jarvis
Armi of One Media (Independent)

Connect: 

Website: www.thehauntednorth.com
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/TheHauntedNorth /> Instagram: @thehauntednorth1
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@thehauntednorth6982 /> Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2GW3JJrU7TWDjTKuMG4uNi /> Apple Music
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-haunted-north/1448216288 /> Amazing Radio UK/US
https://amazingradio.com/profile/whitechoker

Contact:


AJ - armiofonemedia@gmail.com
thehauntednorth@pm.me


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29221/the-haunted-north-release-official-music-video-for-savage-ghost-featuring-members-of-black-label-society?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Death of the Heron Unleashes Progressive Metal Journey Blood of Yesterday - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Death of the Heron Unleashes Progressive Metal Journey Blood of Yesterday

Minneapolis, MN — July 17, 2026 — Minnesota progressive metal force Death of the Heron has released their highly anticipated debut full-length album, Blood of Yesterday , through Harambe Media International . A sprawling and emotionally charged offering, the album showcases a band determined to push beyond genre boundaries while delivering a powerful exploration of grief, identity, loss, and the human condition.

Produced by Daniel Schmitt and Chad Helmonds , with mixing and mastering handled by Will Maravelas of 14:59 Studios , Blood of Yesterday is a meticulously crafted progressive metal experience that spans over an hour of atmospheric depth, crushing heaviness, and intricate songwriting.

Drawing influence from the likes of Opeth, Gojira, and Amorphis , Death of the Heron creates a sound that thrives on contrast and sonic duality. The album moves effortlessly between crushing syncopated riffs, harsh vocal intensity, haunting atmospheres, and moments of unexpected melodic beauty. Every track serves as part of a larger emotional journey, balancing technical musicianship with raw vulnerability.

At the heart of Blood of Yesterday is an exploration of the fragile nature of existence. Vocalist and guitarist Daniel Schmitt guides listeners through themes of past versus present, self versus loss of self, and the weight of inevitable change. The album dives into the darker corners of human experience, confronting grief, personal downfall, death, desire, rage, and the struggle to accept what cannot be controlled.

“Blood of Yesterday” stands as both a reflection and a reckoning, a record built around the idea that comfort is the enemy of growth and that true artistry comes from constantly challenging yourself.

About Death of the Heron


Death of the Heron is a Minnesota-based progressive metal band known for their expansive compositions, emotional intensity, and refusal to be confined by a single genre. With a foundation built on experimentation and relentless creative evolution, the band crafts immersive soundscapes that combine technical precision with genuine emotional expression.

The band’s approach is rooted in a simple philosophy: never being content. Death of the Heron continually pushes against their own boundaries, embracing complexity, contrast, and vulnerability in pursuit of creating something meaningful.

Their debut album, Blood of Yesterday , represents the culmination of that vision, delivering a bold statement from a band unafraid to explore the darkest and most challenging aspects of the human experience.

With their latest release, Death of the Heron solidifies their place within the Twin Cities metal scene while introducing their uncompromising sound to listeners around the world.

Blood of Yesterday


Death of the Heron
Released July 17, 2026
Label: Harambe Media International

For Fans Of: Opeth, Gojira, Amorphis



Connect With Death of the Heron


Website: deathoftheheron.com
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554682697999 /> Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/deathoftheheron/ /> YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDQUzHHAADudCOXwOA9YbVA /> Bandcamp:
https://deathoftheheron.bandcamp.com /> Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/044KEmRyLDlhgFyYhLlh7y /> Apple Music: Death of the Heron

Media Contact:
Daniel Schmitt
deathoftheheron@gmail.com


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29220/death-of-the-heron-unleashes-progressive-metal-journey-blood-of-yesterday?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Original Wayne Static Recording of "Hollow" Surfaces Online Following YouTube Removal - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Original Wayne Static Recording of "Hollow" Surfaces Online Following YouTube Removal


Previously unheard version remains available through alternate stream after initial upload is taken down

A previously unreleased recording of "Hollow" featuring the late Wayne Static has surfaced online, giving fans the opportunity to hear an earlier version of the song before it was reworked for Static-X's Project: Regeneration Vol. 1 .

The recording was released by director Matt Zane , who is currently completing an unauthorized documentary exploring the lives of Wayne Static and his late wife, Tera Wray. While the song was initially uploaded to YouTube, it has since been removed from the platform. The recording remains available through an alternate streaming link.

"Hollow" would later become the lead single from Project: Regeneration Vol. 1 , the 2020 album built around vocal recordings Wayne Static left behind prior to his passing in 2014. At the time of the album's release, members of the reformed Static-X stated that portions of the song had been unfinished and required additional work before its release.

Zane disputes that characterization, saying he believes the newly surfaced recording indicates the song was substantially complete before it was reworked.




"Let's be honest, there was no reason to pull the music off this track and change it," said Matt Zane. "But by doing so they get some of the publishing. Personally, I would have left it as Wayne intended."




The circumstances surrounding the creation and subsequent release of "Hollow" remain a matter of public disagreement between Zane and those involved with the Project: Regeneration releases.

The release has already drawn attention within the metal community and was recently covered by ThePRP , which reported on the appearance of the original recording and the ongoing discussion surrounding Zane's forthcoming documentary.

Zane has also announced that his documentary examining the lives of Wayne Static and Tera Wray is expected to be released free to stream in early 2027. The project has faced public objections from members of the current Static-X camp, as well as representatives of the estates of Wayne Static and Tera Wray. Zane has publicly stated that he intends to continue with the film.

For longtime fans, the release offers a rare opportunity to hear Wayne Static's original performance and compare it with the version that ultimately appeared on Project: Regeneration Vol. 1 .

Listen Here

Alternate Stream:

https://videopress.com/v/rmGorEsz />

Related Coverage

ThePRP:

https://www.theprp.com/2026/07/20/news/wayne-statics-original-unreleased-version-of-hollow-is-now-available/ />

https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29219/original-wayne-static-recording-of-hollow-surfaces-online-following-youtube-removal?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands? 06/21/26 - 06/24/26 - @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, ANOTHER DEMON , crushed the competition with a staggering  78,786,044 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, July 24th at 9PM EST!








Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands? 06/21/26 - 06/24/26


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29218/who-will-rise-as-this-weeks-champion-on-the-mdr-battle-of-the-bands-06-21-26-06-24-26?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Soldiers of Steel Festival Returns in 2026 With Four Days of Heavy Metal, Two Stages, and a Massive Underground Lineup - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE





Soldiers of Steel Festival Returns in 2026 With Four Days of Heavy Metal, Two Stages, and a Massive Underground Lineup



Seattle, Washington is set to become a gathering ground for metal warriors once again as Soldiers of Steel Festival 2026 returns August 13th-16th, 2026, bringing four days of pure heavy metal, two stages, and an unforgettable lineup to The Substation.

Celebrating the strength, tradition, and diversity of the underground metal scene, Soldiers of Steel Festival 2026 will feature legendary acts, rising forces, and some of the most dedicated musicians keeping the spirit of heavy metal alive. Fans can expect a weekend packed with crushing riffs, soaring vocals, blistering solos, and the unmistakable energy that only a true metal festival can deliver.

The 2026 edition features an impressive lineup including Sanctuary, Liege Lord, Hellwitch, Saint, The Accused A.D., Sacred Blade, Blood Star, Skelator, Ironflame, Leathurbitch, and many more.

Soldiers of Steel Festival 2026 Lineup


Thursday, August 13th


Blood Star
Skelator
Dark Meditation
Hadean

Friday, August 14th


Liege Lord
Sacred Blade
The Accused A.D.
Tower Hill
Soul Grinder
Adamantis
Infinity Dream
Subversion Trigger

Saturday, August 15th


Sanctuary
Hellwitch
Saint
Widow
Heavy Metal Shrapnel
Telomyras
Ironflame
Chamber Mage
Old Dirty Buzzard
Leathurbitch

Sunday, August 16th


Stainless
Additional bands and vendors to be announced

This year’s festival is supported by an incredible group of sponsors and partners dedicated to keeping the underground metal scene thriving, including Silk and Steel, Lakeside Music Studio, House of Records, Diane Webb Photography, Metal Devastation PR, and Metal Devastation Radio.

Metal Devastation PR and Metal Devastation Radio are proud to sponsor Soldiers of Steel Festival 2026 and continue their mission of supporting independent artists, festivals, and the worldwide metal community.

With additional vendors, sponsors, and announcements still to come, Soldiers of Steel Festival 2026 is shaping up to be a must-attend event for fans of traditional heavy metal, power metal, thrash, and underground metal from across the globe.



Event Details


Soldiers of Steel Festival 2026
August 13th-16th, 2026
The Substation
645 NW 45th St
Seattle, WA 98107

Tickets and information:


https://soldiersofsteel.com/ />

https://namelessgraverecords.com/collections/concert-tickets />



https://www.eventbrite.com/e/soldiers-of-steel-2026-tickets-1980151459319 />
Soldiers of Steel Festival 2026: Four days. Two stages. One mission. Keep heavy metal alive.

#SoldiersOfSteel #SoldiersOfSteelFestival #HeavyMetal #SeattleMetal #UndergroundMetal #TraditionalMetal #MetalFestival #SupportTheUnderground

Photo credit Diane Webb Photography


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29216/soldiers-of-steel-festival-returns-in-2026-with-four-days-of-heavy-metal-two-stages-and-a-massive-underground-lineup?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Will Carroll Reveals Why Nefarious Replaced Its Singer, Talks Death Angel Touring and Supporting the Underground on The Zach Moonshine Show - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


Will Carroll Reveals Why Nefarious Replaced Its Singer, Talks Death Angel Touring and Supporting the Underground on The Zach Moonshine Show


Death Angel drummer Will Carroll joined The Zach Moonshine Show on Metal Devastation Radio for an honest, wide-ranging conversation covering Death Angel's upcoming European tour, his work with Hectic Records and Bleeding Priest Records , the health of the underground metal scene, and the unexpected circumstances that led to a lineup change in his other band, Nefarious .

The show opened with the latest releases from Metal Devastation PR artists before spotlighting this week's Battle of the Bands winners: Trivan, Soul Of Sheol, Rage Of Justice, K Gizzle, Heidbekka, and Mistress .

From there, the conversation turned toward what has become one of the busiest years of Carroll's career.

Seven Weeks Across Europe


Carroll explained that his summer schedule will keep him overseas for nearly two months.




"We do festivals with Death Angel and then we do three additional weeks in Europe with Nefarious... I'll be out there for a total of seven weeks with two different bands. So it's going to be a busy summer."




The tour includes Death Angel performances alongside legendary acts like Voivod and Biohazard , before Carroll switches gears to continue touring with Nefarious.

The Story Behind the Nefarious Singer Change


One of the most revealing moments of the interview came when Zach asked about the band's recent vocalist change.

Carroll praised original vocalist Katon W. De Pena's performance on the album before explaining why the lineup ultimately changed.




"He did a great job on the record. He sounds great, but basically he ghosted us."




According to Carroll, communication began falling apart shortly after the album had been recorded.




"After we recorded the album and we were putting it together and getting ready to put it out, we were having communication issues with him."




Things became even more stressful as the band's first live performance approached.




"We had our debut show coming up and we couldn't get a hold of him. We didn't know if he was actually even going to show up to the gig."




Although the vocalist did perform that debut show successfully, Carroll explained that the problems continued.




"He showed up and it was great... We were excited about moving forward. And then we didn't hear from him again for like over a month. He just stopped talking to us."




Faced with uncertainty, the band decided it had to move forward with a dependable lineup.

Carroll also revealed that the current version of the album featuring new vocalist Sean Rivera will receive a CD and digital release, while the vinyl editions released through Hectic Records will remain exclusive to the original recording.

Building Heavy Music Beyond the Stage


Beyond touring, Carroll spoke passionately about running Hectic Records and Bleeding Priest Records , labels dedicated to supporting underground metal through physical releases, especially vinyl.

Rather than slowing down between tours, he's helping new artists get their music into fans' hands while continuing to perform with one of thrash metal's most respected bands.

His enthusiasm for independent metal was evident throughout the interview, reinforcing the importance of labels that remain committed to heavy music for the right reasons.

More Than Just Another Interview


As always, The Zach Moonshine Show focused on real conversations instead of rehearsed promotional talking points. From life on the road and European touring to record collecting, independent labels, and the realities of keeping a band together, Carroll offered listeners an unfiltered look at what it takes to survive in heavy metal.

If you missed the live broadcast, you can now watch and listen to the full interview on the Metal Devastation Radio YouTube channel and podcast platforms.

Stay tuned for more exclusive interviews, underground discoveries, and all things heavy metal, only on Metal Devastation Radio .

🤘 Keep it heavy.

Full Track List: 

Battle Of The Bands Top Six Winners:

1 - Trivan - Dark Malicious Desire
2 - Soul Of Sheol - Paradise Is Not For Us
3 - Rage of Justice - Digital Prison
4 - K Gizzle - Viral
5 - Heidbekka - Völva
6 - Mistress - Terrified eyes

The Zach Moonshine Intro

7 - Black Sabbath - Sabbath Bloody Sabbath
8 - Summoner's Circle - Apostle's Dogma/Cult of the Dead Sun
9 - Mothertomb - Beware
10 - Skulls Of Death - Carnival Of Death
11 - Suffer - Soul from Flesh
12 - Distant - All Will Be (N)One (feat. Ricky Myers of Suffocation)
13 - Psycroptic - No Blade of Grass
14 - Death by Design FL - Count IV - War as Commerce
15 - Adrenaline Junkies - Are You Ready?
16 - Eaten By Sharks - In Tidal Chaos
17 - Twin Temple - Doomed Lovers
18 - In This Moment - Crawl
19 - Marilyn Manson - Front Towards Enemy/Exit Wound
20 - KERRY KING - Crucifixation/From Hell I Rise
21 - Ophiolatry - Human Factory
22 - Frolic - Disasters of Experiments
23 - Nefarious - ADDICTED TO POWER

Death Angel - Interview featuring Disturbing The Peace/A Room With A View/Cult Of The Used

24 - Infected Disarray - Gestated Human Slurry
25 - Lucyvivor - The Thirteenth Gate
26 - Six String Revolver - Death, Jail, Rock & Roll
27 - John Fly - Quailhunter
28 - Solystalgia - Collapse





The interview segment is also available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple:





Super massive shout out to the 250,894 metal maniacs from around the world that tuned in for the live broadcast Friday night!







Stay connected: 


https://www.deathangel.us/tour />
https://www.hectic.com/category/bleeding-priest-records-releases />
https://www.sanfran666co.com/blog/categories/bleeding-priests-bay-area-metal />

https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29215/will-carroll-reveals-why-nefarious-replaced-its-singer-talks-death-angel-touring-and-supporting-the-underground-on-the-zach-moo?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger