Voivod 40th Anniversary Tour Launches Next Week; New Album Due Out This Summer

Posted on May 1, 2023 by philspicks

Veteran metal act Voivod is set to launch its 40th anniversary tour next week.

The tour is scheduled to launch May 9 in Asheville, NC and to run through May 23 in Pensacola, FL. The tour features performances scheduled in cities, such as Charlotte, NC; New Orleans, LA and Houston, TX. The tour’s schedule is noted below and tickets are available here.

VOIVOD – USA Tour w/ Imperial Triumphant:
May 9, 2023 – Asheville, NC – Orange Peel * no Imperial Triumphant
May 10, 2023 – Virginia Beach, VA – Elevation 27 * no Imperial Triumphant
May 11, 2023 – Philadelphia, PA – Underground Arts
May 12, 2023 – New York, NY – The Bowery
May 13, 2023 – Baltimore, MD – Soundstage
May 14, 2023 – Charlotte, NC – The Underground
May 16, 2023 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL – Revolution Live
May 17, 2023 – Tampa, FL – Floridian
May 18, 2023 – Atlanta, GA – Center Stage
May 19, 2023 – New Orleans, LA – House of Blues
May 20, 2023 – Houston, TX – White Oak Music Hall
May 21, 2023 – Austin, TX – Come and Take It
May 23, 2023 – Pensacola, FL – The Vinyl Music Hall * no Imperial Triumphant

In other news, Voivod is scheduled to release its latest album, Morgoth Tales July 21 through Century Media Records. The record is a collection of previously recorded songs from the band’s catalog that have been re-mastered. The songs reach all the way back to the band’s 1984 debut album, War and Pain and as recent as its 2003 self-titled record, according to information in a press release announcing the new tour dates and compilation details.

Drummer Michael “Away” Langevin talked about the collection during a recent interview.

“Morgöth Tales covers 40 years of space exploration,” Langevin said. “It was really exciting for us to revisit a more obscure part of the Voïvod catalogue, from thrash-punk to prog-metal to…? The title track is a new song, which we started writing in the tour bus and hotels during the Opeth European tour in November/December 2022. It has the vibe of the experimental music we are doing nowadays, with a new twist I think. We also had the great thrill of getting E-Force and Jasonic involved on this album. I hope you’ll dig it, Chewy, Rocky, Snake and I certainly had a blast recording it. All aboard and ready for take off!“

More information on Voivod’s upcoming tour and album is available along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: https://voivod.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Voivod

Twitter: https://twitter.com/voivoddotnet

To keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews, go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Queensryche Debuts Video For New Single, ‘Realms’; New Tour Planned

Posted on February 28, 2023 by philspicks

Queensryche debuted the video for its latest single this week.

The band premiered the video for its new single, ‘Realms’ Tuesday. The song is featured in the band’s latest album, Digital Noise Alliance.

The video features the band performing its new single on a soundstage as videos play behind the band of fictional politicians and other related imagery meant to help illustrate the song’s lyrical message.

The message in question, is a political commentary, according to a statement from the band.

“This track surrounds the ongoing scandals of politicians and the non-transparent cover-ups trying to save their political careers,” the statement reads.

The musical arrangement featured in ‘Realms’ is classic Queensryche from beginning to end. From the vocal delivery of front man Todd LaTorre (who to this day still sounds so much like the band’s former front man Geoff Tate) to the rich, heavy sound of the bass and guitars together, to even the tightness of the snare. The production that went into the song is to thank for bringing out the best in that sound and stylistic approach.

In other news, Queensryche is scheduled to launch a new tour schedule to continue its support of Digital Noise Alliance. Marty Friedman and Trauma are scheduled to serve as support for the tour, which is scheduled to launch Friday in Orlando, FL and to run through April 16 in St. Petersburg, FL.

The tour also takes the band to cities, such as Kansas City, KS; Charlotte, NC and Portland, OR. The tour’s schedule is noted below.

Queensrÿche 2023 Digital Noise Alliance Tour

w/ Marty Friedman, Trauma

Mar. 3, 2023 – Orlando, FL @ The Plaza Live

Mar. 4, 2023 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room

Mar. 5, 2023 – Jacksonville, FL @ Florida Theatre

Mar. 7, 2023 – Destin, FL @ Club LA

Mar. 9, 2023 – San Antonio, TX @ The Vibes Event Center

Mar. 10, 2023 – Houston, TX @ Scout Bar

Mar. 11, 2023 – Dallas, TX @ House Of Blues

Mar. 12, 2023 – Midland, TX @ La Hacienda Event Center

Mar. 14, 2023 – Phoenix, AZ @ Marquee Theatre

Mar. 16, 2023 – Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades

Mar. 17, 2023 – Sycuan Casino Resort – El Cajon, CA

Mar. 18, 2023 – Cannery Casino Hotel – North Las Vegas, NV

Mar. 19, 2023 – House Of Blues – Anaheim, CA

Mar. 21, 2023 – Portland, OR @ Crystal Ballroom

Mar. 22, 2023 – Seattle, WA @ The Neptune Theatre

Mar. 24, 2023 – Denver, CO @ Gothic Theatre

Mar. 25, 2023 – Kansas City, KS @ Knuckleheads Saloon

Mar. 26, 2023 – St. Louis, MO @ Delmar Hall

Mar. 28, 2023 – Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave

Mar. 29, 2023 – Ft. Wayne, IN @ The Clyde Theatre

Mar. 31, 2023 – Chicago, IL @ Concord Music Hall

Apr. 1, 2023 – Grand Rapids, MI @ The Intersection

Apr. 2, 2023 – Detroit, MI @ St. Andrews Hall

Apr. 4, 2023 – Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall

Apr. 5, 2023 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Roxian Theater

Apr. 7, 2023 – Boston, MA @ The Palladium

Apr. 8, 2023 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount

Apr. 10, 2023 – New York, NY @ Irving Plaza

Apr. 11, 2023 – Baltimore, MD @ Soundstage

Apr. 12, 2023 – Charlotte, NC @ The Underground

Apr. 14, 2023 – Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl

Apr. 15, 2023 – Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade (Heaven)

Apr. 16, 2023 – St. Petersberg, FL @ Jannus Live

More information on Queensryche’s new tour, video, single, and album is available online along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: http://www.queensrycheofficial.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/QueensrycheOfficial

Twitter: http://twitter.com/queensryche

To keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Unearth Premieres New Ecologically-Minded Single; Announce New Tour Schedule

Posted on January 28, 2023 by philspicks

Unearth offered audiences their first preview of its next album this week with the record’s lead single and its companion video.

The band debuted its new single, ‘The Wretched; The Ruinous‘ Wednesday, along with the song’s companion video. The song is featured in the band’s as-yet untitled forthcoming album, which according to its video, will be released through Century Media Records.

The musical arrangement featured in Unearth’s new single is as intense as any of the band’s existing work. The machine-gun fast time keeping, the screaming vocals, thrash style guitars and rich low-end from the bass make it just as comparable to works from the likes of Testament as to As I Lay Dying. The overall heaviness and power in the arrangement will appeal not only to Unearth’s established audiences, but to metal fans across the board.

According to front man Trevor Phipps, the song’s lyrical theme delivers a message of ecological consciousness.

“‘The Wretched; The Ruinous’ is a summation of our upcoming album as a whole musically and lyrically as it showcases the aggression, power, melody, energy and darkness that is full-throttle Unearth,” Phipps said. “Thematically this lead track puts the full blame on Mankind for the destruction of our planet, and the mass extinction of millions of species, as well as the eventual eradication of man due to our negligence with the climate crisis.”

Phipps said the video for the new single was recorded in Tokyo, Japan. According to the information include in the video, it was recorded live Monday.

Speaking of live shows, Unearth is scheduled to launch the “Hell On Earth 2023 Tour” Apr. 1 in Dortmund, Germany. The European/UK tour is scheduled to run through April 21 in Stockholm, Sweden. Misery Index, Year of the Knife, Turbid North, and Leech are scheduled to share time on the tour, too.

The tour’s schedule is noted below:

Hell on Earth Tour 2023

with Misery Index, Year Of The Knife, Turbid North and Leech

04/01 Dortmund, GER – Junkyard

04/02 Antwerp, BEL – Trix

04/05 Munchen, GER – Backstage

04/04 Freiburg, GER – Crash

04/05 Eindhoven, NET – Dynamo

04/06 Sheffield, UK – Corporation

04/07 Leeds, UK – The Warehouse

04/08 London, UK – Islington Assembly Hall

04/09 Lille, FRA – The Black Lab

04/10 Paris, FRA – La Machine Du Moulin Rouge

04/11 Stuttgart, GER – Im Wizemann

04/12 Weinheim, GER – Cafe Central

04/13 Cottbus, GER – Gladhouse

04/14 Leer, GER – Zollhaus

04/15 Chemnitz, GER – AJZ Chemnitz

04/16 Ostrava, CZE – Barrak Music Club

04/17 Berlin, GER – SO36

04/18 Hamburg, GER – Bahnhof Pauli

04/19 Copenhagen, DEN – Pumpehuset

04/20 Gothenburg, SWE – Musikens Hus

04/21 Stockholm, SWE – Slaktkyrkan

More information on Unearth’s tour, album, single, and video is available at:

Website: https://unearthofficial.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unearthofficial

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Unearthofficial

No Lies Here, Arch Enemy’s New Album Is Another Success From The Veteran Metal Band

Posted on August 14, 2022 by philspicks

Arch Enemy returned Friday with its latest album, Deceivers. Released through its longtime label, Century Media Records, the 11-song record is unquestionably among the best of this year’s new hard rock and metal offerings. No doubt it has made it that much more difficult for any hard rock and metal critic to decide on which albums make up the absolute cream of the crop. That is evidenced through its musical and lyrical content alike. One of the songs that serves to support the noted statement comes early in the 45-minute record’s run in the form of ‘In The Eye of the Storm.’ One of the many singles produced from the album, it is just one of the works that shows how much the album has to offer. It will be discussed shortly. ‘Poisoned Arrow’ is another interesting addition to the record and will be examined a little later. ‘Sunset Over the Empire,’ which is yet another of the album’s singles, does its own share to show what makes Deceivers such a strong new offering from the band. It will also be examined later. Each song noted here is important in its own way to the whole of Deceivers worth hearing. When they are considered along with the rest of the album’s entries, the whole makes Deceivers a powerful new addition to the band’s catalog and to this year’s field of new hard rock and metal albums.

Deceivers, the 11^th new album from veteran metal act Arch Enemy, is a presentation that the band’s established audiences will find just as engaging and entertaining as more casual audiences. That is proven through its musical and lyrical content alike. ‘In The Eye of the Storm,’ which comes early in the album’s run is just one of the songs that serves to support that statement. The song’s musical arrangement opens with a huge, semi-orchestral approach that quickly gives way to the band’s familiar, driving guitar work and time keeping. The heavy, chugging approach to the song and the melody in the lead guitar gives this arrangement an almost power metal sound and style that is so unique from much of the band’s catalog. Vocalist Alissa White-Gluz’s guttural vocals are just as powerful as ever, too. The whole makes the arrangement featured here a unique entry among the album’s content. The heaviness and steady, driving tempo does well to help illustrate a theme in the song’s lyrical content that seems to deliver a message of perseverance and determination.

The seeming theme is delivered as White-Gluz screams in the song’s lead verse and chorus, “The chase is on/The traps are set/Wont’ let them drag me back there again/The ball on that chain/It bears my name/To tame the beast in me/I still believe in life before death/It fuels the fire in me/I will run ‘til I die/Under these black skies/Tyrannic law/A razor claw/In the eye of the storm.” That very statement of not letting someone drag her back makes the seeming message most clear. The seeming message of perseverance continues in the song’s second verse as White-Gluz sings, “As darkness falls/The hunt goes on/The hounds of hell have picked up my scent/The rain pours down/I’m still running/My breath freezing the air/We may be born to astride the grave/But I will not die a slave.” Now that last statement about not dying a slave comes across as being somewhat political, and maybe it is meant to be just that. The thing is that it is just one part of the overall message of wanting to die on one’s feet rather than living on one’s knees. In other words, the theme here is something fully empowering for any listeners. It is a familiar theme that is certain to resonate with any listener. When it is considered along with the song’s equally powerful musical arrangement, the whole makes the song overall a clear example of how much Deceivers has to offer audiences.

‘In The Eye of the Storm’ is just one of the songs featured in this record that displays the record’s strength. ‘Poisoned Arrow’ is another notable addition to the record, displaying the album’s power. The musical arrangement featured in ‘Poisoned Arrow’ opens with a rich string arrangement and keyboard that then gives way to a brooding, almost Metallica-esque riff a la ‘One.’ The richness of that contrast immediately grips audiences before the band evolves the song into something that is far from what audiences might expect. In place of the band’s familiar extreme metal riffs, this arrangement instead finds the band moving in a more classic metal direction while still giving the song its own unique identity with a modern twist. That identity makes this contemplative arrangement reason enough to hear the song, though its lyrical counterpart makes for its own engagement.

The lyrical theme featured in ‘Poisoned Arrow’ comes across as a commentary about the power of words, to an extent. White-Gluz sings in the song’s lead verse, “Silent shadows/A broken frame/The empty picture that we became/No words needed/The stories in our eyes/A crack in the mirror/Too many lies.” That mention of the broken frame and lies seems to be an allusion to a broken past making the present so difficult. That is just this critic’s interpretation. The seeming theme is illustrated even more in the song’s second verse as she screams, “Deep footsteps mark the snow/Traces of yesterday/Where and when to go/We never meant to cause pain nor sorrow/Now every word a poisoned arrow.” This further hints at the seeming theme. This points even more at an introspection and retrospection of how things were, ruing things said and done. Keeping that in mind, the lyrical theme will resonate with listeners in its own way if in fact this is the message that the band is intending to deliver. That is especially the case when the seeming theme is considered along with the song’s musical arrangement. All things considered, they make the song all the more powerful and moving.

‘Poisoned Arrows’ is just one more of the songs that serves to make Deceivers another impressive offering from Arch Enemy. ‘Sunset Over the Empire’ is yet another way in which the record shows its strength. The song stands out in part through its arrangement. The arrangement features machine gun fast beats with solid time keeping within the solid time keeping work with the equally sharp work on the bass and guitars. The grouping forms a strong foundation for the song on which the song’s equally impacting lyrical theme rests.

Guitarist and principal songwriter Michael Amott said during a recent interview that the song’s lyrical theme is “sadly, one of those that seems to ring more true with each and every day passing day nowadays.” This is inferred through the song’s lead verse and chorus, which makes mention of the end of days and the rulers of the wasteland rejoicing in the flames. The additional mention of the wheels of injustice turning and those who should be responsible not being so held for their crimes adds even more to the clear commentary that Amott mentioned. The song’s second verse, which addresses “brother fighting brother” because of words and the fate of a nation being forever changed is extremely resonant with today’s world. The way in which the commentary here is delivered is certain to connect with listeners in its own right. When this biting statement is considered along with the fire and energy in the song’s musical arrangement, the whole makes the song clearly another example of what makes the album so strong. When this song and the others examined here are considered along with the other songs examined here and with the rest of the album’s entries, the whole makes Deceivers another powerful, successful offering from Arch Enemy.

Deceivers, the latest album from Arch Enemy, is another strong offering from the veteran metal act that will appeal to so many hard rock and metal fans alike. That is evidenced through its musical and lyrical content alike. The songs examined here are just a snapshot of what makes the record so engaging and entertaining for audiences. When they are considered along with the rest of the album’s entries, the whole makes the album one more of the best of this year’s new hard rock and metal albums.

Deceivers is available now through Century Media Records. More information on the album is available along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: https://www.archenemy.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archenemyofficial

Twitter: https://twitter.com/archenemymetal

Queensryche Tapped To Join Judas Priest Tour

Posted on December 6, 2021 by philspicks

Queensryche will join Judas Priest next spring when it continues its “50 Heavy Metal Years Tour.”

The next leg of the tour, which previously saw Sabaton join Judas Priest as support, is scheduled to launch March 4 in Peoria, IL and to run through April 13 in Hamilton, Ontario, CA. Tickets are available here.

Queensryche talked about joining the tour in a prepared statement.

“We are very excited to be supporting the mighty Judas Priest in celebration of their 50th Anniversary Tour!,” the statement reads. “This is a wonderful pairing, and we look forward to bringing you all a truly eventful experience.”

Queensryche’s upcoming dates with Judas Priest are in support of its latest album, The Verdict (2019).

The bands’ upcoming tour schedule is noted below.

QUEENSRŸCHE TOUR DATES:

March 4 – Peoria, IL – Peoria Civic Center

March 6 – Denver, CO – The Mission Ballroom

March 7 – West Valley City, UT – Maverik Center

March 9 – Everett, WA – Angel OF The Winds Arena

March 10 – Portland, OR – Moda Center

March 12 – Oakland, CA – Fox Theater – Oakland

March 13 – Las Vegas, NV – Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood

March 15 – Los Angeles, CA – Shrine Auditorium

March 16 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Federal Theatre

March 18 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

March 20 – Cedar Park, TX – HEB Center Cedar Park

March 21 – San Antonio, TX – Freeman Colikseum

March 23 – Nashville, TN – Nashville Municipal Auditorium

March 25 – Alpharetta, GA – Ameris Bank Amphitheater

March 27 – Charleston, WV – Charleston Civic Center Coliseum

March 29 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met

March 30 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center

April 2 – Mashantucket, CT – Foxwoods Resort Casino – Grand Theater

April 4 – Lowell, MA – Tsongas Center At UMass Lowell

April 7 – Halifax, NS – Scotiabank Centre

April 10 – Quebec City, QC – Centre Videotron

April 11 – Laval, QC – Place Bell

April 13 – Hamilton, ONT – FirstOntario Centre

More information on Queensryche’s upcoming live dates with Judas Priest is available along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: https://www.queensrycheofficial.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/QueensrycheOfficial

Twitter: https://twitter.com/queensryche

To keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news, go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Gemini Syndrome Finishes Off Its First Trilogy Of Albums Successfully With ‘3rd Degrees – The Raising’

Posted on October 20, 2021 by philspicks

Alt-metal band Gemini Syndrome released its latest album over the weekend. 3^rd Degree – The Raising was released Friday through Century Media Records. The band’s third album, it came more than five years after the release of the band’s sophomore album, Memento Mori (2016). The wait for the record was worth it, too. This has already been proven through the singles that the album has produced. That is due to the songs’ musical arrangements and lyrical themes. The musical and lyrical content featured through the rest of the album is collectively just as powerful. Each will be discussed in the bigger record’s bigger picture here, as will the record’s sequencing. Each item noted does its own important part to make the album successful. All things considered, they make the album overall, yet another strong addition to this year’s field of new hard rock and metal albums.

Gemini Syndrome’s latest album, 3^rd Degree – The Raising, is an impressive new offering from the band. Its success comes in part through its musical arrangements. The arrangements continue to exhibit the richness and heaviness that became so familiar to audiences over the course of the band’s first two albums, Lux and Memento Mori. However, a close listen also reveals clear growth from the band this time out in terms of the arrangements. In place of the aggro rock and more nu-metal leanings present in those records’ arrangements is a darker, heavier approach that blends influences of Tool’s dark prog and Breaking Benjamin’s gloomcore sound into one. Each arrangement is unique from its counterparts here, but the influences are still there. The changes in the sounds and stylistic approaches are subtle from one to the next, but again, a close listen will reveal those variances. Case in point is the arrangement featured in ‘Absolution.’ This radio ready arrangement whose contemplative verses and heavy, fiery choruses create a great contrast that is certain to keep listeners engaged. The intense approach taken in the arrangement’s bridge, which finds front man Aaron Nordstrom almost rapping (believe it or not) adds even more to the song’s interest. By comparison, the full-on alt-metal approach taken in ‘IDK’ (one of the album’s singles), complete with Nordstrom’s screams against the more melodic choruses is a distinct change in sound and style. Yet it is still so immersive with its richness and heaviness. On yet another note, a song, such as ‘Children of the Sun’ takes listeners in yet another direction. The guitar riff that opens the song immediately conjures thoughts of Pantera. Interestingly enough, that comparison is only brief as the song progresses. From there, the guitar and bass line that builds presents an almost bluesy influence in its stylistic approach, even as heavy as the pairing proves. The song’s chorus meanwhile is a full, immersive melodic hard rock presentation. All things considered here, there is a lot that happens in this arrangement, but it is all so well-balanced from beginning to end. The whole stands on its own merits separate from the album’s other arrangements. Keeping that in mind, when it and those other arrangements (including the ones noted here) are considered collectively, they leave no doubt that the musical content featured in this record is so important to the album’s presentation. They are just a part of what makes the album an impressive presentation. The record’s lyrical themes also play in to the album’s success.

The lyrical themes that are featured throughout this album are important because of their overall accessibility. The theme featured in ‘Absolution’ is a prime example of that accessibility. The theme presents a seeming message that yes, things are going to be tough in life, but it is up to us to make a difference in our lives. He reiterates that seeming message in the song’s chorus, noting that “This is our last chance for absolution.” For those who might not know, absolution is the act of forgiving for having done wrong. It would seem to go in line with the inferred theme. He seems to be saying that forgiving others is part of making changes in our lives for the better; that we cannot hold onto anger as well as making the most of ourselves. This is all just this critic’s interpretation of course. Regardless, the seeming message is powerful and will certainly resonate with listeners whose hearts and minds are open to that apparent theme.

‘Broken Reflection’ is another example of the importance of the album’s lyrical themes. This song – one of the album’s singles – is a rumination on how we view ourselves versus how we present ourselves to the public. Nordstrom talked about the song’s theme when the single was released this summer, noting, “We are all trying to show the best versions of ourselves, but we need to master those versions inside before we can present the perfect image and not have it be confused for something illusory.” This statement makes sense and hopefully will to audiences. He is saying we need to look inward before we look outward as part of that process of rebirth. The theme of personal and spiritual rebirth is the overarching theme of this album, so that makes this theme even more fitting.

‘Where We Started From’ is another example of the importance of the album’s lyrical themes. In the case of this song, the inferred message (again this is this critic’s interpretation) seems to be one of addressing how we find ourselves in vicious cycles, doing the same things over and over. It would seem that the song hints at how our own mental and emotional states play into those cycles happening. It would seem to play into the album’s overall lyrical theme of personal and spiritual rebirth, too. Once again, this is all just this critic’s interpretation and is hopefully somewhere in the proverbial ballpark. When it is considered along with the themes (and seeming themes) of the other songs addressed here and those in the rest of the album’s songs, the whole makes clear that the album’s lyrical content is just as important to its presentation as the album’s musical arrangements. The content overall gives audiences plenty to appreciate here. When the sequencing thereof is considered, too, it works with the content to show even more why this record is a success.

The sequencing of 3^rd Degree – The Raising is important because it takes into account the subtle changes in the songs’ arrangements and their lyrical theme as it assembled the record. It also takes into account the energy in each arrangement. Considering the mood that the arrangements establish (even considering the overall positive and contemplative nature of the songs’ lyrical themes) this is extremely important. That is how emotionally heavy each arrangement proves. The themes, as noted, are meant to help audiences relate and cope with situations in their own lives. The sequencing ensures that those themes change from one song to the next. That in turn ensures listeners’ maintained engagement and entertainment even more. When this is considered along with the impact of the record’s sequencing in terms of the subtle changes in the arrangements, the whole proves the sequencing just as successful as the album’s content. When all things are considered together, they make the album overall a powerful new offering from Gemini Syndrome that the band’s fans will enjoy just as much as hard rock and metal fans in general.

Gemini Syndrome’s latest album, 3^rd Degree –The Raising is a successful new offering from the band. It is a presentation that will appeal equally to the band’s established audiences just as much as it will to hard rock and metal fans in general. That is due in part to its arrangements. The musical arrangements stand out because of their familiarity and accessibility. The lyrical themes that accompany the album’s musical arrangements are accessible in their own unique way and will also make audiences really think deeply about life and themselves. It strengthens the record’s presentation that much more. The sequencing of that overall content rounds out the album’s most important elements. It takes all of the content into account in every way and ensures the songs are ordered so that the content has the maximum impact on listeners, ensuring the audiences’ maintained engagement from beginning to end. When it is considered along with the content and its impact, the whole makes the album overall a strong finish to Gemini Syndrome’s trilogy of albums and gives hope for the band’s future.

3^rd Degree – The Raising is available now. More information on Gemini Syndrome’s new album, single, video and live appearances is available along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: https://geminisyndrome.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeminiSyndrome

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeminiSyndrome

Gemini Syndrome Front Man Aaron Nordstrom Discusses The Band’s New Album, Upcoming Tour, More In New Interview

Posted on September 29, 2021 by philspicks

Gemini Syndrome has been in the news a lot lately.

The band has released a handful of singles in recent months, from its forthcoming album, 3rd Degree — The Raising. The guys are also prepping to head back out on the road in support of the album, which is scheduled for release Oct. 15 through Century Media Records. Before all that happens though, front man Aaron Nordstrom took some time to talk with Phil’s Picks about the group’s new record, its upcoming tour, and one of Nordstrom’s side projects in a new interview.

Sometimes Nordstrom is clearly serious and contemplative, and at others he gets a bit lighthearted with his comments. The interview is available to read in whole below.

PP: Congratulations on the upcoming release of your new album, 3^rd Degree – The Raising. If I recall correctly, you’ve mentioned that this album is the culmination of a trilogy of records from Gemini Syndrome. So, talk to me if you will about how this new album connects, musically and lyrically, to its predecessors.

AN: The trilogy covers the aspects of birth, maturity, and death, through the realization of the self, the realization of death, and the realization of rebirth and awakening; A cycle that can be seen in all things in existence.

PP: Staying on that note, did you all as a band have the intent to create a trilogy of albums right from the release of your debut album, Lux back or did things just sort of evolve from there?

AN: The plan evolved from the beginning. Yes

PP: Gemini Syndrome released 3^rd Degree – The Raising’s lead single, ‘Reintegration’ almost a year ago, well ahead of the album’s release. That’s a pretty big span of time. Can you offer some insight into the decision to release the song so far from the album’s release? Were you all just still working on the album at the time or was it something else?

AN: We decided to release music in the way we did mainly due to the pandemic. We had been ready to release in early 2020 but due to the worldwide shut downs we decided to wait. However releasing singles allowed us to get music out there while people were stuck at home without giving away the full album yet.

PP: Staying on that matter of the album’s songs, you all have released five singles since the release of ‘Reintegration.’ That is almost half of the album. Do you see the release of anymore singles as the album’s release date nears?

AN: We will definitely doing a couple more singles and videos from this album

PP: The singles that the album has produced have been met with pretty good response nation wide from what I’ve seen and heard. What does that support from radio and from audiences alike mean to you all?

AN: Support means everything Support is the means by which we are allowed to carry on doing what we love

PP: You all are resting up and prepping to head back out on the road again next month for the next leg of your tour in support of your new album, after already spending July and August on the road. Is everyone ready to go for this next leg, or does it get easy to get kind of settled in and too relaxed, considering how taxing tours can be?

AN: I can speak for myself that I am 100 percent ready to get out and keep touring. We had a really long break anyway and this is what I was made to do

PP: The upcoming leg of your tour is scheduled to launch Oct. 28 in Chippewa Falls, WI and to run through Nov. 27 in Reno, NV. It even includes a stop in my home state on Nov.13 in Greensboro, NC. When did planning for this latest leg start and how long did it take to finalize everything? What factors played into the final schedule?

AN: Oh not long. We just made sacrifices to the goat of Mendes and it all just kinda worked out

PP: Staying on that matter, with all three of your albums being connected, what can audiences expect from the shows’ set lists? Will there be a mix of music from all three records or will the attention be more on this latest release?

AN: Balance is key in all things.

PP: Changing gears for a moment, Gemini Syndrome is not the only project that you have been involved in over the past year or so, Aaron. You’ve also done some work as vocalist for Woyote. What can you tell me and my readers about where things stand with that band right now?

AN: Woyote is a young project that Mikey Doling asked me to sing for about a year ago Based in Belgium, We are almost done with a full length and have played a couple shows in Belgium in September. As the timing allows you will be seeing and hearing much more from us!

PP: Getting back on the matter of your upcoming tour, you all are bringing Ovtlier and Pushing Veronica along for the ride again. Ovtlier is a personal favorite of mine as well as Gemini Syndrome. For those who maybe haven’t heard either band’s music, what is it about those two bands that impressed you all so much?

AN: We work closely with PV. We love what they’re doing, their attitude, their drive, and their music! They’re like family. Ovtlier was great to have on the last run and they offer a great show and great music They’re a really fun group of people to have on the road also Making the family bigger We’re also bringing out Them Damn Kings this run as well

PP: Staying on the matter of touring, live music has had a bumpy road this year. No pun intended. Things started out hopeful as the year opened, but as the year has progressed, it seems like more and more tours have gotten postponed or canceled altogether because of concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic. So can you offer a first hand glimpse into what it’s been like being out on the road? Are people wearing masks? Have there been concerns among officials and audiences or even bands about the pandemic’s impact? What do you personally see happening with live music as we wind down 2021 and head into 2022?

AN: Everywhere is different I’ll say this, the thing I noticed the most is that people were and are grateful to be back out and experiencing live music and people again It’s refreshing to see

PP: Getting back to 3^rd Degree – The Raising, it will be the band’s second album with Century Media, what with Another Century being essentially a division of Century Media. What is it about Century Media that initially led you to sign with the label?

AN: A tarot reading I did in the Carlsbad caves

PP: One last question before I close things out. Thank you again for your time. I appreciate you taking the time. I know it’s probably way too soon to say at this point, but with the trilogy being completed with the pending release of 3^rd Degree – The Raising, where does Gemini Syndrome go from there? Are you already looking at your next album(s)? Do you think this trio of albums will be the band’s only trilogy?

AN: We are already writing music for the future. I am collecting ideas from the astral plane to write about. I don’t know if we will do another trilogy. Maybe a double album to complete the 23 symbolism. Who knows?

Thanks again for your time and best of luck to you all once you head out on the road. I for one am also looking forward to the album’s release.

More information on Gemini Syndrome’s new album and live appearances is available along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: https://geminisyndrome.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeminiSyndrome

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeminiSyndrome

Gemini Syndrome Announces New Live Dates

Posted on September 23, 2021 by philspicks

Gemini Syndrome is scheduled to head back out on the road next month in support of its new album.

The band is scheduled to launch its new headlining tour in support of 3rd Degree — The Raising, Oct. 28. The album is scheduled for release Oct. 15 through Century Media Records. Ovtlier, Oh! The Horror, Pushing Veronica, and Them Damn Kings are scheduled to serve as support throughout the nearly month-long run.

Front man Aaron Nordstrom spoke about the upcoming tour in a prepared statement.

“We’re very excited to be back out in the road again this fall,” said Nordstrom. “It’s a time of transformation on our planet and our lives in preparation for the rebirth of the approaching solstice. We’re grateful to share this INITIATION with all you Spiritual Soldiers on the frontline helping to bring music back to this f***** up world.”

Added Nordstrom, “Our hope is that through sharing our experiences, lessons learned, and battles overcome, that we can help others to examine their own consciousness. Their role in the world in its almost infinite capacity, and to help remind each other that we are ALL in this together. We are a family, and when we are United in our commonality, we can achieve things worthy of the attention of the GODS. If you want to change the world, quietly go to work on yourself.”

Drummer Brian Steele Medina expanded on Nordstrom’s comments.

“We love nothing more than performing and creating a sacred space for transmutation with our brothers and sisters,” he said. “Now more than ever, it feels like everything is trying to pull us apart and perpetuate the illusion that we are separate. That we are not ONE. It’s all b*******. Give us your pandemics, your Pentagon UFO videos, and your barriers… It’s all f****** noise, but we’re louder and we will rise above it all.”

3rd Degree — The Raising has produced five singles to date: ‘Broken Reflection,‘ ‘Abandoned,‘ ‘Die With Me,’ ‘IDK‘ and ‘Reintegration.‘

The schedule for Gemini Syndrome’s upcoming live run is noted below. The tour comes on the heels of another tour that the band recently ran, and most recently, a performance at the Blue Ridge Rock Festival on Sept. 10. Tickets and VIP packages for the band’s upcoming tour are available here.

GEMINI SYNDROME ‘Initiation’ USA Fall 2021 tour dates:

10/28 – Chippewa Falls, WI – Joel’s 4Corners *

10/29 – Green Bay, WI – EPIC Event Center *

10/30 – Racine, WI – Rt 20 (WIIL Rock Halloween Bash) *

10/31 – Battle Creek, MI – The Music Factory *

11/02 – Lakewood, OH – The Winchester Music Tavern *

11/04 – Flint, MI – The Machine Shop *

11/05 – Buffalo, NY – Buffalo Iron Works *

11/06 – Liverpool, NY – Sharkey’s *

11/07 – Poughkeepsie, NY – The Chance *

11/08 – New York City, NY – Mercury Lounge ****

11/09 – Albany, NY – Empire Underground *

11/10 – Reading, PA – Reverb *

11/12 – Johnson City, TN – Capones *

11/13 – Greensboro, NC – The Blind Tiger *

11/14 – Huntsville, AL – Sidetracks ***

11/16 – San Antonio, TX – The Rock Box **

11/17 – Dallas, TX – Gas Monkey **

11/20 – Houston, TX – Scout Bar

11/22 – El Paso, TX – Rockhouse **

11/23 – Scottsdale, AZ – Pub Rock **

11/24 – West Hollywood, CA – Whiskey a Go Go **

11/26 – Las Vegas, NV – Backstage Bar **

11/27 – Reno, NV – Reno Brewhouse **

* Direct support is Ovtlier

** Direct support is Oh! The Horror

*** Show with Smile Empty Soul, Ovtlier, Sunflower Dead, Pushing V, Tommy Gibbons

**** GEMINI SYNDROME and Ovtlier only

More information on Gemini Syndrome’s new album, single, video and live appearances is available along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: https://geminisyndrome.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeminiSyndrome

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeminiSyndrome

Gemini Syndrome Releases More New Music From Its Latest LP

Posted on August 27, 2021 by philspicks

Audiences are getting yet another preview of Gemini Syndrome’s new album.

The band premiered the album’s fifth single Friday. It came in the form of the song, ‘Broken Reflection.’ Its premiere follows that of the album’s four other singles, ‘Abandoned,‘ ‘Die With Me,’ ‘IDK‘ and ‘Reintegration.‘

The musical arrangement featured in ‘Broken Reflection’ is another heavy, melodic hard rock composition from the band. The richness of the instrumentation alongside front man Aaron Nordstrom’s powerhouse vocals makes the song’s overall musical content fully engaging and entertaining. When it is paired with the song’s lyrical theme, the items collectively make the song that much more appealing to audiences.

Nordstrom said in a prepared statement, the song’s lyrical theme is meant to address how humans see themselves and each other.

“‘Broken Reflection’ focuses on the concept of Indra’s net. Basically saying that every consciousness is a crystal in a net or web and they all reflect the reflections from all the other crystals,” said Nordstrom. “The thing about mirrors is, they don’t always reflect the image back exactly the way it appears. Sometimes the mirror can alter what you’re experiencing versus what’s actually there. ‘Broken Reflection’ is a state of being in a sense. We are all trying to show the best versions of ourselves, but we need to master those versions inside before we can present the perfect image and not have it be confused for something illusory.”

Drummer Brian Steele Medina expanded on Nordstrom’s comments with his own statement about the song’s lyrical theme.

“Generation after generation we build an ever growing structure higher and higher upon itself. Are we building it on a solid foundation or not is the question. Are we building towards something better? Or are we slowly building a faulty structure that is doomed to collapse?” said Medina on “Broken Reflection”’s deeper meaning. “It’s the idea that we can take everything given to us in this world: Education, Tradition, Religion, Politics, the entire structure of society, and we can do it all right down to the smallest detail, and yet, still not be fulfilled. It’s the idea that ultimately, the only way to live a life of purpose, is to follow our internal compass and forge our own way.”

The song’s lyrical theme follows the bigger theme that spans the album’s songs. Nordstrom discussed that overarching theme during a recent interview.

“The album is about death and rebirth. Finding your true self and fostering its growth so as to help build the world better than we inherited it,” he said. “In the process of this record I made some major life choices. Mainly to stop killing myself slowly with alcohol. Two years without a drink, and a couple near death experiences later, I think I have ample experience to talk about a subject as elusive as death.”

The full track listing for 3rd Degree — The Raising is noted below.

3^rd Degree – The Raising Track Listing:

1-Reintegration

2-IDK

3-Die With Me

4-Baptized In Fire

5-Children of the Sun

6-Abandoned

7-Broken Reflection

8-Sum Quod Eris

9-Best of Me

10-Absolution

11-Hold the Line

12-Where We Started From

13-Fiat Lux

In other news, Gemini Syndrome wrapped up an extensive tour in support of its new album Aug. 15. The band still has another live performance scheduled. The band is scheduled to perform live at this year’s Blue Ridge Rock Festival Sept. 10 in Danville, VA. Tickets for the concert are available here.

More information on Gemini Syndrome’s new album, single, video and live appearances is available along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: https://geminisyndrome.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GeminiSyndrome

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeminiSyndrome

Sick Of It All Debuts ‘Beef Between Vegans’ Lyric Video

Posted on August 6, 2021 by philspicks

Courtesy: Century Media Records/Fat Wreck Chords

Sick of it All kicked off the weekend with the premiere of its latest single and its lyric video.

The band debuted its new single, ‘Beef Between Vegans’ and its lyric video Friday. The song is the latest single from the band’s most recent album, Wake The Sleeping Dragon (2018). It is the album’s seventh single behind ‘Bull’s Anthem,’ ‘Wake The Sleeping Dragon, ‘That Crazy White Boy S***,’ ‘Inner Vision,’ ‘The Snake,’ and ‘Self Important S***head.’

The musical arrangement featured in ‘Beef Between Vegans’ is a heavy composition. Its overall instrumentation and vocals make it comparable to works from the likes of Hatebreed, Terror, and others of that ilk.

No information was provided in the press release announcing the debut of the new single and lyric video. The lyrics presented on screen however, make clear that the song is a commentary about the state of the world.

Speaking of lyrics presented on screen, they are presented over rough imagery of items, such as oil derricks, wildfires, and random cityscapes to help translate the message.

In related news, Sick of it All recently premiered a series of quarantine performances to tide fans over during the pandemic. The band performed new takes of its songs, ‘Deep State,‘ ‘Hardcore Horseshoe,’ ‘Paper Tiger,’ ‘The Bland Within‘ and ‘Alone.’

In other news, Sick of it All has two live dates scheduled for later this month. The dates are noted below.

SICK OF IT ALL Tour Dates:

August 27 – Providence, RI – Dusk

August 28 – Wallingford, CT – Cherry Street Station

More information on Sick of it All’s new quarantine sessions series and book is available along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: https//sickofitall.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sickofitallny

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SOIANYC

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