KICKIN VALENTINA – Anthems From The Underground
Veröffendlichung: 28.08.2026
KICKIN VALENTINA return with a sensational new full-length album, “Anthems From The Underground”, set for worldwide release in August 2026. The highly-anticipated record will be released via Mighty Music and delivers a crushing, no-compromise statement of modern underground hard rock.
Recorded in Atlanta and produced by Pete Newdeck, mixed at PNProductions (UK) and mastered by Harry Hess at H-Bomb Mastering (Toronto), the album captures the band at full intensity while pushing their sound into new territory.
Bassist Chris Taylor reflects on the album’s concept and title: “On this album we decided to bring in a different producer. We love everything (the previous producer) Andy (Reilly) did on our previous albums, but creatively we thought it was time to do something different and have someone push us out of our comfort zone. Every record we want to grow as a band and I think Pete brought out the best of us individually in the studio. When we were trying to decide on an album name, DK and I were leaving the studio one day kicking around ideas. I told him I thought we should embrace the fact that we were an underground band and pay tribute to fans that support underground music. After kicking around a few ideas back and forth, “Anthems From The Underground” was born”.
Formed in 2013, Kickin Valentina quickly built momentum in the U.S. and internationally, first signing with Atlanta indie label Highway 9 Records before moving to Mighty Music in 2015. Since then, the band has released a steady run of acclaimed records including “Super Atomic”, “Imaginary Creatures”, “Revenge of Rock”, “Star Spangled Fist Fight”, and “Raw Trax, B-Sides and Bootlegs”, as well as the EP “Chaos in Copenhagen”, earning a strong reputation for raw, high-energy rock’n’roll rooted in a take-it-or-leave-it attitude.
“Anthems From The Underground” will be released on LP (purple vinyl, limited to 500 copies), digipack CD and digital formats on 28.08.2026, via Mighty Music.
Lineup:
D.K. Revelle – vocals
Heber Pampillon – guitar
Chris Taylor – bass
Jimmy Berdine – drums
Webshop:
https://bit.ly/kick-targ
Further links:
Official site
Amazon Music
Tidal
Qobuz
Deezer
MEINUNG:
Das 5 Album…
Nunja…wer jetzt denkt,das diese Band irgenwelche großartigen musikalischen Änderungen vornimmt,hat sich dann mal getäuscht.Denn die Band aus Atlanta macht da weiter,wo das letzte Album und die Vorgängeralben „aufgehört“ haben.Man bleibt der musikalischen umd rotzigen linie treu.Manchmal kommen auch etwas die punkigen Akzente durch.
Grundsätzlich geht es musikalisch immer in eine Richtung:GERADEAUS musikalisch auf die „Fresse“…ohne Kompromisse und Umwege.Man bleibt seiner Linie treu.Und DAS macht diese Band auch aus.Denn wenn ich mal so grob im Kopf diverse Bands (musiklisch) durch meine Kopf „wandern“ lasse,stechen KICKIN VALENTINA doch schon heraus.Der Wiedererkennungswert ist definitiv vorhanden.
Klar…jede Band macht „ihr Ding“!Aus meiner Sicht machen es aber KICKIN VALENTINA um ein paar Prozente besser,als viele namhafte Bands,die schon länger in der Szene unterwegs sind und teilweise schon seit Jahrzehnten der Meinung sind,“ihr Ding“ zu machen…Namen nenne ich mal nicht.
Ok…nun ist das 5. Album am Start.Freuen wir uns darüber…genießen dieses und lassen das Haupthaar fliegen.
8 von 10 Punkten
Osukaru – Tall Tales
Veröffendlichung: 21.08.2026
Osukaru didn’t start as a band – it started as a vision.
Formed in early 2010 in Gothenburg, Sweden, guitarist Oz Hawe Petersson (then known as Oz Osukaru) set out to bring something to life that didn’t quite exist yet. It would take a couple of years of shaping that idea – through early EPs and relentless refinement – before the debut album „Salvation“ finally arrived in 2012. At that point, Osukaru wasn’t just a project anymore. It was starting to become something real.
With „Transition“ in 2015, the pieces began to fall into place. Line-up changes and growing experience turned the vision into a fully formed entity – something the band themselves has pointed to as a first real milestone, and when Osukaru truly began to find its identity.
Rooted in classic stadium rock, the early releases leaned more heavily into a solid AOR sound. But even then, there were signs of something more beneath the surface. Over time, little by little, that edge became sharper. The melodies stayed strong, but the sound gained weight, attitude and a harder punch.
By the time „House of Mirrors“ arrived in 2018, Osukaru had fully stepped into a world of their own – melodic, yet heavier and more driven. That momentum carried into „Starbound“ in 2021, which took the band to new heights, multi-million streams on Spotify alone and set the stage for what would come next.
Enter „Tall Tales“ – the band’s seventh album, and the clearest statement yet of how far that original vision has come. It was produced by Oz Hawe Petersson together with long-time singer and band partner Fredrik Werner (Daytona, Air Raid), mixed by Svein Jensen (Alicate, Sister Sin) and mastered by Mats Eriksson (Degreed).
The cover and booklet artwork was created by Oz Hawe Petersson alongside actress/model Eliza Sica and carries a subtle sense of both unease and wonder that mirrors the album’s mysterious lyrical themes.
Discography:
2010: “GBG2LA” (EP); 2011: “Never Too Late” (MAXI CD); 2012: “Salvation” (album); 2013: “Triumphant” (album); 2015: “Transition” (album), 2016: “Rock It Up” (MAXI CD); 2017: “The Labyrinth” (album); 2018: “Last Call: The EP Recordings” (ltd. comp. album); 2018: “House of Mirrors” (album); 2021: “Starbound” (album); 2026: “Tall Tales” (album)
OSUKARU is: Fredrik Werner – lead vocals, guitar;Oz Hawe Petersson – guitar, background vocals; Marcus Zerath – bass, background vocals; C.D – drums, percussion
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/osukarumusic
MEINUNG:
Melodic Hard Rock aus Schweden…
Was mir gleich am Anfang auffällt:Die Refrains.Die sind für mein Gefühl ziemlich greifbar.Anders kann ich es nicht umschreiben,was ich da so höre.Aber es gibt ja nicht „nur“ Refrains,die mir gefallen.Diese,wie soll ich sagen leichtigkeit des Songmaterials gefällt mir ebenso.Und wenn man mal bedenkt,das die Band das mittlerweile 7. Album seit der Gründung im Jahre 2010 raushaut…Das bekommen nicht viele Bands auf die Kette!Die Herrschaften waren also immer sehr fleißig in den vergangenheit und sind ihrer musikalischen Linie treu geblieben.SUPER!
Und das man weiß,was man da tut,merkt man besonders bei den Vocals.Die sind nämlich mal RICHTIG gut.Besser gesagt:Sänger Fredrik Werner kann „es“ einfach.Akzenturierung,hohe Passagen,tiefe Passagen etc.
Und endlich höre ich auch mal wieder raus,was der Mann am Bass da anstellt.Die Ideen werden auch hier interessant umgesetzt und sind auch hier wieder ein wichtiger Baustein für die eingängigen und gut struckturierten Songs.
Die Gitarrenarbeit…Nunja…Die ist vorhanden!Und auch hier wird sehr interessantes „Zeug“ gespielt.Für mein empfinden könnte das,was das mit der Gitarre gezaubert wird,noch vordergründiger sein.Vielleicht hat man sich hier auch gedacht:Weniger ist mehr.Das meine ich aber NICHT abwertend.Im Gegenteil.Da kann einer Gitarren zocken!
Die Drums…Der Hammer schlechthin.Das „rattert“ an allen Ecken…Besonders der Bassdrum-Sound ist fett.
Kommen wir zum songmaterial.Das ist wie erwähn SUPER strukturiert und auch arrangiert worden.Das hebt die Laune enorm.Und Abwechslung ist auch hier gegeben.Also ich hab meinen Spass an der Scheibe.
Achso:Keyboard…NICHT vorhanden!Muss auch nicht sein,denn das Material klingt einfach gut und Rund in sich!
9 von 10 Punkten
GRANT – Guilty Pleasure
Veröffendlichung: 21.08.2026
Grand are thrilled to announce that they are returning with a new studio album, “Guilty Pleasure”, out on August 21, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-Order “Guilty Pleasure” HERE
Sweden’s Grand return with their third album entitled “Guilty Pleasure”, a masterclass in melodic AOR, delivering soaring choruses, lush arrangements, and timeless hooks.
Fronted by the powerful and versatile vocals of Mattias Olofsson, complemented by Jakob Svensson’s searing guitars and production, and Maja Thorén’s atmospheric keyboards, the band creates a sound that is both cinematic and emotionally resonant. Johannes Arvidsson’s bass and Axel Nilsson’s drums provide the driving force that propels every track.
“Guilty Pleasure” is an irresistible journey through modern AOR, crafted for fans who crave big melodies, sing-along choruses, and uncompromising sonic quality.
The band commented: “The album is a collection of our own guilty pleasures. We’ve blended AOR with ’80s rock and pop into a high-energy mix filled with pure joy – all wrapped in a modern, high-end production. With a strong five-member lineup, we’re back bigger and bolder than ever.”
Formed on the southern outskirts of Stockholm, Swedish AOR band Grand made a strong entry onto the global melodic rock scene with their self-titled debut in 2022. Featuring catchy hooks, lush production and timeless melodies grounded in classic influences like Starship, Foreigner, Toto, Mr. Big and Giant, the album positioned Grand firmly within the Scandinavian AOR tradition.
Following the positive reception of their debut, Grand returned in 2024 with “Second To None”, further deepening their signature melodic rock sound.
In 2025, Grand grew from their original trio into a five-piece powerhouse with the addition of three new members. Founding members Mattias Olofsson (vocals), Jakob Svensson (guitars) were joined by Johannes Arvidsson (bass), Maja Thorén (keyboards) and Axel Nilsson (drums).
Grand consistently emphasize the close and meaningful relationship they share with their audience, often pointing to the wide reach of their fans and the connections that form when they meet in person. The ongoing exchange with listeners remains a key source of motivation for the band.
“Guilty Pleasure”, written and recorded during an incredibly productive period, represents the next evolution of their sound. It reflects a sound rooted in classic melodic rock while continuing to push the genre forward through passion, attention to detail, and a strong bond with fans around the world.
“Guilty Pleasure” Tracklist:
1. Wild Heart
2. Guilty Pleasure
3. Have A Little Faith In Me
4. Coldhearted
5. Party Galore
6. Still So beautiful
7. I’m Ready
8. Undo
9. Amelie
10. Beggin‘
11. Love Me Or Leave Me
Line Up:
Mattias Olofsson – Lead and Backing Vocals
Jakob Svensson – Guitars and Backing Vocals
Maja Thorén – Keyboards and Backing Vocals
Johannes Arvidsson – Bass Guitars
Axel Nilsson – Drums and Percussion
Follow GRAND:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
MEINUNG:
Manchmal klingt AOR auch ein wenig nach Pathos.Aber ich denke,dass das manchen Alben diverser Bands nicht schadet.So auch hier bei dem vorliegenden Scheibchen.Und wer dann auch noch auf Tiefe steht,Atmosphäre und GRO?E Gefühle…Dann hat der Hörer alles Richtig gemacht und findet die Stücke der Band Klasse.
Musikalisch…Nunja…Da haben sich die Musiker nichts vorzuwerfen.Ich höre hier Künstler,die ihr „Handwerk“ verstehen!Auch die Arrangements jedes einzelnen Sons dieses Albums sind dementsprechend mit Hirn und Verstand „gestrickt“ worden.Alles klingt sehr geschmackvoll.Hier eine Nuance…dort ein nett arrangiertes Fillin…Das betrifft die Stimme(n) wie Intrumente gleichermaßen.Und alles ist ausgewogen.ich höre nichts,was sich da bewusst in den in den Vordergrund drängt.
Natürlich stehen Vocals im ganz vorn-logisch.Die Stimme von Mattias Olofsson…Da ist ein Könner am Start.Jemand,der singen kann und genau weiß,was er mit seinen Stimmbändern anstellen muss,um zu überzeugen!
Aber…dieses Album ist keineswegs „weichgespült“,wie man vielleicht denken könnte.Es gibt auch Songmaterial,das auch die „härtere“ Seite der Band aufzeigt.Das zeigt dann auch das Gespür der Band für IHRE Musik.
Klar…vieles klingt emotional-aber NIE überladen.Und deshalb kann ich euch diese Band absolut empfehlen.
8 von 10 Punkte
Over The Edge – Over The Edge ft. Mickey Thomas
Veröffendlichung: 21.08.2026
Frontiers Music Srl is pleased to announce the reissue of “Over The Edge”, the acclaimed melodic rock album featuring the unmistakable voice of Mickey Thomas (Starship, Jefferson Starship). Originally released in 2004, the album returns in a special anniversary edition celebrating three decades of Frontiers‘ commitment to melodic rock and AOR excellence. The reissue is scheduled for August 21, 2026.
Pre-Order “Over The Edge (Frontiers XXX Anniv. Remix Edition)” HERE
This reissue brings renewed focus to a truly all-star project, featuring songs penned by renowned writers such as Neal Schon, Jack Blades, and Freddy Curci, among others – an extraordinary combination of talents that helped shape the album’s timeless melodic rock identity.
The record is further elevated by the presence of world-class musicians, including Neal Schon himself, alongside guitar greats Steve Lukather and Richie Kotzen, whose performances add depth, character, and undeniable class to the album’s rich sonic landscape.
Now remixed by Aldo Lonobile, this anniversary edition enhances the album’s powerful dynamics, bringing greater clarity, punch, and modern definition to its soaring melodies and driving arrangements – while fully preserving the spirit of the original recordings.
Driven by Mickey Thomas’ iconic vocals – among the most distinctive in rock history – “Over The Edge” remains a masterclass in melodic rock, blending infectious hooks, polished musicianship, and timeless songwriting.
Revisited and revitalized, this edition stands as both a tribute to the album’s enduring appeal and a celebration of the extraordinary talent behind it.
“Over The Edge (Frontiers XXX Anniv. Remix Edition)” Tracklist:
1. Over The Edge
2. One World
3. Thief
4. Surrender (ft. Neal Schon)
5. Eyes Wide Open
6. Forest For The Trees (ft. Steve Lukather)
7. The Man In Between (ft. Richie Kotzen)
8. Cover Me
9. Turn Away
10. Glory Day
Line Up:
Lead vocals – Mickey Thomas
Drums – Biggs Brice
Bass – Kenny Wilkerson
Bass, keyboards, additional guitars – Fabrizio Grossi
Lead guitars – Rob Vanni, JM Scattolin, Neal Schon, Richie Kotzen, Steve Lukather
Background vocals – Francis Benitez, Mickey Thomas, Fabrizio Grossi, Josh Johnston
MEINUNG:
Ich mag ja Alben,die Nach zig Jahren nochmal „aufgewärmt“ werden.Man erinnert sich gern mal zurück!Warum auch nicht.“Over the Edge feat. Mickey Thomas“ ist ein solches,welches im Jahr 2004 veröffendlicht wurde.Man kann es auch „All-Star-Project“ nennen,wenn mann man sich mal die Namen der Beteiligten anschaut.
Das Album wurde ursprünglich von Fabrizio Grossi produziert.Neal Schon,Richie Kotzen und Steve Lukather-um mal den ein oder anderen bekannten Namen zu nennen-waren ebenso beteiligt und veredelten das Scheibchen mit ihrem Können.
Wobei ich,und da bin denn auch mal ganz ehrlich,ähneln sich die Songs untereinander schon sehr.Da kam dann bei mir nach einer gewissen Zeit eine gewisse langeweile auf…Das ist zwar alles ganz nett umgesetzt.Mehr aber auch nicht!Man kan das mal so zwischendurch hören.Für Fans von Neal Schon,Richie Kotzen und Steve Lukather ist das hier natürlich schon eine „Perle“…
Über den Gesamtsound muss ich hier garnichts schreiben.Man „arbeitet“ Material im Studio eben auf,damit es dann noch besser klingt-was ja auch normal ist und ok ebenso.Aber ob ich dieses Album wirklich „brauche“…?Ganz ehrlich:NICHT wirklich!Zum „MAL hören“ kann man sich das mal einfahren.Das war es dann aber auch schon.
Eine BEWERTUNG erspare ich uns allen dann mal!
NIGHT RANGER – Best Of
Veröffendlichung: 28.08.2026
Hard rock legends NIGHT RANGER are proud to announce their new ‘Best Of’ album, set for release on August 28th via Frontiers Music Srl. The album features newly remixed & remastered versions of classic hits spanning NIGHT RANGER’s illustrious career, alongside some standout tracks from the band’s more recent releases.
This album will be released on both CD and Vinyl. The double LP is available in 3 different colors, black, gold, & orange splatter.
„The new “best of” is a celebration of not only our classic hits but also what we’ve created over the last 20 years. And we’re just gonna keep cranking it cause we’re having too much fun to stop! So enjoy the ride and see ya on the road!” – Jack Blades
Few bands have defined the sound of American melodic rock quite like NIGHT RANGER. From the soaring anthem of “Sister Christian” to the thunderous riffs of “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me”, and fan favorites like “You Can Still) Rock in America” this album’s ‘Best Of’ collection captures the very essence of their decades-long career — now refreshed for 2026.
Featuring the classic hits alongside and standout tracks from their more recent albums, this compilation spans the full spectrum of NIGHT RANGER’s signature sound: anthemic choruses, blazing guitar solos, and unforgettable melodies. Highlights include the power-pop perfection of “(You Can Still) Rock in America,” the heartfelt balladry of “When You Close Your Eyes,” and the cinematic sweep of “Four in the Morning.”
But the ‘Best Of’ is not just a look back. It also celebrates the band’s creative output over the last 20 years, spotlighting tracks like “Time of Our Lives,” “High Road,” “No Time to Lose,” “Somehow Someway,” and “Truth,” proving that NIGHT RANGER’s energy, songwriting, and musicianship have only grown stronger with time. These songs show that the band continues to innovate while staying true to the melodic rock roots that made them legendary.
The band — Jack Blades (bass and vocals), Kelly Keagy (drums and vocals), Brad Gillis (guitars), Eric Levy (keyboards), and Keri Kelli (guitars) — delivers every track with the energy and precision that have kept NIGHT RANGER at the forefront of rock for more than four decades.
This ‘Best Of” album also features two bonus tracks that make this collection of songs truly special: a fresh take on “Wasted Time” recorded live off the floor at Sweetwater Studios, also accompanied by an exclusive music video, and a festive live performance of “Feliz Navidad” that showcases the band’s playful side.
Perfectly timed ahead of their summer 2026 tour, this ‘Best Of’ album serves as both a definitive introduction for new fans and a must-have collection for longtime followers. Whether revisiting the classics or discovering the new 2026 remasters, NIGHT RANGER’s ‘Best Of’ is a celebration of enduring melodies, electrifying performances, and the unforgettable spirit of one of rock’s most iconic bands.
Pre-Order NIGHT RANGER’s ‘Best of’ Album HERE
‘Best Of’ Track List:
1. Don’t Tell Me You Love Me (2026)
2. (You Can Still) Rock in America (2026)
3. Sister Christian (2026)
4. When You Close Your Eyes (2026)
5. Four in the Morning (2026)
6. Breakout
7. Tomorrow
8. Growin‘ Up in California
9. Time of Our Lives
10. High Road
11. No Time to Lose Ya
12. Somehow Someway
13. Truth
14. Don’t Let Up
15. Only for You Only
16. Wasted Time (Sweetwater Studios) (Bonus Track)
17. Feliz Navidad (Live) (Bonus Track)
18. Hole In The Sun (Bonus Track Japan)
NIGHT RANGER is:
Jack Blades: lead vocals, bass guitar
Brad Gillis: lead guitars
Kelly Keagy: lead vocals, drums
Keri Kelly: lead guitars
Eric Levy: keyboards
FOLLOW NIGHT RANGER:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
MEINUNG:
Eine DER Bands,mit den ich quasi musikalisch aufgewachsen bin…
Es ist immer so eine Sache,solche „Best of“- Alben zu bewerten,wenn man ganz genau weiß,was einen erwartet.Deshalb will ich auch garnicht GROßE „Loblieder“ singen hier.Wo NIGHT RANGER draufsteht,ist NIGHT RANGER drin…So plausibel ist das.Und lassen wir es auch dabei und lauschen diesem „Best of“-Album mit totaler Hingabe.Ich genieße nun und das solltet ihr dann auch
10 Punkte von 10 Punkten
Issa – Fire And Ice
Veröffendlichung: 28.08.2026
AOR sensation Issa, AKA Isabell Øversveen, is excited to announce the release of her new album, “Fire And Ice”, out on August 28, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-Order “Fire And Ice” HERE
The Norwegian AOR queen Issa returns with “Fire And Ice”, her most exhilarating and cinematic record to date. Every track on the album is penned and produced by the legendary brothers Tom and James Martin, who have crafted a sound that perfectly captures the spirit of 1980s melodic rock while remaining fresh and contemporary.
Issa stated: “I’m really excited for the fans to hear this new album, it could be the most diverse set of songs yet. We have everything from the classic AOR sound of “Pay The Price”, the Jim Steinman inspired “Bullet On The Road” and the synthwave rock feel of “Running From The Night”. I’m confident this one will tick all the boxes. I hope you guys love it as much as me”.
From soaring, emotionally charged ballads to arena-ready rock anthems, “Fire And Ice” showcases Issa’s powerful, unmistakable voice, set against shimmering synths, punchy guitar riffs, and lush, multilayered arrangements that evoke the golden era of AOR. The album balances fire and ice – passion and introspection, intensity and elegance – delivering hooks and choruses that linger long after the music stops.
Issa has etched her name as a leading force in the genre, captivating audiences worldwide with her commanding vocals and enthralling melodies. With this release, Issa reaffirms her status as a central figure in European AOR, offering a record that is both a nostalgic homage to the 80s and a modern melodic rock statement, destined to resonate with longtime fans and new listeners alike.
“Fire And Ice” Tracklist:
1. The Call Of Love
2. Stranded
3. Fire & Ice
4. Sea Of Desire
5. All Or Nothing
6. The Shadow Of Night
7. Bullet On The Road
8. Pay The Price
9. One Step To Paradise
10. Running From The Night
11. The Waiting Game
Line Up:
Isabell Oversveen – vocals
Tom Martin – guitar, bass
James Martin – keyboards
Follow ISSA:
Facebook
MEINUNG:
AOR eben…
Ich mag die Stimme von ISSA (oder Isabel…).Sie „schreit“ nicht rum,wie die meißten weiblichen Künstler.UND…DAS beziehe ich AUSSCHLIEßLICH auf die Stimme und ist keineswegs böse gemeint!Um das mal gleich zu klären,bevor mich andere als Frauenfeindlich etc. hinstellen!ISSA SINGT und wiß ganz genau,was sie da mit ihrer Stimme machen MUSS.DAS ist mal eine RICHTIG TOLLE Stimme.
Tja…und der Rest?Also das musikalische?Wie erwähnt-AOR halt.ABER die Refrains der Songs sind schon RICHTIG gut umgesetzt worden und machen Spass.Ohne Stimme gehört…Naja…Die Instrumentierung macht halt ebenfalls einen guten Job,ohne sich wirklich „aufzudrängen“ bzw. da schiebt sich nichts irgendwie in den Vordergrund-denkt man!Falsch gedacht.Besonders die Keyboards gefallen mir.Die Ideen und Arrangements sind toll.Ich würde schon behaubten das,neben der tollen Stimme von ISSA,die Keys eine tragende Säule des Materials darstellen.Die Drums,der Bass und Gitarren sind aber da…und wie die da sind.Eben nur nicht wirklich vordergründig!
Ich höre hier eine moderne und dynamische Produktion.Medlodien und die Atmo des Album stimmen absolut.Wirkliche Überraschungen musikalischer Art gibt es jetzt nicht.ABER…es ist ein tolles Album,dem ich jedem empfehlen kann,ohne ein schlechtes Gewissen haben zu müssen.AOR halt…
8,5 von 10 Punkten
Triosphere – Oceans Above, Stars Below
Veröffendlichung: 28.08.2026
Norwegian heavy metal band Triosphere are pleased to announce the release of their new studio album, titled “Oceans Above, Stars Below”, scheduled for August 28, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-Order “Oceans Above, Stars Below” HERE
The band commented: “This has been a long, loooong haul! But we are happy and proud to say that we once again feel we’ve made a strong and killer album and thrilled to have teamed up with the great Frontiers Music for bringing this out into the world! It’s a more intense album, both in atmosphere and speed, with hooks and melodies that’s cooler than ever, and we deeply hope and believe the listeners will feel it was well worth the wait!”
“As with our previous album, we knew that we wanted legendary Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios to do the mix of the album. The studio could at that time offer brand new, stellar facilities, so we decided to also record the drums and vocals there together with the excellent engineer/producer Alexander Backlund”, they continued. “This has lifted the audio quality of our albums to a new level, and we’re just so excited to finally share it all with the rest of the world!”
Furthermore, they added: “We’re also thrilled to properly share with you the album cover artwork by Giannis Nakos of Remedy Art Design! We were well familiar with Giannis‘ quality-work when we first reached out to him, and based on our discussions around the album title and lyrics, he has created a truly intriguing eye-catcher of an artwork!”
Triosphere’s music moves in between hard rock, power prog and thrash metal, and presents uniquely honest and hard-hitting songs; from the heaviest to the calmest, from intricate to classic, all led by strong melodies and compelling guitarwork.
Triosphere released their debut album “Onwards” on FaceFront Records in 2006/2007. It received rave reviews, and the award “Best Metal Album” from the world’s largest independent music organization JPF’s at their annual JPF Awards in Nashville in 2009.
In 2010, the band signed with AFM Records, who released their sophomore album “The Road Less Travelled” (2010), and “The Heart Of The Matter” (2014). Both albums received huge critical acclaim worldwide and consequently a growing number of listeners.
Throughout the years, the band has had the privilege of touring with some of the truly great names within the rock and metal genre: their first tours in 2006 and 2007 was with W.A.S.P., and in the years to follow they have toured Europe with Arch Enemy, Sonata Artica, Kamelot, Timo Kotipelto, Jorn, Crimson Glory and Sirenia.
They’ve opened for Dio and Nightwish, and played festivals like Wacken Open Air, Progpower USA, 70 000 Tons of Metal, Tons of Rock and Metaldays, to name a few.
The bands’ solid quality both on record and stage have earned them a steadfast audience and listeners around the world, and their long-awaited new album perfectly encapsulates the essence of Triosphere, standing the test of time.
“Oceans Above, Stars Below” Tracklist:
1. Premonition
2. Of Tyrants
3. Oceans Above, Stars Below
4. Monster’s Ball
5. Through The Phantom Wall
6. Shorelines
7. Lightning In A Bottle
8. Encore
9. Embers
10. Orpheus‘ Bane
11. Cadence Of Chaos
12. Gjenklang
Line Up:
Ida Haukland – bass and vocals
Marius Bergesen – guitars
Tor Ole Byberg – guitars
Kenneth Tårneby – drums
Follow TRIOSPHERE:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Ian Parry´s Consortium Project VI – Legacy Of Empires
Veröffendlichung: 28.08.2026
The renowned heavy metal vocalist Ian Parry proudly announces the new chapter of the acclaimed Consortium Project series, with the release of “Legacy Of Empires” scheduled for August 28, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Pre-Order “Legacy Of Empires” HERE
After years of anticipation, Ian Parry proudly returns with “Legacy Of Empires”, the powerful new chapter of the acclaimed Consortium Project series. An ambitious and cinematic work of progressive metal, the album represents a triumphant comeback for one of the genre’s most visionary and concept-driven artists.
Parry stated: “‘Legacy of Empires’ not only celebrates my 45th year as a professional singer-songwriter but also allows me to revisit and finally complete the sixth chapter of the Consortium Project saga. The challenge with every Consortium Project album is to match the quality of the previous releases while bringing something new to the music. I believe “Legacy Of Empires” achieves exactly that.”
“Being able to reunite musicians who have been part of the Consortium Project journey for decades, alongside outstanding new collaborators, made this album a very special experience”, he added.
Combining epic storytelling, emotional depth and virtuosic musicianship, “Legacy Of Empires” explores themes of power, legacy, conflict and the rise and fall of civilizations through a rich and dynamic musical landscape. From majestic symphonic passages to crushing progressive metal riffs and soaring melodic arrangements, the album captures the spirit of classic concept albums while pushing the Consortium Project sound into bold new territory.
The record features an exceptional international lineup, including members of Vanden Plas, Kamelot and former members of Pain of Salvation, whose distinctive musical identities contribute to the album’s expansive and dramatic atmosphere. Their performances elevate the project into a truly immersive experience, balancing technical brilliance with raw emotional intensity.
At the center of it all stands Ian Parry, whose unmistakable voice and artistic vision continue to define the Consortium Project legacy. With “Legacy Of Empires”, Parry once again demonstrates his ability to unite world-class musicians under a singular creative direction, delivering an album that is both grandiose in scale and deeply personal in spirit.
“Legacy Of Empires” is destined to resonate with fans of sophisticated, melodic and emotionally heavy music. The album marks an exciting new era for Ian Parry’s Consortium Project, reaffirming its place among the most ambitious projects in the progressive metal scene.
“Legacy Of Empires” Tracklist:
1. The Constellation Of The Stars
2. Legacy Of Empires
3. A Declaration Of Independence
4. Gods From The Heavens Above
5. A Kingdom For Heroes
6. Pyramids Of Power
7. The Secrets Of Creation
8. Awake The Forgotten Souls
9. The Burden Of Truth
10. Nature’s Eyes
Line Up:
IAN PARRY – Lead, harmony & choir vocals all songs. Midi synth strings & organ on tracks; 1 & 5.
STEPHAN LILL – Rhythm, solo guitars on tracks 1, 3, 4, 5 & 8. Keyboards on tracks; 3,4 & 8.
JOHANN CADOT – Rhythm, acoustic guitars & Keyboards on tracks 2, 7 & bonus 11. Backing vocals on tracks; 2,3,4,5,7, 8 & Japanese acoustic bonus track 11.
LUCA SELLITTO – Rhythm, acoustic, solo guitar & strings on tracks; 6,9 &10. Backing vocals on tracks; 2,3,4,5,7 & 8.
ALLAN SØRENSEN – Drums on all tracks (except track 10).
ANDREAS PASSMARK – Bass guitars on tracks; 5 & 6.
FRANKY RUMMLER – Bass guitars on tracks; 3,4 & 8.
GUEST MUSICIANS;
Bass guitars –
JAN BIJLSMA – performs on track 8.
KRIS GILDENLÖW – performs on track 2.
ROBERT FINAN – performs on track 10.
CARMINE VIVO – performs on track 9.
Drums –
CASEY GRILLO – performs on track 10.
Keyboards –
PETER JAN KLEEVENS – performs Hammond organ on track 6.
STEFAN WEISSMULLER – performs piano & strings on track 10.
Guitars –
PATRICK RONDAT – performs solo guitar on track 2.
MANOLO ARIAS – performs solo guitar on track 7.
Vocals –
OMBELINE DUPRAT – Performs choir & harmony vocals on tracks; 2, 4, 5, 7 & Japanese acoustic bonus track 11.
BRENDA DAVIS – Performs lead & harmony vocals on track 10.
