Tech-metal outfit FALLUJAH intensify their metallic dynamism on stunning new album, Empyrean. Built on an “all killer, no filler” maxim, the Bay Area-based quartet delivered just that on album number five. From video single “Radiant Ascension” and “Embrace Oblivion” to “Soulbreaker” and “Mindless Omnipotent Master,” Empyrean is breathtaking in atmospheric expanse and impressive in sophistication. FALLUJAH’s overhauled lineup has contributed massively to the level-up on display. Primary songwriter/guitarist Scott Carstairs and compeer/drummer Andrew Baird enlisted Archaeologist’s Kyle Schaefer and Evan Brewer (formerly Entheos/The Faceless) as their new vocalist and bassist, respectively. Technicians at heart but looking for old flames, FALLUJAH rediscovered their muse on Empyrean. “After such an experimental expression [with Undying Light], we sat down to write Empyrean completely refreshed and inspired,” reveals Carstairs. “It was like the musical tension of the last decade had been released, and we were ready to achieve goals the band had originally set out for. Empyrean is truly a return to form because we are doing what comes naturally to us, but with an intensity that we haven’t achieved in the past. We set out to create something that represents the band and its history in its purest form while also pushing our technical abilities further than we have ever gone.” Since forming in 2007, FALLUJAH have triumphed over their challenges. Whether it’s self-administering the band, going to school, writing music, or working full-time, they’ve savored release of and diehard fan admiration for five albums in The Harvest Wombs (2011), The Flesh Prevails (2014), Dreamless (2016), Undying Light (2019), and their latest Empyrean.

Persefone, hailing from the enchanting principality of Andorra, is a visionary base metal band that has carved its own niche in the global music scene. Formed in the year 2001, their unique fusion of progressive and melodic elements has earned them a very dedicated following. With powerful, intricate compositions and virtuosic musicianship, Persefone’s discography, including fan-favorites “Spiritual Migration” and “Aathma” but also the latest release “metanoia”, has received critical acclaim. Their lyrics often explore profound and spiritual themes, making their music a journey of self-discovery. Known for their mesmerizing live performances, Persefone has graced stages worldwide, leaving audiences spellbound. Their innovative approach to metal and commitment to pushing boundaries makes them a trailblazing force in the genre. Persefone’s unwavering dedication to their craft continues to inspire and captivate metal enthusiasts around the globe, solidifying their status as the prominent Andorran musical export.

Looking in a medical textbook will tell you the following: Vulvodynia is a chronic, severe vaginal pain with no identifiable cause. While the severe part is dead on, what a medical textbook won’t tell you is that Vulvodynia is also the pioneer in what is rapidly becoming Africa’s most eviscerating export: Slamming Brutal Death Metal. With lobotomizing, lurid riffs, skin-shredding blast beats and slams gruesome and filthy enough to induce septic shock, Vulvodynia are a lethal plague, spreading throughout the flesh of today’s heavy music scene—infecting one set of ears at a time, and leaving no survivors. Vulvodynia have toured Europe, USA, Australia, New Zealand, and played numerous festivals worldwide alongside some of the biggest names in metal crowning themselves as the KINGS OF AFRICAN METAL. Duncan Bentley Vocals / Luke Haarhoff Guitar Kris Xenopoulos Guitar / Lwandile Prusent Guitar Chris Van Der Walt Bass / Thomas Hughes Drums

Blackened Progressive Metal with members from Botanist, Cailleach Calling, and Red Rot. On Prosthetic Records.