Nationwide – Echoes
product: Nationwide – Echoesrelease date: 18.10.2024format: CD & digitalterritory: world In 2023 longtime friends and songwriters Carl Berglund and Peter Ledin decided to put together the band that they dreamed of, a band that would close the gap between classic AOR and modern rock and bring something new to the melodic rock scene. They teamed up with bass player Mikael Hagström (ex- Age of Reflection), drummer Richard Holmgren (ex: Scaar, Grand Design, Wolf) to form the new melodic rock group NATIONWIDE. The band searched for a completely new voice and are happy to introduce singer Daniel Groth. Daniel was an immediate perfect match, and his voice became the color and nuances that completed the musical artwork that Peter and Carl had begun sketching. NATIONWIDE is all about the refuge that music means to us all. That music has no national borders, it is NATIONWIDE. Recorded & produced by: Carl Berglund at Studio RainRoom, Västerås, SwedenMixed & Mastered by: Erik MartenssonArtwork by: Carl BerglundPhoto by: Patrik Hellstrom Line up: Carl Berglund: Guitar, Keyboards, Backing Vocals; Daniel Groth: Lead Vocals, Keyboards; Peter Ledin: Guitar, Backing Vocals; Richard Holmgren: Drums, Backing Vocals; Mikael Hagström: Bass, Backing Vocals Track list:1. Fade Away2. Dreams3. Can’t Get Over You4. Without You5. In Your Eyes6. Passion Ignite7. Echoes8. The One9. The Last Goodbye10. Reason11. The other Side Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NATIONWIDESweden
Winding Road – Fill My Sails
product: Winding Road – Fill My Sailsrelease date: 18.10.2024format: CD & digitalterritory: world Winding Road was formed in 2018 by Jan Hedlund (Coastline) and Magnus Åkerlund (Blender). The two musicians have played in numerous bands and played loads of different genres touring all over Sweden before. Their true love however was Melodic Rock and AOR. First, Winding Road recruited singer Jonas Tyskagen (Domino Drive) and began writing songs with the intention to make an album, i.e. their self-titled debut which was released in March 2021 on AOR Heaven. Now they are back with Pride & Joy Music as their new label and the follow-up release entitled “Fill My Sails” which once again includes 11 songs of pure melodic rock/AOR, again produced, mixed and mastered by Magnus Åkerlund. “Fill My Sails” also features some great guest musicians like Thomas Larsson (Glenn Hughes) and Fredrik Folkare (Unleashed). Line Up:Jonas Tyskhagen: Lead VocalsMagnus Åkerlund: Guitars, Bass, Keyboards and Background VocalsJan Hedlund: Drums and Background Vocals Track list:1. Close My Eyes In Tokyo2. Fill My Sails3. I’m Alive4. I’ll Give My Heart To You5. Love’s Walking Out Of Sight6. Hang Tough7. Devils Daughter8. Closer To The Truth9. Healing Touch10. Jackie Lee11. When The Lights Go Down https://www.facebook.com/WindingRoadSweden
Hydra – ReHydration
product: Hydra – ReHydrationrelease date: 20.09.2024format: CD & digitalterritory: world Swedish AOR group Hydra returns on September 20th, 2024 with their sophomore release “ReHydration”!With a stable line-up, the band still consists of long-time friends from the Swedish rock scene, i.e. song-writer/ musician Henrik Hedström (First Signal, Angelica), drummer/ producer Daniel Flores (Find Me, First Signal etc.), bassist Jonny Trobro (First Signal, Find Me) and singer Andi Kravljaca (Aeon Zen, Seventh Wonder). Hydra once again delivers a high-class AOR release with some obvious influences from the Westcoast genre as well. The opening track “We Belong” will be released on August 16th, 2024 as single in advance. Line-up: Henrik Hedström – keyboards, backing vocals; Andi Kravljaca – lead vocals, guitars; Daniel Flores – drums, keyboards, backing vocals; Jonny Trobro – bass Discography: Tracklist:1. We belong2. Marionette3. Still the same4. Eye of the storm5. Made up stories6. Clown without a circus7. Two of a kind8. I remember9. Out in the cold10. Love remains11. Me minus you Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/henrikhydra
Heartwind – Heartwind III
product: Heartwind – Heartwind IIIrelease date: 20.09.2024format: CD & digitalterritory: world Heartwind is a Swedish hard rock band that was formed in Stockholm in 2017. The current line-up consists of the three core members: Göran Engvall (guitars), Mikael Rosengren (keyboards) and Peter Svensson (drums). The band plays melodic hard rock with influences from the classic rock bands of the 80s such as Journey, Whitesnake and Europe and has released two albums, “Higher and Higher” (2018) and “Strangers” (2020) so far which both received positive reviews from fans and critics alike, showcasing the band’s ability to create powerful and emotional songs with strong melodies and choruses. In early 2024, Heartwind reached 1 million streams on Spotify. After signing a new record deal with German label Pride & Joy Music, Heartwind’s third album, Heartwind III, is set for release on September 20th 2024. It features 10 new original songs feat. an amazing line up of guest singers and musicians! The single from the album, “Struck by Love” featuring rock legend Matti Alfonzetti on vocals, was released in December 2023 in advance. Other songs on Heartwind III feature the great talents of Nalle Påhlsson (Treat), Rick Altzi (Gathering of Kings), Fredrik Folkare (Unleashed), Jakob Samuel (The Poodles), Henrik Bergqvist (Prins Svart/The Poodles), Thomas Vikström (Candlemass/Therion), Andreas Novak (House of Shakira) Robert van der Zwan (Remedy), Carl Berglund (Age of Reflection/Nationwide), Matt Marinelli (Borealis) and Nina Söderquist (solo), to name a few (or not so few)! 1. Warrior2. Facing the Night3. Struck by Love4. Now is the Time5. One Reason6. Blink of an Eye7. Cry for Love8. Brothers9. Crying in the Rain10. Rocking Heroes https://www.facebook.com/Heartwindtheband
Neptune – End Of Time
product: Neptune – End Of Timerelease date: 20.09.2024format: CD & digitalterritory: world Neptune is a Melodic Metal band with a long and vibrant history dating back to the early 1980s. Influences from classic heroes such as Judas Priest, Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and Accept, but of course, with a more modern touch that belongs in the 21st century are obvious. During the 80s, the band recorded several demo tapes which led into meetings with multiple record labels. Ultimately, one of these labels funded the recording of an EP that was never released, causing the band to lose momentum, and eventually split up for what was believed to be for good. It wasn’t until 30 years later, specifically in 2018, that these recordings from the 80’s were released along with several of their early demo recordings, resulting in the album „Land of Northern.“ This release reignited the band’s passion, leading them to record a completely new album in 2020 entitled „Northern Steel“ which still featured three original members from the 80’s line-up. Now, Neptune releases the album „End of Time“ on September 20th, 2024 via Germany based Pride & Joy Music which is a musical continuation of the previous record. Since all band members contribute to songwriting, the material covers a wide range of styles and emotions. Neptune’s lyrics often have a connection to their ancient Nordic history, and as a sounding board or creative engine, they often use an underlying narrative for their albums. This time it’s based around the last known Viking, Harald Hardrada and several somewhat fictionalized stories about his life and existence. It inspired them to several of the lyrics on the album, especially Harald’s final battle at Stamford Bridge that was fierce and relentless, culminating in Harald Hardrada’s passing, marking the end of the Viking Age. His followers then celebrated this event as the „End of time.“ Produced and mixed by Jan Tosh Ason; Co-produced by Neptune; Recorded at Stockholm Soundroom; Mastered by Hoffe Stannow/Cosmos Mastering; Artwork by Spoil; Photos and Graphics by Anders Olsson Neptune are:Row Alex – VocalsAnders Olsson – GuitarsJan Tosh Ason – Bass & VocalsJohan Rosth – KeyboardsJonas Wikström – Drums Track list:1. Metal Hearts2. Brightest Steel3. The End Of Time4. Revenge5. Motherland6. Sun Goes Down7. Nepturion8. Power9. Highlands10. Northern Warriors
Danger Zone – Shut Up!
product: Danger Zone – Shut Up!release date: 20.09.2024format: CD & digitalterritory: world Danger Zone, one of the most popular, veteran Italian Hard Rock bands, began their musical journey in the early 1980s. After releasing several demos and undergoing numerous line-up changes, they debuted with their EP, „Victim Of Time,“ in 1984 and four more studio albums to follow (“Line Of Fire” recorded in 1989 but released in 2011); “Undying” (2012), “Closer To Heaven” (2016) and “Don’t Count On Heroes” (2019). The pandemic in 2020/21 hindered the band’s ability to fully promote their album, leading to a temporary hiatus. They reconvened in 2022, resuming live performances and writing sessions. During this time, they decided to return to a sound reminiscent of the golden era of American melodic hard rock, characterized by catchy choruses, loud guitars, pounding drums, and dreamy keyboards. This new chapter in their musical journey is encapsulated in their upcoming album, „Shut Up!,“ set for release on September 20, 2024, by Pride & Joy Music. The album’s first single, „Evil,“ precedes the release, showcasing the band’s commitment to standing out while staying true to their unique style and will be released in advance on July 26th, 2024! Danger Zone are:– Giacomo Gigantelli: Lead Vocals– Roberto Priori: Lead Guitar– Paolo Palmieri: Drums– Matteo Minghetti: Bass– Danilo Faggiolino: Guitar– Pier Mazzini: Keyboards & Vocals Tracklist:1. I Like It2. Evil3. Tell Me The Truth4. I Don’t Care5. Too Late6. Run (From The Madness)7. I’ll Make It Right8. Hurt9. When You Broke My Soul10. Faithless Ways11. Straight Down The Line www.dangerzoneweb.com www.facebook.com/dangerzoneweb
Atlantis Drive
Atlantis Drive Brand new multinational band Atlantis Drive is the brainchild of German guitarist Markus Pfeffer (Barnabas Sky, Lazarus Dream). With the creative goal of celebrating and reviving the Melodic Rock sound of the 80’s, he embarks on a musical journey together with vocal legend Mark Boals (Ring Of Fire, Shining Black, ex-Yngwie Malmsteen’s Rising Force), French keyboardist Jorris Guilbaud (Devoid, Heart Line) and drummer Markus Kullmann (Glenn Hughes, Sinner, Voodoo Circle). Beyond short-lived trends, Atlantis Drive stylistically celebrates the spirit of the 80’s with thick and shimmering keyboards full of hooklines, groovy guitar riffs, filigree solos, catchy choruses and bombastic vocal arrangements. Mark Boals hasn’t been heard in such a melodic context for a long time and those who know him primarily from neoclassical bands and projects will certainly be very positively surprised by the unbelievably catchy hooklines and choruses that he conjures out of his hat with Atlantis Drive. In terms of content, Boals’ lyrics, which are really worth listening to, cover a wide range of topics from nostalgic retrospectives („Way Back When“), faith in oneself („Faith“), one’s own finiteness („Time“, „Curtain Falls“) and betrayal („Medusa Smile“) to missing our musical heroes in the eight-and-a-half-minute closing epic „Heroes“. Mark Boals: Vocals, Background VocalsMarkus Pfeffer: Guitars, BassJorris Guilbaud: SynthsMarkus Kullmann: Drums Mix, Production: Markus PfefferMastering: Rolf Munkes, Empire Studios (www.empire-studios.de) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atlantisdrivemusic Releases Atlantis Drive – Atlantis Drive TRACKLIST: 1.Way Back When, 2. Medusa Smile, 3. Living For The Moment, 4. Brand New Start, 5. United, 6. Curtain Falls, 7. Faith, 8. Time, 9. Farewell To A Friend, 10. Heroes Videos Playlist 2 Videos ATLANTIS DRIVE – Way Back When (Offical Lyric Video) 4:31 ATLANTIS DRIVE – Faith (Official Lyric Video) 4:46
Universe III
Universe III Universe started in 1982 in Upplands Väsby, Sweden, where hard rock ruled the streets. The members hailed from several different local bands. After leaving the band Moon, lead guitarist Michael Kling, who founded the band WC in the late 70’s with John Norum, became one of UNIVERSE’s founding members. Bassist Hasse Hagman, who played in Joey Tempest’s first band, along with drummer Anders Wetterström and guitarist Per Nilsson, all came from the band Twilight. Once UNIVERSE got their hands on keyboard player Fredrik Kriström and singer Kjell Wallen, the band was complete. They played diligently for a couple of years all over Sweden, opening for Nazareth, among many other gigs. In 1985, the band released its self-titled debut album with songs like „Rollin’ On“, „Stories from the Old Days“, and „Strong Vibrations“. In 1986, Kjell Wallen left the band on good terms following creative differences and was subsequently replaced by Janne Åström. With Janne as the new frontman, the band focused fully on a follow-up to their debut album. Several demos were recorded but never ended up in the right hands. The band dissolved in early 1988 and then had a short reunion for a final show in the ice hall in Upplands Väsby later that year. The band members went their separate ways, each showing up here and there in different contexts with connections to music. Everyone maintained occasional contact. 2002, all the members met up together for the first time in 14 years. They immediately knew they wanted to play again and became convinced that the old material still had potential. Everyone agreed that a new album had to be released, but also that they were being pulled in different directions. For several years they kept continuous contact, waiting for the time when recording an album became inevitable. At first, UNIVERSE lacked a singer, but suddenly one day he was just there. Andreas Eklund (ex-House Of Shakira) became the new front man, his narrative lyrics and tasteful melodies opening the door to another dimension, so the band could take a bigger step into the galaxy. UNIVERSE was back as UNIVERSE INFINITY with “Rock Is Alive” in 2018 via Pride & Joy Music, a powerful album that is a tribute to the music of the 70’s and 80’s, and to their youth in Upplands Väsby. After the release of „Rock Is Alive“, several gigs followed at clubs and festivals, among other venues, where the band mixed songs from the new record with classics from their debut album. Performing live again was glorious and ended too quickly. The pandemic was difficult for many artists. Most of the band decided early on that they couldn’t imagine isolating themselves from one another and safely continued meeting. Reinvigorated, the members began working on new songs in the rehearsal room with the same vigor they did when creating the debut album. They quickly pounded out 20 songs, style-wise reminiscent of the 2 previous records, and 10 of which they saved for release on a future album. During the pandemic, there was a clear rift between the members for various reasons resulting in Kling and the band going their separate ways. During the phase UNIVERSE III, their third record will be released, with the release date and title to be announced shortly. With a new album locked and loaded, the band is ready to go out and play again. They are thirsty to meet the audience and are planning a setlist with songs from all the records and new material that will not disappoint! Line-up: Andreas Eklund (Lead and backing vocals), Freddie Kriström (keyboards), Hasse Hagman (bass), Anders Wetterström (drums), Per Nilsson (Electric and acoustic guitars) https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084321095383 Releases Universe III – Universe III TRACKLIST: 1. I Am, 2. To Serve And Protect, 3. Casa De Los Pollos, 4. Why, 5. Hanging By A Thread, 6. Rise Above, 7. Liquid Confidence, 8. Dream Of Better Days, 9. Too Late, 10. It’s Time Videos Playlist 2 Videos Universe III – I Am (Official Video) 4:36 Universe III – To Serve & Protect (Official Video) 5:48
Bad Boy
Bad Boy For more than 4 decades, Bad Boy has been writing music, getting airplay, reviews and still playing Rock and Roll. Must be something in the blood. Bad Boy is a legendary hard rock band from Milwaukee Wisconsin USA that signed their first record deal with United Artists in 1977. Founded by Steve Grimm, John Marcelli, Joey LaVie, and Lars Hanson their first two albums reached the top 100 on the Billboard national music charts. In 1980 the band signed with Streetwise music and with two new members Scott Stephan on guitars and Hector “Jackie” Ramos on drums released the band’s third album entitled “Private Party” in 1981. The Saga continues with this re-release that is frozen and stands the test of time. Recorded at the Playboy Club in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin by soundscapist Andy Waterman. “Private Party” is a fantastic hard rock album that has on CD been a highly sought collectors commodity and is now finally available and remastered with one additional bonus track “You And Me Against The World”. This CD is Vol. 6 of the Pride & Joy Music Classixx series and exclusively distributed via shop.prideandjoy.de and strictly limited to 300 copies. Releases Bad Boy – Private Party TRACKLIST: 1. Intro/ Run From Yourself, 2. Don’t Pretend, 3. Can’t You See, 4. Have I The Right, 5. How Log, 6. Let me Love You, 7. Come With Me, 8. Come A Bit Closer, 9. Here I Am, 10. Private Party/ Closing, 11. You And Me Against The World (Bonus Track) Videos
A Neverending Johns Dream
A Neverending Johns Dream A Neverending John’s Dream is a Melodic Hard ‘n’ Heavy band formed in Barcelona in 2022 when Joan M. Heredia (drums, vocal, and composer) teamed up with David Vidal (guitars), Paul E. Schuster (bass) and Xavier Miró (keyboards). Joan M. Heredia started to play drums, to sing and to write songs more than 20 years ago, has been playing in dozens of bands but so far never has thought about releasing own material until now. A Neverending John’s Dream’s debut album, “Coming Back to Paradise”, was completely written and produced by Joan M. Heredia. The recordings and the mix took place at Moontower Studios in Barcelona. Erik Mårtensson (Eclipse) at Mass Destruction Production Studios (Sweden) mastered this release. The cover artwork and the CD layout were designed by Jan Yrlund, at Darkgrove Design (Finland); photos were taken by Irene Serrano. “Coming Back to Paradise” is a melodic hard ‘n’ heavy album, with a late 80s/ early 90s feel, but with an up to date production. The lyrics are telling stories about a lot of experiences, centred in human condition, music, and nature. The song chosen as a single with a video clip (filmed by Visual Noise Barcelona) is “Coming Back to Paradise”, a veritable hard rock hit with the homonymous title of the album. The meaning of the band’s name is a bit philosophic. The creation of music has no end (Neverending), and this fact, is like a dream for Joan M. Heredia (John). https://www.facebook.com/aneverendingjohnsdream Releases A Neverending John’s Dream – Coming Back To Paradise TRACKLIST: 1. Welcome To My Ghost Kingdom, 2. Coming Back To Paradise, 3. Equilibrium, 4. I’ve Lost My Dreams, 5. If We Stand United, 6. Alone With My Shadow, 7. Prisoners Of This Life, 8. In Our Hands, 9. Sad Winter, 10. Save Me From Myself, 11. Mother Of All, 12. Sunrise Videos Playlist 2 Videos A Neverending John’s Dream – Coming Back To Paradise (Official Video) 5:03 A Neverending John’s Dream – Prisoners Of This Life (Official Audio Video) 4:03