Wallowing "Planet Loss [Reissue]"

LP - 19.40
STREET DATE: 8/23/24
CAT#:CRR227
LABEL: Church Road

To celebrate 5 years since the release of 'PLANET LOSS', WALLOWING have dived into the history books and remastered their colossal debut sci-fi concept album with long term collaborator and mastering engineer Scot Moriarty (2021 split, EARTH REAPER). Boasting an additional track and Scots natural talent of embellishing the loudest and heaviest, 'PLANET LOSS' has never sounded so harrowing and monolithic, firmly cementing this remaster as the definitive listening experience of one of the heaviest and unique metal albums of the late 2010's.

TRACK LISTING:
01. I. Prologue
02. II. Earthless
03. III. Phosgene
04. IV. Hail Creation
05. V. Vessel
06. VI. Epilogue

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Remastered for vinyl
  • 5 year release anniversary

FOR FANS OF:
Indian, Primitive Man, Bismuth, Conjurer, Slabdragger

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Her Head's On Fire "Strange Desires"

LP - $17.25
LP UPC: 724399772507
STREET DATE: 7/19/2024
CAT#: IOD-62
LABEL: Iodine Recordings

"Strangeness is a necessary ingredient in beauty." - French Poet, Charles Baudelaire.

Her Head's On Fire is a fierce quartet with an impressive pedigree (Garrison, Small Brown Bike, The Bomb, and Saves the Day) serving up heart-seeking post-hardcore and emotive rock with enlivening riffs and melodies. The indie rock supergroup offers their strangeness to beauty with Strange Desires, their sophomore effort and follow-up to their debut, College Rock & Clove Cigarettes.

Strange Desires deepens and expands on their first release. It has moments reminiscent of late 80s New Wave, early 90s indie, and post-hardcore peppered with poetic oddities that make the band's music memorable.

From the gauntlet-throw of an opener "Cuts" through the swaggering sneer of "Aren't I the Champion" to closer "The Rain," this record is full of intentional sidewinders--smart, literate songs about the most primal feelings and experiences we share as humans.

In some ways, this increased heft is emotional. The aforementioned track, "The Rain," is rooted in both the tragic 2021 passing of guitarist Jeff Dean's friend and Planes Mistaken for Stars vocalist/guitarist Gared O'Donnell as well as the death of vocalist Sid Jagger's father.

In other ways, it is sonic. Legendary producer John Agnello (Jawbox, Son Volt, Kurt Vile, Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr) mixed the record, Jeff Dean recorded it, and Jason Narducy (Superchunk, Bob Mould, Sunny Day Real Estate, Foo Fighters) co-produced it along with the band. The result is a captivating indie rock wall of sound from start to finish.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Cuts
02. You're Nothing
03. Aren't I The Champion
04. Addicts and Habits
05. Better Men Than Me
06. Strange Desires
07. Why Are We Alone
08. Ruination
09. While You Sleep
10. The Rain

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Sophomore album from NY's Her Head's on Fire
  • Produced by Jason Narducy (Superchunk, Bob Mould, Sunny Day Real Estate, Foo Fighters)
  • Mixed by John Agnello (Jawbox, Son Volt, Kurt Vile, Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr)
  • Features members of: Small Brown Bike, Saves the Day, Garrison, and The Bomb
  • US, EU, UK Tours scheduled for Spring and Summer 2024
  • Appearances at FEST (Florida) and Booze Cruise Fest (Germany)

FOR FANS OF:
Superchunk, Samiam, Dinosaur Jr, Jawbox

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Habak "Insania"

LP - $17.25
LP UPC: 765464057112
STREET DATE: 6/28/24
CAT#: VIS011
LABEL: Persistent Vision

Insania, the 2016 debut album from Tijuana, Mexico’s Habak reissued on vinyl for the first time ever. Habak exploded into the DIY scene in the last few years with their emotionally charged blend of blackened crust, screamo, and post-metal. This first album captures the intensity of the young band early on, melding aggressive Tragedy-inspired d-beat with dark, drawn out moments of melody that bring to mind contemporaries like Envy or Pageninetynine. Sung in Spanish, vocalist Alex’s lyrics touch on themes of mental anguish, isolation, and hopelessness.

This new reissue was remastered by Jack Shirley at the Atomic Garden (Deafheaven, Frail Body) and includes a bonus live version of “Orbes de Almas” recorded in 2023 by Steve Roche (Saetia).

“Insania” comes packaged in a full color jacket with lyric sheet and colored vinyl.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Immune al Dolor
02. Orbe De Almas
03. Rostros Borrosos
04. Condenado al Olvido
05. Insania
06. El Deceso Vestigios
07. Orbe De Almas (live)

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Habak’s debut album, never before available on vinyl, includes a bonus live track recorded by Steve Roche (Saetia) and remastering by Jack Shirley (Deafheaven).
  • Habak has a busy year ahead, including a European tour in June, and appearances at 510 Grindfest, Circus of Disgust, NW Terror Fest, and the Persistent Vision/Pg.99-curated fest, Dark Days Bright Nights in September
  • PR campaign by Curran Reynolds at The Chain PR

FOR FANS OF:
Envy, Pg.99, Tragedy, His Hero Is Gone

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Love Letter "Everyone Wants Something Beautiful"

LP - $17.25 / Cassette - $8.00
LP UPC: 724399772521
CASSETTE UPC: 724399772538
STREET DATE: 6/28/24
CAT#: IOD-63
LABEL: Iodine Recordings

New England has always served as a breeding ground for some of the most passionate and heartfelt voices in hardcore. Featuring members of Verse and Defeater, Love Letter are the latest powerhouse to join this esteemed lineage.

Everyone Wants Something Beautiful is an open window into insecurity and self-awareness. It is a deep-dive into generational trauma, its different forms, and the ways it can be projected onto others. We share a commitment to crafting music that is honest and powerful--that reflects our friendships, views, and shared musical journey over two decades. We believe every note and word must carry meaning and purpose. The musical vision for this record was to create a compelling backdrop for captivating and emotional storytelling. It's honest, mature, and carries deep personal meaning for each member.

Guitarist Jay Maas (Defeater) has also produced countless records for other bands at Getaway Recordings in Massachusetts, including Bane, Counterparts, Title Fight and more. After being behind the scenes on so many quintessential records, Maas is back at the helm. "Having produced records for two decades now I've had the chance to work with thousands of artists, I'm grateful that this was my opportunity to pull together some of my favorite people who also happen to be extremely talented musicians."

Maas tapped fellow founding member of Defeater, Andrew Reitz, to play drums along with guitarist Matthew Spence and fellow engineer and bassist Dave Alcan. The result is high-octane instrumentation paired with the poignant yet biting lyrics and vocals of Quinn Murphy (VERSE).

The debut LP's first single "Misanthropic Holiday or Vacation" sounds like both warning and indictment, exploring ways we are expected to deal with the human condition in modern society. It seems to blur the lines of perseverance and begrudged surrender, crescendoing into a cathartic release that makes one feel both possessed and furious. It's hard to stay sitting by the end of it.

There's a notable freedom in the band's songwriting, and their desire to push the limits of where heartfelt, emotive and heavy music can go is apparent with every note and word. Matched by a charged live show, Love Letter is sure to turn heads of fans of hardcore, post-hardcore, screamo and beyond. Everyone Wants Something Beautiful is available for pre-order now.

TRACK LISTING:
01. New Anthemic
02. Wellness Checks and Dead Friends
03. Misanthropic Holiday or Vacation
04. Popular Memes
05. Unhousing Projects
06. Settlements
07. Meds & Taxes
08. Debilitating Self Doubt And The Will To Use It
09. Late Stage Harm Reduction
10. Panic Disordinary

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Debut Full Length From Boston Melodic Hardcore Band
  • Ex-Members of Verse and Defeater
  • Full Pr Campaign via Atom Splitter (Hatebreed, Alexisonfire, Etc)
  • Full Radio Campaign via Pirate! Radio Promotion
  • Produced by Jay Maas at Getaway Recording (Defeater, Bane, Title Fight, Citizen)
  • Mastered by Dave Mcnair (Bruce Springsteen, David Bowie, Helmet)
  • Upcoming Shows With: Further Seems Forever and Crime in Stereo

FOR FANS OF:
Defeater, Verse, Modern Life Is War, American Nightmare

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Anklebiter / Prevention "Split"

7"EP - $7.50 / CASSETTE - $7.00
STREET DATE: 6/28/24
CAT#: SDR-121
LABEL: Sunday Drive

Northeast and Midwest hardcore join on this split 7" with the perfect pairing of Anklebiter & Prevention. Anklebiter continues to deliver short and fast hardcore, and seems to do it better and better with each release; nailing the influences from LOC affiliates, Righteous Jams, and Rampage, and executed with a fresh take on the sound. Prevention, another band that shines in straight-forward hardcore, packs a rhythmic-punch on their side, with a harder tone, similar to the likes of 00s hardcore bands No Warning, Guns Up! and Down To Nothing. This split is presented by Delayed Gratification & Sunday Drive Records--another collaboration that's been meaning to happen.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Tempest
02. Paradise
03. Internalized
04. Don't You Want to Be Free?

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Anklebiter supporting Have Heart this summer
  • Both bands appearing Tied Down Fest

FOR FANS OF:
Righteous Jams, No Warning

Anklebiter Instagram | Prevention Instagram

Outlander "Acts of Harm"

LP - $19.40 / CD - $9.60
STREET DATE: 6/28/24
CAT#: CRR223
LABEL: Church Road

Outlander have been haunting stages around the UK and beyond for the best part of a decade, bringing their gloomy, caustic brand of shoegaze to support tours with genre heavyweights Bossk and Grivo and festivals like Dunk! and Arctangent.

Acts of Harm follows their 2021 EP 'Sundowning/Unconditional' and finds the band at their most introspective, sonically exploring the vast grey area between the languid slowcore of duster and codeine, the dream-like shoegaze of swervedriver and catherine wheel and the angular, glacial bombardment of kowloon walled city and true widow.

An intimate coming of age record of reconciliation with adulthood, 'Acts of Harm' finds beauty and despair in the mundane, and explores the cycles of decline that prop-up the fragile balance of normality in modern society. A singular body of work written mostly in isolation, pulled together piece by piece during the pandemic and recorded over two years by Neil Kennedy at The Ranch Production House in Southampton. The songs move at a funereal pace and take a sombre look at human themes, from the empty stare through the living room window of 'want no more', the communication breakdown of 'new motive power', the cathartic breaking point of 'lye waste' and the fraught quiet beyond.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Bound
02. Want No More
03. i: Nuclear
04. Orbit
05. New Motive Power
06. Lye Waste
07. ii: Habituation

FOR FANS OF:
Duster, Planning for Burial

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Respire "Dénouement + Memorial"

2xLP - $21.25
2xLP UPC: 765464057143
STREET DATE: 6/28/24
CAT#: VIS013
LABEL: Persistant Veision

Six years after its original release comes a deluxe reissue of "Dénouement", the second album from Toronto, Ontario collective, Respire. An “exquisite, inspiring flood of emotion and mesmerizing music,” Respire crafts their own explosive and uplifting brand of orchestral post-hardcore, drawing from a well of black metal, screamo, and post-rock influences. As powerful today as it was upon its original release, "Dénouement" is a sprawling reflection on trauma, addiction, and guilt. A document of the beating heart and its journey for redemption.

Packaged as a 2xLP, this reissue includes the companion album "Memorial", an entirely instrumental, orchestral version of the eight songs from "Dénouement", available for the first time on vinyl. Equally chilling and triumphant, layers of strings, horns, and piano make up the compositions of "Memorial", which was newly remastered by Will Killingsworth (Orchid).

TRACK LISTING: 01. Bound
02. Haunt
03. Shiver
04. Bloom
05. Catacombs
06. Virtue
07. A Heart Still Pines
08. Dénouement
09. Bound (instrumental)
10. Haunt (instrumental)
11. Shiver (instrumental)
12. Bloom (instrumental)
13. Catacombs (instrumental)
14. Virtue (instrumental)
15. A Heart Still Pines (instrumental)
16. Dénouement (instrumental)

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Long out of print album reissue comes ahead of their fourth album, to be released on Dine Alone Records in late July 2024
  • Deluxe gatefold jacket, packaged with instrumental companion album, “Memorial” available for the first time on vinyl
  • "Dénouement" was mastered by Jack Shirley (Deafheaven, Frail Body) and "Memorial" was mastered by Will Killingsworth (Orchid, Bucket Full of Teeth)
  • WIth previous touring history in Canada, Europe and Mexico, Respire will be doing their first ever US tour in September 2024, including a performance at Persistent Vision’s Dark Days Bright Nights Fest with Pg.99, Thou, Portrayal of Guilt, and others

FOR FANS OF: Infant Island, Deafheaven, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Envy

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Calcine "Common Love Common Nausea"

CASSETTE - $10.70
STREET DATE: 6/21/24
CAT#: CRR225
LABEL: Church Road

Calcine is a French hardcore band from Paris. Born in 2021 during covid time, Luc and Lucas recorded a demo and later found the vocalist and the bassist, Stef and Arthur.

The finalised demo was released April 2022 and received incredible support among the French scene and beyond, allowing the band to play shows and festivals opening for Arkangel, Sunami, Worst Doubt, Rotten Sound, Scowl, and Headbussa.

Lyrically the album brings attention to topics such as social oppression, police brutality and racism, racism in the media, SGBV , animal liberation and the decaying world.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Attack to Win
02. 23:11
03. Back to Fight
04. Autopsie
05. Target
06. Maleviolence
07. Amnesic
08. Des vies à bout
09. Parasite

FOR FANS OF:
All Out War, Kickback, Walls Of Jericho, Power Trip, Trial

Instagram | Facebook

Fórn "The Departure Of Consciousness"

LP - $17.25
LP UPC: 765464057136
STREET DATE: 6/14/24
CAT#: VIS012
LABEL: Persistent Vision

A special, ten-year anniversary reissue of "The Departure of Consciousness", the debut LP from funeral sludge ensemble, FÓRN. Formed in 2012 during a particularly dismal and harsh Boston winter, FÓRN draws inspiration from their predecessors, Grief, Burning Witch and Noothgrush, while remaining true to their natural progression. The suffocating darkness and soul crushing heaviness of their debut is starkly evident as FÓRN channels its will to create their unique brand of cerebral funeral sludge.

Their 2014 debut, "The Departure of Consciousness", originally released via Vendetta Records and Gilead Media, took the doom and sludge world by surprise. It garnered instant critical acclaim, bringing them to prestigious festivals, stages, tours, and even a memorable performance in a seaside cave. Released to coincide with their return to live performances, this reissue comes ahead of a brand new album due out in September 2024.

Recorded in Spring 2014 by Alec Rodriguez at New Alliance Studio and Greg Wilkinson at Earhammer Studio. Mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Emergence
02. Dweller on the Threshold
03. Gates of the Astral Plane
04. Alexithymia
05. Suffering in the Eternal Void
06. Cerebral Intermission

MARKETING POINTS:

  • FÓRN will be playing numerous festivals and select dates on the west coast and east coast in June 2024
  • Previous touring history with Primitive Man, Thou, Wayfarer, Wolves in the Throne Room, Windhand, Yellow Eyes and Inter Arma
  • PR campaign by Curran Reynolds at The Chain PR (Chat Pile, The Red Chord)

FOR FANS OF:
Thou, Bell Witch, Grief, Noothgrush, Burning Witch

Instagram

DROUGHT "EP"

7"EP - $7.00
7" UPC NUMBER: 724399772545
STREET DATE: 6/14/24
CAT#: IOD-65
LABEL: Iodine Recordings

DROUGHT believes a better world is possible. The Bay Area band pulls inspiration from their personal lives and the spaces they inhabit, harkening back to the intimate DIY spaces where communities are built and confessional songwriting meets crowds that take part in their emotional catharsis. Their spirited performances have fostered new fans across the West Coast.

The quintet hardcore veterans formed in 2022, pulling from their diverse musical influences and ethnic identities to push a familiar sound in new directions. Although some members spent over a decade away from music, DROUGHT pulls no punches on their debut “EP,” which they recorded with Ryan Ellery (Mom Jeans, Self Defense Family).

“EP” explores the struggles of loss and the rites of adulthood in increasingly precarious times. They wrote “Oh Javelin,” for instance, while guitarist RJ Rabe was battling cancer and drummer Ray Avila’s father was ill, grappling with the existential question of how we spend our short lives.

Upon digital release in 2023, the three-track EP turned more than a few heads with its familiar-yet-wholly-new stylings perfect for fans of bands like Touché Amoré, Piano Becomes the Teeth, and mewithoutYou. Now DROUGHT will be releasing a 7” pressing of “EP” on Iodine Recordings for the first time later this year.

“When I was young, nothing felt more comforting than playing a record, poring over the liner notes and feeling less alone,” says vocalist Viggy Ram. “And while releasing it digitally was exciting, it felt fleeting. When someone gets a record or goes to a show, you're actually giving your art to them—the ephemeral becomes real. With this vinyl release, we hope these songs keep you company when you need them to.”

"With a sonic palette pulling from both classic screamo and post-hardcore, Drought are clearly aiming to capture a certain spirit." - No Echo

TRACK LISTING:

  1. MacArthur Station
  2. Consequential Love
  3. Oh, Javelin!

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Debut EP from Bay Area Post-Hardcore band
  • Limited edition vinyl release
  • Previous Shows with: Jeromes Dream, City of Caterpillar, Vs Self
  • Writing full length record for 2025

FOR FANS OF:
Touché Amoré, Pianos Become the Teeth, La Dispute, Title Fight

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

All Under Heaven "What Lies Ahead Of Me"

LP - $17.50 / CD - $7.00
STREET DATE: 6/7/24
CAT#: SDR-119
LABEL: Sunday Drive

"What Lies Ahead Of Me", as the title suggests, is a look toward the future. Years after their formation, multiple EPs and plenty of touring, All Under Heaven seem to have come to fruition on their debut LP. The band has greatly evolved upon their sound--previously content in the "shoegaze" sphere--now pulling in a mix of influences from alternative bands like The Cure, Pinback or The Smiths, while embracing new instruments such as synthesizers and electronic drum beats. The added instruments, a focus on melodicism and DeFabritus' vocals more upfront and stronger than ever create a beautiful record, exploring themes of love, loss and friendship. "What Lies Ahead Of Me" marks a shift for the band and further carves out their space in contemporary, alternative music.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Alone As Ever
02. Receiving Certain Answers
03. Rolling
04. Always
05. Demon Time
06. Believing
07. September
08. Right Here

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Debut album
  • Over 100k monthly listeners on Spotify

FOR FANS OF:
Starflyer 59, The Cure, Pinback

Instagram

Umbra Vitae "Light Of Death"

LP - $17.25 / CD - $8.00 / Cassette - $8.75
LP UPC: 791689665924
INDIE LP UPC: 791689666327
CD UPC: 791689665931
CASSETTE UPC: 791689665948
STREET DATE: 6/7/24
CAT#: DW253
LABEL: Deathwish Inc.

"Light Of Death" is the 15 song sophomore album from Umbra Vitae. Recorded by Kurt Ballou and Zach Weeks at God City Studios and mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege.

"Leave Of Absence" emerges with a spine-chilling violin swell before erupting into duel guitar driven madness courtesy of Sean Martin (Twitching Tongues, ex-Hatebreed) and Mike McKenzie (The Red Chord). Umbra Vitae stay redlined with "Belief Is Obsolete" and "Clear Cutter", showcasing the electrifying rhythm section of Jon Rice (Uncle Acid, Tsjuder) and Greg Weeks (The Red Chord). Hook-laden "Anti-Spirit Machine" then takes center stage as a war cry for the downtrodden. From here Umbra Vitae continue to smash and thrash everything in sight. The discordant "Reality In Retrograde" races with a grinding blur into the lumbering "Past Tense" and darkly seductive "Velvet Black". Two songs that are metallic heaviness incarnate. "Twenty-Twenty Vision", "Algorithm Of Fear", and "Empty Vessel" then pick up the intensity, propelled by the poignant lyrical themes and inhuman vocal deliveries of Jacob Bannon (Converge). Lastly, the trinity of slow-crawl "Cause & Effect", ultra-violent "Deep End", and whirlwind "Nature vs. Nurture" continue to bludgeon, ushering in the interlinked "Fatal Flaw" and "Light Of Death" as the vicious finale to this modern metal masterpiece.

Jacob Bannon: Vocals & Lyrics
Sean Martin: Guitars & Vocals
Mike Mckenzie: Guitar & Vocals
Greg Weeks: Bass, Guitar, & Vocals
Jon Rice: Drums

All songs by Umbra Vitae
Recorded at God City Studios
Engineered by Kurt Ballou and Zach Weeks
Mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege

Photography by Juha Arvid Helminen
Art Direction & Design by J. Bannon

TRACK LISTING:
01. Leave Of Absence
02. Belief Is Obsolete
03. Clear Cutter
04. Anti-Spirit Machine
05. Reality In Retrograde
06. Past Tense
07. Velvet Black
08. Twenty-Twenty Vision
09. Algorithm Of Fear
10. Empty Vessel
11. Cause & Effect
12. Deep End
13. Nature vs. Nurture
14. Fatal Flaw
15. Light Of Death

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Features Jacob Bannon (Converge), Mike McKenzie (The Red Chord), Sean Martin (Hatebreed), Greg Weeks (The Red Cord) and Jon Rice (Job For A Cowboy)
  • Recorded by Kurt Ballou at God City Studios (High On Fire, Cave In)
  • Supporting The Hope Conspiracy on east coast dates

FOR FANS OF:
Converge, The Red Chord, Hatebreed, Job For A Cowboy

Instagram | Facebook

Graywave "Dancing in the Dust"

LP - $19.40 / CD - $9.60
STREET DATE: 5/31/24
CAT#: CRR215
LABEL: Church Road

Since their inception in 2019, Graywave have released some of the most hypnotic and alluring music that falls somewhere in the realm of shoegaze and grunge. They channel all the dreamyness of shoegaze legends such as Slowdive and My Bloody Valentine, but with a far darker edge à la Chelease Wolfe and King Woman.

The band started life as a solo vessel for band leader Jess Webberley, to make more ethereal and progressive sounding music. Since then the band has been joined by Zak Jenkins (drums), Oliver Beardmore (guitar), Joe Galkowski (Bass) to make the project into a fully fledged band. Together they have struck out and amassed an impressive CV of live shows, having toured with big names in the shoegaze/post rock scene such as Slow Crush and Bossk. They have also graced the stages at many prestigious festivals such as ArcTanGent, Radar Festival, Desert Fest and Camp Bestival to name a few.

The band built their foundations with a string of singles from 2019-2020 before releasing their first proper statement in the form of their debut EP 'Planetary Shift', released in 2021. The buzz of this fantastic release spawned Church Road's relationship with the band, which led to the release of their second EP 'Rebirth' in 2022. 'Rebirth' saw the band lean into their darker aesthetics further, and push the boundaries of where their music can go. In 2023 Graywave released two new singles, 'Blur Into One' and 'Cycle', both of which are included on 'Dancing In The Dust'. Without a doubt these are the bands two strongest tracks that they have released so far. This has given people an insight to the genius songwriting and originality to be expected from 'Dancing In The Dust'.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Falling Apart
02. Blur Into One
03. Dark Spell
04. Undone
05. Cycle
06. Dancing in the Dust

FOR FANS OF:
DIIV, Deftones, King Woman

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

The Hope Conspiracy "Tools Of Oppression / Rule By Deception"

LP - $19.40 / CD - $8.00 / CASSETTE - $8.75
LP UPC: 791689666280
CD UPC: 791689666297
CASSETTE UPC: 791689666303
STREET DATE: 5/31/24
CAT#: DW248
LABEL: Deathwish Inc.

"Tools of Oppression / Rule by Deception" is the new full length album by The Hope Conspiracy. The album was engineered by Kurt Ballou and Zach Weeks at God City Studios. Artwork for the release was created by acclaimed artist Alexander Heir (Death/Traitors).

This is true sonic violence aimed at political division, economic manipulation, war profiteering, media propaganda and other vile forms of global oppression.

Air raid sirens wail as the foreboding "Those Who Gave Us Yesterday" and "The Prophets and Doom" explode forth like burning shrapnel. The hell ride continues with "A Struggle For Power" and "Live In Fear", two vicious blasts supercharged with malice and contempt. "Shock By Shock" and "Of A Dying Nation" introduce doom and gloom heaviness, grinding down the tempo to a mid-paced barrage. "Confusion/Chaos/Misery" picks up the pace, going scorched-earth policy on the sociopolitical nightmares that ensnare us all while "Broken Vessels" plows into overdrive about mental illness and addiction as a whole. This leads to "The West Is Dead" a dystopian hook laden hardcore anthem, and epic closer "The Specter Looms"; An ominous soundtrack to the steady decline of our modern age.

There is no question, The Hope Conspiracy is back to make a cold hard statement about existence in the end times.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Those Who Gave Us Yesterday
02. The Prophets and Doom
03. A Struggle for Power
04. Live in Fear
05. Shock by Shock
06. Of a Dying Nation
07. Confusion/Chaos/Misery
08. Broken Vessels
09. The West is Dead
10. The Specter Looms

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Engineered by Kurt Ballou and Zach Weeks at God City Studios
  • Artwork for the release was created by acclaimed artist Alexander Heir (Death/Traitors)
  • Select US tour dates this Summer

FOR FANS OF:

  • Integrity, Modern Life Is War, American Nightmare

Instagram | Facebook

Bliss Fields “Bliss Fields”

CD - $7.00
STREET DATE: 5/17/24
CAT#: SDR-123
LABEL: Sunday Drive

Toronto’s Bliss Fields has existed in various forms over the past eleven years. Formerly known as Iris, the band started as an indie/shoegaze band writing music in the early wave of the ‘shoegaze revival’ sound. Things fizzled out shortly after, and in the late 2010s, the group reformed under the new name, Bliss Fields, now with a restructured lineup. 2022’s LP, “Slowly, Forever” pushed the band the furthest they’ve come in their sound, incorporating more indie and alt-rock leaning elements onto their already established shoegaze sound. And now in 2024, the band continues to evolve further on their self titled EP, and their first on Sunday Drive Records. Influences from emo and alternative rock bands like Jimmy Eat World and The Smashing Pumpkins begin to flood into the songwriting; bringing more anthemic & catchy hooks, with heavier, distorted riffs to each song. Bliss Fields is in the process of once again reinventing themselves and continues to push their sound, which is sure to be heard on their next follow up on SDR.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Strange Ways
02. When It Meant Something
03. Daydream
04. Summer

FOR FANS OF:
Smashing Pumpkins, Jimmy Eat World

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Gatecreeper "EP + Split Tracks: 10th Anniversary Edition"

LP - $14.00
STREET DATE: 5/17/24
CAT#: PRO-097
LABEL: Protagonist Music

After forming in Arizona in 2013, Gatecreeper amassed a significant, dedicated, and very diverse fanbase around the world pretty rapidly. Becoming known for their combination of creativity and brutality, as well as devastating live performances, these early songs cemented what would become the backbone of their undeniable sound. From there the legend has only grown as they have released several highly-regarded albums while touring the world playing alongside some of metal and hardcore's most notable acts. On this 10th anniversary release we find the 4 original tracks from their eponymous 2014 debut, plus songs from their out-of-print split 7"s with YAITW and TOAD, and their track from the 4-way split LP on Melotov. Completely remastered for vinyl by James Plotkin (Bongripper, Voivod, Khanate) and pressed at 45rpm for maximum punishment, the record also includes updated back cover artwork and poster insert.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Void Below
02. Force Fed
03. Overdose
04. Slave
05. Poisoned Mind
06. All Your Sins
07. Carved Into Stone

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Remastered for vinyl by James Plotkin (Electric Wizard, Cave In, Bongripper, Khanate)

FOR FANS OF:
Bolt Thrower, Gorguts, Entombed, Grave

Fucked Up "Year Of The Hare"

LP - $17.25
LP UPC: 791689666341
STREET DATE: 5/17/24
CAT#: DW172
LABEL: Deathwish Inc.

Fucked Up are one of the most prolific hardcore punk bands of our generation. Since their 2001 inception, they've challenged listeners with thoughtful artful chaos and a seemingly limitless drive for musical experimentation. Because of this, they've also become a record collectors worst nightmare; releasing over 80 recordings and collaborations on countless labels that include Arts & Crafts, Matador, Jade Tree, and more.

Fucked Up "Year of the Hare" is the latest installment of their Zodiac themed releases. Over a two year period, it was recorded and constructed at Electrical Audio, Key Club Studios, and Candle Studios. Title track "Year of the Hare" is a 21 minute epic that frantically mixes traditional instrumentation, piano/synths, flutes and sax, experimental editing/soundscapes, and guest vocals from great Isla Craig into one dizzying experience. While B-Side "California Cold" slowly builds and deconstructs over an 8 and a half minute stretch. Organically shifting from jangly melodic-punk anthem into a fuzzed out psychedelic jam session. Eclectically blending musical styles and voices in the most, well, Fucked Up way possible.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Year of the Hare (21:38)
02. California Cold (8:21)

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Repressed on black / gold vinyl and limited to 524 copies
  • Title track "Year of the Hare" is a 21 minute epic that frantically mixes traditional instrumentation, piano/synths, flutes and sax, experimental editing/soundscapes, and guest vocals from great Isla Craig

FOR FANS OF:
Pissed Jeans, Ceremony, Metz

Official Site | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

William Edward Thompson "Sleep Test"

LP - $13.35
STREET DATE: 5/17/24
CAT#: PRO-061
LABEL: Protagonist Music

William Edward Thompson, known better as Billy to his friends, is a multi-instrumentalist based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He plays in notable acts such as Heavy Mantle, Secret Smoker, and Spiritiste, banging out angular, melodic, emotional hardcore in all three bands. However, on his solo debut, Billy strips down to his acoustic guitar and vocals with minimal backing to bring us all a little closer via a more raw and simple approach. Each song here is a quick window into his thoughts and feelings from day to day, almost like a musical version of a journal or diary where some tracks are fully realized and others more like a snapshot of a moment in time. This translates into an honest journey through a songwriter's first experience bringing the more vulnerable aspect of solo work into his repertoire, forgoing the rush-hour noise of a full band in favor of the straightforward energy of bedroom jams. With heartfelt melodies and poetic lyrics, he creates a sonic atmosphere that is both authentic and relatable under the moniker of his full name, William Edward Thompson, unveiling the "Sleep Test" LP as a testament to the basics of songwriting as cathartic expression rather than overly polished product.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Sleep Test
02. Ethereal
03. Candles
04. Fall On My Sword
05. My Grip Slips (Steady Hand)
06. Tight Rope
07. Perfect Souvenir
08. Hungry Ghost
09. Eyes Wide Open
10. Theme Song
11. What Remains

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Recorded and mixed by Connor Guiberteau and Brian Domingue at Studio Dudio
  • Mastered for vinyl and digital by Will Killingsworth at Dead Air

FOR FANS OF:
Evan Dando, Saves the Day, Dashboard Confessional, Elliott Smith

Ufomammut "Hidden"

LP - $15.95 / CD - $9.60
LP UPC: 795154145713
CD UPC: 795154145720
STREET DATE: 5/17/24
CAT#: NR129
LABEL: Neurot

Ufomammut formed in the late 90s by Poia (guitars, FXs) and Urlo (bass, vocals, FXs, synths), (rising from the ashes of past band Judy Corda), together with Vita (drums).
With Levre taking over on drums in 2021, the band has undergone a rebirth, culminating in the release of the album Fenice and the Crookhead EP.

Over the course of 25 years, the band has developed a unique sound that combines heavy, dynamic riff worship with a deep understanding of psychedelic tradition in music.
This has resulted in a cosmic, futuristic, and technicolor sound that fully immerses listeners.
The band has produced 10 records along with various other releases, such as compilations, EPs, and live albums.

Now, in 2024, as they celebrate their quarter-century milestone, the band is set to release their latest album, HIDDEN.

This album marks a shift in the band's musical composition, aiming for a more intense and heavy sound, and it's the third release featuring Levre as the band's new drummer.

The title, HIDDEN, reflects the concept of the presence of everything in our existence and the ability to bring to light what lies within us.

With HIDDEN, Ufomammut delves into a sonic journey that traverses vast expanses of space and time.

From the crushing heaviness to the hauntingly melodies, from the textured compositions to the otherworldly atmospheres, HIDDEN testify the neverending evolution of Ufomammut and their mastery of creating immersive sonic experiences: a fitting celebration of their 25 years of sonic exploration and experimentation.

TRACK LISTING:
01. Crookhead
02. Kismet
03. Spidher
04. Mausoleum
05. Leeched
06. Soulost

MARKETING POINTS:

  • "Hidden" is the 10th album of Ufomammut
  • EU tour starting in May
  • Gatefold jacket with silver nugget vinyl, black paper inner sleeve and poly bag

FOR FANS OF:
Neurosis, Converge, Sleep, High On Fire, Amenra, Thou

Official Site | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

Onelinedrawing "Sketchbook"

2xLP - $19.40
2xLP UPC: 724399772477
STREET DATE: 5/10/24
CAT#: IOD-57
LABEL: Iodine

Jonah Matranga has been making music for over 30 years. A prolific artist, he has become an enduring institution in the scene with a devoted fan base, rich lineage, and varied music career. Jonah has often straddled the line between the underground and mainstream. He's worked with indie labels like Jade Tree and majors such as Atlantic, having fronted the bands FAR, NEW END ORIGINAL, and GRATITUDE.

His music has influenced bands from Deftones to Blink-182, and he was there for emo and post-hardcore giants in their earliest beginnings--taking bands such as Thursday and Dashboard Confessional on tour. Simply put, the scene cannot be separated from Jonah's art.

Jonah has always written from the heart and performed in an intimate way that few others have accomplished. From basements to massive festivals, he brings the same energy to them all: raw honesty and an ability to make every show unique and personal. This is most apparent in Jonah's solo and collaborative project ONELINEDRAWING. Jonah's solo performance has always been about connecting with fans in an intimate setting, where they often perform with only a guitar and R2D2 sidekick.

Sketchbook is the latest release from ONELINEDRAWING, featuring a collection of songs from Jonah's early solo years, 1999 - 2001. The album features originals and renditions of the likes of 7 Seconds and Jawbox, as well as the Sensefield split honoring the late Jon Bunch
(Sensefield / Further Seems Forever). The LP also includes liner notes and zine by Norman Brannon (Texas is the Reason / New End Original).

Sketchbook exists as both a time capsule and thank you letter to fans and music itself--a combination of the period in which Jonah first embarked on his solo journey and a celebration of the vitality that music and community not only affords him but all of us.

"Onelinedrawing, is a diarist at heart, both in his music and in his daily life, and, man, does he ever rip his heart out and show it to you in his songs. A loose, free-roaming approach to confessional songwriting that pushes his music well beyond the normal sad singer/songwriter clichés." -- PITCHFORK

TRACK LISTING:
01. Better Than This
02. 15,000
03. Aeroplanes
04. Breathless
05. 14 - 41
06. Tides
07. Savory
08. Crush On Everyone
09. Got My List
10. Laugh, Fall, Or The Road
11. The Big Parade
12. My Little Relief
13. Pollyanna
14. Tricky
15. Wings
16. Disco Manifesto
17. Engage
18. Mer-Kat
19. Be Real
20. Always
21. A-L-L-Y-S-O-N
22. N,C,A
23. Oh, I'm So Lucky
24. Bye, Jon

MARKETING POINTS:

  • Jonah Matranga of Far, New End Original, Gratitude
  • Collection of Classic Songs from 1999-2001
  • First Time on Vinyl
  • Includes 12-Page Zine Written by Norman Brannon (Anti-Matter Zine, Texas Is the Reason)
  • Full PR Campaign Via Atom Splitter (Refused, Coheed & Cambria)
  • Spring US Tour and Summer EU Tour

FOR FANS OF:
Jimmy Eat World, Dashboard Confessional, Iron & Wine

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