This Week in Rock & Metal: What you Missed (April 8th Edition)
It’s been a big week across the heavy music world, from surprise tour announcements to cryptic online teasers that have fans buzzing. Whether you’re into atmospheric black metal, chaotic hardcore, or genre-bending weirdness, there’s something worth talking about.
Here’s a breakdown of the top stories you might’ve missed this week in rock and metal:
Deafheaven Celebrates a Decade of Sunbather
Post-metal titans Deafheaven are officially heading back on tour this summer to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Sunbather, the album that redefined modern blackgaze. The tour announcement came via a minimalistic video teaser, followed by an official post confirming a multi-city U.S. run with support from Holy Fawn and Agriculture.
The band has hinted at full-album performances and exclusive merch tied to the anniversary. It’s unclear if the setlists will include deeper cuts or early unreleased material, but longtime fans are hoping for a few surprises. Either way, this tour feels like a victory lap for one of the most divisive and influential albums in modern metal.
Turnstile Sparks Rumors with Mysterious Online Activity
Baltimore hardcore heroes Turnstile ignited speculation this week after quietly updating their Spotify visuals and wiping parts of their Instagram page—a move that fans of cryptic marketing know all too well. No official announcements yet, but the signs are there: something big is coming.
Their last release, Glow On, brought them mainstream attention without sacrificing their signature bounce. If a follow-up album is on the way, Turnstile might just be setting themselves up for another major genre-defying moment.
Heriot Drops New Single “Soul Harvester”
UK-based metallic hardcore band Heriot unleashed a devastating new single titled “Soul Harvester”, pushing the envelope even further on their abrasive, industrial-tinged sound. The track blends noise, groove, and violence in a way that’s somehow both precise and unhinged.
The band is proving to be one of the most exciting acts in the UK underground, with a sound that continues to evolve while remaining rooted in metallic chaos. No word on a full-length release yet, but fans are hopeful that this single is just the beginning of a larger rollout.
Local Spotlight: DIY Venues Thrive in the Northeast
Here in the Northeast, the underground is alive and well. Portland’s newest venue, The Bunker, opened its doors with a packed lineup of hardcore and punk bands over the weekend. The venue—located in a converted warehouse just outside the downtown district—is already getting buzz for its raw, no-frills energy and commitment to local acts.
Meanwhile, Bangor and Lewiston have both seen an uptick in pop-up basement shows and garage gigs. These aren’t polished events—they’re loud, sweaty, and full of life. The DIY scene is thriving in ways that feel urgent and necessary.
If you haven’t checked out a local show lately, this is your sign. Support your scene. The best bands often start in the smallest rooms.
Looking Ahead: What’s Coming Next Week
The week ahead promises even more noise. A few things to keep your eyes on:
• Kublai Khan TX drops a new EP this Friday. Early teasers sound feral.
• Brutus is set to release a surprise single—rumored to be a post-rock anthem with a heavy edge.
• Local heroes Hollow Pines are headlining a Friday night set at Geno’s, and we’ll be covering it.
Want to get featured in next week’s roundup?
If you’re a band, promoter, or diehard fan with news to share, hit us up via our contact form. Riot Media is always looking to amplify underground noise.