You know it’s going to be a good year when you get word The Lurking Corpses are releasing a new album.
The horror punk outfit recently took to social media to announce Lurking After Midnight is completely mixed and sent out for mastering. The new album will be released by Hells Headbangers Records in the next couple months and is the followup to 2014’s Workin’ for the Devil.
Yeah, it’s a long time coming. However, they have released some singles and EP compilations since then. When asked why it’s been 10 years since the last album, vocalist Lord Vladimir Von Ghoul said, “It’s due to constant member changes plus COVID. I’m really proud of it though. Probably our best album to date. It’s going to be well worth the wait for our fans. All the songs are killer and Dan Kinnaley at Chipped Tooth Audio did an excellent job recording it.”
As soon as a release date and word of a release party become available, Whatzup will be the first to let you know.
City rockers form supergroup
One group to keep an eye out for in 2024 is Angel Reborn, a new rock band comprised of seasoned veterans from the likes of The Illegals, The Y’s Guys, Night to Remember, L80’s Night, and 906 Band.
The lineup consists of vocalist Mindy Burke, guitarist Arthur Mock, drummer Nick Tamez, and bassist Colin Ingalls. Depending on other projects and scheduling conflicts, they’ve been known to sub in musicians including Chuck Thomas, Jeff Cottle, Maurice Turner, and Phil West.
Together, they’ve been performing a good mix of originals and covers. If you were up at The Eclectic Room in Angola in December to see alternative rockers The Violent, you got a heavy helping of originals from Angel Reborn’s opening set.
The band continue to write with hopes of releasing an album sooner rather than later. Upcoming dates for Angel Reborn are Jan. 20 and Feb. 17 at Vinnie’s Bar in Decatur and Feb. 24 at American Legion Post 47.
Comer rings in 2024 with new song
While most folks were deciding what to wear and where to drink for New Year’s Eve, singer-songwriter Zach Comer was gearing up for a midnight release of his new single, “Fool’s Paradise.”
“I wrote the riff first and felt it had this driving-down-the-road vibe,” Comer said. “I took that idea and wrote about my adventures driving and the feeling of excitement and anticipation of what the night would bring.
“I live my life in motion and tell people that I had to be a truck driver in a past life, because I really enjoy driving and passing the time listening to music and taking in the Earth’s beautiful landscapes. My hope is that others would be able to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.”
Comer was joined by Phil Schurger, Colin Boyd, and Casey Stansifer on this gem, which was recorded in Boyd’s studio, Voyd Studio.
Check out “Fool’s Paradise” on your favorite streaming platform. As for shows, Comer will be at Deer Park Irish Pub on Jan. 27 and Feb. 9.
Jack’s Beanstalk has you covered
A new rock cover act coming to a stage near you is Jack’s Beanstalk, who conquer everything from Pearl Jam and Lynch Mob to Heart and Alice in Chains.
The band consists of frontman Matt Maxwell, bassist John Reuille, guitarists Brian Kinerk and Chris Biciste, and Beto Magana on drums. Those are some notable names in the local scene with plenty of experience to bring the party.
You can catch Jack’s Beanstalk at the Latch String on Friday, Jan. 12.
Static Fly feel rejuvenated
Another band looking to have a productive year is Static Fly, who were pretty low-key when it came to performing last year.
According to vocalist/guitarist Paul Kuhlhorst, “2023 was a challenge from the beginning. We spent most of the year looking after our families and ourselves. It was a year of heartache, reflection, self-care, and thoughts of the past and future.
“I can’t express what it means to have these guys as bandmates. It’s so more than that. With a year of not touching the stage, it feels a bit like starting over. I’ve never looked forward to it more and we are excited to bring our heaviest show/setlist we have ever done.”
You can see for yourself when Static Fly takes the stage Feb. 24 at Carl’s Tavern in New Haven along with the Chicago thrash metal act Wrath, Salivus, and Distobia. Showtime is at 9 p.m. and there’s a $10 cover.
Until then, hop onto your favorite streaming platform and dig into From the Pitt and Look Ma, No Dj!, a couple of older albums that they recently reissued.
New pop-punk band joins the scene
With influences like New Found Glory and MxPx, the new pop-punk outfit Second to Last are ready to shake things up in the local music scene.
The band have been writing their own stuff but will slide in the occasional cover. The lineup is Juan Grande on vocals, Matt Lubick on guitar, Jam Jameson on bass, and Sean Rollins on drums.
Their first show comes Friday, Jan. 19, at The Brass Rail along with Static Arm and Red Temple Pray. This barn-burner of a show will get under way at 10 p.m. and will dent your wallet only $7.
Be ready for Second to Last in ’24!
