Forever in Transit, the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist Dan Sciolino, isn’t simply a progressive metal project—it’s a full-bodied exploration of the human condition, a philosophical journey wrapped in intricate soundscapes. With roots that intertwine high-energy metal and ethereal ambience, the Buffalo-based collective refuses to abide by convention, choosing instead to craft experiences that challenge, provoke, and uplift. Their latest album, “A Coming to Terms,” represents a sonic deep dive into personal growth, offering listeners an immersive experience in untangling identity, confronting internal struggles, and ultimately surrendering to the unknown.

Building on the themes introduced in their 2018 debut, “States of Disconnection,” and the 2019 EP “Re:Connection,” “A Coming to Terms” is an evolution—a narrative arc that sees the band expanding its sound and philosophy. With the return of guitarist Jeremy Schroeder and new additions like vocalist Chris Lamendola, the collective seamlessly fuses progressive metal’s technical prowess with the spacious, ambient layers that add depth and nuance to their compositions. The album’s production by Diego Tejeida (TEMIC, Devin Townsend) and mastering by Andy VanDette (Porcupine Tree, Thank You Scientist) ensures that every intricate detail serves to elevate the album’s profound message.

At the heart of the album lies a reckoning with self—an invitation to unravel the complexities of identity and attachment. Tracks like “Let Go Your Earthly Tether” and “What Lies Beneath” grapple with the difficult process of self-exploration and release, illustrating the emotional highs and lows that come with confronting deeply ingrained fears. “Let Go Your Earthly Tether” is particularly evocative, portraying a struggle for liberation from emotional burdens. The song captures the painful but necessary act of surrender—learning to “die and live” by relinquishing control over our internal battles.

“What Lies Beneath” tackles the dangerous game of self-deception, illustrating how easily we can trick ourselves into believing we’re okay when, deep down, we know we’re not. The song’s message is a reminder to face the truths we might be hiding from, as uncomfortable as they might be, because avoidance only pulls us further away from who we really are.

Similarly, “Streams of Thought” plunges into the tangled maze of introspection, where clarity feels just out of reach. The speaker’s struggle to find meaning amidst internal chaos is palpable, as the track mirrors the ebb and flow of personal turmoil. With each verse, it becomes clear that to find freedom, one must first unravel the thoughts and attachments that confine them. Yet, even as the song offers glimpses of insight, it acknowledges the difficulty of fully breaking free—of remaining tethered to the past, still wrestling with doubts even in moments of clarity.

“I Cling to Threads” continues this theme of disorientation, using the imagery of free-falling through stars to represent the inner conflict of identity and belonging. The song reflects the human desire for connection while contrasting it with the fear of being out of place. As the speaker grapples with defining themselves through past experiences and fears, they begin to realize that many of these definitions are mere illusions. The song is an exploration of the fine line between holding on and letting go, ultimately portraying the process of unraveling the threads that bind us as a path to greater self-understanding.

“Enter the Void” takes the album’s existential philosophy even further, urging listeners to embrace impermanence and the transformative power of change. The void here is not an abyss to be feared but a space of liberation, where societal expectations dissolve, and the chaos of life becomes a source of growth. The song’s refrain—an invitation to surrender to life’s inherent uncertainty—echoes throughout the album, reminding us that the pursuit of stability and perfection often stands in the way of true freedom. This embrace of life’s transience is not just a momentary revelation but a key theme running through the entire work.

Perhaps the most empowering track on the album, “Empty and Become Wind,” speaks to the resilience found in embracing adversity. It’s a celebration of the antifragile spirit—the idea that through hardship, we don’t just survive but emerge stronger. The song reflects on how pain, loneliness, and struggle can shape us into better versions of ourselves. By shedding the weight of emotional burdens like anger, doubt, and fear, the narrator finds freedom, symbolized by the fluidity of becoming “wind.” In this form, they are free to adapt, to move, to grow—no longer bound by the constraints of their past.

Finally, the title track, “A Coming to Terms,”  fittingly closes the album as a cathartic resolution, encapsulating the journey of self-discovery and surrender. The song channels the struggle of reconciling who we are with who we want to be, shedding the emotional baggage of self-denial, doubt, and fear. It’s an anthem for embracing vulnerability, pushing us to let go of the facades we hide behind and confront the emotional scars that shape us. The imagery of fear being just “drops in an ocean of personality” captures the essence of self-realization—our challenges define moments, but they don’t define us. In many ways, the track feels like the ultimate release, where after navigating the complexities of self, the narrator finally embraces a sense of peace, a resolution to the chaos explored throughout the album.

With “A Coming to Terms,” Forever in Transit has crafted an album that not only showcases their musical prowess but delivers a deeply philosophical reflection on the human experience. It’s an invitation to embrace the journey of self-discovery, to let go of earthly tethers, and to confront the deepest fears that often confine us. In a world obsessed with control and perfection, this album offers a much-needed reminder that true freedom lies in surrender, in accepting the fluid and ever-changing nature of life.

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Canning’s latest track, “State of Mind,” is a perfect example of how the band turns rock music into something that really hits home. With their signature blend of drums, bass, and guitar, they manage to take life’s everyday moments and make them feel bigger and more meaningful. There’s a raw simplicity to their sound, but it’s packed with emotion—like they’re capturing fleeting moments of the past and giving them new life in the present.

The story behind the band members adds another layer to their music. For Fritz, it all started with a garage stereo and The Magical Mystery Tour, which set him on a path of finding sounds that stir deep emotions. Tom, on the other hand, felt the rhythm of life itself through the raw power of rock ‘n roll, thanks to I Love Rock ‘n Roll on the radio. Ricky got hooked early on by those syncopated guitar riffs and bold vocals, and that love for rock has stayed with him ever since. Together, they’ve found their groove playing live, where the real magic happens. You can tell they live for that energy and connection on stage.

“State of Mind” feels like an extension of this love for live performance, but it’s more than just a song—it’s a reflection. On the surface, it seems like a simple song about enjoying a sunny afternoon, but it’s really about something much deeper: how we navigate life’s chaos and find peace in the little moments. That sunny Sunday afternoon stands in for clarity—a rare break where everything feels just right and life’s usual noise quiets down. You can almost feel the warmth of the September sun and the cool breeze as metaphors for the balance between life’s comforts and its challenges.

The line “everything is just a state of mind” is the core of the song’s message. It’s a reminder that even when life throws curveballs, how we react is up to us. The character in the song isn’t just chilling; they’re making a conscious choice to be present and let go of the stress. It’s a subtle nudge to the listener to think about how much control we actually have over our own peace of mind. We all get bogged down by outside pressures, but this song is a reminder that sometimes peace is just a shift in mindset away.

As the song progresses, it introduces a sense of togetherness that’s hard to ignore. By the time evening rolls around and friends gather, it feels like life’s best moments aren’t meant to be lived alone. Those “new-found” friends add something special, reminding us that connection, music, and laughter are some of the best ways to shake off the weight of the world. The call to “sing along” and “set your spirit free” is more than just a feel-good line—it’s an invitation to embrace the joy that comes with letting go.

By the end, “State of Mind” leaves you with this lingering thought: life might not always be easy, but it’s how we choose to see things that makes all the difference. Canning manages to turn this simple truth into a laid-back, groovy rock anthem that feels both personal and universal. It’s a reminder that peace and joy aren’t destinations we arrive at—they’re choices we make in the here and now, often with the people around us who help us get there.

All in all, “State of Mind” by Canning is a track that speaks to both the mind and the heart. It’s a song about finding clarity in life’s messy moments, with a gentle reminder that we’re never really alone in that search. So, the next time you need a break from the noise, put this on, let it wash over you, and ride the groove.

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With “Expanse,” the Sharon Lia Band transcends the boundaries of conventional rock, offering an ambitious and deeply moving double album that explores the infinite realms of human emotion. Fronted by Sharon Lia—an artist whose talents extend far beyond her role as vocalist and composer—the band masterfully blends symphonic rock with cinematic storytelling, creating a body of work that feels less like an album and more like a journey. Drawing inspiration from the raw power of Evanescence and the soaring majesty of Nightwish, Lia and her band create a sound that is uniquely their own, one that balances grit with grandeur and vulnerability with strength.

This project, four years in the making, is not merely an album but a multimedia experience. “Expanse” spans 26 tracks across two discs, blending evocative music with a visual and narrative experience that immerses the listener in its world. The first disc delivers 11 original songs that explore the full spectrum of human emotions, while the second disc offers symphonic and instrumental versions of these tracks, transforming them into sweeping orchestral movements. It’s this duality—raw and refined, personal and universal—that defines the heart of “Expanse.”

The album opens with the hauntingly ethereal instrumental track, “The Expanse,” which sets the tone for the sonic and emotional voyage that follows. Its quiet, almost meditative atmosphere conjures the vastness of space and the infinite possibilities it holds, symbolizing the uncharted territories of the human soul. This leads seamlessly into “Find Something To Believe In,” a stirring anthem about holding onto hope in the face of life’s relentless challenges. The song juxtaposes the innocence of youth with the stark realities of adulthood, urging the listener to keep dreaming, even when life feels overwhelming.

As the album unfolds, it becomes clear that “Expanse” is not just about surviving hardship but about rising above it. Tracks like “Love You Forever” and “Blue Skies” offer rays of optimism, lifting the listener out of darkness with messages of enduring love and hope for a brighter future. These songs act as emotional counterpoints to the more introspective and somber moments of the album, such as “Risk It All,” where Lia challenges her audience to embrace risk and leap into the unknown despite fear. It’s in these moments that the album shines as a testament to resilience, capturing the tension between vulnerability and strength, fragility and fortitude.

The band’s decision to include symphonic and live versions of key tracks on the second disc adds another layer of depth to the listening experience. Songs like “Invisible” and “I Will Wait” are given new life through orchestral arrangements, their emotional weight amplified by the sweeping strings and lush instrumentation. These symphonic renditions transform the album from a rock narrative into a cinematic score, each note swelling with a new kind of grandeur. The live tracks, like “I Will Remember (Live Out Loud),” offer a raw, electric energy, reminding listeners of the band’s passion for connecting with their audience on a visceral level.

At its core, “Expanse” is a journey of self-discovery, healing, and empowerment. Sharon Lia Band explores themes that are deeply personal yet universally resonant. There’s a palpable sense of compassion woven throughout the album, particularly in the way Lia uses her platform to uplift others. This is reflected not only in the music but also in her philanthropic efforts with Ladies Who Rock 4 A Cause, an organization she founded to support women facing life-changing challenges. This spirit of giving, of lifting others up in their time of need, is the pulse of “Expanse”. It’s an album that invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, to find strength in their struggles, and to remember that even in the darkest of times, there is always light to be found.

Sharon Lia Band’s “Expanse” is more than just a progressive rock album—it is an emotional odyssey, a call to action, and a beacon of hope. Every track is a chapter in a larger story, one that speaks to the power of belief, the beauty of vulnerability, and the unbreakable nature of the human spirit. Whether you’re drawn to the symphonic splendor of the orchestral tracks or the raw intensity of the band’s live performances, “Expanse” offers something profound for every listener. It is, in every sense, an album designed to move you—not just musically but emotionally and spiritually as well. In a world that often feels fractured, Sharon Lia Band reminds us of the power of connection, resilience, and the infinite possibilities that await us if we dare to dream.

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Richard Green, a composer who’s steadily rising within the electronic music world, has once again pushed the boundaries of his sound with his latest track, “Big Number.” Based in London since 2012, this Italian-born artist is captivating global audiences, including listeners from Naples, Helsinki, and Sydney. With “Big Number,” Green cements his place among electronic music’s innovators, merging bold, immersive elements with a deeply emotive undertone.

Green’s journey has been one of constant evolution, marked by both technical expertise and daring creativity. A graduate with a higher diploma in music and guitar, Green has mastered the art of fusing genres. His catalog showcases this versatility—from the brooding soundscapes of “Dark Horses” to the delicate, neoclassical beauty of “A Journey.” With “Big Number,” he moves into even bolder territory, blending dubstep, techno, and electronic synthesis in a way that feels both fresh and instantly compelling.

What sets “Big Number” apart is its ability to hold tension while inviting release. The pounding bassline forms the song’s foundation, drawing listeners into a pulse of energy that’s impossible to ignore. Layered above this are intricate guitar riffs and electronic textures, each contributing to a sonic depth that feels both vast and tightly controlled. Green’s production creates an atmosphere that is simultaneously intense and accessible, delivering a powerful experience for dance music enthusiasts and casual listeners alike.

But perhaps the most fascinating aspect of “Big Number” lies in its storytelling without words. The track speaks volumes through its instrumentation alone, weaving a narrative of movement, momentum, and subtle emotional depth. There are no vocals to guide the listener; instead, Green lets the music do the talking, crafting an immersive world where rhythm and melody communicate what words cannot. It’s a track that pulses with life, demanding attention without overwhelming the senses.

As “Big Number” resonates with electronic music fans, it underscores Richard Green’s ability to innovate while staying true to his creative vision. His knack for blending genres and creating emotionally charged soundscapes signals that he’s a force to be reckoned with in the music world. If this release is any indication, Green is only just beginning to show us the scope of his artistic reach, and we can look forward to more groundbreaking work in the future.

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9 O’clock Nasty, the bold and defiant band from Leicester, is back with another thought-provoking release titled “The Wrong Guy.” Known for their blend of punk, funk, and sarcasm, the trio steps into new territory with a head-bopping hip-hop beat that still carries their signature cheeky edge. “The Wrong Guy” isn’t just a song to nod along to; it’s an anthem about the unpredictable nature of life and the inevitable misunderstandings we all face. Through driving rhythms and gruff, unapologetic vocals, 9 O’clock Nasty delivers a message that resonates far beyond the surface.

At its core, “The Wrong Guy” tackles the universal experience of being misunderstood or mislabeled. In life, we often find ourselves in situations where, through no fault of our own, we’re misjudged or placed in uncomfortable roles. The song reminds us that these moments of mistaken identity or misinterpretation are unavoidable, but how we respond to them is what truly matters. Instead of resisting the chaos or trying to correct every misunderstanding, “The Wrong Guy” suggests that there is strength in letting go, embracing the unpredictability, and finding a way to move forward.

One of the key moral lessons of the song is the power of acceptance. Life rarely goes according to plan, and misunderstandings—whether at work, in relationships, or in society—can leave us feeling off-balance or unfairly judged. But rather than becoming consumed by the need to prove others wrong, 9 O’clock Nasty offers an alternative perspective: sometimes the best course of action is to accept the situation and let the chips fall where they may. This acceptance doesn’t mean giving up; rather, it’s about recognizing that not everything needs to be controlled or corrected. In many cases, there’s liberation in embracing the chaos and realizing that life is often out of our hands.

Another important takeaway from the song is the idea of resilience. “The Wrong Guy” encourages listeners to not let mistaken identities define them. We all face moments when we’re miscast, misunderstood, or judged unfairly. But instead of allowing these moments to dictate our self-worth or derail our progress, the song suggests using them as opportunities for growth. By leaning into the chaos and finding humor or clarity within it, we can rise above the misjudgments and continue to move forward, stronger than before. In this way, the song becomes a rallying cry for resilience, urging us to embrace life’s unpredictability with confidence and even joy.

Musically, “The Wrong Guy” reflects this theme with its pulsating beats, raw energy, and unexpected shifts. The gruff vocals act as a metaphor for how life can feel abrasive or overwhelming at times, but beneath the surface lies a groove that keeps you grounded. The song’s chaotic structure mirrors the unpredictability of life itself, showing that even when things feel off-kilter, there is always a way to find your footing and move forward.

Ultimately, the message of “The Wrong Guy” is one of empowerment. It encourages us to let go of the need for control, to stop worrying about how others perceive us, and to embrace life’s messiness with open arms. In doing so, we discover a newfound freedom—a sense that we are not defined by the labels or judgments placed upon us, but by how we navigate through the unpredictability. The song reminds us that it’s okay to be “the wrong guy” sometimes because, in those moments of misunderstanding, we often find our truest selves.

In a world where we’re constantly striving for perfection or approval, “The Wrong Guy” serves as a refreshing reminder to accept life as it comes, find strength in the chaos, and always stay true to who we are. With its infectious energy and empowering message, 9 O’clock Nasty has crafted a song that speaks to everyone who has ever felt misunderstood—and shows us that there’s beauty in embracing the madness.

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