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Discover your new favourite bands Start Browsing What's New Artists Myles Azzopardi Andrew Zammit Ismael Bonello Charles Buttigieg Radio KrishTalk - Claudio Toscano Heatstrokes - 11/08/2024 Rock Moods 2439 Reverb 667 WMSG 454 Xejn Ħlief Rock 344 Bands The Rifffs MT Beangrowers From Sheep to Wolves TACT Playzone Latest News Kewn Records - Press Release The Metal Scene in Gozo: A Chronological Journey Through the Island’s Notable Bands Stephan 'Wolff' Borg: From Oblique Visions to Tatius Wolff—A Journey Across Continents and Soundscapes The Quiet Before The Storm: A Technical Dive into Athelstone's Debut Album Mr. Crowley……….The Great Beast, the occultist, the influencer. more news... upcoming events Kuraġġ - A Concert inspired by Real-Life Stories 10 November 2024 Iljieli fit-Teatru Beatfest - Blues Night 11 November 2024 more events... Latest Merch more merch... Quick View Bassic Attitude [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €8.00 Quick View Crossing [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €8.00 Quick View Gravity [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €10.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [T-Shirt-B] | Simon Sammut Price €25.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [T-Shirt-A] | Simon Sammut Price €25.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [Mug] | Simon Sammut Price €15.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [LP] | Simon Sammut Price €25.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €15.00 Quick View Sword of Fierbois [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View Liber III: Codex Templarum [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View Ad Aeturnum [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View Deus Volt [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View State of Chaos [CD] | Animamortua Price €5.00 Quick View Gods Among Us [CD] | Animamortua Price €10.00 Quick View Gods Among Us T-Shirt | Animamortua Price €20.00 Quick View Brotherhood Bundle [CD + DVD] Regular Price €13.00 Sale Price €10.00 Quick View Brotherhood [CD] Price €5.00 Quick View Brotherhood [DVD-BluRay] Price €8.00 Quick View Brotherhood [DVD] Price €8.00 Quick View Niket EP T-Shirt | Niket Price €10.00 Quick View Niket EP Long Sleeve T-Shirt | Niket Price €12.00 Quick View Niket Limited Edition [Cassette] | Niket Price €10.00 Quick View Niket [CD] | Niket Price €10.00 Quick View Promo Bundle | Colourblind Regular Price €13.00 Sale Price €10.00 Artist of the Month Jessica Grech Click to read more about this amazing artist artistofthemonth The Melodija Mix Get ready to rock with our monthly updated playlist of the best the local scene has to offer. Playlist Sponsors

Artists ALL A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A ALL B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Aaron Sammut Drums Aidan Falzon Bass Alan Darmanin Drums Alex Carachi Vocals Alexia Baldacchino Vocals Andre Micallef Bass Andrew Attard Guitars Andrew Triganza Scott Keyboards Andy Fava Guitars Antoine Tonna Bass Banjo Rancho Drums Blasio Muscat Vocals, Bass Adam Bonello Guitars Aidan Zarb Vocalist | Bassist Albert Bell Vocals, Bass, Guitars Alex Fenech Drums Alfred Burd Guitars Andre' Portelli Guitars Andrew Baldacchino Guitars Andrew Vella Zarb Vocals, Guitars Angela Vella Zarb ​ Artem Efimov Guitars Ben Bailey Vocals, Guitars Braden Sultana Vocals Adrian "Skid" Zammit Guitars Alan Briffa Vocals Aldo Chircop Guitars Alexander James Bass Alison Ellul Keyboards Andrea Paro Synth Andrew Micallef Vocals, Guitar Andrew Zammit Singer | Songwriter | Producer AnneMarie Spiteri Vocals Atari James Vocals, Guitars Ben Mifsud Joslin Bass, Vocals Brenda Musu' Guitars Adrian Mizzi Guitars Alan Casha Bass Alessandro Granato Vocals Alexei Sammut Guitars Andre 'Judas' Mallia Vocals Andrea Pro Drums Andrew Muscat Guitars André "Zmily" Caruana Bass Anthony Scicluna Bass Ayrton Muscat Bass Bernard-James Vella Guitars Brian Sammut Bass 1 2 3 ... 8 1 ... 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ... 8

< Back Myles Azzopardi Singer n/a Myles’ journey into music began in his childhood, where he vividly remembers sitting on the floor of his parents’ living room, captivated by MTV rock concerts. Despite having no musicians in his family, he was always drawn to sound. This fascination turned into a reality at the age of 8 when he saw a Squier Stratocaster guitar at a friend’s house, and decided then and there to take guitar lessons. That decision sparked a passion that would define much of his life. The moment that truly ignited his dream of becoming a professional musician came with the creation of his first song, “Take It All Away” with his band Msleads. This song gave Myles the confidence he needed to pursue music more seriously, and it’s a moment he looks back on as pivotal in his journey. Growing up, Myles was heavily influenced by iconic bands like Green Day, Blink-182, and Sum 41, which can be heard in his own music. He also cites bands like Linkin Park, Limp Bizkit, and Rage Against the Machine as major inspirations, influencing the way he approaches his songwriting with heavy guitar riffs and intense energy. His style is rooted in these early influences, blending punk rock’s rawness with the aggression of nu-metal. Between 2002 and 2008, Myles underwent formal training as a guitarist, but his musical development didn’t stop there. Over the years, he taught himself to play bass, piano, drums, and even honed his vocal skills, adding depth to his musicianship. His passion for experimenting with different instruments and genres led him to explore the intersection of hip-hop and metal, a combination that he finds fascinating and unique. Myles has been involved in several projects throughout his career, including Msleads and Milk Mi, where he played guitar and provided backing vocals. His role with Lapes was particularly memorable as he composed the album “Merhba Malta” and contributed backing vocals. He also co-composed “The 6th Chapter” with D Legacy. As a solo artist, Myles has released two EPs: "Wasted Youth Facility" and "Chronic Feelings". One of the most memorable performances of his career was the release of "Chronic Feelings" at 97Notes, a moment that stood out for the crowd’s intense engagement. It felt special for Myles to witness his music resonate with an audience, solidifying his desire to continue creating. However, his path hasn’t always been smooth. After spending over eight years in a band, Myles experienced a shift in common goals among the members, leading to a painful break. He compares the experience to a breakup, one that led him to take a temporary hiatus from music. Despite this, he quickly realized how vital music was to his life and found his way back, collaborating with different artists and reigniting his passion. One of the milestones he’s most proud of is the success of his solo project, for which he gives a great deal of credit to DJ Mac at Valhalla Music, who believed in his vision and helped bring it to life. His solo work has allowed him to take full creative control and explore new themes like self-awareness, mental health, and anti-political sentiment, areas that are becoming increasingly central to his music. Looking to the future, Myles has no shortage of projects. He’s currently working on two mixtapes—one of which will feature songs in Maltese, and the other will be a collaboration with Owen Leuellen. He’s also gearing up for a full-length album, set to be released in 2025, which promises to showcase his evolution as an artist. If given the chance to collaborate with any artist, living or dead, Myles would choose Mac Miller. His dream would be to recreate Miller’s iconic NPR Tiny Desk Concert, a performance that holds a special place in Myles’ heart. Outside of music, Myles has a passion for adrenaline-pumping activities like extreme sports: surfing, skating, and motocross. He also enjoys working with his hands, often building his own furniture, which adds another layer of creativity to his life. Myles’ story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and an ever-evolving love for music. From his early days as a wide-eyed child watching rock concerts on TV to his current exploration of hip-hop and metal, he continues to push boundaries and find new ways to express himself. With numerous projects on the horizon, there’s no doubt that his musical journey is far from over. Discography Date Title Type Listen 2022 Silverlinin EP 2022 27 Single 2022 Going Over EP 2022 Elements Single 2022 Wasted Youth Facility EP 2022 God's Gonna Cut You Down Single 2023 Mazikeen Single 2023 B'Ċejjeċ Tal-Baħar Single 2023 Namaste Single 2024 20XX (An Open Letter To Myself) Single 2024 Anxiety - A Cinematic Experience Single 2024 Anxiety Single 2024 Chronic Feelings EP Member of : Follow the artist

Sammy Bartolo, born Salvu Bartolo on August 18, 1947, in Mellieħa, Malta, is remembered as one of the most beloved Maltese singers and a key figure in the island’s music scene. His life was marked by his distinctive voice and his contributions to Maltese music, both as a solo artist and as the lead vocalist of the iconic band New Cuorey . Bartolo’s musical career spanned more than three decades, earning him a place among the most cherished artists in Malta. He passed away on November 22, 1997, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with his audience today. Early Life and Musical Beginnings Sammy Bartolo’s love for music blossomed at an early age. His first foray into the world of music occurred when he participated in a local song contest organised by the Żgħażagħ Ħaddiema Nsara at the tender age of 9. He initially played the drums and, by the age of 15, had formed his first band with other young musicians from Mellieħa. The early members of this group included his sister Mary Bartolo on vocals, Joe S. Grech on guitar, Joe Debono on bass, and Joe Bartolo on drums. Sammy himself took on the role of lead vocalist, marking the beginning of his long journey in music. Formation of New Cuorey  and International Success Bartolo's music career truly flourished in his twenties when he collaborated with Joe S. Grech, Paul Abela (piano and synths), and Joe Bartolo to form New Cuorey . The group initially performed regularly at the Mellieħa Bay Hotel, and it was there that they gained the nickname "New Cuorey", a term used by hotel residents. This name stuck with them, likely influenced by the numerous Italian tourists staying at the hotel. The band achieved significant success both locally and internationally. In 1972, they embarked on a tour of England, performing in leading clubs across Manchester and Blackpool. Inspired by their growing popularity, they began recording their music. Some of their early hits included songs like Il-Bajja tal-Mellieħa , Riviera Blu , Għajnejk Sbieħ , and Bħal daż-Żmien Konna Flimkien . These songs became instant hits, solidifying New Cuorey ’s position in the Maltese music scene. Their international ventures continued when they performed in Toronto, Canada, where they also appeared on Graham Cable TV  and released the song Id-Dgħajsa tal-Latini . However, one of their most iconic songs, L-Aħħar Bidwi f’Wied il-Għasel , released in 1976, became a timeless Maltese classic. Written by Alfred C. Sant and composed by Paul Abela, the song even gained recognition from Italian artist Claudio Baglioni, who performed it during a 2007 concert in Malta and released it as a single the following year. Notable Performances and Festivals Aside from his work with New Cuorey , Bartolo's career as a soloist was equally impressive. He participated in several Maltese music festivals, including the Malta Song Festival and the Folk Festival. His song Tagħlima , composed by Jo Naudi, earned him second place at the first edition of Konkors Kanzunetta Indipendenza  in 1983, where he also won the Best Singer Award. Over the years, Bartolo continued to participate in these festivals, with entries such as Urini Ħabib  in 1984 and Sewwa Sew Illum  in 1987. In 1982, Bartolo represented Malta in Dresden, Germany, thanks to his participation in the Festival tal-Kanzunetta Maltija . One of his most popular hits, Poeżija , originated from the festival in 1985, becoming another notable song in his repertoire. Later Career and Legacy In 1986, Bartolo formed a new band, The Harmonics , and released a cassette titled Maltese Memories . He continued to collaborate with Paul Abela and Alfred C. Sant on several projects, including the album Unity for Liberation , which was published in Libya. As a versatile artist, he also took on acting roles, notably portraying Jesus Christ in the musical Ikun Li Trid Int , which aired on TVM in 1976. The music from this production was later released as an album. Sammy Bartolo’s contributions to Maltese music did not end with his voice. In 1996, he recorded Ħallini Noħlom , a song featured on a double Christmas compilation album to raise funds for the Eden Foundation, a Maltese charity organisation. His final project came in 1997, when he reunited with the members of New Cuorey  to record their old hits on a CD, adding a new song, Kemm Hu Sabiħ , written by Paul Abela and Ray Mahoney. Sadly, Bartolo passed away on November 22, 1997, at the age of 50, just as the band had planned a tour of Australia. His untimely death marked the end of an era, but his music continued to live on. Commemoration and Ongoing Legacy To honor Bartolo’s memory and his contributions to Maltese music, his band-mates and family have taken numerous initiatives. In 2017, on the 20th anniversary of his death, New Cuorey  guitarist Joe S. Grech spearheaded the release of a commemorative album titled New Cuorey, Sammy Bartolo: Is-Suċċessi . This album, a re-release of their 1997 compilation Il-Bajja tal-Mellieħa , included the original 16 tracks along with a bonus song, Tislima lil Sammy Bartolo: Leħen f’Tarf il-Wied , performed by various Mellieħa artists, including Bartolo’s daughters, Nadine and Luisana. Sammy Bartolo’s legacy lives on through his timeless music, which remains a cherished part of Malta's cultural heritage. His unique voice and his contributions to Maltese music, both as a soloist and with New Cuorey , have left an indelible mark on the island’s music scene. Family Life Sammy Bartolo married Evelyn Debono on January 31, 1970, and together they had four daughters: Claudette, Charlotte, Nadine, and Luisana. His daughters followed in his footsteps, often performing their father’s songs and later embarking on their own musical careers. Sammy Bartolo’s life and career were dedicated to enriching Maltese music, and his contributions remain influential even after his passing. From his early beginnings in local contests to international tours and festival accolades, Bartolo’s impact on the Maltese music landscape is undeniable. His voice, along with the music of New Cuorey , continues to echo through the memories and hearts of many. Bibliography m3p.com . "Sammy Bartolo." Times of Malta . “New Cuorey commemorative album.” December 22, 2017.

Robert Farrugia Releases ‘Ballottra’ Ahead of upcoming soundtrack album ‘Natura Maltija’ Maltese ambient artist Robert Farrugia announces new soundtrack album Natura Maltija, providing a playful, ambient-inspired score of hardware synthesis and orchestral instrumentation to beautiful multi-part Maltese nature documentary About 'Ballottra' ‘Ballottra’ [Eng: Weasel], the first single from the ‘Natura Maltija’ [Eng: Maltese Nature] series soundtrack, is a playful, vibrant composition for Farrugia’s characteristic hardware synthesis,  embodying the agile, miniature, rarely-seen Maltese weasel. Employing orchestral instrumentation alongside synthesisers, the piece - as with the remainder of the record - is as lively, unique, and delicate as Malta’s fertile but isolated natural ecosystem. Throughout, nimble piano motifs  flutter atop strings, synth drones, and arpeggiation in deft and elegant symbiosis. In contrast to more poignant and melancholic moments elsewhere on the record,  highlighting the challenges facing Malta’s ecosystems, “Ballottra” evokes wonder and playfulness, celebrating its beauty. About 'Natura Maltija' [Official Soundtrack] Farrugia’s ‘Natura Maltija’ score marries traditional and organic orchestration with contemporary ambient-aligned sound design to support the narrative of the documentary series - itself a rare and deeply engaging longform experience, unique to the tiny Mediterranean archipelago Just as the series, Farrugia’s soundtrack captures the breadth and beauty of Malta's diverse wildlife. Each track corresponds a specific lifeform, both fauna and flora, while recurring motifs and instrumentation bind the album and series into an overarching narrative. Recorded, as usual, in his home studio, Farrugia worked closely with the series producers to offer both celebratory and wistful storytelling. Bugeddum Bufula Fkieren Lhudi Qabru Merill Gamiem Ballottra Qarnita Tema Series producer and director Saviour Bonnici's inspiration to create Natura Maltija [Eng: Maltese Nature] stems from a young age, largely influenced by his father, who shared his knowledge and passion for the natural world. Bonnici came to understand  that Maltese nature, rich in biodiversity - there are over 11,000 species, 130 of which endemic - was under threat. Sensing a want of environmental education in the Maltese school system, he took action. Natura Maltija, a beautifully shot and directed, entirely Maltese-language documentary series showcasing the island’s unique flora and fauna, was broadcast on One, a key terrestrial channel on Maltese television Bonnici met Robert Farrugia through mutual friend in Malta’s small but fraternal music scene, proposing that  Farrugia’s ambient prodcution matched the tone envisioned for the series. The soundtrack became essential in conveying each species’ story: wonderment for the rare weasel (‘“Ballottra’”) and sadness for the endangered Maltese freshwater crab (“Qabru”).  The first series, now completed, and already domestically broadcast, Natura Maltija is to expand its reach., with plans to make the series internationally available across online media platforms, with newly added English language subtitles.  The second series of Natura Maltija will be integrated into the local education system via the Maltese Ministry of Education, helping to promote nature education among students and foster a long lasting awareness of Malta's biodiversity. About Robert Farrugia Robert Farrugia is a dynamic and continually evolving ambient artist whose palette has, over years of releasing solo music, grown to touch on  drone, neoclassical, downtempo, and IDM. Drawn to acoustic instrumentation with significant personal value,  such as his family’s Weinbach piano,  these instruments become more than just tools for his compositional practice, they act as unique characters, each adding its own voice and depth. Milestones in his career include the releases of Tines in 2016 and Slow Morning in 2017, both on Spain’s Archives Records. He has also collaborated with Dylan Henner for one-off track "Xochitlatcan", and reworked Past Inside the Present boss zakè's "New Dawn" for the latter’s remix collection. ‘Ballottra’ Visualiser Check out the visualiser for the track on our Youtube Channel. Footage provided by series producer and director Saviour Bonnici. Copyright (C) 2024 Kewn Records. All rights reserved

Gozo, a small Mediterranean island covering just 67 square kilometres and with a population of approximately 39,287, has nurtured a surprisingly vibrant metal scene over the years. Despite its size, Gozo has produced a number of talented metal bands spanning various sub-genres of metal. Below is a chronological exploration of ten of the most influential and interesting bands to emerge from this small yet dynamic metal scene. 1. Apotheosis (Epic Symphonic Black/Thrash Metal) - Formed in 1993 Apotheosis was one of the earliest pioneers of metal in Gozo, formed in 1993 and spearheaded by the enigmatic Sauron , who handled vocals and all instruments. His sound blended black and thrash metal with symphonic elements, creating an epic atmosphere. Apotheosis left his mark with the demo Shadows Eve  in 1995, followed by Promo 97  in 1997. His crowning achievement came in 2002 with the release of Farthest From The Sun , a full-length album that cemented their influence. The ‘band’ remains on hold, but the contribution to the island’s metal scene remains significant. 2. Emetos (Thrash/Black Metal) - Formed in 1995 Emetos emerged in 1995 and quickly established themselves with their demo Demon . The band explored heavy themes like death, disease, altered states, and politics in their music, setting them apart in the local scene. In 1995, they also released a split with Guloo, a band from Bogota, Columbia, further diversifying their presence. In 2008, they released another demo, Bestial Possession . While Emetos is currently inactive, their intense style and politically charged lyrics made them a unique fixture in Gozo’s underground metal community. 3. Daemor (Black Metal) - Formed in 1996 Daemor was formed in 1996 by the musician known only as Blood , who performed all instruments and vocals. Daemor’s sound was raw, dark, and introspective, with lyrics revolving around war, death, and sorrow. The ‘band’ released two demos: Moments of Misery  in 1996 and Fog of Dawn  in 1997. Notably, Sauron  from Apotheosis contributed keyboards to their 1997 demo. Although Daemor is no longer active, ‘they’ remain a key player in the early days of Gozo’s black metal scene. 4. Enraged (Speed/Thrash Metal) - Active in the 1990s Another early band, Enraged, helped to lay the foundation for the thrash metal scene in Gozo. While information on the band is scarce, their demos, WWIII  (1992) and a rehearsal tape in 1994, are evidence of their participation in the local metal underground. Although little more is known about their history, their presence in the early 90s is worth noting as one of the roots of the island's metal movement. 5. Inner Grey (Progressive Metal/Rock) - Formed in 2007 Inner Grey brought a progressive edge to Gozo’s metal scene. Active from 2007 to 2016, they released the demo If Symptoms Persist  in 2008. Their lineup featured talented musicians such as Blasio Muscat (who with Joe Costa later formed Ascendor), John Cassar on vocals, Anthony Fenech on drums, and Joe Costa on guitars (ex-Rising Sunset). Despite splitting up in 2016, Inner Grey’s blend of progressive metal and rock left an indelible mark on Gozo’s musical landscape. 6. Ascendor (Thrash Metal) - Formed in 2011 Formed in 2011, Ascendor became one of Gozo's most prominent thrash metal bands. Despite being momentarily on hiatus, they released several full-length albums, including Becoming  (2013), Drive My Demons Away  (2015), Disturb the Dust  (2018), and Circle of Violence  (2020). Their lineup includes accomplished musicians Paul Formosa (also with Sonic Storm) on drums, Steve Muscat on vocals, and Blasio Muscat on bass and Joe Costa and Andy Fava, both on guitars. Thematically, the band explores topics such as inner demons, domination, and faith, contributing depth to their high-energy thrash sound. 7. Upper Lip (Hard Rock) - Formed in 2013 Upper Lip spurs a nostalgic and groovy brand of hard rock, drawing inspiration from both the stunning natural surroundings of Gozo and classic rock influences such as Rush, AC/DC, Rory Gallagher, The Smiths, and even Waylon Jennings. Since their inception in 2013, the band quickly gained a warm reception from rock fans, performing at numerous gigs and festivals across the islands. Their energetic live performances soon translated into more invitations to play. In 2019, Upper Lip embarked on a major project to record their debut album at the renowned Temple Studios, a location that has hosted prominent acts like Rammstein and Siouxsie and the Banshees. The result was Deep Within , an 11-track album released in May 2021, capturing the band’s signature groove and live energy. The singles Keep Going  and What Makes You Smile  both came with music videos, the former channelling the pumping spirit of 80s rock anthems. The band's lineup features Chris Portelli on vocals, Joseph Azzopardi as the lead guitarist and songwriter, Marcel Paul Grima on bass, and Clyde Vella on drums. Upper Lip remains active and continues to bring their hard rock sound to audiences both locally and beyond. 8. Psychopath (Thrash/Black Metal) - Formed in 2016 Victoria-based Psychopath has been an active force in the local scene since 2016, and is a project by Sean Attard, who handles both vocals and instruments. The 2020 full-length album Teratogenesis delves into dark and provocative themes, including Satanism, anti-Christianity, psychopathy, and anti-government sentiments. Sean Attard's involvement in multiple projects, including Mur.Doc 104, demonstrates his versatility and commitment to Gozo’s metal scene. 9. Aeon’s Child (Progressive Heavy Metal) - Formed in 2016 Formed in 2016, Aeon’s Child takes a more progressive approach, leaning towards instrumental compositions. The project, a brainchild of Kris Vella, released its self-titled album Aeon’s Child  in 2017, which showcased intricate musicianship and atmospheric soundscapes. The instrumental style sets him apart from many of the darker, lyrically intense bands in Gozo, offering a melodic and progressive take on heavy metal. 10. Zabbeth (Black/Thrash Metal) - Formed in 2021  Sean Attard’s other project Zabbeth is one of the newer additions to Gozo’s metal scene, formed in 2021 and still very much active. In 2022, ‘they’ released their self-titled debut album Zabbeth , which features Sean performing all instruments and vocals. The music follows in the footsteps of black and thrash metal traditions, with lyrical themes centred around Satanism and evil. The ‘band’ released a split with the U.S.-based band Vaulderie in 2024, showcasing their ambition to expand beyond local shores. The metal scene in Gozo, though emerging from a small and relatively isolated location, has produced a wide variety of bands over the decades. From the pioneering black and thrash metal acts of the 90s to the progressive and experimental projects of more recent years, Gozo’s metal community has proven itself to be passionate, diverse, and resilient. Whether through intense themes of death and darkness or explorations of progressive musicianship, these bands have collectively built a vibrant and unique metal culture on this small Mediterranean island.