VISITANTES DEL ESPACIO

 HEAVY METAL BAND FROM 

THE ARGENTINE ATLANTIC COAST

Interview with Bass player & Lead singer Federico Cepeda

Photographs: Courtesy of Visitantes del Espacio

Interview by Adriana Rubio

Hailing from the coastal city of Mar del Plata, Visitantes del Espacio is a power trio formed by Federico Cepeda (bass & lead vocals), Tomás Nicoliello (drums & backing vocals), and Juan Pablo Ortíz (guitar). The band is currently carving out a powerful legacy of pure heavy metal.

Originally formed in 2017 in Miramar, the band launched their journey with early releases including their self-titled debut and “Zona de Nadie” (2018). While their initial sound was into the roots of hard rock and classic blues, they progressively mutated into the fierce of heavy metal direction. And that's what defines them today in 2026, however the transition's been captured in their EPs “Live Session 2022” and “Acero Espacial” (2023).

"Following the pandemic, the band hit a ceiling—recognizing that to keep growing, we needed to expand beyond local boundaries. Moving the project to Mar del Plata marked a definitive turning point: the band erupted into a new era with a fresh logo, new lyrics, and a much heavier sound".

"The band went through several line-ups over the years, the current one is what we are as we've been together for nearly four years. Tommy, the original drummer who rejoined the group, Juan Pablo Ortíz, a Mar del Plata guitarist who enriches the sound with his arrangements, and myself Federico Cepeda on bass and lead singing".

Over the years, their live performances have earned them shared stages alongside legendary national and international heavyweights, including: Vox Dei, Horcas, Tano Marciello, and El Reloj, Paul Di'Anno, Mark Boals, Yngwie Malmsteen, Glenn Hughes, Gilby Clarke, and the Graham Bonnet Band.

"Beyond the music, Visitantes del Espacio thrives on strong human chemistry and a strictly democratic creative process. Although I usually start the songwriting and lyrics, the tracks truly come alive in the rehearsal room, where Tommy shapes the rhythms, intros, so then Juan Pablo crafts the guitar work"

The band did an amazing work with their latest full-length record, “Para Ver Al Mundo Arder” (To Watch the World Burn). Heavily influenced by the NWOBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal), the album packs 8 fast-paced, uncompromising tracks. Rather than trying to reinvent the wheel, Visitantes del Espacio delivers a straightforward, authentic heavy metal record—loaded with true identity and an abrasive, crushing sound.  

"More than just a musical trio, the group operates with a positive, leading energy supported by a tight network of friends and family. From attending rehearsals and gigs to sharing meals together, this family environment feeds directly into the band’s drive and stage presence"

Looking ahead, Visitantes del Espacio will be performing live on August 8th (Miramar)at a charity festival in their former hometown of Miramar to collect toys for Children's Day (Día del Niño). They will then perform on September 12th (Mar del Plata) in major headline show at the historic venue Vinoteca Perrier, sharing the stage with Bardoma (visiting from Buenos Aires) and a Black Sabbath tribute band.

"This September 12th date in Mar del Plata serves as a crucial milestone as the band will be live-testing 4 or 5 brand-new, unreleased songs before entering the studio as an exclusive first look at where their sound is heading next".

Visitantes del Espacio Social Media, where to listen, where to watch their videos and how to follow them: 

https://www.instagram.com/visitantesdelespacio?igsh=MXM4emJhbG

https://open.spotify.com/track/58o7K0UCpCBq4I3FA6J5Ef?si=E6L3WxeHQp2lvaQT9D07hA

https://youtube.com/@visitantesdelespaciooficia7239?si=viVFfuAczbItNCpH

Thank you!

See you on the road!

HELLSINKI METAL FESTIVAL 2026

A MUST ATTEND WEEKEND 

FOR TRUE METAL FANS

Hellsinki Metal Festival returns to the Helsinki Ice Hall area on August 7–8, 2026. The fourth edition of this Festival will feature a wide-ranging lineup of both legendary acts and underground artists, promising the heaviest festival ever, where metal heads share the same passion, music!

This year's headliners present a remarkable diversity of musical styles within the metal genre. The main stage will feature the progressive excellence of Opeth, the iconic German heavy metal band Accept, and the American musician, producer, singer and songwriter Zakk Wylde best known as the lead guitarist for the late Ozzy Osbourne, performing with his band Black Label Society.

Regarding Accept, it is great to highlight that the band has marked 50 years in the music industry since their formation in 1976. It will be a privilege to see them at the festival along with other notable acts like Paradise Lost and Carcass, Triptykon, Bloodbath and Unleashed, Cryptopsy, Omnium Gatherum on their 30^th anniversary and Kalmah.

Dates: August 7–8, 2026

Location: Nordis (Helsinki Ice Hall), Nordenskiöldinkatu 11-13.

Age Limit: 18+ (The festival is strictly for adults).

For tickets and more detailed info on the festival, please visit the official site at:

https://hellsinkimetalfestival.fi/en/

 

 

"KALMAH"

THE FROSTY INFLUENCE 

BEHIND NORDIC METAL BAND KALMAH

By Adriana Rubio

From Pudasjärvi, Finland, Kalmah has spent over twenty years crafting a unique heavy metal style. While often compared to bands like Children of Bodom or Insomnium, Kalmah sets itself apart with "Swamplord" themes, technical skill, and a neoclassical thrash sound.

Established in 1998 after the dissolution of Ancestor, Kalmah, under the leadership of brothers Pekka and Antti Kokko, quickly developed a distinctive musical style. The release of their debut album, Swamplord in 2000, laid the foundation for the band's subsequent works.

The cold weather in Finland has a profound influence on Nordic metal. It shapes the dark, atmospheric tones and introspective themes, reflecting the harsh and beautiful landscapes. Many metal bands draw on this environment to create music that's both haunting and powerful, with a sense of mystique and melancholy. It's like the cold tempers the metal, giving a unique picture of what you hear.

Kalmah is currently undertaking an extensive tour across China and Japan during April and May 2026. The tour showcases a strong Finnish sound presence, with Kalmah serving as the headliner, joined by the prominent Finnish melodic death metal bands Suotana and ...And Oceans. 

Tour Dates & Locations:

April 24, 2026: Shanghai, China (Encore Space)

April 25, 2026: Beijing, China (Omni Space)

April 26, 2026: Chengdu, China (Vibe Live Pro)

April 28, 2026: Guangzhou, China (Mao Livehouse)

Growth in the Chinese Scene

Kalmah's presence in China has grown significantly. After touring several cities—such as Wulumuqi, Beijing, and Shanghai—in January 2024, the band's return in 2026 to perform in even larger venues points to remarkable growth in China's metal scene. Fans are energetic, and Kalmah frequently comments on the enthusiastic welcome they receive from crowds when delivering their signature "swamp metal" in these major cities.

To complete the tour: May 1 & 2, 2026: Tokyo, Japan (Shibuya Stream Hall) – part of the Suomi Feast festival.

The "Suomi Feast" Connection

One of the standout moments for Kalmah in Japan is their involvement with Suomi Feast, an event dedicated to celebrating Finnish metal music. The band has become a regular fixture at this festival, often performing unique sets tailored for their Japanese audience. For the 2026 edition, they're scheduled to play two nights in a row in Tokyo, which highlights their strong following in the city.

Kalmah

Kalmah (Official) | Facebook

VILLANELLE DEBUT EP

 'MEASLY MEANS'

OUT ON MAY 8TH, 2026

Villanelle is a rock trio from London, featuring Gene Gallagher on vocals and guitar, Ben Taylor as lead guitarist, and Jack Schiavo playing bass. This group has become an influential presence in the UK music scene, combining the energy of the 90s alternative music with contemporary British elements. 

After nearly two years of preparation in the studio, the band’s Debut EP, Measly Means, is finally set for release in early May 2026. While some might have expected them to rush out music during their high-profile stint opening the 'Definitely Maybe 30th Anniversary tour', the band intentionally pulled back, so they've been recording tracks multiple times until they felt it right.

Villanelle’s sound is defined by powerful guitar riffs combined with an ambient fuzz style inspired from bands like Nirvana, The Smashing Pumpkins and Deftones. However, there's a more deepen word to that observation as some critics tend to compare the sound of the band to the 90s Grunge era.

Debut EP Measly Means offers five tracks full of intense drops of dark and heavy, fuzzed-out guitars reminiscent of the moody style of Soundgarden and Alice In Chains, though not cited as influences in promo materials, there's a revival appreciation of those emotional tunes mixed with their unique musical energy and vibe. However, Gene Gallagher mentioned in a recent radio show his interest in the 2000s nu-metal bands like Limp Bizkit and Korn.

For more information on the Debut EP Measly Means, tour dates and more, feel free to visit the band's official website at:

https://villanellemusic.com/

https://www.instagram.com/villanellemusic/

DARK RIVER FESTIVAL 2026

"Metal Reborn in the Heart of Kotka"  

Two nights of non-stop metal riffs 

Article by Adriana Rubio

The Dark River Festival 2026 will once again transform the city of Kotka into one of the Nordic region’s most compelling metal destinations. After the strong momentum of the 2024 and 2025 performances, the festival enters this year with heightened expectations that reflects both its local roots expanding internationally as many metalheads travel from different countries to get there.

 

The 2026 program brings together leading Finnish acts and notable European names, underscoring Dark River’s evolution from a regional gathering into an international well-known stage to enjoy the greatest dominant musical forces of melodeath tunes, trash metal, deathcore, pagan black metal, symphonic black metal and punk metal extremely well performed.

• – Bloodred Hourglass 
• – Mokoma 
• – Marianas Rest
• – Kaunis Kuolematon 
• – Fear of Domination 
• – Assemble the Chariots   
• – Moonspell 
• – Whispered 
• – Havukruunu   
• – And Oceans 
• – High School Dropouts

A festival setting in an incredible Nordic location surrounded by towering pines, offering an atmosphere that feels both intimate and immersive. It’s the kind of place where bands find new layers to their sound and high‑energy acts very close to the audience.

Tickets  

Dark River Festival offers single‑day passes, full‑weekend tickets, and limited VIP upgrades. Early‑bird tiers typically sell out quickly, and on‑site availability is not guaranteed, making advance purchase strongly recommended. Tickets can only be purchased by Tiketti at: 

Dark River Festival 2026 | Tickets | Tiketti

Kotka offers plenty of places to stay, from downtown hotels to cozy guesthouses and rental cabins. With more visitors coming from abroad each year, spots can get booked up months before the festival, so it’s a good idea to make reservations early.

Kotka lies roughly 130 km east of Helsinki. International visitors usually arrive via Helsinki Airport and continue by bus, train, or car. Additional local connections operate frequently during the festival period.

The Dark River Festival has a Clear Identity, a professionally run event that maintains the warmth and accessibility of a community‑driven festival. You can't miss the Nordic Metal Festival experience.

For additional information on how to get there, tickets, lineup and more, please visit the official website at: 

EN - Dark River Festival 

CYNIC BAND

 An Upcoming Night of  
Progressive Metal Alchemy in Buenos Aires

Article By Adriana Rubio

On January 17th, 2026, Buenos Aires will host one of those rare, transformative nights when musicianship, emotion, and cosmic intensity collide onstage. Cynic, one of the most innovative and influential progressive metal bands of our time, are bringing their Latin America tour to Argentina —.

Formed in Miami, Florida’s vibrant metal scene around 1987, Cynic spent decades pushing musical boundaries, blending genres, and creating the sound of their own. They’ve built a loyal global fanbase — and their live performances are truly unforgettable.

They will be arriving in Buenos Aires alongside the avant‑garde force Imperial Triumphant, promising a night where metal meets art, ritual, and pure sonic exploration.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of the legendary Focus and Traced in Air records, or you’ve recently fallen into the musical universe that Cynic offer, this show is the chance to witness a band that changed the shape of progressive music — and continues to evolve, so you can't miss it.

Event Details

• Date: January 17, 2026

• City: Buenos Aires, Argentina

• Venue: La Trastienda (as listed on Passline)

• Time: 19:00 hs (7:00 pm).

Passline — the ticketing platform — currently lists La Trastienda as the official venue.)

Cynic will be arriving in Buenos Aires with a lineup that reflects the band’s legacy and its own ongoing evolution.

• Paul Masvidal — guitars & vocals

• Brandon Giffin — bass

• Mike Gilbert — guitar

• Michel Bélanger — drums

With Paul Masvidal at the helm — a musician whose work with Cynic and Death (Chuck Schuldiner's band -RIP-), helped shape the progressive and metal sound — the show will turn into more than just a performance, it will be the golden bridge connecting decades of drive, influences, creativity and generations of fans.

Welcome Cynic to Argentina!

Music | Cynic

Kiesel Masvidalien MIII - Paul Masvidal Signature Hybrid Guitar

R.I.P OZZY OSBOURNE

 THE PRINCE OF DARKNESS PASSED AWAY AT 76

John Michael “Ozzy” Osbourne, famously known as the Prince of Darkness, peacefully passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76, with his family by his side.

Just weeks earlier, he gifted fans with an unforgettable Back to the Beginning concert, held on July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham, England.

Ozzy reunited with the original Black Sabbath lineup—Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—for the first time in years. Seated on a winged throne due to his health condition, enjoyed the event and gave it all by singing for the audience the greatest singing of classic songs from his solo career plus the epic moment with Black Sabbath. 

The concert counted with the care and support of many rock stars and bands from different styles and genres to honor Ozzy and Black Sabbath on what it was the last stellar gig arranged by Sharon Osbourne as she worked hard for months to honor Ozzy wishes and give fans a final celebration worthy of his legacy.  

In a Statement released after his passing, Sharon wrote:

-Ozzy was the love of my life, my best friend, and the strongest soul I've ever known. He lived loud, loved hard and gave everything to his music and fans. Thank you for loving him with us-

🖤 Rest easy, Ozzy. The crazy train may have pulled into its final station, but your ride will echo forever!

THANK YOU!

CHRIS CORNELL

A SINGING MELODY THAT NEVER FADES

(July 20th, 1964 - May 18, 2017)

As we mark the eighth anniversary of Chris Cornell's passing, his singing melodies remind us of the profound impact he had on the world and the void his absence has left. We honor his memory, celebrating the timeless artistry that continues to inspire. 

You're greatly missed

R.I.P Chris Cornell 

 

BUENOS AIRES BOOK FAIR

 THE 49TH BUENOS AIRES BOOK FAIR

The International Book Fair of Buenos Aires is taking place in a venue that extends over 45,000 square meters, is the most popular book fair in the Spanish-speaking world. The three-week event is being visited by more than thousands and thousands of readers, and more than 12,000 book professional training stands and activities with authors, editors, publishers, book sellers, literary agents, distributors, illustrators, translators and many more coming from different cities and countries.

The Fair is organized by Fundación El Libro, a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote books and reading habits. It was held for the first time in 1975; and has grown over the years. In the present days is one of the most important cultural events in the world.

On Thursday April 24th, the Fair opened to the public offering an extensive program that includes conferences, book presentations, courses, talks, book signings among many other activities. The Fair has been honored with the visits of authors of the stature of José Saramago, Paul Auster, John M. Coetzee, Mario Vargas Llosa, José Mauro de Vasconcelos, Italo Calvino, Jorge Amado, Susan Sontag, Ray Bradbury, Elena Poniatowska, Doris Lessing, Julián Marías, Edgar Morin, Hanif Kureishi, Eduardo Galeano, José Donoso, Camilo José Cela, Tom Wolfe, José Mauro de Vasconcelos, Wilbur Smith, Marc Augé, Cees Nooteboom, Carlos Fuentes, and Henning Mankell, to name just a few.

• 
  
  

Access points

The entrance gates and the respective ticket offices was located at:

Avenida Santa Fe 4201
Avenida Sarmiento 2704 and parking lot
Avenida Cerviño 4474 (ticket office enabled for debit payment) and parking lot

MASTERS OF ROCK

Buenos Aires, ready to rock! 
April 26th, 2025

Celebrating the Masters'30th anniversary of Pure Rocking!

@akemusic and @mercuryconcerts

Promotional article by Adriana Rubio

Concert Venue: Tecnópolis

The Masters of Rock is bringing the legends of rock music to Argentina on April 26th. Don't miss this epic event featuring electrifying performances by your favorite rock icons: Scorpions, Judas Priest, Europe, Queensrÿche, Savatage and Opeth. Get your tickets now and be part of the ultimate rock experience! 

Fullticket.com

The Masters of Rock Festival is storming into town with an electrifying lineup to celebrate its 30 years anniversary!

You can't miss it!

@akemusic and @mercuryconcerts

Scorpions: Winners of the Legend Award are coming to the show to Rock You Like A Hurricane! Known for an iconic trajectory of rock ballads and anthems like 'Wind of Change', 'Still Loving You' and 'Rock You Like a Hurricane, among so many other great tunes.

Judas Priest: Masters of heavy metal, famous and loved for their fierce riffs, killing guitars and astonishing singing power on hits like 'Pain Killer','Breaking the Law', 'You've Got Another Thing Comin', 'Electric Eye', 'Turbo Lover', and dozens of great headbanging tunes.

Savatage: They are back after a decade of no recording and touring! An amazing heavy metal band known for their unique theatrical style, the kings of 'Hall of the Mountain King' are on track again.

Europe: The Swedish rockers best known for their anthemic hits like 'The Final Countdown', 'Carrie', 'Love Chaser' and 'Superstitious', these rockers are coming to Rock The Night!

Queensrÿche: The progressive metal band recognized as genius in the genre for their concept and epic albums 'Operation: Mindcrime', 'Empire' and 'Promise Land', these guys are the Queen Of The Reich since 1983!

Opeth: A Swedish band from Stockholm known for their unique blend of progressive metal-rock with a mix of folk and blues, with critically acclaimed albums like 'Blackwater Park', 'Damnation', 'Pale Communion' and 'Sorceress'. They are bringing The Last Will and Testament as their latest release dated November 2024.

@akemusic and @mercuryconcerts

MASTERS OF ROCK! AN INCREDIBLE LINE-UP!

YOU CAN'T MISS IT!

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW!

Fullticket.com