SINGER GABBY ROVERANO

 The Singing Voice That Caught DIO's Ear and Heart
An Interview with Gabby Roverano

Interview & Article By Adriana Rubio

Photos: Courtesy of Roverano Management

Gabby Roverano is an Argentine mezzo-soprano singer with a powerful range influenced by classic heavy metal, hard rock, and blues. She received vocal and technical training at the age of fifteen, and her journey across different stages and recording studios led her to front her own band, Roverano, in 2017, using her surname with conviction as a way to affirm her autonomy.

'I never had the intention of forming a band under my own surname. It came about through a series of circumstances, and even a musician friend suggested it to me. I had been in several bands as a vocalist performing my own material, but when those projects dissolved or problems arose among the members, it became complicated because I would lose autonomy over my material and my copyrights. Over time, I began to realize that, from my spiritual conviction, the legacy of music is the spiritual legacy of what one leaves behind. That is the place from which I stand before the audience, because that is how the band was conceived: it carries my surname, my identity, and a place earned through many years of work.'

 'Initially, I was working with producer Martín Toledo, one of the producers of La Nave de Osberg and of Rata Blanca’s album La Llave de la Puerta Secreta. The plan was to produce me and release an album for Mexico. The project was cut short because of a series of conditions I did not accept. Then Toledo told me that all the compositional material was mine, and that I had spent a long time working on it. The material dated back to 2013, and honestly, I was not willing to go through situations where I would lose autonomy again. That is how Roverano came to be, under my own surname'.

Roverano was originally formed with Martín Lou on bass —her husband of ten years—, Hernán Bertrán on drums, whom she considers her best friend, and original guitarist Javier Durán. The current lineup also includes Gastón Peligro on lead guitar, Alejandro Aguirre on rhythm guitar, who also sings, and Fabián Lasswitz on keyboards.

Among her greatest influences are icons such as Ronnie James Dio, David Coverdale, Bruce Dickinson, and Rob Halford. However, her strongest influence is undoubtedly Ronnie James Dio:

'I come from the magic of that school, the school of DIO. The quality of the live shows was incredible. The records are amazing, but seeing that man perform live at that age was pure magic.'

'I took classes with different teachers, but once I was able to define my style and where I wanted to go, I began incorporating those tools in a more independent and self-taught way. I learned different vocal techniques —how to place the voice, when to use chest voice or head voice, and how to do it with a solid foundation— until, over the years, all of that became internalized and now comes to me quite intuitively. Much of my training came from getting up on stage, through live experience and different projects. For me, that was the best school, or at least the path I had to take.'

Gabby reflects on the band's musical identity and adds:

'There were several influences, especially in the newer songs from the second album and in the singles we released, all of which include some Nu Metal elements. There is also a bit of grunge and stoner, because as the band grew, each member began adding their own imprint to the music and the sound. Naturally, the compositional side also evolved. The lyrics are no longer as epic, and the song structure is not the same as it was at the beginning; it is more introspective. As for the songwriting process, we are exploring different situations, creating a fusion of Metal and Nu Metal. That would be Roverano's sound and identity.'

The band led by Gabby Roverano released its first studio album, Anagnórisis, in 2018. It was followed by the singles Hamartia in 2022, Hybris, and more recent productions that incorporate the band's new influences and the evolving imprint brought by each member.

Gabby Roverano received Ronnie James Dio’s endorsement as a vocalist in 2009 after listening to Gabby’s version of Heaven and Hell. The connection was magical, it meant a lot and validated Gabby’s place on stage, strengthening her confidence and conviction as the leader and vocalist for her own creation: Roverano.

Roverano will perform live on Saturday, August 22, at Uniclub, joining iconic former Rata Blanca members Gustavo Rowek, Sergio Berdichevsky, and Mario Ian as a major supporting act. The group is recognized for the album Entre el Cielo y el Infierno. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. at Guardia Vieja 3360, CABA, around the corner from Abasto.

 

Roverano’s schedule promises plenty of activity, with several dates planned in venues with broad public reach. We'll keep you informed. 

THANK YOU GABBY ROVERANO!

roveranooficial

 

 

INTERVIEW WITH DRUMMER GUSTAVO ROWEK

 

THE PASSION OF A HEAVY METAL PIONEER

Interview and Article by Adriana Rubio

From the foundations of V8, through his success in Rata Blanca, to countless projects such as Nativo, Rowek, IAN, and Entre el Cielo y el Infierno, Gustavo Rowek is the inexhaustible heartbeat of Argentine metal.

'And the truth is that I feel like a fundamental part of the story. I got to be V8's drummer, I recorded V8's albums, and I am one of the four who practically invented the history of metal. Also, being a founding member of Rata Blanca, a band that would mark a before and after in metal from the point of view of a popular band. I was part of a generation that laid the foundations for an entire movement.'

For Gustavo Rowek, music is his vital force, his passion, and his reason for being alive. As he himself says, this is the life he chose, and his desire is to squeeze every drop out of it, leaving an indelible mark both on his own path and on the history of Argentine metal.

'This is my passion, my driving force in life; it is what moves me, what I like, and I never stop. I have a slogan that says when you work doing what you love, you are not working. (laughs) This is the only life I know. And to see if there is another one, you must die, and I am not interested in that. I like leaving the mark of my own path. And when you leave a mark on your own path, you do it in general, and that is what motivates me.'

His foundational role is undeniable: he was part of V8 and was later fundamental in the birth of Rata Blanca, a band that marked a before and after in the genre on a popular level. Despite the challenges and professional demands of his time in Rata Blanca, Gustavo acknowledges the growth he experienced there, but emphasizes that in his current projects, such as Nativo and Rowek, he has recovered total freedom to be the composer of his music and express his vision without constraints.

'Rata changed my life; undoubtedly, as a musician, it was the biggest thing that could have happened to me, especially because it gave me access to a market that was not reserved for a heavy metal band, always speaking from that place,' he clarifies. 'The best stages, the best equipment, staff, planes, the best hotels, a magical life at 26 years old. Rata's peak caught me at 26. At 18, I was already playing in V8.'

That inexhaustible need to keep him creating is the true engine that drives his desire to walk through life offering music and rhythm. For Rowek, each of his projects is an extension of his philosophy, a way to keep that inner flame alive and continue building a musical path where he has absolute creative control.

'Rata transforms me into another world, but it did not define my own style with my instrument or as a composer. Rata had a lot of beautiful things, but unlike V8, a power trio where I was an absolute composer alongside Osvaldo, Beto, and Ricardo. In Rata,  Walter was the author of 95% of the compositions, and in his mind as an author, he imagined a completely straight drum part, so I went from a power trio to a sextet where what stood out were the guitar and the voice, no longer the band. So, in quotation marks, I had to do a rather primary job, which undoubtedly made me grow professionally: absolute demand, six-hour rehearsals every day, playing with a metronome, incorporating playing with a chamber orchestra. It professionalized me in many ways. However, in the compositional aspect, I contributed much more in V8 and in the bands and projects I put together afterward, such as Nativo, Rowek, IAN, and Entre el Cielo y el Infierno (EECYEI), where I play freely and I am the author of the music.'

For Gustavo, music is his refuge and his only direction, and it is admirable to see how that passion leaves him no room for the boredom or monotony of those who can watch television for hours.

Beyond the great stages and the history built over decades, Gustavo Rowek finds in his fellow traveler, Sergio Berdichevsky, much more than a musical colleague. Their relationship, forged when they were barely sixteen years old, is built on deep empathy and unbreakable complicity. As Gustavo himself defines it, it is a deep bond that translates into a harmonious working environment. This connection is the engine that allows them to continue composing with complete freedom and joy after so many years of making music.

'We have a very empathetic concept of life. Sergio and I have been friends since we were 16; I am 63. My children call him uncle, and to my wife he is like a little brother. We have a very deep bond that cannot be explained. We get along well; neither of us would ever wish harm on the other. He is my friend.'

At present, Gustavo is immersed in the project Entre el Cielo y el Infierno, based on Rata Blanca's classic album Entre el Cielo y el Infierno.

'It is one of Rata's albums where the singer was Mario Ian. Personally, the singer I like the most is Mario, a guy who sings better and better; it is unbelievable—(laughs). We agreed that Rata does not play the album Entre el Cielo y el Infierno with Barilari, so for its 25th anniversary we did a show, and the response from the people back in 2019 was incredible. Then came the pandemic, and later we resumed. People really liked the proposal; it is an astonishing album. It is an album where we had begun composing after all that compositional pause we talked about before, so half of that album is ours: Mario's, Sergio's, dear Guillermo's (God keep him)—he gets emotional—and mine. We pushed ahead and started playing it, but we also wanted to give artistic continuity with new songs, and that is how Enviados and El árbol del bien y el mal came about.'

Continuing with this wave of activity, all eyes are on the August 22 date at Uniclub, where they are expected to premiere Resiliencia, a new track that joins EECYEI's artistic repertoire.

And on the international front, they will continue with an imminent tour in Mexico that will include six dates, thus consolidating the inexhaustible heartbeat of this Argentine heavy metal legend.

THANK YOU, GUSTAVO ROWEK!

KAMIKAZE Revives Its Classic Album

Kamikaze 3

Celebrating 35 Years Since 

Its Original Release

Article By Adriana Rubio

Photos By Adriana Rubio

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina, Friday-August 7th — Kamikaze had an emotional fan meeting for an important signing at Plaza Música (Shopping Abasto), where Enrique Gómez Yafal, Martyn Knye, Horacio Pinasco, and Jorge “Patón” Cimino reunited with fans for a powerful tribute to the band’s legacy with the newest release of Kamikaze 3.

During the event, fans received autographs directly from their idols on special and commemorative editions, including 180-gram splatter vinyl, CDs with guitar picks, and cassette releases created for this anniversary.The renewed and remastered edition highlights the careful work led by 2M Producciones Records and Anubis Music Shows, whose current production team has overseen every detail of this important return.

The celebration also pays heartfelt tribute to Daniel Telis, the late guitarist and an undeniable reference point in Argentine rock. Remembered for his technical mastery, inspiration, and unmistakable contribution to Kamikaze, Telis also left a lasting mark through his solo work and many high-level collaborations. Above all, he is honored as a warm human being, a generous teacher, and a treasured friend whose presence is deeply missed.

The anniversary carries special meaning for those who witnessed the album’s original presentation 35 years ago at Auditorio Buenos Aires. That unforgettable night, produced by the late Alejandro Avino, featured Enrique Gómez Yafal entering the stage on a Yamaha motorcycle in the spirit of Rob Halford of Judas Priest during “La Reina del Rock & Roll,” joined by live backing vocals from Walter Meza of HORCAS, Sergio Ledesma, and the late Mariana Sosa. It remains an epic moment that the musicians themselves still recall with laughter and affection. 

Kamikaze 3 returns with the same force, enthusiasm, and love dedicated to Daniel Telis. The live presentation will take place on September 19 at El Teatrito (Sarmiento 1752 in Buenos Aires City). The evening will open with performances by Icaro and Lombardía as two remarkable opening acts.

This reunion also highlights the career of Martyn Knye, a virtuoso guitarist and essential composer whose work with Kamikaze, Mad Dog, Magiar, KZ4, and hundreds of collaborations are without doubt an indelible mark on Argentine metal. Alongside him, the iconic vocal force of Enrique Gómez Yafal and the historic strength of Horacio Pinasco on bass and the power-house drumming of Jorge 'Patón' Cimino reaffirm the identity of a lineup that continues to build its legacy.

Thank you guys!

@2mproduccionesrecords

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