TubeFreeks – “Rise”: Heavy Rock Momentum Built on Riffs and Groove

Introduction

There is something timeless about heavy rock when it is built around strong riffs, a powerful rhythm section and a vocalist who knows how to deliver a song without unnecessary theatrics. With their latest single “Rise,” TubeFreeks build on that foundation by combining the weight of classic heavy rock with modern alternative-metal intensity, a strong groove and an unmistakable sense of forward motion. Co-written by Clint Lowery of Sevendust, who also contributes vocals during the verses, the track follows “Flower,” another collaboration between TubeFreeks and Lowery. The connection gives this current chapter a clear creative thread while keeping the band’s own identity firmly at the centre.

Artist background

TubeFreeks are an experienced five-piece whose sound has developed across the releases Unhinged, The Dry Tide and Complex Disorders. Their musical foundation draws from Black Sabbath and Alice in Chains while also taking energy from contemporary heavy and alternative metal such as Korn. Paul van Valkenburgh leads the band on vocals, with Brian Murray and George Koch forming its guitar-driven core. Chris Badolato supplies the rhythmic backbone on drums, while Byron Horgash completes the lineup on bass and backing vocals. National touring has helped the group build a following and refine music intended to work as a direct, physical live experience as effectively as it does through headphones and speakers.

Review of the song

“Rise” immediately establishes a distinctive atmosphere. A synth-driven opening sequence creates anticipation before the track moves into a much heavier, riff-led section. That contrast gives the song a cinematic entrance before TubeFreeks’ core sound takes control. From there, a driving rhythm and heavy guitar work generate persistent movement. The groove carries a noticeable galloping character, while the chorus introduces double-kick elements without allowing the drums to overpower the composition. The result feels controlled rather than chaotic. Weight remains present throughout, but deliberate restraint keeps the tension alive and gives every transition purpose.

Musical analysis

The guitars are among the track’s most engaging features. Rather than relying only on straightforward heavy-rock patterns, they introduce unexpected textures while preserving the song’s fundamental weight. Certain passages even carry an almost exotic quality, adding colour without pulling “Rise” away from its heavy-rock identity. Van Valkenburgh’s vocal delivery is equally important: full-bodied, controlled and focused on presence rather than excess. Lowery’s verse appearance adds another vocal dimension, but the collaboration strengthens rather than replaces TubeFreeks’ established direction. Polished production, raw energy, atmospheric synths and a disciplined rhythm section all support a composition that is direct without becoming simplistic.

Why listeners should pay attention

TubeFreeks understand how to connect familiar heavy-rock foundations with a contemporary approach. The influence of classic heavy music remains audible in the focus on riffs, groove and band chemistry, yet “Rise” does not attempt to recreate an earlier era. Its alternative-metal energy, synth-led opening and detailed guitar textures push the track into a heavier modern setting. The band’s road experience can be felt in its immediacy: this is music built around movement, with each part serving the momentum of the whole. Lowery’s continuing involvement after “Flower” also gives the group’s recent material a meaningful creative connection.

Conclusion

At its core, “Rise” is a song about momentum. The opening creates anticipation, the guitars bring weight, the rhythm section keeps everything advancing and the vocals provide the human centre. Heavy riffs, melodic elements, controlled aggression and atmospheric detail give the single a contemporary character while preserving a strong connection to heavy rock tradition. It is polished without losing energy and heavy without sacrificing the song itself. Focused and purposeful, “Rise” sounds like another confident step forward for TubeFreeks — and suggests that this chapter still has more to offer.

Recommended for fans of

Black Sabbath, Alice in Chains, Korn, Sevendust, riff-driven heavy rock, groove-focused alternative metal and powerful modern rock built for the stage.

Follow the artist

Artist: TubeFreeks. Single: “Rise”. Genre: Heavy Rock / Alternative Metal. Songwriting: TubeFreeks and Clint Lowery of Sevendust. Additional vocals: Clint Lowery. Lead vocals: Paul van Valkenburgh. Guitars: Brian Murray and George Koch. Drums: Chris Badolato. Bass and backing vocals: Byron Horgash.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Z1uksjaWjKk

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© Tomi Perrakoski / Metal Madness Weekly