TRACK-LISTING: 01 Night Closes In 02 Legion of Fire 03 Dynasties Fall 04 Where Cauldrons Burn 05 Shadow Slave 06 Crimson Shores 07 Valhalla is Calling 08 Worlds to Conquer 09 Death’s Immortal Flame (Bonus Track)
LIVE & TOURING LINE-UP: Andrew D’Cagna – vocals Jesse Scott – guitar Quinn Lukas – guitar James Babcock – bass Noah Skiba – drums
Andrew D’Cagna performed all the music and vocals.
Live guitarists, Quinn Lukas and Jesse Scott composed and recorded their own guitar solos.
Finnish band VAAJA have released their second single Abalon on July 17. The music video will follow on July 31. The song is an epic, atmospheric gothic metal track drawing from Finnish mythology and tied to an upcoming original VAAJA dark horror-fantasy novel series.
The single is an explosive track, taking its name from a central character in the upcoming first book: Abalon, the elven ancestor of foxes. The lyrics delve into how Abalon steps in as a surprise ally to turn the tide for the story’s main protagonist, a vulnerable young vampire, and his human friends.
“All songs of Vaaja are designed to carry Finnish mythology with a unique horror-fantasy twist beyond Finland’s borders,” says Malphas Miserable, the lead singer, songwriter and author of VAAJA.
VAAJA is a fully realised concept. Music is the first chapter of a larger dark fantasy universe that spans both the band’s work and forthcoming novels set in the same world. The band and the books are one universe. “I carried the idea of VAAJA for many years, but it was not until 2025 that I started to write the first book. After that, everything happened very fast and effortlessly.“, Malphas Miserable explains.
Sonically, Abalon occupies the space between the emotional depth of Sleep Token, the atmospheric darkness of HIM, and the devotional, theatrical identity of Opeth and Ghost.
Vaaja – Abalon (Single 2026) Cover art by Malphas Miserable
Composed & lyrics by Malphas Miserable -Arranged by Malphas Miserable, Garn Eir, Fenris Fuzz, Vor, Magni -Recorded, Produced, Mixed and Mastered by Malphas Miserable
“We think the category of “Nordic gothic dark metal” fits us the best, but we are very flexible in a wide array of musical genres. However, with VAAJA, we don’t want to restrict ourselves too much musically. Instead, aiming to maintain a playful, even blasphemous spirit-just like the old gods. The old gods are dear to us, and we feel that Finnish mythology is one of the richest yet still most underrepresented mythologies in metal,” the band states.
“Vaaja is not Viking imagery borrowed from our neighbours. It is ours, ancient, magical, and largely unknown to the world – until now.“
The Band: Vocals: Malphas Miserable Guitar: Garn Eir(The Sorcerer) Guitar: Fenris Fuzz (The Berserker) Drums: Magni (The Seer) Bass: Vor (The Warrior)
July 27, 2026, Gothenburg, Sweden – Monolord, who return to the U.S. in late August, have released a live video for the song “Iodine” (https://youtu.be/ETIrrMVF5uw) from their recently released album, Neverending.
The video captures one of the band’s first performances supporting the Sylvia Massy-produced album, intercut with behind-the-scenes footage from their hometown show in Gothenburg.
“Iodine” was inspired by 70s rock epics like Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird,” The Eagles’ “Hotel California,” and Led Zeppelin’s “No Quarter.” “Even though it’s maybe not musically similar, I think the vibe is similar,” Thomas Jäger says. “And the opening riff is my tribute to Yob, because I’ve always really liked Mike [Scheidt]’s guitar playing. He does all these weird chords where his fingers are all over the fretboard at the same time. It’s for sure my favorite song on the album.”
Neverending has earned widespread acclaim, with Bandcamp naming it their “Album of the Day” upon release, Consequence declaring it “magical,” Revolver dubbing it “glorious” and New Noise saying the collection is “Monolord at the height of their powers.”
To create Neverending, Monolord traveled to Ashland, Oregon to record with legendary producer Massy (Tool, System of a Down, and Johnny Cash). The collaboration began when Massy asked vocalist/guitarist Thomas Jäger to send everything the band had ever written. “She asked me to send her everything we had, not just songs written for the album, but every stray riff and idea,” he says. “I even sent her stuff I’d written ten years ago. She listened to all of it and sent us a list of what she wanted to work on.”
The band rehearsed 12 songs, recorded 11, and ultimately selected eight for Neverending. The result is an album that expands the band’s sound without sacrificing the weight and creativity that define Monolord.
August 27 Chicago, IL Thalia Hall August 28 Louisville, KY Portal August 29 Atlanta, GA Garden Club August 30 Asheville, NC Eulogy August 31 Columbia, SC New Brookland Tavern September 2 Philadelphia, PA Underground Arts September 3 Brooklyn, NY Elsewhere September 4 Montague, MA RPM Fest September 5 Baltimore, MD Labor Daze September 6 Cookeville, TN Muddy Roots Festival September 8 Columbus, OH Ace of Cups September 9 Detroit, MI Sanctuary September 10 Indianapolis, IN Black Circle September 12 Austin, TX Levitation Festival
Khemmis opens on all U.S. headlining dates
European tour dates:
July 30 Ghimbav, RO Rockstadt Extreme Festival August 7 Kortrijk, BE Alcatraz Festival October 6 Hamburg, DE Bahnhof Pauli October 7 Haarlem, NL Patronaat October 8 Eindhoven, NL Effenaar October 9 Sint-Niklaas, BE De Casino October 10 Paris, FR La Maroquinerie October 11 Nantes, FR Le Ferrailleur October 12 Toulouse, FR Le Rex October 13 Lyon, FR Jack Jack October 14 Aarau, CH KIFF October 15 Munich, DE Backstage October 16 Osnabrück, DE Bastard Club October 17 Cologne, DE Gebäude 9 November 4 Copenhagen, DK Stengade November 5 Berlin, DE Columbia Theater November 6 Dresden, DE Beatpol November 7 Warsaw, PL Hydrozagadka November 8 Krakow, PL Hype Park November 9 Brno, CZ Kabinet Múz November 10 Budapest, HU Dürer Kert November 11 Vienna, AT Arena November 12 Zagreb, HR Vintage Industrial Bar November 13 Milan, IT Legend November 14 Bologna, IT FreakOut November 15 Karlsruhe, DE P8
Tickets for all dates are on-sale now via Monolord.com.
Few modern doom bands balance sheer weight and melody like Monolord. Formed in Gothenburg in 2013, the trio of guitarist/vocalist Thomas Jäger, drummer Esben Willems, and bassist Mika Häkki have become one of heavy music’s most introspective and nuanced bands. They have earned global acclaim through relentless touring, with unforgettable performances at Hellfest, Desertfest, Psycho Las Vegas, and Roadburn. Their records, Empress Rising (2014), Vænir (2015), Rust (2017), No Comfort (2019), Your Time To Shine (2021), and most recently, Neverending (2026), cemented their reputation for blending crushing fuzz with melodic undercurrents and immersive repetition.
Led by JD McGibney, L.A.’s ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD hark back to their roots with the new single release “On the Wings of Dragons“. The track began the project’s journey as its first release in 2013. Recrafted, rearranged and performed by a different line-up, “On the Wings of Dragons” initiates the next chapter for ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD.
ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD delve into the meaning behind “On the Wings of Dragons”: “This song was written as an inspirational piece to invigorate and encourage audiences to believe in themselves, to listen to their instincts and not the nay-saying of others.”
The core characteristics of ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD‘s sound are present throughout “On the Wings of Dragons”. Passionate storytelling and world building are brought to life through progressive compositional arrangements that are interjected with catchy hooks. Dynamic production and technical prowess see ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD deliver an epic sonic display.
“On the Wings of Dragons”was produced by ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD. The track was recorded at Counter Communications and engineered, mixed and mastered by Chris Wirsig. Produced by ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD, the music video was directed and edited by Tom Flynn.
ANGELS ON THE BATTLEFIELD: JD McGibney – Guitar Jason Klein – Bass Chris Wirsig – Keyboard/Orchestration Eddie Trager – Drums
The Finnish atmospheric black metal band Beyond Seventh Dimension are set to release the debut album Tähtien ikuinen suru on September 4th 2026 via Inverse Records. The new single ‘Eternal Love For The Unreachable‘ is unleashed now and it’s available on all essential streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/b7thd-eternal-love
The band comments: “This song is for all those who have lost someone you can never stop loving.
It tells what it’s like when you can’t touch anymore, but you can’t let go either.”
BIOGRAPHY:
Beyond Seventh Dimension is an atmospheric metal project from Finland that started as a one-man instrumental project in 2025 and quickly escalated. Vocals were added to the concept right after the first song, and suddenly there was talk of an EP or a full-length album. Now there is an album, and there has also been talk of making a proper band out of this at some point, but time will tell.
Colombian melodic black/death metal band ESHTADUR announce their new full-length album, In Darkness All Shadows Gone, due for release on October 2nd, 2026 through Rockshots Records.
The announcement is accompanied by “Into The Woods”, the first single and official video introducing the musical and conceptual journey behind the record.
Developed over four years, In Darkness All Shadows Gone consists of twelve compositions combining melodic black and death metal, symphonic arrangements, layered vocals, Tuvan throat singing and atmospheric passages. Recorded with the Caldas Symphonic Orchestra, the album expands the band’s established sound while maintaining the combination of heavy riffing, dark melodies and orchestral textures that has shaped its identity.
The album follows a conceptual journey through mysticism, transformation and inner transmutation. At the centre of the narrative stands The Crow, a shamanic figure moving between existence, death, emptiness and the unknown. Acting as both master and apprentice, The Crow guides the listener through a process of isolation, self-discovery and spiritual awakening, where darkness becomes not only an oppressive force but also a path towards understanding the self.
Across the record, ESHTADUR explore the relationship between darkness and the light contained within each individual. The songs draw upon occult symbolism, cosmic philosophy, ancestral knowledge and human emotion, forming a continuous narrative rather than a collection of disconnected tracks. Musically, black and death metal alternate as leading forces throughout the album, supported by melodic writing, cinematic orchestration and folk-rooted elements.
Jorg August comments on the creation of the album:
“We worked on this material for four years. It is a long album with twelve tracks, symphonic arrangements, a real orchestra, many vocal layers and Tuvan voices. At times, it felt like a giant puzzle, but everything finally came together. We are proud of the result and grateful to everyone who helped us build it. A crow is calling.”
The first single, “Into The Woods,” represents the call to initiation and the first step into the album’s inner world. The listener is invited to leave behind external noise and enter the forest alone, confronting silence, memory, and self-delusion. Inspired by contemplative philosophies and the idea of returning to nature as a means of self-discovery, the song presents the forest as both a physical place and a metaphorical descent into consciousness.
Musically, “Into The Woods” combines fast melodic and aggressive guitar riffs, alternate-picked passages, dark orchestration, dissonant elements, ancestral chants and forceful vocals. The track establishes the balance between aggression, melody and atmosphere that continues throughout the album, while its lyrics address inner turmoil, past trauma and the need to confront fear before transformation can begin.
The accompanying official video focuses on frontman Jorg August, who is guided by the symbolic Crow into the forest and towards the first dimension of the album’s narrative. The visual interpretation reinforces the song’s themes of solitude, initiation and departure, presenting the journey as an individual mission in search of a deeper understanding of the self.
Track Listing: 1. Age of Antumbra – 2:00 2. Into The Woods – 4:41 3. Umbra – 6:22 4. August’s Burdens – 4:59 5. Fire Above Mountain Below – 5:08 6. Old Shaman Blind – 5:08 7. Thunderground – 3:40 8. Ruler of the Lake – 5:14 9. A Black Winged Waltz – 9:23 10. Nebulae (Virgo) – 5:09 11. Omen of Millennia – 3:56 12. Soy Real – 5:11
In Darkness All Shadows Gone will be available from October 2nd, 2026 through Rockshots Records. The album can be pre-ordered now from the Rockshots Records store at: https://rockshots.eu/cuhb5ys9ncs1ndx
ESHTADUR are: Jorg August – Vocals, guitars Camilo Barbosa – Lead guitars Andres Gonzalez – Bass David Lopez – Drums
The album was produced by Jorg August, who also wrote the music, lyrics, compositions, and orchestral arrangements. The recordings took place at RockStar Studios Colombia, while the orchestra was recorded at Batuta’s Theater in Manizales, Colombia. The album was mixed and mastered by Tomasz “Zed” Zalewski, with additional mixing and mastering by Chris Clancy on “Fire Above Mountain Below” and “Umbra.” The cover artwork was created by Valesia Obscura.
For fans of: Septicflesh, Dissection, At The Gates.
ALPHA DESTROYER are releasing a special-edition cover of the KISS classic, “God of Thunder.”
The band dug deep into the annals of KISStory to put their own unique stamp on the song. Guitarist Eric Sexton-Dorsett explains. “We based our version on Paul Stanley’s original demo version instead of the Bob Ezrin produced version everyone knows. Paul used 1/16 note high hats and a more upbeat tempo. We swapped those for double basses a la ‘Exciter’ from Judas Priest. Paul also used a more pop sensibility and falsetto vocals in the chorus, which we embraced fully.”
The single will be available as a hand-numbered, limited-edition, hand lathe-cut, clear vinyl 7″ that ships on August 11. Pre-order now at: necromanticpress.com
ALPHA DESTROYER is a high-octane collaboration featuring Martin Sweet (Crashdïet), Kelly LeMieux (Buckcherry), and Eric Sexton-Dorsett (Sleepless). The band’s debut album, Fast Lane, is available on physical formats via Necromantic Press Records, including limited-edition red splatter and standard black vinyl. Order now at this location.
Alpha Destroyer was born in 2022, shortly after trad/thrash metal band Sleepless released its debut LP. Looking for a new creative outlet, Sleepless guitarist Eric Sexton-Dorsett began writing a series of dissonant, groove-heavy tracks, something that channeled the high-powered spirit of bands like Def Leppard, while drawing on the chaos of Voivod and Morbid Angel.
After tracking initial guitar parts, Eric brought in drummer Ryan McPhaill to lay down drum tracks. The results exceeded expectations; every take locked in with the raw energy and precision the project demanded.
With a solid foundation in place, Eric filed the songs under the name Alpha Destroyer and started mapping out the next phase.
Soon after, on the Monsters of Rock Cruise, Eric met bassist Kelly LeMieux (Goldfinger, Buckcherry) through mutual friend Kevin Hahn (vocalist/lead guitarist for Sleepless and now a guitarist for Alpha Destroyer). Late-night conversations on the cruise led to a strong creative connection. Back in Portland, Kelly heard the early tracks and immediately added his signature, larger-than-life basslines. The songs, now three deep, began to take shape.
In 2024, another key moment happened on the same cruise. Eric met Martin Sweet (Crashdïet), a longtime influence. After staying in touch, Eric sent him the developing tracks, initially just to contribute guitar, yet Martin offered something more: vocals. His performance on the first completed track, “Straight into the Grind,” helped define the band’s sound and opened the door to a deeper collaboration. What was meant to be a four-song EP quickly expanded as the ideas flowed naturally.
The result is Fast Lane, a 10-track debut album that rides the line between doom-laced introspection and high-octane rock. The title track and first single, “Fast Lane,” kicks things off with a punk-edged urgency and Martin’s heavy yet melodic take on personal struggle.
With new music already in the works and plans for live dates in 2026, Alpha Destroyer is just getting started.
KING DIAMOND is thrilled to announce the addition of guitar virtuoso Gus G. (Firewind, ex-Ozzy Osbourne) to the band’s lineup. Gus G. joins as guitarist and will compose, record, and tour with KING DIAMOND going forward, marking an exciting new chapter in the band’s storied history.
The band extends their deepest gratitude and utmost respect to Andy LaRocque, whose extraordinary 40-year contribution to KING DIAMOND has left a permanent and irreplaceable mark on the band’s legacy and on heavy metal as a whole. Andy’s musicianship, dedication, and artistry have been an essential part of what makes this band what it is, and that will never be forgotten.
Comments KING DIAMOND, “It’s a big honor for me to welcome Gus G. as our new guitarist. Gus will still continue with all his current projects, Firewind, solo project, etc. No restrictions, just careful planning. We are already working with Gus and I simply can’t wait for you to hear all the new KING DIAMOND music with him playing guitar on it! STAY HEAVY — King.”
One of heavy metal’s most celebrated and in-demand guitarists, Gus G., born Konstantinos Karamitroudis in Thessaloniki, Greece, has built one of the most impressive resumes in the genre. As founder and driving force behind Firewind for over two decades and ten studio albums, and as Ozzy Osbourne’s lead guitarist from 2009 to 2017, contributing to the Grammy-nominated album Scream (2010), Gus G. has proven himself to be one of the most versatile and technically gifted players in metal.
A celebrated solo artist with six albums to his name, he has also appeared as a guest on records by Bruce Dickinson, Arch Enemy, Doro Pesch, In This Moment, and many more. He has graced the covers of Guitar World, Total Guitar, Metal Hammer, and Young Guitar, and earned accolades including Metal Hammer’s Golden God Award for Best Shredder. His addition to KING DIAMOND represents a pairing of two of heavy metal’s most iconic forces.
KING DIAMOND and Gus G. are already deep in the creative process together, working on what promises to be one of the most anticipated new chapters in the band’s career. Fans can expect new music from the full lineup in the future. Stay tuned for further announcements.
KING DIAMOND is quite possibly the most recognizable and prolific personality ever in heavy metal. Revered by icons as big as Metallica and Pantera and inspiring newer upstarts globally, KING DIAMOND, the man and the band, have left an indelible mark on the history, and now again, the future of heavy metal.
In August of 2008, KING DIAMOND joined Metallica on stage at Ozzfest in Dallas to perform the Mercyful Fate medley made famous from the Garage, Inc. album. Additionally, KING DIAMOND was featured alongside Motörhead’s Lemmy Kilmister as a playable character in Guitar Hero: Metallica in 2009.
By 2012, KING DIAMOND was prepared to return to the stage for a select number of shows. The band’s triumphant return were the highlights of both the Hellfest and Sweden Rock festivals in France and Sweden. Fans were treated to the largest and most involved stage production in the band’s storied history.
KING DIAMOND continued to hit the stage from 2013 to 2018 including performances at Rock Hard Festival (DE), Copenhell (DK), Graspop (BE), Bloodstock Open Air (UK), Loudpark (JP), Wacken Open Air (DE), and Psycho Las Vegas (US), among many others.
In 2019, after the release of KING DIAMOND‘s first new single in twelve years, “Masquerade Of Madness,” the band hit the road with a series of live shows across Europe and North America.
In 2024, KING DIAMOND completed a massively successful North American headlining tour, during which they premiered new material live for the first time in years, including the brand-new track “Electro Therapy,” before an ecstatic fanbase. On December 17th, 2024, the band released “Spider Lilly,” their first new single in five years and the first single and video taken from their forthcoming new Horror Trilogy, of which part one is titled Saint Lucifer’s Hospital 1920.
Mixed and mastered by Arthur Rizk and directed by David Brodsky of My Good Eye Visuals, with footage filmed at the notoriously haunted Pennhurst Asylum outside of Philadelphia, the single features a special guest appearance by Danish vocalist Myrkur. Written entirely by KING DIAMOND, “Spider Lilly” was met with an enthusiastic global response, reaffirming the band’s place at the forefront of heavy metal and whetting fans’ appetites for the full trilogy to come.
KING DIAMOND‘s 40+ year musical career is one of the most storied in the history of heavy metal, but the tale is not yet over. The most recent album, 2007’s Grammy-nominated Give Me Your Soul…Please, stands as one of the most critically acclaimed albums in an already iconic discography. Future albums will feature entirely new horror stories, concepts, haunting orchestrations, and the band’s signature brand of heavy metal. Many more albums, tours, and ventures lay ahead.
KING DIAMOND Lineup: King Diamond – vocals Gus G. – guitars Mike Wead – guitars Pontus Egberg – bass Matt Thompson – drums
Your patience has been rewarded. Chilean death squad RIPPER returns with their first full-length since 2016’s Experiment of Existence.
Towards Rebirth contains the band’s most violent work to date. Razor sharp guitar work, intense drumming and well-crafted songs are still there… only more concise, more vicious.
Towards Rebirth is available via Dark Descent Records on CD, vinyl and digital formats.
The last decade has seen RIPPER refine their attack into a lethal blend of old-school death metal and thrash-or-be-thrashed aggression. The band has undeniably earned a reputation as one of South America’s premiere extreme metal exports.
Photo by Jeri Mize IG@529jeri IG@vizions_of_mize.llc
L-R – Andy McGraw – Bass, Aaron Baumoel – Drums and Vocals, Jason Davila – Guitars, Sam Williams – Guitars
Atlanta blackened death/thrash unit Malefic has dropped the official music video for “Blood of the Throne”, the explosive opening track from their latest album Impermanence, released this past February via Terminus Hate City. The video marks a bold visual departure for the band, one that drummer/vocalist Aaron Baumoel calls “another form of artistic expression; another layer of depth to add to the media.”
“Blood of the Throne” has long been one of Malefic’s most popular tracks, a blistering blackened thrash assault built on high‑speed precision picking, ornate drumming, and a soaring melodic break. The new video juxtaposes the band’s extreme‑metal identity with Atlanta’s dominant hip‑hop cultural influence, an intentional contrast that reflects the city they call home.
Baumoel acknowledges that some viewers may misinterpret the imagery. Despite anticipating criticism, the band stands firmly behind the concept and the talented women who helped bring it to life. The track itself explores the crushing realities of capitalism and modern power structures.
“People will always judge based on their preconceived notion of things without ever digging in below the surface. This is part of the sickness in our society. We all know who the real demons of our society are; we just don’t agree on what the solution is,”adds Baumoel.
Following the video’s release, Malefic continues to push their latest album Impermanence, a 40‑minute whirlwind of thrash‑driven drumming, melodic black‑metal atmospheres, technical death‑metal precision, progressive rhythmic shifts, and lyrics rooted in personal struggle, societal pain, and existential reflection. Mixed by Alex Parra, the record rejects the sterile, overly‑compressed production dominating modern metal, instead embracing nuance, dynamics, and human imperfection.
“We wanted something that still showcased the nuances in the guitar work, the dynamics in the drumming, and allowed for mistakes. It just needed to feel human. The personal struggles, the current socio‑political issues, and the societal struggles all seemed extremely relatable… they tell the tale of the ever‑changing nature of life as a whole,” says Baumoel.
Track Listing:
Blood of the Throne – [3:33]
In Darkest Dreams (the Reaping) – [3:44]
Of Gods and Man – [4:14]
Idiocracy – [3:56]
Deserter – [3:53]
Disembodiment – [4:39]
Obsidian Earth – [4:37]
Echoes of Silence – [4:45]
It Haunts – [4:01]
Formed in 2007, Malefic set out to push blackened metal into a modern direction while preserving its weight and emotional gravity. Their current lineup features Aaron Baumoel (drums/vocals), Jason Davila (guitar), Doug Rosander (bass), and Sam Williams (Guitar) (also of Cemetery Filth, Jaeger). The band’s collective experience across Atlanta’s metal scene fuels their razor‑tight live performances.
Recommended for fans of Old Man’s Child, Carcass, Testament, Dissection, and The Black Dahlia Murder, Impermanence (released Feb 13, 2026) is available at the following links:
Watch XTINGUISH THE CODE’s “Falling Down” video HERE.
Bronx-based metallic hardcore band XTINGUISH THE CODE has issued a new video for “Falling Down,” the track found on the band’s second album, The Conflict, out now on Grey Matter Records.
A band with NYHC running through their DNA, XTINGUISH THE CODE formed in 2019, currently uniting bassist Dusty Onita (Apparition, 4 In Tha Chamber), drummer Nate Boogie (Lake Lanier, No Weapon, MAAFA), guitarist The Professor G Flava (Apparition, No Weapon, Waist In Flesh, Gemini Method), and vocalist BJ Allen (Zero Trust, Full Scale Riot, GMK).
Delivering streetwise, energetic, beatdown-driven and groove-based hardcore, infused with elements of metal, hip-hop, and more, the band has played with D.R.I., Sworn Enemy, Downset, Madball, Life Of Agony, Sick Of It All, and many others. Following their Step To My World debut (2021) and subsequent Matter Of Fact EP (2023), (both through 1054 Records), XTINGUISH THE CODE hooked up with Grey Matter Records for the release of their second album, The Conflict.
XTINGUISH THE CODE’s explosive hybrid of rabid antagonism culminates on The Conflict, which not only marks the band’s first release with new drummer Nate Boogie and vocalist BJ Allen, it’s also the band’s first time creating a conceptual release, crafting a story that touches on working-class solidarity and global awakening.
Each song is meant to portray a person’s transformation from an ordinary resident to a radicalized citizen. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Joe Kusak at Amplitude Recording, former vocalist Kevin Lugo provides additional guest vocals on the track “Safe Space.” XTINGUISH THE CODE’s The Conflict is prime listening for fans of Incendiary, Burn, E-Town Concrete, Backtrack, Merauder, Bulldoze, Sworn Enemy, Downset, and Madball.
The new video for the record’s tense, succinct closing track “Falling Down” was filmed by Jojo Moran. Vocalist BJ Allen writes, “‘Falling Down’ is about a citizen, reaching their final breaking point.”
photos by Joseph Maran
Watch XTINGUISH THE CODE’s “Falling Down” video now playing on YouTube HERE.
The Conflict is out now on LP, CD, and digitally via Grey Matter Records’ webshop HERE and Bandcamp HERE. The previously released “Despair” lyric video is playing HERE.
XTINGUISH THE CODE continues to play nonstop across the NYC metropolitan area. With new activities booked into the Fall, including shows in Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, and across New York, more widespread touring is in the works.
XTINGUISH THE CODE Live: 8/07/2026 Upstage Music Fest @ Clearfield Events Building – Clearfield, PA 8/15/2026 Tribute To Kevin Scondotto @ Lucky 13 Saloon – Brooklyn, NY 9/12/2026 Polish Community Center – Herkimer, NY 10/10/2026 The Congress Hardcore Community – San Juan, PR 10/31/2026 TV Eye – Queens, NY
Psycroptic announces US/CAN tour this Fall/Winter with INFERI, Summoning The Lich and label-mates, Cognitive! Tickets go on sale FRIDAY!
11/05 Clifton, NJ – Dingbatz 11/06 Hamden, CT – Space Ballroom 11/07 Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar 11/08 Quebec City, QC – L’Anti 11/09 Ottawa, ON – 27 Club 11/10 Toronto, ON – The Cave 11/11 Detroit, MI – Sanctuary 11/12 Chicago, IL – Reggie’s 11/13 Milwaukee, WI – X-ray 11/14 Menomonie, WI – Zymurgy Brewing 11/15 Winnipeg, MB – Sidestage 11/16 Saskatoon, SK – Black Cat Tavern 11/18 Edmonton, AB – Starlite 11/19 Calgary, AB – Dickens 11/20 Kamloops, BC – The Night Shift 11/21 Seattle, WA – El Corazon 11/22 Portland, OR – Star Theatre 11/24 San Jose, CA – The Ritz 11/25 Anaheim, CA – Parish Room @ HoB 11/27 Phoenix, AZ – Rosetta Room 11/28 Las Vegas, NV – Backstage Bar 11/29 Salt Lake City, UT – Aces High Saloon 12/01 Denver, CO – HQ 12/02 Omaha, NE – Reverb 12/04 Indianapolis, IN – Black Circle 12/05 Pittsburgh, PA – Preserving Underground 12/06 Brooklyn, NY – Woodshop
Italian hardcore/metal outfit SLUG GORE are set to return with a brand new EP, Pillars of Eco-Terror Saga, scheduled for release on September 25, 2026 via Time To Kill Records.
Following the path established with their 2024 debut album They Slime! They Ooze! They Kill!, SLUG GORE continue to explore their distinctive blend of hardcore intensity and extreme metal weight, combining raw urgency with sharp, memorable songwriting. The band’s sound remains rooted in the immediacy and impact of hardcore, while embracing darker and heavier influences to create a balance between exasperating energy and infectious hooks.
Pillars of Eco-Terror Saga is a concept release inspired by the legend of the Four Symbols, reimagining the four mythological beasts of Eastern tradition through the lens of the kaiju universe. Across the EP, iconic creatures such as Barugon, Iris, Jiger and Gamera embody new interpretations of the Azure Dragon, Vermilion Bird, White Tiger and Black Tortoise, merging ancient symbolism with the imagery of giant monsters.
More details about the EP will be revealed soon. In the meantime, the first single “Scalpel” is now available.
“With ‘Scalpel’ we drew inspiration from Iris, the Kaiju that represents the Vermilion Bird. We have always been fascinated by its evolution, the way its body transforms, and above all by the lethal precision of its tentacles. We wanted to translate that same feeling of surgical violence into music: something fast, cold and calculated, striking with the precision of a scalpel. The song was born from this very image, attempting to transform its tension, brutality, and atmosphere into a direct and relentless sonic assault.”
NERVOSA is returning to North America in 2027 with the SLAVE MACHINE TOUR, a relentless run of shows packed with pure thrash and death metal fury.
Joining us on this devastating campaign are the death metal warriors Castrator making every night even heavier and more brutal. Selected dates will also feature the incredible Embryonic Autopsy and Anger Within.
This is more than a tour, it’s a metal assault.
Tickets will be on sale Friday at 10am EDT.
Flyer by Alcides Burn
NERVOSA North America Slave Machine Tour 2027:
FEBRUARY 2027:
02 Mesa, AZ @ Rosetta Room 03 Albuquerque, NM @ Launch Pad 05 Dallas, TX @ Trees 06 Austin, TX @ Come and take it live 07 Corpus Christi, TX @ House of Rock 08 Houston, TX @ Scout Bar 10 Pensacola, FL @ The Handlebar 11 Tampa, FL @ The Orpheum 12 Miami, FL @ Churchill’s Pub 13 Orlando, FL @ Conduit 16 Raleigh, NC @ Chapel of Bones 17 Leesburg, VA @ Tally Ho Theatre 18 Baltimore, MD @ Metro Gallery 19 Brooklyn, NY @ The Meadows 20 Clifton, NJ @ Dingbatz 21 Philadelphia, PA @ Johnny Brenda’s 23 Lowell, MA @ Taffeta 24 Hamden, CT @ Space Ballroom 25 Quebec City, QC @ L’Anti Bar & Spectacles 26 Montreal, QC @ Foufounes 27 Ottawa, ON @ 27 Club 28 Toronto, ON @ On Lee’s Palace
MARCH 2027:
02 Lakewood, OH @ Mercury 03 Flint, MI @ The Machine Shop 04 Joliet, IL @ The Forge 05 Ringle, WI @ Q&Z Expo Center 06 Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave
We’re hitting the road with good friends & thrash compadres in Heathen and Void this Fall! Chaos By Design US Tour 2026. Tickets and VIP packages are on sale now.
10/23 – Las Vegas, NV | The Usual Place 10/25 – Salt Lake City, UT | Urban Lounge 10/26 – Denver, CO | Federal Theatre 10/28 – Iowa City, IA | Gabes 10/29 – Minneapolis, MN | Turf Club 10/30 – Chicago, IL | Reggies 10/31 – Lakewood, OH | Mercury Music Lounge 11/01 – Pittsburgh, PA | Preserving Underground 11/02 – Leesburg, VA | Tally Ho Theater 11/04 – Worcester, MA | The Palladium (Upstairs) 11/05 – Brooklyn, NY | TBD 11/07 – Albany, NY | Empire Live 11/08 – Lititz, PA | Mickey’s Black Box 11/09 – Greensboro, NC | Hangar 1819 11/10 – Greenville, SC | Radio Room 11/12 – Orlando, FL | Conduit 11/13 – Atlanta, GA | Masquerade (Altar) 11/15 – Destin, FL | Club LA 11/17 – Austin, TX | Come and Take It Live 11/18 – Dallas, TX | Trees 11/20 – Albuquerque, NM | Launchpad 11/21 – Tucson, AZ | Club Congress 11/22 – Los Angeles, CA | Teragram Ballroom
“False Idols”, the new single by THE AUTUMN AURORA, is out now on all major digital platforms via Volcano Records. The track is accompanied by an official music video, available on the band’s YouTube channel.
“False Idols” explores the loneliness of those confronting a society dominated by propaganda, appearances and false models imposed by politics, religion and mass media. It portrays a distorted reality in which the weakest are crushed rather than protected, while the promises of false prophets serve only the interests of those in power.
That same loneliness, however, becomes a source of clarity and awareness. Stepping away from the media spectacle means rediscovering oneself and rejecting a world built on money, easy smiles and illusions, a world that no longer belongs to those who refuse to become victims of its false idols. Musically, the track pushes The Autumn Aurora’s post-punk and darkwave identity to its limits.
Synths and analogue orchestral pads intertwine with the lines of two electric basses: one builds the groove alongside the drums, while the other takes on the role of a lead guitar, using chorus, flanger and delay to create cold, spectral atmospheres. Completing the sound is Saveria Maitilasso’s deep and theatrical voice.
Cloven Hoof‘s tenth full-length studio album entitled Never A Prophet In Your Own Land, will release on September 25th, 2026 via High Roller Records. Pre-sale + first single very soon!
Watch the First Single “Iron Mask” Lyric Video HERE
Once again, the vocal performance of “The Tyrant” is world-class. Lee Payne smirks: “The praise is all Harry’s. We are indeed fortunate to have such a brilliant vocalist and frontman in the band.”
“Never A Prophet In Your Own Land is not in fact a direct continuation of Heathen Cross,” continues Payne. “Heathen Cross had its own darkly heavy and brooding atmosphere. Never A Prophet In Your Own Land resembles A Sultan’s Ransom more closely, yet this resemblance was not contrived or planned. It just turned out that way.”
Never A Prophet In Your Own Land is a varied album, containing mid-tempo songs, faster tunes, epic compositions and straight heavy metal rockers, a very good mixture. “Thank you for the kind words,” beams the legendary bassist. “We wanted to make this album as rich and varied as we could, to show how far the band has progressed musically. We are in a golden place right now, and the whole record-writing process happens organically. This album has everything you could wish for in the heavy metal genre. It shows our versatility in a way that A Sultan’s Ransom did eclectically. But it takes this versatility one step further in the most satisfying album we have ever done.”
TRACK-LISTING: 01 Terror from the Sky 02 Conquistador 03 Never a Prophet 04 Gypsy Roller 05 The Bigger They Are 06 Iron Mask 07 Phantom Chaser 08 Flying Dutchman 09 Prodigal Son 10 Seven Sacred Wonders
LINE-UP: Lee Payne – bass guitar Harry (The Tyrant) Conklin – lead vocals Luke Hatton – lead guitar Chris Coss – lead guitar Chris Dando – keyboards, backing vocals Ash Baker – drums, backing vocals
Artwork by: Dimitar Nikolov ART Band photo by: Marco Vexus
A warning, a spell, and an act of devotion – the second single from Verbolgen arrives as a short film steeped in folk horror
Dark black metal duo HULDER have released “In Blood and In Earth,” the second single from their forthcoming album Verbolgen, set for release on August 7th, 2026 via 20 Buck Spin (North America) and Season of Mist (Europe). The track is accompanied by an official music video directed by Newfoundland filmmaker Justin Oakey, arriving as the final preview before the full record drops.
Running just over seven minutes, “In Blood and In Earth” is an act of communal rite set in motion by the landscape itself. The track builds from foreboding restraint into sweeping, storm-gathered momentum, as Hulder’s vocals call out an incantation before the full weight of the arrangement bears down. The song frames endurance and bloodshed not as tragedy but as covenant: a pact between flesh and earth that the living inherit from the ancient dead. The band describe it plainly: “This second offering from the forthcoming album stands as a warning and a spell. Speak these words as the land below bellows forewarning… Shall you fall upon your knees?“
Recorded between Elektric City Recording in Portland, Oregon and at various locations by the band, themselves, the album was mixed by Ahti Kortelainen at Tico Tico Studios in Kemi, Finland and mastered by Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios in Helsinki. It marks Hulder’s third full-length and the first to formally welcome Necreon as co-leader of the project: a status the duo’s creative process has long reflected in practice.
Verbolgen was produced by Hulder, with both drum performances engineered in Portland, Oregon and Norway. Guitars, bass, and vocals were engineered by Necreon, with additional instrumentation engineered by Keld and Hulder. The album was mixed by Ahti Kortelainen at Tico Tico Studios (Kemi, Finland) and mastered by Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios (Helsinki, Finland). Cover artwork was painted by Morrigan, with logo design by Jannicke Wiese Hansen and photography by Liana Rakijian.
The music video for “In Blood and In Earth” was directed by Justin Oakey and produced by Black River Pictures. Of the project, Oakey says: “I am beyond honoured Hulder trusted me with putting together something for the new album. Inspired by folk horror, it follows a family clinging to an inhospitable landscape and slowly reveals a dark, sinister atmosphere. The colourist of the video Clinton Homuth introduced me to Hulder in 2019 with some of the early demos. The balance between the bucolic and raw sounds felt incredibly original while staying true to the roots. I reached out and we stayed in touch, finding ways to collaborate. It’s inspiring to see the new, creative directions Hulder and Necreon take with each release.“
Verbolgen Track-list:
Drie Raven (Intro) (2:18)
The Crowning (6:28)
Thy Binding Oath (5:38)
Verbolgen (4:01)
…And We Shall Sing (6:01)
In Blood and In Earth (7:09)
Den Nacht Zijn Lied (6:45)
View From Nemeton (5:23)
The Glow of Dawn (4:48)
Full runtime: 48:33
In support of the forthcoming release, HULDER will embark on a North American tour in August with DIMMU BORGIR, HYPOCRISY and SUFFOCATION. Tickets are available at: https://hulder-official.com/pages/shows.
HULDER North American Tour Dates:
Aug 7 – New York, NY @ Palladium Times Square Aug 8 – Worcester, PA @ The Palladium Aug 10 – Toronto, ON @ History Aug 11 – Montreal, QC @ MTELUS Aug 13 – Cleveland, OH @ Agora Theater Aug 14 – Chicago, IL @ The Vic Theatre Aug 15 – Minneapolis, MN @ The Fillmore Aug 18 – Denver, CO @ The Mission Ballroom Aug 21 – San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield Aug 23 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Novo
Mind Melting Metal Band Led By Ira Black (Vio-Lence, Lizzy Borden, Metal Church)
Following the breakout success of their debut single “INTELL-I-GENTS,” metal powerhouse APOCÆLYPSE returns with “BLACK BOX,” an emotionally charged new single that arrives alongside the announcement of the band’s highly anticipated debut album, FÆNIX, due August 28.
Founded by acclaimed guitarist Ira Black (Vio-Lence, Lizzy Borden, Metal Church), APOCÆLYPSE made an immediate impact with “INTELL-I-GENTS.” The song’s cinematic music video has garnered more than 1.4 million views while the single debuted on Billboard’s Radio Chart, introducing the band’s unique blend of crushing modern metal, cinematic storytelling, and thought-provoking songwriting to audiences worldwide.
Accompanying the release of “BLACK BOX” is a gripping new music video directed by Black and co-directed by Vincente Cordero (Industrialism Films), bringing the song’s deeply personal themes to life through striking cinematic visuals.
If “INTELL-I-GENTS” looked outward at humanity’s increasingly uneasy relationship with artificial intelligence, “BLACK BOX” turns inward, offering APOCÆLYPSE’s most vulnerable and personal statement yet. Driven by soaring melodies, crushing riffs, and unflinching honesty, the song explores survival, healing, and the courage required to confront one’s past.
Regarding the new single, Blackexplains:
“‘Black Box’ is the most personal song I’ve ever written. It’s a journey into my own mind, the Black Box. Like the device recovered from a plane crash, it holds the evidence of everything that went wrong, but also the key to understanding how I survived. Inside are the scars of a broken upbringing, addiction, loss, and decades spent chasing a dream that often felt impossible. For most of my life, I kept that box sealed shut. This song is about opening it. It’s about confronting the pain, owning the wreckage, and finding strength in the truth. ‘Black Box’ is my story of survival, a testament to the fact that no matter how many times life knocks you down, you can still rise, heal, and find your way home.”
“BLACK BOX” was produced by Black, executive produced by Andy Fetyko, mixed by Kane Churko (OZZY OSBOURNE, FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH, PAPA ROACH) and mastered by Maor Appelbaum (SEPULTURA, FAITH NO MORE, LIMP BIZKIT). Along with founding frontman and guitarist Black, APOCÆLYPSE’s lineup includes his son Ira Black IV on guitar, Matt Snell on bass and Lonny Pasillas on drums.
Set for release on August 28, FÆNIX marks the arrival of a fearless new voice in modern metal. Blending veteran musicianship with a forward-thinking creative vision, the album explores both personal and societal struggles through a collection of songs that balance crushing heaviness with cinematic scope and emotional depth. True to its title, FÆNIX is ultimately a story of resilience, transformation, and rising from adversity.
With anticipation continuing to build following the breakout success of “INTELL-I-GENTS,” “BLACK BOX” offers another compelling glimpse into FÆNIX, setting the stage for one of modern metal’s most anticipated debut albums when it arrives on August 28.
Canada’s progressive power metal act OSYRON produce a sound fueled with intensity blending cinematic soundscapes with intricate melodies and contrasting vocal styles. Powerful lyrics are at the core of the band’s epic storytelling and creative prowess.
As OSYRON prepare to embark on their next chapter, the band have launched a Kickstarter Campaign providing supporters with rewards and early glimpses from their forthcoming fifth studio album.
Rewards include:
Digital Download
CD Bundles
Vinyl Bundles
Handwritten Lyric Bundles
Release Show Package – incl. ticket to the album release concert in Calgary, AB, Canada
Deluxe Packages – including a T-shirt, hoodie, private listening party access & more
Musicians Bundle – including tabs and isolated tracks to learn the songs
Exclusive/limited options including vocal lessons, your name in the album credits or music video credits, first look at music videos, used drum gear from the studio, the Momentous tour backdrop, and more!
About OSYRON: Originally formed in 2012, the band’s current lineup is comprised of vocalist Reed Alton, guitarists Krzysztof Stalmach and Bobby Harley, bassist Tyler Corbett, and drummer Cody Anstey.
Their latest album, Momentous (2022), reached new heights gaining international praise, including the single release “The Deafening”, featuring Stu Block (ICED EARTH, ANNIHILATOR, INTO ETERNITY) and Percival Schuttenbach (The Witcher 3 OST). Achieving multiple features on Spotify’s All New Metal playlist Momentous has over 174,000 streams on Spotify alone to date. In the following year, OSYRON was nominated for the 2023 Western Canadian Music Awards “Metal Band of the Year”.
Beyond the streams, OSYRON has shared the stage with renowned groups such as NIGHTWISH, INSOMNIUM, EVERGREY, DARK TRANQUILLITY, KAMELOT, DRAGONFORCE, AMORPHIS, KREATOR, DESTRUCTION, HYPOCRISY, and many more at their performance on 70,000 Tons of Metal.
OSYRON‘s metal version of “O Canada” was licensed for a Destination Canada ski video that was shown before all screenings of Warren Miller’s 2021 movie Winter Starts Now, and the band received the prestigious FACTOR Canada “Juried Sound Recording” grant in 2021.
In summer 2023, OSYRON played their first European festival at Rock Castle in Czechia alongside HAMMERFALL, AMARANTHE, U.D.O., ALESTORM, BEAST IN BLACK, DORO, and more. The quintet brought their world-class sound on the road that same year touring North America over 16 dates supporting SEVEN KINGDOMS.
OSYRON returned to Europe in the summer of 2024 on a 6-date tour bookended by festivals where they shared the stage with JUDAS PRIEST, BRUCE DICKINSON, AVANTASIA, and ACCEPT at Masters of Rock in Czechia.
OSYRON is deep in the process of finalizing their forthcoming full length studio album, intended for release in late 2026.
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
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