Folk Metal Duo FORGOTTEN SHRINE Release Haunting Version Of BREAKING BENJAMIN’s “Crawl”

Posted in folk metal, folk rock, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , on February 11, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Listen to “Crawl” HERE: https://youtu.be/mXHdzDese5I

Emerging out from the shadows, folk metal ensemble FORGOTTEN SHRINE, comprised of Josh Alexander and Sofia Frasz (EXILED HOPE), present an explosive and thrilling cover of BREAKING BENJAMIN’s “Crawl”. 

Sofia Frasz comments: “BREAKING BENJAMIN was the soundtrack to my middle school and high school years, and remains one of my favorite bands to this day. A few months ago, I was feeling nostalgic and wanted to cover a song that no one else seemed to pay much attention to. I had a specific idea for a cinematic cover of ‘Crawl’ in my head, and it turned out so beautifully that we couldn’t wait to release it. I’m my own worst critic and almost never listen to my own music, but I’ve had this one on repeat on and off since we finished it back in November. I’m proud to have put such a special new twist on what I consider to be an underrated classic.“

Josh Alexander shares: “BREAKING BENJAMIN brings me back to a much simpler time of Halo LAN parties and hard rock, which we now call ‘dad rock’. When Sofia approached me with the idea I was very excited because this song has almost no covers to be found online. And being that we are FORGOTTEN SHRINE, we had to put our own spin on things as far as the arrangement, both vocally and musically, evoking an almost horror vibe. I can’t wait to see what everyone thinks!”

FORGOTTEN SHRINE create an eerie atmosphere in “Crawl” from the off with ethereal traditional instruments and haunting choir voices building into the heavy riffs. Enchanting folk parts, along with both Frasz and Alexander’s clean vocals, are powerfully juxtaposed with heavy distortion and their fierce harsh. It’s an enchanting and charismatic take on a noughties fan favorite. 

Stream “Crawl” here: https://youtu.be/mXHdzDese5I?si=CtZG5W8qkQrJUPg5

“Crawl” follows the previously released original singles: “Terror! At The Ballroom” (2025), “Where Shadows Lie” (2024) , “Hero” (2024) and “The Parting Glass” (2024) . 

FORGOTTEN SHRINE is: 
Josh Alexander (Pennsylvania, USA) – Guitar, Bass, Hurdy Gurdy, Irish Bouzouki, Additional Instruments, Backing Vocals, Composition.

Sofia Frasz (Maryland, USA) – Lead Vocals, Guitar, Lyrics, Composition.

Links: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555238025771&mibextid=ZbWKwL

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forgottenshrineband

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0q7rFp0yxvWoxGWqIt21nI?si=p5jz0YOOROOHFy5jxHAW6A

Source: C Squared Music

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CRYPTIC SHIFT: UK Progressive Death Metallers Release “Cryogenically Frozen” Single | Overspace & Supertime To Drop On February 27th Through Metal Blade Records

Posted in Metal, metal albums, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on February 10, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Photo by Murry Deaves

“Cryogenically Frozen” is the latest single from UK progressive death metallers CRYPTIC SHIFT. The track comes off the band’s Overspace & Supertime full-length, set to drop on February 27th through Metal Blade Records.

Issues vocalist/guitarist Alexander Bradley:

“Contrasting the prolonged, cinematic opening of our previous album [Visitations From Enceladus] ‘Cryogenically Frozen’ wastes no time by bursting into a flurry of jazz fusion-esque movements as if metal had an alternate timeline progressing from the lineage of masters like Cynic, Pestilence, and Allan Holdsworth, whilst still remaining true to our death/thrashing tendencies with lightning riffs tailor-made for the headbangers and circle pitters! Simultaneously, all aspects of our songwriting propel our new character, ‘The Recaller,’ through her sci-fi adventures, beginning with a cybertronic shootout and meditations in dreams and consciousness. Being one of the shorter songs on the album defined by a pulsing verse and chorus, it ends with a moment of calm before the true centerpiece of Overspace & Supertime begins with the 29-minute ‘Stratocumulus Evergaol’ which we can’t wait for all Astrodeath freaks to explore on February 27th.”

Stream CRYPTIC SHIFT’s “Cryogenically Frozen” HERE. 

Watch CRYPTIC SHIFT’s previously released video for “Hexagonal Eyes (Diverity Trepaphymphaszym)” HERE.

While not commonly known as an extraterrestrial hotspot, Leeds faced an encounter of another kind in 2015 when Bradley and drummer Ryan Sheperson set out to accomplish a project embodying their joint passion for the art of science fiction and heavy metal music. The band unveiled their debut full-length, Visitations From Enceladus, in 2020. The offering received critical acclaim for its adventurous, progressive technical death thrash compositions, a twisted form of extreme metal simply referred to as the “Phenomenal Technological Astrodeath.” 

Overspace & Supertime continues the conceptual and musical themes of their debut and delivers a new standard of technical thrash/death metal showmanship, including returning influences of progressive writing, harmonized with their fantastical storytelling.

“The concept of Overspace & Supertime plays as an alternative reality to the happenings of Visitations From Enceladus, taking our character into new dimensions filled with both greater adventures and more bizarre encounters,” notes Sheperson.

“Whilst the concept themes of our sci-fi tale have grown, so have our efforts in synthesizing it with the ultimate Astrodeath soundscape. The record takes the listener on a deeper journey through the fusion of our influences, with some exciting twists and turns along the way.”

CRYPTIC SHIFT:
Alexander Bradley – vocals, guitars
Joss Farrington – guitars
John Riley – bass
Ryan Sheperson – drums

Overspace & Supertime was produced by Jack Helliwell and mastered by Greg Chandler (Esoteric, My Dying Bride) and features the stunning artwork of Jesse Jacobi.

The record will be released on CD and digital formats as well as 2xLP in the following color variants:

180g Black

Cloudscape Orange Vinyl (Orange Red Marbled) – (Ltd. 600)

Ancient Storm Swirl Vinyl (Violet Blue W/ Black, Blue & Red Smoke) – (Ltd. 250)

Ice Cauldron Blue Vinyl (Blue/Purple Merged) – (Ltd. 250)

Find preorders at: metalblade.com/crypticshift. 

CRYPTIC SHIFT Live:

2/28/2026 Boston Music Rooms – London, UK * Record Release Show

5/21-24/2026 Maryland Deathfest – Baltimore, MD

In an advance 9/10 review of the record, Metal Hammer UK writes, “CRYPTIC SHIFT are operating on a higher plane of prog metal consciousness, and Overspace & Supertime is a potentially life-changing act of artistic audacity.”

Deaf Forever Germany concurs with a 9.5/10 rating, “In the future, all technical thrash/death bands from the Vektor/Voivod/Blood Incantation school will be measured against this record!”

Adds Sweden Rock Magazine with a 9/10 score, “This is already a candidate for the year’s, if not the best, then definitely the most ambitious work.”

https://www.facebook.com/crypticshift

https://www.instagram.com/crypticshift.ufo

https://www.metalblade.com

Source: EARSPLIT PR

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Corinne Westbrook Announces First Horror Novel: The Hollow One

Posted in books, horror, horror books, horror novels, horror stories with tags , , , , , on February 10, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

No stranger to the dark and macabre, The Hollow One is the debut novel from writer and horror-devotee Corinne Westbrook. With a combined interest in the shadowy side of art, music and literature, Westbrook has written for metal music outlets, notably Metal Injection and Knotfest, and is well acquainted with strange and uncanny storytelling.

Set for publication on May 26th, 2026, via Permuted Press, The Hollow One is a truly bloodcurdling psychological horror. Following the days of a young girl named Ellie, amidst the struggles of an absent mother, a baby brother and poverty, something more sinister soon takes hold of her life. When one evening her estranged father knocks on her bedroom window, what seems like a comforting dream begins to turn sour as this familial figure is perhaps not so familiar after all.

Told through the eyes of a child trying to make sense of a world that’s forgotten her, The Hollow One is a literary horror story about longing, memory, and the quiet danger of being unseen. Atmospheric, intimate, and deeply unsettling, this is a ghost story where the scariest things are not what lurk in the dark, but what’s already inside the house.

Pre Order The Hollow One:
Author signed copy: https://corinnewestbrook.com/product/the-hollow-one-corinne-westbrook-autographed-copy-pre-order/

Pre-order from Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hollow-One-Corinne-Westbrook/dp/B0FWZZ3LB3/

Pre-order from Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-hollow-one-corinne-westbrook/1148560675

Stay Up To Date: 
Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

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POWERRAGE Debut Album BEAST, Out April 24th – First Single “Dark Wings” Out Now!

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , on February 10, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Watch “Dark Wings” Lyric Video HERE

Pre-Order at: 

https://www.hrrecords.de/POWERRAGE

POWERRAGE:
Jacques Belanger – vocals
John Ricci – guitars
Todd Pilon – bass
Lucas Dery – drums

BEAST – track-list:
01 Dark Wings
02 Cremation Damnation
03 Dragon Man
04 Haunted Hell
05 I Torture I Kill
06 The Devil is Screaming
07 Damned and Cursed
08 The Black Mass

The album was mixed and mastered by Dan Swano at Unisound.

Album artwork by Mario Lopez.

On-Line:
https://www.facebook.com/PowerrageBeast

https://powerrage.bandcamp.com/album/beast

https://www.hrrecords.de/

Source: High Roller Records

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Astronaut Skulls As Album Cover Art – Let’s Take A Glance!

Posted in album covers, albums, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on February 9, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Above: FILTER – The Algorithm: Ultra Edition (2025) Artwork by Dana MacKenzie and photography by Derick Smith.

It’s no surprise that I love album cover artwork and design. Over the years we’ve covered here, on Metal Odyssey, album cover art from UFOs to Christmas with snakes in-between. This edition features astronauts portrayed as skeletons; or skulls to be more precise.

I have no idea when the first astronaut skull appeared on an album cover; that would be a rabbit hole I’d rather not dive into. Anyone have that answer please share it here!

There are five examples of astronaut skulls shown here. Enjoy!

I wasn’t gonna miss out on posting this IRON MAIDEN gem of cover art! The Final Frontier (2010). Cover artist: Melvyn Grant

I still can’t believe ORANGE GOBLIN disbanded. I’ll always listen to this band! Back from the Abyss released back in 2014. Cover artist: CAVUM

I stumbled on this album from THE COSMIC DEAD. I’m gonna give it a listen!

Dead Astronauts EP 2.0 – I found this one by just browsing for astronaut skulls on the web.

I’m certain there’s more astronaut skull covers out there. Please share any that you’re aware of here! Thank you for visiting! Stay safe out there and respect your fellow human beings as best you can. – Stone

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Legendary Belgian Thrashers CYCLONE Release Comeback EP Known Unto God | New Video “Nothing Is Real” Online Now

Posted in Metal, metal albums, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on February 9, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

CYCLONE are an underrated cult favorite amongst metal fans having released two solid thrash albums in 1986 and 1990. The Belgian band has now added a new 5-song EP, Known Unto God, to their arsenal. Available online or in stores Known Unto God showcases immediately intense and infectious intensity throughout, sure to please fans of thrash, hardcore and traditional speed metal. Check out their new lyric video for “Nothing Is Real” for more proof. 

Known Unto God is available as a limited (200) silver bullet colored vinyl (with download code) or as Digipak CD via M-Theory Audio. Order now at: www.m-theoryaudio.com

The 5 new songs were all written by core members singer Guido Gevels and guitarist Stefaan Daamen and recorded by Guido backed by a younger and invigorated lineup with vocal and drum production, along with mix and mastering handled by Martin Furia (Destruction, Nervosa, Evil Invaders). The artwork of Known Unto God is courtesy of Ivan S. Bragin (October Tide, The Gathering). 

The first chapter of CYCLONE history dates back to 1980 when 5 teenagers obsessed with NWOBHM decided to start a band. Experience they have not, but enthusiasm aplenty. A few years later, and after a series of shows with then established Acid, the quintet release their In The Grip of Evil demo – a cornerstone of European extreme metal.

The demo is supported by opening slots for Anthrax, Overkill, Agent Steel, Kreator and Destruction which leads to label interest with the band choosing to sign with Roadrunner Records. The monstrous Brutal Destruction is released followed by tours supporting Metallica and Slayer.

Times change, people change and hard choices have to be made, resulting in Guido and Stefaan working with three new players on 1990’s ‘Inferior To None.’ A European tour with Blessed Death is made to support the album, followed by another continental run with Sadus, The Obsessed and The Accused but by 1993 CYCLONE decide to call it quits. Now with a new lease on life and today’s release CYCLONE continue to write their story.

CYCLONE:

Guido Gevels – vocals

VIncent Heyman – bass

Gabriel Deschamps – drums

Max Deschamps – lead guitar 

Jesse Vandenbosshe – rhythm guitar

For more info:

FACEBOOK 

INSTAGRAM 

YOUTUBE

BANDCAMP

www.m-theoryaudio.com 

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TUNGSTEN Release Video For Brand New Single “Bite My Tongue”

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , on February 9, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Swedish metal force TUNGSTEN are back with an official video for their brand-new single “Bite My Tongue”! Fueled by muscular riffs and driving grooves, the track highlights the band’s ability to balance raw heaviness with strong melodic hooks. 

Formed by drummer Anders Johansson alongside his sons Karl and Nick, TUNGSTEN have quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about acts in the modern metal scene. With a sound rooted in classic heavy metal but sharpened by a contemporary edge, the band has built a reputation for powerful songwriting, a clear identity and relentless forward momentum, earning growing attention well beyond their Scandinavian home base.

“Bite My Tongue” is a groove-heavy, riff-driven mid-tempo rocker that builds steadily before exploding into a hook-laden chorus. According to vocalist Mike Andersson, the lyrics explore “how people often voice their opinions about various things loudly without hesitation, but when you hold a different view, it’s sometimes better to stay silent to keep the peace which can be quite frustrating at times.”

Watch the video clip for “Bite My Tongue” premiering here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Al2qFJnQvkQ

About TUNGSTEN:
TUNGSTEN made a strong entry into the metal scene in 2019 with the release of their debut album We Will Rise. The band quickly built momentum, releasing three further albums over the following years (Tundra, Bliss, and The Grand Inferno). 

Originally formed in 2016, TUNGSTEN soon solidified their lineup with the addition of lead vocalist Mike Andersson. Since then, the band has established a strong live reputation, touring extensively across Europe alongside acts such as BLOODBOUND, FIREWIND, SONATA ARCTICA, ALL FOR METAL, and others.

[photo credit: Mike Norgren]

TUNGSTEN have also appeared at numerous major festivals, including Sweden Rock Festival, Leyendas Del Rock (Spain), Midalidare Metal Fest (Bulgaria), Riverside Rock Fest (Switzerland), among many others. In July 2026, the band is confirmed to perform at Germany’s RockHarz Festival, with additional festival appearances currently in the works. Between touring and live performances, TUNGSTEN focuses on writing material for their upcoming album, aiming to create a powerful follow-up to 2024’s The Grand Inferno.

TUNGSTEN are:
Mike Andersson – Lead Vocals
Karl Johansson – Bass, Keyboards, Vocals
Nick Johansson – Guitar
Anders Johansson – Drums

More on TUNGSTEN:

Tungsten Official | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | Youtube

More on PERCEPTION:
perception.music | Facebook | Instagram 

Source: C Squared Music

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CASTLE RAT Announce Special Spring Headline Shows | On Tour This Spring With AMON AMARTH & DETHKLOK

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on February 8, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

METAL HAMMER COVER FEATURE REVEALED!

Mystical metal warriors CASTLE RAT will embark on a monumental tour with AMON AMARTH and DETHKLOK this spring, and have now announced two special, headlining shows in Grand Rapids, MI at The Pyramid Scheme on April 26th (w/SACRED LEATHER) and in Anaheim, CA at House of Blues on May 24th (w/DEATH CHANT). 

Tickets are available now at: https://castlerat.com/

CASTLE RAT Tour Dates:
Apr 15 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre
Apr 17 – San Antonio, TX – Boeing Center At Tech Port
Apr 18 – Houston, TX – 713 Music Hall
Apr 20 – Oklahoma City, OK – The Criterion
Apr 21 – Kansas City, MO – The Midland Theatre
Apr 22 – Chesterfield, MO – The Factory
Apr 24 – Minneapolis, MN – Armory
Apr 25 – Waukee, IA – Vibrant Music Hall
Apr 26 – Grand Rapids, MI – The Pyramid Scheme (HEADLINE SHOW)
Apr 28 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount
Apr 29 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway
May 1 – Toronto, ON – The Theatre at Great Canadian Casino Resort
May 2 – Montreal, QC – Centre Bell
May 5 – Oxon Hill, MD – The Theater at MGM National Harbor
May 7 – Daytona Beach, FL – Welcome To Rockville Pre-Party (FESTIVAL)
May 9 – Atlanta, GA – Coca-Cola Roxy
May 10 – Nashville, TN – The Pinnacle
May 12 – Johnstown, PA – 1st Summit Arena
May 13 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre Detroit
May 16 – Milwaukee, WI – Landmark Credit Union Live
May 17 – Columbus, OH – Sonic Temple Art & Music (FESTIVAL)
May 19 – Denver, CO – The Junkyard
May 20 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Union Event Center
May 21 – Las Vegas, NV – Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
May 24 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues (HEADLINE SHOW)

July 29 – Bergen, NO – Beyond The Gates 2026 (FESTIVAL)
Aug 6 – Jaroměř, CZ – Brutal Assault 2026 (FESTIVAL)
Aug 8 – Kortrijk, BE – Alcatraz 2026 (FESTIVAL)
Aug 15 – Eindhoven, NL – Dynamo Metal Fest 2026 (FESTIVAL)

With the new headlining shows comes the announcement of CASTLE RAT’s first cover feature with METAL HAMMER (UK). Behold the sword wielding Rat Queen in all her glory, as they continue to slay their way to the top! Purchase a copy now at: bit.ly/buyhammer.

Photo Credit: Courtney Hall (@light_witch)

CASTLE RAT is currently on the road in support of their critically acclaimed new album, The Bestiary, that’s available now from King Volume Records (US) and Blues Funeral Recordings (UK/Europe). Named one of 2025’s best metal albums by Rolling Stone, NPR, Decibel and All Music, The Bestiary is an epic tale of mysticism, magic and maleficence set in a mythical world and told through the heavy metal offerings of band members “The Rat Queen,” “The Count,” “The Plague Doctor” and “The All-Seeing Druid.” 

PURCHASE THE BESTIARY: 
NORTH AMERICA – HERE
EUROPE – HERE

STREAM THE BESTIARY: 
lnkfi.re/thebestiary

The Bestiary – Track-list: 

1. PHOENIX I
2. WOLF I
3. WIZARD
4. SIREN
5. UNICORN
6. PATH OF MOSS
7. CRYSTAL CAVE 
8. SERPENT
9. WOLF II
10. DRAGON
11. SUMMONING SPELL
12. SUN SONG
13. PHOENIX II

“WIZARD” Music Video

“WOLF I” Music Video

“SERPENT” Audio Stream

Follow CASTLE RAT:
Facebook | Instagram | Youtube
King Volume Records | Blues Funeral

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GRAVE DIGGER, COCKNEY REJECTS, THE STUBS & HAMULEC Join HELLS BELLS FESTIVAL 2026 Line-up

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on February 8, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Debut edition set for 26-27 June 2026 in the historic port city of Szczecin, Poland

Limited Early Bird weekend tickets still available

Szczecin, Poland; 6 February 2026: Hells Bells Festival has has unveiled a further four band additions to its inaugural 2026 edition. Joining the previously announced Vader, Discharge, Furia and Dezerter, this second wave of artists brings a lethal injection of German heavy metal, British street punk, and high-energy Polish rock’n’roll to the Oder riverfront.

Leading the announcement are German heavy metal titans Grave Digger. With a career spanning over four decades, the German heavy metal legends remain one of the most prolific and respected forces in the genre. Known for their iconic concept albums and the unmistakable grit of Chris Boltendahl’s vocals, the band continues to prove their relevance; their recent studio effort, Bone Collector (2025), saw them revisiting the crusader themes that made them household names in the 80s. 

Joining them are the originators of street punk, Cockney Rejects. Emerging from the East End of London in the late 70s, the band famously gave the “Oi!” subgenre its name and provided the soundtrack for generations of underground fans. Still possessing the same pugnacious energy that defined their early years, the Rejects bring a legacy of anthems that bridge the gap between terrace culture and raw punk rock.

The addition of two Polish acts also bolsters the line-up. The Stubs will bring their self-described “low-budget rock’n’roll” to the stage. Widely considered one of the finest garage-rock bands Poland has produced, they deliver a raw, high-octane sound that will perfectly counterpoint the festival’s metal offerings.

Rounding out the announcement is Hamulec, a band currently riding a massive wave of popularity in the Polish underground. Blending thrash metal aggression with a punk spirit, Hamulec has quickly become one of the most sought-after live acts in the country.

Hells Bells Festival will take place in the heart of Szczecin, Poland, on 26-27 June 2026. The venue is the scenic Plac Gryfitów on Łasztownia, a historic island district in Szczecin known for its iconic “Craneosaurs” (historic port cranes) and stunning views of the Oder River. The festival will deliver a mix of international legends, top domestic acts and younger new bands.

Early bird weekend tickets are available via the official festival website until 9 February or until they sell out.

In addition to standard passes, the festival offers reduced rates for minors (ages 13-18) and special family tickets (for children under 13 with a guardian). 

Secure your entry now: https://hellsbells.pl/

Hells Bells online:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/hellsbellsfestival
FB Event: https://fb.me/e/7cujCjrCo
IG: https://www.instagram.com/hellsbellsfestival

Source: 3nation

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New Jersey Hellraisers WHO ON EARTH Are Back With New Single “Vigilance” | New Tour With FOZZY Announced

Posted in Hard Rock, hard rock bands, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , on February 8, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

New Jersey rock/metal torchbearers WHO ON EARTH return with a vengeance, unleashing their blistering new single “Vigilance,” accompanied by an incendiary official music video. The release follows the momentum of the band’s critically praised 2025 EP Smoke & Mirrors and signals the next chapter in their quest for world domination!

Commenting on the single, bassist Pete Rizzi says:

“Vigilance’ was written for one reason and one reason only: to deliver both a warning and a call to unity. As we become more divided as a country, the elite continue to gain wealth and power at our expense, unabated. This is a “we’ve had enough” cry from the urban streets of Trenton, NJ!“

“Vigilance” delivers a crushing preview of what WHO ON EARTH have in store for 2026: sharp riffs, thunderous rhythms, and unflinching intensity. The single arrives ahead of the band’s upcoming spring tour supporting FOZZY, where fans can experience the new material live. Tour dates and tickets are available now at: whoonearththeband.com/shows.

Stream “Vigilance“: 

https://found.ee/WhoOnEarthVIGILANCE

“VIGILANCE” MUSIC VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6bcU4PPcEM

Follow the band for additional updates in the coming weeks!

WHO ON EARTH Tour Dates w/FOZZY:

May 8 – Charlotte, NC – Amos’ Southend
May 9 – Waynesboro, VA – The Foundry
May 12 – Philadelphia, PA – Underground Arts
May 13 – Harrisburg, PA – Capitall City Music Hall
May 15 – St. Charles, IL – Arcada Theatre
May 16 – Flint, MI – The Machine Shop

Lineup:
Coosh – Vocals
Pete Rizzi – Bass
Johnny James Barone – Guitar
Jimmy Kocha – Guitar
Howie Fallon – Drums

Follow WHO ON EARTH:
Website | Facebook |Instagram | TikTok | Youtube | Spotify | Apple Music

Source: Secret Service Publicity

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Stephen Pearcy – The Undercover Tour 2026 | Dates, Cities & Venues Listed

Posted in Hair Metal, Hard Rock, hard rock bands, Heavy Metal, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on February 7, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Stephen Pearcy The Undercover Tour 2026:

^ Thursday, February 26 – Highland, CA – Rockageddon at Yaamava’ Theater
+ Saturday, May 9 – Tulare, CA – Adventist Health Amphitheater
+ Friday, May 29 – Davenport, IA – River City Casino
+ Sunday, May 31 – Lake Charles, LA – L’Auberge Casino Resort
+ Saturday, Jun 13 – West Salem, WI – Maple Grove Venue
^ Friday, Aug 21 – Gatlinburg, TN – Gatlinburg
^ Sunday, Aug 23 – Orlando, FL – Hard Rock Café

+ STEPHEN PEARCY SOLO

^ PEARCY/DEMARTINI

More info: HERE.

VIP Experience info: HERE.

Source: Official Stephen Pearcy Facebook

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METAL CHURCH – New Studio Album, Dead To Rights, Releasing on April 10th

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, music videos, news with tags , , , , , , , on February 7, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Metal Church return with their 13th studio album, Dead to Rights, scheduled for release on April 10, 2026 via Rat Pak Records (America), Reaper (Europe/UK) and Rubicon (Japan).

The album marks the first release from the band’s latest lineup, featuring founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof alongside longtime guitarist Rick Van Zandt, joined by bass icon David Ellefson, powerhouse drummer Ken Mary, and dynamic new vocalist Brian Allen.

From the aggressive opening assault of “Brainwash Game” to the riff-driven finale “My Wrath,” Metal Church prove they still possess the same relentless drive that has earned them fans for over four decades. Tracks such as “Deep Cover Shakedown,” “The Show,” and “Wasted Time” deliver the signature sound the band has long been known for.

The album’s first single,“F.A.F.O.”, was released last November, with its accompanying video surpassing 400,000 views to date. Dead To Rights was produced by Kurdt Vanderhoof and mixed and mastered by Zeuss at Planet Z.

“This new album is very special to me for one reason: the band was over, and I honestly didn’t see it being resurrected. But somehow, it brought itself back to life – again!” exclaims Kurdt Vanderhoof. “I’m incredibly proud of these new songs; they hit hard. Brian Allen brings the classic Metal Church sound to the vocals, and adding a rhythm section with musicians of the caliber of Dave Ellefson and Ken Mary makes this a force to be reckoned with. If you enjoy classic Metal Church, you’re going to love this record.”

Pre-order Metal Church Dead to Rights here: https://lnk.to/Metal-Church  

Source: Rat Pak Records

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DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG Strike Back with “Batter The Power” Music Video

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on February 7, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Watch the video here: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKHq7W5iPHY

Another new video has arrived from the already released album Babylon by DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG (released in October 2025, RPM).

Following the strong impact of previous clips, with “It Takes Two To Tango” and “Hellbreaker” each surpassing one million views, the band now present the video for “Batter The Power”, continuing the visual journey through their latest release.

“Batter The Power” is a classic heavy shuffle driven by a true metal riff and an anthem-like sing-along chorus that instantly evokes the spirit of “old times.” What initially appears to be a deliberately straightforward and repetitive verse structure is given a sharper edge by the accusatory vocal interplay between Udo Dirkschneider and Peter Baltes, adding tension and attitude to the song’s message.

Photo: Eddi Bachmann Photography

Manuela “Ella” Bibert puts the icing on the cake with her distinctive solo vocal interludes during the final choruses, while Mathias Dieth’s extraordinary guitar solo breaks free from any convention, unapologetically bold and perfectly in line with the band’s uncompromising approach. Why should we care about rules?

Lyrically, “Batter The Power” draws on classic heavy metal imagery of battle, resistance and liberation. Lines like “we’ll die to be free” and “never surrender” underline the song’s central message: relentlessly challenging oppressive power in the name of freedom and justice.

With the “Batter The Power” video, DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG once again highlight the timeless strength of classic heavy metal, reinforcing Babylon as an album that proudly bridges the past and present with experience, conviction and raw power.

Listen to Babylon on your favourite streaming platform or get your CD/LP/Earbook here: https://datog.rpm.link/babylon

DATOG are:

Udo Dirkschneider | lead vocals

Peter Baltes | bass, lead & backing vocals

Manuela “Ella” Bibert | lead & backing vocals, keys

Stefan Kaufmann | guitars, backing vocals

Mathias “Don” Dieth | guitars, backing vocals

Sven Dirkschneider | drums, backing vocals

More on DATOG:

datog.de | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | RPM

Source: C Squared Music

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KREATOR – UK And Europe 2026 | Special Guests: CARCASS, EXODUS & NAILS | Dates, Cities & Venues Listed

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal books, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on February 7, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

From KREATOR Facebook:

“Hordes! Don’t forget that we’re bringing this INCREDIBLE line-up to the UK and Europe, this March…

Kreator, Carcass, Exodus & Nails! You don’t want to miss this! Get your tickets and VIP upgrades now!”

KREATOR ticket info: https://www.kreator-terrorzone.de/

3/20 – Lisbon, Portugal MEO Arena
3/22 – Madrid, Spain Palacio Vistalegre
3/24 – Paris, France Zenith Paris
3/25 – Brussels, Belgium Ancienne Belgique
3/27 – London, UK O2 Academy Brixton
3/28 – Manchester, UK O2 Apollo Manchester
3/29 – Glasgow, UK O2 Academy Glasgow
3/31 – Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg Rockhal
4/1 – Zürich, Switzerland Halle 622
4/3 – Den Bosch, Netherlands Mainstage Brabanthallen
4/4 – Essen, Germany Grugahalle
4/5 – Frankfurt, Germany Jahrhunderthalle
4/7 – Milan, Italy Alcatraz
4/8 – Ljubljana, Slovenia Media Center
4/9 – Vienna, Austria Gasometer
4/10 – Ludwigsburg, Germany MHP Arena
4/11 – Munich, Germany Zenith
4/12 – Karlín, Czechia Forum Karlín
4/13 – Budapest, Hungary Barba Negra
4/15 – Warsaw, Poland COS Torwar
4/17 – Hamburg, Germany Inselparkhalle
4/18 – Berlin, Germany Uber Eats Music Hall
4/20 – Riga, Latvia Palladium Riga
4/21 – Helsinki, Finland Black Box Finland Oy
4/23 – Stockholm, Sweden Annexet
4/24 – Oslo, Norway Sentrum Scene
4/25 – Copenhagen, Denmark Poolen

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CASKET ROBBERY – 10 Years of Evolution of Evil Tour | Dates, Cities & Venues Listed

Posted in Death Metal, death metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , on February 6, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

From Casket Robbery Facebook:

“We are stoked to be hitting the road in March to celebrate the 10th Year Anniversary of our album Evolution Of Evil. Join us and catch a special set list of old and unreleased tracks. We will have special VIP upgrades available for this tour!”

Grab advanced tix and VIP upgrades now!! 

3.17 – Lincoln, NE at Witches Brew
3.20 – Reno, NV at Club Underground
3.21 – Las Vegas, NV at Vegas UnAlive Festival w/ Decrepit Birth
3.22 – Salt Lake City, UT at Aces High Saloon
3.24 – Denver, CO at The Roxy
3.26 – Cedar Rapids, IA at Black Hole
3.27 – Kansas City, MO at SK8 Bar
3.28 – Sioux Falls, SD at Club David

http://casketrobbery.com/tour

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RIOT V – Hail To The Warriors Tour 2026 | Dates, Cities & Venues Listed

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal festivals, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on February 6, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

  • May 8, 2026: DE, Braunschweig, Germany – Rock in Rautheim
  • May 9, 2026: DE, Gladbeck, Germany – Metal Bash Festival
  • May 10, 2026: DE, Hamburg, Germany – Bambi Galore
  • May 12, 2026: DE, Mannheim, Germany – 7er Club
  • May 13, 2026: DE, Uelsen, Aula Schulzentrum
  • May 15, 2026: DE, Oberndorf, Germany – Metalheadz Open Air
  • May 16, 2026: CH, Aarburg, Musigburg
  • More dates TBA
  • Nov 14, 2026: Marseille, France – Jas Rod (South Troopers Festival V) 

Website: https://www.areyoureadytoriot.com/

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A Few Friday Metal Thoughts From Stone…

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news, Opinions with tags , , , , , , on February 6, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

If you haven’t seen the teaser regarding an OZZFEST 2027, look no further than the above graphic. I took this from the Ozzfest Twitter. I truly hope it’s pulled off!

I’ve put the song “Don’t Go In The Forest” by AVATAR into my current rotation on Spotify. I find it dark, sinister and groovy, man!

—————————————

The elitist Grammys🖕🏻can kiss my ass. Dream Theater should have won for “Night Terror” – a no brainer. The other Pop bubble gum group that won “Best Metal Performance” (category is a joke now) can go back to their mommy’s basements and pretend they’re “Metal”.

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TWISTED SISTER – Cancels 50th Anniversary Celebration Tour

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , on February 6, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

From Twisted Sister Facebook:

With Regrets,
Twisted Sister Cancels 50th Anniversary Celebration Performances Due to the sudden and unexpected resignation of Twisted Sister’s lead singer Dee Snider brought on by a series of health challenges, the band has been forced to cancel all shows scheduled, beginning April 25th in Sao Paulo Brazil and continuing through the summer. The future of Twisted Sister will be determined in the next several weeks.

Stay tuned for updates,
Jay Jay French/Eddie Ojeda
French Management Enterprises

A lifetime of legendarily aggressive performing has taken its toll on Dee Snider’s body and soul. Unbeknownst to the public (until now) Snider (70) suffers from degenerative arthritis and has had several surgeries over the years just to keep going, able to only perform a few songs at a time in pain.

Adding insult to injury, Dee has recently found out the level of intensity he has dedicated to his life’s work has taken its toll on his heart as well. He can no longer push the boundaries of rock ‘n’ roll fury like he has done for decades. Says Snider, “I don’t know of any other way to rock. The idea of slowing down is unacceptable to me. I’d rather walk away than be a shadow of my former self.”

In the immortal words of Dirty Harry, “A man’s got to know his limitations.” Sadly, Dee Snider now knows his.

God Bless Dee Snider. We Love You At Metal Odyssey.

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DVNE Announces Live At Hellfest Release, Ahead Of Igorrr Support Tour

Posted in Metal, metal albums, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on February 5, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Scottish progressive metal band DVNE announces the release of their powerful performance at Hellfest Open Air 2023. Live At Hellfest features a selection of songs exclusively from DVNE’s acclaimed album Etemen Ænka, showcasing the band’s crushing heaviness, atmospheric depth, and commanding live presence. Recorded in front of a massive festival audience, the release captures the raw energy and immersive sound that has made DVNE one of the most compelling acts in modern progressive metal.

Live At Hellfest arrives as DVNE prepares to hit the road as support for Igorrr, marking an exciting new chapter for the band and offering fans a raw snapshot of their live presence.

Watch the full release HERE. Download it HERE.

Photo by Alan Swan

Formed in Edinburgh in 2013 by displaced Frenchman Victor Vicart and native Scot Dudley Tait, post-metal prog-sludge artisans DVNE have been building a powerful head of steam since their second album, 2021’s kaleidoscopically mesmerizing Etemen Ænka. Their first release for the legendary Metal Blade Records label, the LP was a concerted hike up the greasy pole for this enigmatic outfit, enabling DVNE to embark on UK and European headline tours and win spots at such discerning festivals as Hellfest, ArcTanGent, Desertfest, Damnation, and Resurrection. Then the stunning third album Voidkind in 2024 propelled this expanded five-piece lineup (welcoming Maxime Keller on keyboards) to the top of their game.

Certainly, Voidkind succeeds in finding new modes of expression for DVNE. The songs are more pointed, direct and memorable, but the soundscape still has a radiant, evolving, hypnotic flow, the effect achieved with fewer layers of sonic ornamentation, consciously urging closer to DVNE’s incendiary live sound. 

The band will embark on their European tour as support for labelmates Igorrr today:

DVNE w/ Igorrr, Thoughtcrimes:

2/05/2026 La Boite Noire – Meisenthal, FR

2/06/2026 Im Wizemann Hall – Stuttgart, DE

2/07/2026 Backstage Werk – Munich, DE

2/08/2026 Alcatraz – Milan, IT

2/10/2026 Kino Siska – Ljubljana, SI

2/11/2026 Gasometer – Vienna, AT

2/12/2026 Roxy – Prague, CZ

2/13/2026 Barba Negra – Budapest, HU

2/14/2026 Progresia – Warsaw, PL

2/16/2026 Loftas – Vilnius, LT

2/17/2026 Helitehas – Tallinn, EE

2/18/2026 Kulttuuritalo – Helsinki, FI

2/20/2026 Fryshuset – Stockholm, SE

2/21/2026 Rockefeller – Oslo, NO

2/22/2026 Amager Bio – Copenhagen, DK

2/24/2026 Metropol – Berlin, DE

2/25/2026 FZW – Dortmund, DE

2/26/2026 Tivoli – Utrecht, NL

2/27/2026 L’Aeronef – Lille, FR

2/28/2026 Le 106 – Rouen, FR

DVNE:
Victor Vicart – guitars, vocals
Daniel Barter – guitars, vocals
Dudley Tait – drums
Alexandros Keros – bass
Maxime Keller – keys

https://www.facebook.com/DvneUK

https://www.instagram.com/dvne_uk

https://songs-of-arrakis.bandcamp.com

https://www.metalblade.com

https://www.metalblade.com/museum

Source: EARSPLIT PR

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WIELDED STEEL – Alabama Death Metal/Hardcore Outfit To Unleash Sins Of Your Domain Full-Length On March 13th, via 1126 Records | New Video/Single Now Playing + Preorders Available

Posted in Death Metal, hardcore, hardcore bands, Heavy Metal, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on February 5, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Photo by Sarah Wilkes

Watch WIELDED STEEL’s video for “In The Line Of Fire” HERE. Stream the track HERE.

Birmingham, Alabama metallers and recent 1126 Record signees WIELDED STEEL will unleash their annihilating Sins Of Your Domain full-length on March 13th.

WIELDED STEEL isn’t looking to make friends with Sins Of Your Domain, a violent fusion of death metal and hardcore. “I’ve got a lot of feelings when it comes to the word deathcore,” notes vocalist Jesse Clark. “It’s used to describe every stadium band that tries to tune their guitar the lowest and have the longest breakdown possible.” But the group doesn’t like that sound, citing bands like Internal Bleeding or Irate as inspiration.

“That sound has evolved over time,” adds drummer Cyrus Patel. “We started out somewhere between death metal and hardcore, but we’ve been quietly adding more and more death metal influences as we’ve progressed.”

That’s more than obvious on Sins Of Your Domain. “Musically, this record is the sum of us diving further into our influences and pushing ourselves harder than we ever have before, in terms of songwriting,” says Clark, “Lyrically, Sins Of Your Domain is a record about how people I see as evil should be made to acknowledge and, in one way or another, atone for their sins committed by their ‘domain.’ Whether that’s their country, their class, their corrupt belief systems, or the people they surround themselves with.”

The record opens with an ominous meditation on T.S. Eliot’s Hollow Men, a haunted chant of “this is the way the world ends” that gives way to a sonic assault over a crushing rhythm. Lyrically the track is quite literally an introduction to the themes of the record and the idea of paying for the “sins of your domain,” as in the things you stood idly by and allowed to happen for the sake of your own comfort.

Watch WIELDED STEEL’s video for “In The Line Of Fire” HERE. Stream the track HERE.

Guitarist Michael Carpenter cranks the volume up on songs like the title track, “Your Words Mean Nothing,” and today’s single, “In The Line Of Fire (Feat. Blaythe Steuer of No Cure),” each boasting stripped down technical riffs that mutate into intricate rhythms that don’t let up.

“In the Line Of Fire’ is just about using the people you hate for target practice,” explained Clark. “Blaythe of No Cure is featured and he fits really well with the metallic vibe of this song. His energy was perfectly suited for the big build up in the middle of the track.”

Watch the band’s previously released video for “Your Words Mean Nothing” HERE.

Sins Of Your Domain was produced, mixed, and mastered by Kevin Langley and will be released on CD, LP, and digital formats.

Find physical preorders at 1126records.com and digital orders at: 1126records.bandcamp.com.

Sins Of Your Domain – Track Listing:

  1. Intro
  2. Your Words Mean Nothing
  3. In The Line Of Fire (Feat. Blaythe Steuer of No Cure)
  4. Sins Of Your Domain (Feat. Jason Fraizer of Corpse Pile)
  5. Perpetual Hell (Feat. Nate Snitchler of Rejoice)
  6. Die By The Steel (Feat. Zebulon McMillan of Brass Tongue)
  7. Fabricated Integrity
  8. Martyr

WIELDED STEEL Live w/ Dysmorphia:
3/22/2026 Mad Malt’s – Huntsville, AL
3/23/2026 Mosey’s – Panama City, FL
3/24/2026 Skatepark Of Tampa – Tampa, FL
3/25/2026 Central Florida Skatepark – Orlando, FL
3/26/2026 Hard Love – Jacksonville, FL
3/27/2026 The Portal – Savannah, GA
3/28/2026 New Brookland Tavern – Columbia, SC
3/29/2026 The Shop – Atlanta, GA
** no Dysmorphia

WIELDED STEEL:
Jesse Clark – vocals
Cyrus Patel – drums
Michael Carpenter – guitar
CJ Moore – bass

https://www.instagram.com/wieldedsteel

https://1126records.com

https://www.facebook.com/1126Records

Source: EARSPLIT PR

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