With Emergence, this Seattle-based quartet blends intricate song structure with unbridled aggression for an album that makes one simple statement – URSAWRATH has arrived.
Watch the official music video for album opener “Thawed by Hell’s Flames” at: youtu.be/8ICs8eZZ7DA
Emergence – Track List:
1. Thawed By Hell’s Flames
2. Rot
3. Thrive in Destruction and Death
4. In the Abyss
5. Lies
6. And the Reckoning
7. Echo Chamber
8. Glass Tower
9. Sentenced to Life
10. Unstoppable
Emergence was recorded by USRAWRATH, and mixed and mastered by Max Barber of Singular Path Audio. Artwork by Riaj Gragoth (www.luciferiumwargraphics.com).
Photo Credit: Samantha (The Metal Witch) Jones
URSAWRATH was founded by vocalist and bassist Adam Schaefer in September 2023 after relocating to Seattle to pursue music and form a new band. To recruit members, Schaefer recorded a four-song demo featuring early versions of “Thawed by Hell’s Flames,” “In the Abyss,” “Echo Chamber” and “Sentenced to Life.”
Shortly after, guitarists DJ and Lucas Robertson joined the fold, and the trio began rehearsing and refining material. Drummer Maximilian Onsager completed the lineup in spring 2024.
With the full band in place, URSAWRATH began writing new material and reworking the demo tracks, adding guitar solos, updated arrangements, and new drum parts. They started performing live around Seattle in May 2024 to establish themselves in the local scene.
Swedish Hard Rock giants Eclipse are finally back on the road with the announcement of their brand-new Megalomanium Tour 2025. A journey that will take them through Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, Belgium, Switzerland, and Italy, this tour is more than just a series of shows, it’s a celebration of everything that makes Eclipse one of the most thrilling Rock bands of our time.
For over two decades, Eclipse have built their reputation on a sound that perfectly balances melody and power. Led by an unmistakable sound and a creative vision, the band has grown into a global force, capable of filling festival fields at Wacken, Download and Sweden Rock, sharing the stage with legendary acts like Aerosmith, Def Leppard and playing all over the World. This tour is the perfect opportunity for fans to experience that power up close, in the heat and intensity of Europe’s most iconic clubs.
Alongside them on the road, Eclipse are bringing two names that represent the vibrant wave of Swedish Hard Rock.
Reach, with a mix of contemporary and classic Rock sounds, have carved their own path on the European scene, standing out as one of the most creative and ambitious acts of their generation. Their latest album, Prophecy, showcases their adventurous spirit, a genre-fluid blend of theatrical arrangements, introspective lyrics, and spellbinding melodies.
Andy and the Rockets, on the other hand, embody the raw spirit of Hard Rock with a modern twist. Their songs are direct and loud, fueled by an energy that has quickly made them one of the most talked-about bands in Scandinavia. With their new album Casino set for release this October 2025, Andy and the Rockets are stepping onto this tour ready to ignite the stage with their explosive energy.
The Megalomanium Tour 2025 is Eclipse at their very best, powerful, unstoppable, and ready to turn every night into the Music triumph.
Album Artwork: Fernando Rojas B. (Abismo Black Arts)
German/Swedish Blackened Death Metal band, Shadows, have released their debut album, Miseria. Featuring former members of such notable acts as Visceral Bleeding, The Berzerker, Enshrined and Ominous, the quartet now proudly presents nine songs of unrelenting misanthropy.
Miseria aims to explore the vast uncaring nothingness and explore the dread of our futile existence. If you are looking for release or redemption you won’t find them here. The album is unmistakably rooted in the Scandinavian black and death metal but delivers it with its own signature. It is crushing and suffocating, yet also melodic and solemn.
Mixed and produced by Dejan Milenkovits & Mathias Lodmalm.
Mastered by Dejan Milenkovits & Mathias Lodmalm.
Session drums by Filip Gäddnäs.
Additional vocals by Mathias Lodmalm.
Guest solo on “Lamia” by Robert Ahrling.
Guest solo on “Delivered From Sin” by Andreas Hedberg.
Line-up:
Dejan Milenkovits – Vocals & Guitars Martin Bermheden – Guitars Andreas Holm – Bass Joél Cirera – Drums
BIO:
Shadows was established in 2021 by guitarist and vocalist Dejan Milenkovits as a solo project during the pandemic lockdown. What began as a recording of a handful of songs released in early 2022 quickly grew beyond its original intent. Consequently, Finnish session drummer Filip Gäddnäs was recruited to track drums and long-time friend and collaborator Mathias Lodmalm (Cemetary, Sundown) was invited to co-produce a full album.
The album was subsequently recorded during 2024. As the album continued to take shape, it became clear that Shadows had outgrown the confines of a solo project.
In early 2025, the band was expanded to include drummer Joél Cirera and guitarist Martin Bermheden, both of whom were former band members with DejanMilenkovits from the disbanded death metal band Enshrined. The trio was finally joined by Andreas Holm on bass, completing the permanent lineup.
“Giants & Monsters bursts with energy and spirit, seasoned craftsmanship that embraces all eras of HELLOWEEN.” BRAVEWORDS (CA)
“The relentless experimentation of their ultimate seven-member line-up has finally reached the pinnacle with Giants & Monsters.” BURRN! (JP)
German metal icons HELLOWEEN have always been pioneers of the power metal scene: The godfathers of melodic speed metal are renowned for their brilliant records and unforgettable concerts. Giants & Monsters, the highly-praised follow-up to their self-titled No.1 album has finally arrived through Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM) and continues the band’s unparalleled legacy.
The long-awaited record will certainly be celebrated by the Pumpkinheads around the world on the band’s upcoming “40 Years Anniversary Tour.” The global tour will be more than exciting for the fans with a career-spanning set list and a brand-new live show, starting in Europe this autumn and followed by tours in Asia, North and Latin America.
Giants & Monsters is a truly impressive HELLOWEEN album: confident and bursting with vigor, the septet presents probably the most versatile album of their career. The album release is accompanied by a 90’s MTV style music video with “A Little Is A Little Too Much.” Under complete banishment of AI, it beams the viewer into a miniature doll house, making the artists not look like monsters, but GIANTS indeed.
Playing with optical illusions, the video captivates eyes, ears, and all other senses with HELLOWEEN’s trademark sense of humor and shows the fun within the band. The song itself is a veritable hit with a hook that carves its way into the fans’ minds and captivates immediately.
Photo credit: Mathias Bothor
L-R: Daniel Löble (drums), Michael Weikath (guitars), Markus Grosskopf (bass), Michael Kiske (vocals), Sascha Gerstner (guitars), Andi Deris (vocals), Kai Hansen (guitars, vocals)
Andi Deris comments on the song: “I wanted to write something about the last drop that causes a huge flooding – a little is a little too much. The story itself is a bit erotic. It’s about my first experiences when I was a teenager. You always dream about having sex and finally once you have it you realise: Okay, it took one second that something happened that you didn’t want in that moment. And here we go: A little is a little too much, better don’t move or don’t touch. But in the end, it is about all the minor things that get out of hand with this little bit more, and then it’s a little too much.”
Guitarist Sascha Gerstner, originator of the clip idea, adds: “HELLOWEEN have been known for going against the tide of heavy metal clichés since the 80’s. Think of music videos like ‘I Want Out’ or ‘Where The Rain Grows’, it always was about not taking yourself too seriously. With the music video for ‘A Little Is A Little Too Much,’ we wanted to pursue this spirit and connect the old days with the new era.”
Giants & Monsters – Track Listing: 01. Giants On The Run 02. Savior Of The World 03. A Little Is A Little Too Much 04. We Can Be Gods 05. Into The Sun 06. This Is Tokyo 07. Universe (Gravity For Hearts) 08. Hand Of God 09. Under The Moonlight 10. Majestic Bonus Track: 11. Out Of Control Additional Earbook Bonus Tracks: 12. Into The Sun [Andi Solo Version] 13. Into The Sun [Michi Solo Version] 14. Into The Sun [Acoustic Version Duet]
Time To Kill Records is proud to announce the signing of SEASON OF THE DEAD, the visceral, horror-obsessed death metal project featuring an all-star cast from across the underground.
The band promise a debut release that will feel like a lost VHS nightmare brought to life. More details on the upcoming record will be revealed soon.
SEASON OF THE DEAD is a visceral, cinematic extreme metal project born from the twisted minds of Titta Tani (former drummer of Necrophagia and Goblin), Giacomo Anselmi (former Goblin guitarist and current member of Goblin Legacy) and Enrico Giannone, founder and owner of Time To Kill Records, acting as producer and visionary behind the entire concept.
The idea is as brutal as it is clear: to resurrect the blood-soaked legacy of horror-infused death metal, channeling the rotten spirit of bands like Necrophagia, Mortician, and Fulci; while paying tribute to the grotesque imagery and raw energy of cult underground horror films. Influences range from Killjoy to City of the Living Dead, The Beyond, and Cannibal Holocaust, creating a soundscape that feels like a soundtrack to a lost VHS splatter nightmare.
The project boasts an all-star lineup from the international extreme music scene:
John McEntee (Incantation) – Vocals
Fiore Stravino (Fulci) – Vocals
Dave Neabore (Dog Eat Dog) – Bass
Chuck Sherwood (Incantation) – Bass
Giacomo Anselmi (Goblin Legacy) – Guitars
Titta Tani (ex Goblin, ex Necrophagia) – Drums
SEASON OF THE DEAD is more than just music – it’s a blood-drenched ritual, a sonic horror film where every track unfolds like a scene filled with gore, possession, necromancy, and decay. It’s a love letter to the most disturbing, iconic side of horror and death metal, one meant to be played loud… with the lights off.
From Fear Factory Bandsintown: Exciting news! We’re hitting the road, our U.S. tour is coming up soon! Dates and cities are announced, and we can’t wait to see you all. Get ready for an unforgettable run of shows go to http://fearfactory.com for ticket info
Fear Factory & Cavalera: 09/23 Norwalk, CT @ District Music Hall 09/25 Ft Wayne, IN @ Piere’s 09/26 Des Moines, IA @ Val Air Ballroom 09/28 St. Louis, MO @ Red Flag 09/30 Lincoln, NE @ Bourbon Theater 10/01 Denver, CO @ Gothic Theater 10/02 Salt Lake City, UT @ The Complex Grand 10/07 Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues 10/10 Las Vegas, NV @ House of Blues 10/11 Phoenix, AZ @ The Marquee 10/12 Albuquerque, NM @ Sunshine Theater 10/16 Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall 10/17 Austin, TX @ Come & Take It Live 10/18 Dallas, TX @ Ferris Wheelers
Fear Factory only: 09/12 Flagstaff, AZ @ Orpheum Theater 09/13 Gallup, NM @ Juggernaut 09/14 Farmington, NM @ Lock Street 09/16 Springfield, MO @ Regency 09/17 West Chicago, IL @ WC Social Club 09/20 Brooklyn, NY @ The Meadows 09/24 Pittsburgh, PA @ Preserving Underground 09/27 Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave 10/04 Palmdale, CA @ Transplants Brewing Co. 10/05 Bakersfield, CA @ Temblor Brewing 10/09 San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick 10/14 Lubbock, TX @ Jakes Backroom 10/15 Oklahoma City, OK @ 89th Street 10/19 Corpus Christi, TX @ House of Rock 10/21 Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade (Hell) 10/23 Birmingham, AL @ Workplay 10/25 Destin, FL @ Club LA 10/26 Orlando, FL @ The Beacham 10/27 St. Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Live 10/29 Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room
The celebration still continues and the next tour is arriving soon! Who is excited to see Testament, Obituary, Destruction and Nervosa? Grab your ticket now, because they are selling fast.
04.10. DE BERLIN Astra *Only w/ Destructiin 05.10. DE HANNOVER Capitol 07.10. UK BRISTOL Beacon 08.10. UK BIRMINGHAM O₂ Academy 09.10. IR DUBLIN Olympia Theatre 10.10. UK MANCHESTER Academy 11.10. UK LONDON O₂ Forum Kentish Town 12.10. BE ANTWERP Trix 13.10. DE STUTTGART LKA Longhorn 14.10. DE HAMBURG Grosse Freiheit 36 16.10. CH PRATTELN Z7 17.10. DE WIESBADEN Schlachthof 18.10. IT MILAN Live Club 19.10. DE SAARBRÜCKEN Garage 21.10. SL LJUBLJANA Media Center 22.10. AT VIENNA Arena 23.10. PL WROCLAW A2 24.10. DE MUNICH Tonhalle 25.10. DE OBERHAUSEN Turbinenhalle 26.10. NL UTRECHT Tivoli Vredenburg
“Reign of Fire” is VISERION‘s second offering to land ahead of the forthcoming immersive album, Fire and Blood that is due to arrive on January 16, 2026.
Laden with groove and melodies, “Reign of Fire” stands out from other compositions on the album’s track list. In terms of the narrative, this song explores the rise of Aegon The Conqueror and his dragon Balerion – notably how he seized control over Westeros.
The black metal outfit, who enhance their sound with atmospheric and melodic elements, delve into the realms of Game of Thrones. “Our concept for this album was inspired by George R.R. Martin’s Game of Thrones world. It particularly focuses on the Targaryen dynasty hence the title being their house words: Fire and Blood.” The band explains. “This particular song focuses on the black magic rituals that the Targaryen family was rumored to use in order to control dragons”.
About VISERION: Located in Queens, NY, VISERION blend brutal and aggressive black metal with atmospheric and melodic passages in their own distinctive take on the genre. Storytelling is embedded in their musical creativity, highly influenced by the writings of George R.R. Martin and the World of Westeros. The band initially formed as a three-piece in 2020 by Ben Marvilli taking on bass and vocals, Matt Marvilli on drums and John Magnani performing guitars. Subsequently, in 2022, Magnani left and Ben Marvilli swapped out bass for guitar. Cris Valentine also joined on guitar and Tasso Diakov took on the bass.
The debut album Natural Selection dropped in 2021, followed by a split EP release with TELOCH VOVIN titled The Iron Age of Kali Yuga in 2023. Now, Fire and Blood is set to emerge on January 16, 2026.
Album Credits: Producer: Billy Pfister Recording Studio: Westfall Recording Engineer: Billy Pfister Mastering: Jacob Buczarski Mixing: Chris Grigg Cover art: “Fire in Rome” by Hubert Robert
Carbonized Records presents Dêmocide, the traumatic second LP from Portland, Oregon-based DISPOSSESSED, today unveiling its cover art, track listing, preorders, and lead single, “Exanimate”.
The DISPOSSESSED collective infuses elements of sludge, doom, and death metal into a commanding sound rooted in anger, despair, and political resistance. Formed in 2014, the band emerged from Portland’s metal scene with a mission to confront systems of oppression through uncompromising, feedback-driven music. Their sound combines slow-burning riffs, bleak atmospheres, and a raw, aggressive energy that draws influence from bands like Corrupted, Asunder, Winter, and Grief.
Lyrically and thematically, DISPOSSESSED engages directly with issues such as systemic violence, environmental destruction, and carceral injustice, grounding their work in anti-authoritarian ideals.
Back in 2019, DISPOSSESSED released their debut full-length, Exanimate; a searing critique of societal collapse. They returned in 2022 with the “Makhnovshchina” single, continuing to explore revolutionary themes through crushing, emotionally charged compositions.
DISPOSSESSED now delivers Dêmocide, containing five tracks of devastating, sludgy doom. Recorded by Mike Vera at VeraTone (Juliana Hatfield, Great Falls), mastered by James Plotkin at Plotkinworks (Earth, Sunn O))), Khanate, Amarok), and completed with cover art by Abomination Hammer, the track “If I Must Die” features synthesizers by B. Pierpont and an original poem by Dr. Refaat Alareer. Dêmocide reflects the band’s ongoing commitment to challenging silence and injustice through sound—direct, unrelenting and deeply resonant.
Dêmocide will be released October 3rd on LP, CD, MC, and digitally. Find preorders at the Carbonized Records webshop HERE and Bandcamp HERE.
Dêmocide – Track Listing:
Exanimate
Concrete Tomb
Opulent Doom
Watan
If I Must Die
DISPOSSESSED will tour the West Coast in conjunction with the unveiling of Dêmocide, leading with a hometown record release show September 27th, followed by a tour from October 3rd through 11th. See all confirmed dates below and expect updates to post over the weeks ahead.
DISPOSSESSED Live: 9/27/2025 High Water Mark – Portland, OR *Record Release Show 10/03/2025 TBA – Victoria, BC 10/04/2025 Red Gate – Vancouver, BC 10/05/2025 Slice of Life Pizza – Tacoma, WA 10/06/2025 Jules Maes – Seattle, WA 10/07/2025 The Crypt – Olympia, WA 10/08/2025 Naked Lounge – Chico, CA 10/09/2025 Cafe Colonial – Sacramento, CA 10/10/2025 Siren’s Song – Eureka, CA 10/11/2025 Hesher’s Pizza – Oakland, CA
DISPOSSESSED: K. Jewett – guitar, bass M. White – guitar M. Du Bose – vocals L. MacDonald – drums
Canadian death metal ensemble SCORCHING TOMB bring a crushing onslaught in the new album Ossuary. The brutal first single“Skullcrush” feat. Devin Swank (SANGUISUGABOGG), brings bloodthirsty, punishing riffs. Ossuary is set to land on October 24, via Time To Kill Records.
The band comments on “Skullcrush”:
“Slow, catchy and insanely effective, ‘Skullcrush’ is the perfect dummy-death anthem. Featuring Devin Swank of SANGUISUGABOGG, this song won’t make you bang your head, it will get you to punch your way through the fucking walls!”
Line Up: Vincent Patrick Lajeunesse: Vocals Philippe Leblanc: Guitars, Back vocals Miguel Lepage: Bass Émile Savard: Drums
Ossuary– Track Listing: 1. Stalagmite Impalement 2. Skullcrush (feat. Devin Swank of Sanguisugabogg) 3. Diminished to Ashes 4. Sanctum of Bones (Ossuary) 5. Sentenced to Rot 6. Feel the Blade feat. Primal Horde 7. Bloodlust Sacrifice 8. Expired Existence
About SCORCHING TOMB: Born in the sewers of Montreal, Canada, in 2018, SCORCHING TOMB began with the aim of blending old fashioned death metal and modern hardcore together in a city where technical death metal reigns supreme. It didn’t take long for the band to make a name in the underground. Fast old school riffs, pummeling mosh parts, and an energetic stage presence quickly saw SCORCHING TOMB gain attention, especially in the hardcore scene.
Initially formed by tattoo artist Vincent PL on vocals and axeman Philippe Leblanc, ST has now its hardest lineup to date by adding Miguel Lepage (ex- BLIND WITNESS, ex- OBEY THE BRAVE) on bass and Émile Savard (PROFANE ORDER, ex- MALEBRANCHE) on drums.
Striving to follow in the footsteps of CRYPTOPSY, QUO VADIS and DESPISED ICON, SCORCHING TOMB seek to show the world that Montreal is still to this day an unrelenting force of death metal.
This past week, frontman Vincent Crowley required an unexpected emergency surgery. While the procedure was successful and Vincent is expected to make a full recovery, his doctors have advised that he take the necessary time to heal and avoid air travel during his recovery period.
Vincent shares: “This was not an easy decision to make, but my health must come first. I want to thank all of our fans for their understanding, patience, and unwavering support. I fully intend to return stronger than ever once I am cleared to perform again.”
“We deeply regret any disappointment this causes to fans, promoters, and venues, but Vincent’s long-term health is our top priority. All commitments will be revisited when he has completed his recovery, and we look forward to bringing the music back to the stage.”
“Acheron and the Vincent Crowley Band sincerely thank the global fanbase for their loyalty and support during this time.”
Known for their firebranded approach to songwriting and relentless energy, the Ohio-based torchbearers of thrash metal deliver an album true to their roots. This is raw, aggressive thrash with no filler, no compromise and no bullshit.
Whispers of Death follows acclaimed releases like United We Fall (2012) and Communal Decay (2021), and shows the band at their most focused and intense.
VINDICATOR will strike out on a four city trek in support of Whispers of Death with Indiana thrashers Graveripper. The Whispering Death tour dates are as follows:
August 28 @ The Grog Shop – Cleveland, OH August 29 @ The Hidden Gem – Dayton, OH August 30 @ Helltown Brewing – Mt. Pleasant, PA August 31 @ State Street Pub – Indianapolis, IN
Whispers of Death track-list:
1. Whispers of Death… Anxiety’s Grip
2. Charnel Pastures
3. Thirst for Violence
4. Your World Dies in Flame
5. Exhaustion
6. Novocain
7. Bleed Between the Lines
8. Merry Evenings Make Sad Mournings
9. Battle Box
10. Abominable Intelligence
11. Ripper Attack
12. Obsoletion Complete
Line-up:
M. Law – Vocals V. Stown – Rhythm Guitars/Backing Vocals B. Zahn – Lead Guitar/Backing Vocals E. Stephens – Bass G. Monturi – Drums
The album was produced by Vindicator and Ben Bennett, and engineered and mastered by Ben Bennett at Chop Daddy Ranch in Seattle, WA. Album art by Frank Walls.
BIO:
Cleveland, Ohio… A town where sports come to die and metal comes to live. A city that has seen its share of metal titans by their own rights. In 2005, the city would give birth to another bastard of speed and aggression. VINDICATOR continues to unleash their signature brand of thrash metal to die-hard fans of the genre and the unsuspecting alike.
CRYPTOPSY ALL SO VILE EUROPEAN TOUR 2026 Celebrating 30 years of None So Vile
With Special Guests: 200 STAB WOUNDS INFERI CORPSE PILE
15.01.26 Germany Hannover @ Béi Chéz Heinz 16.01.26 Germany Dortmund @ Junkyard 17.01.26 Belgium Antwerp @ Zappa 18.01.26 UK Southampton @ Engine Rooms 19.01.26 UK Bristol @ The Fleece 20.01.26 UK Glasgow @ Slay 21.01.26 UK Nottingham @ Rescue Rooms 22.01.26 UK Manchester @ Club Academy 23.01.26 UK Plymouth @ The Quad Theatre 24.01.26 UK London @ O2 Academy Islington 25.01.26 The Netherlands Nijmegen @ Doornroosje 26.01.26 Germany Hamburg @ Logo 28.01.26 Sweden Stockholm @ Kollektivet Livet 29.01.26 Norway Oslo @ Goldie 30.01.26 Denmark Copenhagen @ Pumpehuset 31.01.26 Germany Leipzig @ Hellraiser 01.02.26 Germany Berlin @ Hole44 02.02.26 Poland Warsaw @ Proxima 03.02.26 Czech Republic Prague @ Rock Cafe 04.02.26 Austria Vienna @ Szene 05.02.26 Hungary Budapest @ Barba Negra 06.02.26 Germany Munich @ Backstage 07.02.26 Italy Milan @ Legend Club 08.02.26 Switzerland Aarau @ KiFF 09.02.26 France Lyon @ Club Transbo 10.02.26 Spain Barcelona @ Wolf 11.02.26 Spain Madrid @ Revi Live 12.02.26 Spain Portugalete @ Groove 13.02.26 France Toulouse @ Metronum 14.02.26 France Nantes @ Le Ferrailleur 15.02.26 France Paris @ Petit Bain
Asheville (NC) – Blackvapor/Black Metal duo, Hellir, have released new EP, Hollow Moon: Precursor!
Hollow Moon: Precursor is the first release in a trilogy of EPs that will collectively comprise the band’s first full-length album, Hollow Moon. Hollow Moon: Precursor is an evolution of Hellir’s atmosphere venturing into a broader range of sounds. With everything from extremely heavy break downs, electronic breaks, classical piano, and fusion, there’s a lot of new territory to explore. Or to boldly go where no one has gone before…
“This isn’t your dad’s brand of Black Metal. It’s fresh, modern, and cuts against the grain.” – Metal Temple
“Great sounding mixture of black metal and synth/vaporwave.” – Occult Black Metal Zine
FFO: Ulcerate, Alcest, Dark Castle, Isahn, Asagraum, Humanity’s Last Breath
All other music, lyrics, engineering, mixing, mastering: Daniel Shaneyfelt.
Artwork: Harlon McCargar.
BIO:
Hellir translates to “Cave” in the Old Norse language.
Hellir was founded in 2023 as a solo project by Daniel Shaneyfelt as a way to experiment with ideas that didn’t suit other projects. He released the first Hellir record Wheel of Ghosts in 2024, which blends elements of black metal, 80s synth pop, vapor wave, thall, and cinematic music.
Soon after recording Wheel of Ghosts, Hellir welcomed Dylan Webb on drums, helping push the duo’s sound into heavier and more technical territory.
Following a series of live dates in support of iconic metallers SAVATAGE, their first-ever, frenetically-acclaimed appearance at Wacken Open Air and the previously-released single “Beyond Horizons,” INDUCTION strike again with their brand-new song “Dark Temptation” – a track that fuses razor-sharp riffs, symphonic fire, and high-octane hooks into a relentless storm of sound!
Alongside today’s release and new album harbinger comes a visually stunning video, set in a high-tech sci-fi universe that mirrors the song’s futuristic energy and dark allure. It’s a bold step that brings INDUCTION’s cinematic vision to the next level, combining crushing symphonic metal power with a world that feels larger than life! “Dark Temptation” cements INDUCTION’s reputation as one of the most exciting rising forces in modern power metal: epic, heavy, and unafraid to push boundaries.
Guitarist Tim Kanoa Hansen states: “With ‘Dark Temptation,’ we officially open the gates to our upcoming third album, Love Kills!, set for release in February 2026. This track marks the beginning of INDUCTION’s next chapter – where seduction meets danger, and love dances on the edge of the blade. It’s heavy, it’s dark, it’s sci-fi – and this is only the beginning. Let yourself be pulled into this forbidden tale and experience the thrill of ‘Dark Temptation,’ the first taste of what’s to come. You’ll be hungry for more!”
Crafted at Hamburg, Germany’s Chameleon Studios and Boogie Park Studios, the song was produced by Hansen and mixed and mastered by Eike Freese in collaboration with the guitarist. After regrouping in 2024, “Dark Temptation” marks the second track featuring singer Gabriele Gozzi, guitarist Justus Sahlman and drummer Markus “Maks” Felber in INDUCTION’s band history.
In support of their forthcoming studio offering, the quintet have been confirmed as supporting act of VISIONS OF ATLANTIS’ and WARKINGS’ 2026 “Pirates & Kings Over Europe” tour, taking them to 20+ cities across the continent in February/March. INDUCTION’s current itinerary can be found below!
INDUCTION live: w/ VISIONS OF ATLANTIS, WARKINGS 05.02.2026 CH Pratteln – Konzertfabrik Z7 06.02.2026 DE Saarbrücken – Garage 07.02.2026 DE Oberhausen – Turbinenhalle 08.02.2026 DE Frankfurt – Batschkapp 10.02.2026 UK Manchester – Academy 2 11.02.2026 UK London – O2 Academy Islington 12.02.2026 FR Paris – Élysée Montmarte 13.02.2026 NL Tilburg – 013 Poppodium 14.02.2026 DE Leipzig – Hellraiser 15.02.2026 DE Berlin – Columbia Theater 16.02.2026 PL Warsaw – Klub Proxima 18.02.2026 CZ Zlín – Masters of Rock Café 19.02.2026 DE Hanover – Capitol 20.02.2026 DE Hamburg – Markthalle 21.02.2026 DE Geiselwind – Musichall 26.02.2026 FR Villeurbanne (Lyon) – La Rayonne 27.02.2026 DE Stuttgart – Im Wizemann (Halle) 28.02.2026 DE Munich – Backstage (Werk) 05.03.2026 HU Budapest – Barba Negra 06.03.2026 AT Vienna – SiMM City 07.03.2026 AT Wörgl – VZ Komma
VIOLATOR‘s long-awaited comeback album, Unholy Retribution is due out September 5th, 2025 via Kill Again Records.
How do you introduce new elements into thrash metal without sounding too pretentious or “fluffy”? Sometimes, a careful look at the past can be the way to go, and “The Evil Order”, the second single from VIOLATOR‘s new album, is the embodiment of this dialectic.
Right off the bat, a macabre base with a guitar slur/slur that recalls the intro of Black Sabbath. Then, the dragging riff feeds back into primitive Brazilian metal, and the reference (homage?) to Sarcófago’s “Nightmare” is inevitable.
The reminiscences end there, because what follows is pure VIOLATOR juice, only more evil than ever. Perhaps the band has never sounded so malignant and creative. Despite this, the essence of old-school thrash is preserved, without deviation.
In its conclusion, “The Evil Order” returns to the “Sabbath-like” intro to complete the circle of revenge. The order of uniformed tyrants (“the uniform is a pathetic excuse”) is about to collapse.
True to their roots yet revitalized by a long and intense creative process, Unholy Retributioncaptures VIOLATOR at their most inspired and ferocious. The band delivers a powerful and uncompromising collection of songs that revisit their trademark thrash metal with renewed energy and purpose. This is not a reinvention, it’s a reaffirmation of everything that made VIOLATOR a cult force in the global underground.
Line-up:
Poney Ret Crucifier – Bass, Vocals Capaça Bloody Nightmare – Guitars Cambito Chains Killer – Guitars Batera Bone Crusher – Drums
From the raw aggression of their breakout EP “Violent Mosh” (2004) and the now-classic debut full-length “Chemical Assault” (2006), VIOLATOR made their mark with a youthful urgency that took no prisoners. That same intensity is alive and well on Unholy Retribution yet now it comes sharpened by experience and delivered through more dynamic, tightly constructed compositions. The fire hasn’t dimmed, it’s evolved.
Musically, the album bursts with blistering riffs, tight rhythmic precision and an unmistakable sense of urgency. Groove-laden catchiness and flashes of technical brilliance keep the tracklist flowing like a furious tide – unpredictable, violent and cathartic. The production matches this ferocity with a sonic identity that’s both organic and clear, yet unpolished in just the right way: a raw, analog-flavored mix that enhances every snare hit and guitar bite without sacrificing the band’s gritty edge. It’s a sound that feels live, alive, and undeniably VIOLATOR.
Lyrically, the band stays loyal to its mission: confronting injustice, exposing corruption and shining a harsh light on the rot festering beneath the surface of modern society. With Unholy Retribution, VIOLATOR continue to use their music as both weapon and warning.
This is the record that fans of early Vio-Lence, Kreator and Dark Angel have been waiting for – a no-holds-barred thrash assault, deeply rooted in tradition yet bursting with contemporary urgency. The wait is over. The retribution is unholy. And it starts now.
Track-list:
1. Hang The Merchants Of Illusion 2. Cult Of Death 3. Persecution Personality 4. Destroy The Altar 5. The Evil Order 6. Chapel Of The Sick 7. Rot In Hell 8. Vengeance Storm
New York, NY — Witches Brew, the premier underground metal label founded by Cheryl Schindler, is proud to announce an explosive onslaught of new music, with four highly-anticipated releases hitting the streets on Friday, August 22nd, 2025.
This coordinated strike showcases the label’s commitment to unearthing raw, authentic talent from across the globe, with new albums from FLESH STORM, IN YOUR BLOOD, MEGAHERA, and MENTAL DEVASTATION.
MENTAL DEVASTATION – The Delusional Mystery of the Self, Part II
Chile’s MENTAL DEVASTATION returns with the follow-up to their acclaimed work, The Delusional Mystery Of The Self Part II. This third album showcases the band’s mastery of technical and progressive thrash, blending violent precision with complex, philosophical themes. For fans of intricate, intelligent thrash in the vein of Coroner and Sadus, this album is a mind-bending journey that defies easy categorization.
Turning back the clock to a more anthemic era, MEGAHERA from Sardinia, Italy, proudly presents Back To The ‘80s. This album is a full-throated tribute to the golden age of heavy metal, with lyrical themes of rebellion, unity, and a defiant stand against authority. Back To The ‘80s is a nostalgic trip with a fresh perspective, a rallying cry for all true metal disciples.
From Toronto, Canada, newcomers IN YOUR BLOOD make their mark with their savage self-titled debut. A masterclass in modern thrash and crossover, In Your Blood is packed with aggressive, neck-snapping riffs that prove the genre is alive and well. For those who live and breathe thrash, this album is a mandatory addition to your collection.
The Costa Rican thrashers FLESH STORM deliver a relentless, fast-paced assault that has already been hailed as a complete energy bomb. This is raw, uncompromising thrash metal meant to ignite the mosh pit and leave listeners battered and bruised.
FIRST SONG “ELECTRIC DREAMS” OUT TODAY LISTEN HERE
FULL COMPILATON LP RELEASES OCTOBER 24
Aug. 22, 2025, LOS ANGELES — Visionary musician, poet, and activist Serj Tankian returns with a stunning new project, Covers, Collaborations & Collages; a genre-spanning collection that celebrates artistic unity, reinvention, and storytelling.
The first single, “Electric Dreams,” (listen: https://createmusic.fm/electricdreams) is available today, via Serjical Strike Records/Create Music Group, launching a ten-week release schedule where a new track will drop each week, culminating in the full compilation album, releasing on Oct. 24, 2025.
“Electric Dreams” single cover by D.S. Bradford
This deeply personal and eclectic body of work features Tankian’s powerful reinterpretations and remarkable collaborations. Among the highlights is a beautifully haunting cover of Chris de Burgh’s “I’m Counting On You,” reimagined with Tankian’s unmistakable emotional intensity.
Covers, Collaborations & Collages showcases striking creative partnerships with some of today’s most innovative artists. Tankian joins with lauded producer Deadmau5 on the hypnotic “A Seed,” New Zealand singer/songwriter Bic Runga’s ethereal voice weaves with Tankian’s in the duet “Things Unspoken,” and acclaimed composer Lucas Vidal creates a sonic canvas upon which Tankian vocally illustrates a scene of the devolution of civilization and the end times, bellowing “There are no more empires / Just burning campfires” on the powerful and cinematic “Apocalyptic Dance.”
Rounding out the collection, Tankian’s cover of Armenian songwriter Ruben Hakhverdyan’s “When Death Arrives,” is a poignant reminder of the reality of our mortality, musing through the eyes of the departed and reminding listeners of the undeniable importance love and truth hold in this world.
Adding a visual dimension to the music, each single’s artwork, and the album’s evocative main cover, has been created by artist D.S. Bradford, who also contributes lead guitar work on the soaring track “Kneeling Away From The Sun.”
With each weekly release, Tankian will share the inspirations, stories and artistic intentions behind the songs, inviting listeners into the creative process like never before.
“Similar to Foundations, these are pre-existing archival recordings, some of them from way back,” says Tankian. “I wanted to put out a record of collaborations I haven’t released before, along with covers, which I haven’t done. The rest, the collages, are parts that fit the puzzle in the same tone, the same vibe.”
Covers, Collaborations & Collages album cover by D.S. Bradford (original photo by Travis Shinn)
Foundations of Burden (Redux 2025) re-envisioned cover features a painting by Benjamin Vierling
AVAILABLE DIGITALLY ON NOVEMBER 7; PHYSICALLY ON DECEMBER 5
A FULLY RECONSTRUCTED VERSION OF THEIR 2014 LANDMARK ALBUM
Aug. 22, 2025, Little Rock, Ark. – Pallbearer release Foundations of Burden (2025 Redux) this Fall, a meticulous sonic reconstruction of their transformative 2014 album. The newly remixed and remastered version arrives digitally on Nov. 7, with physical editions (2xLP and CD) available on Dec. 5. (pre-orders:
“During the writing and preparation for Foundations, everything was ephemeral and we were practically feral,” recalls bassist/vocalist Joseph D. Rowland. “We had no real practice space, we barely had a single working computer between the four of us. Our demos of the record consisted of something barely discernible from white noise. Nevertheless, we knew we were working towards building a set of songs we were deeply enthusiastic about.
Once in the thick of recording, the feeling went from dream to dreamlike very quickly, as we found ourselves in what felt like an endless churn of repetition. We slept at the studio on whatever soft surfaces we could find, waking each day to discover that some of the previous day’s work had been corrupted overnight. This resulted in some parts of the album being recorded many times over. The guitars in particular mutated into something Sisyphean.”
Rowland continues, “Since the time that we finally committed the original version of Foundations to print, we knew it would be a sonic space we would eventually revisit. Its form did not unfold according to the original version as the numerous file corruptions, delays, and exhausted studio budget compounded into a final feverish push to finish the mix. We were relieved to get those massive and difficult mixes turned into finished songs just in time, but not without a nagging thought; we had to sacrifice much of the nuance we had spent so much time crafting.”
More than a decade later, Pallbearer seized the opportunity to revisit the record from the ground up. Over the past year, the band meticulously reconstructed the album from the original sessions.
“In the time since then, we have played most of the songs from Foundations more times than we can count, and they remain some of our favorites,” Rowland continues. “The songs have grown with us. And while we hold a deep love and attachment to what we created in 2014, we also gained a fuller understanding of how we would want to re-present them if we had a chance. After years of discussion, listening and learning, we found ourselves in the position to fulfill that vision.”
Foundations of Burden (2025 Redux) features new mixes and mastering, plus new artwork featuring a painting by Benjamin Vierling. The six-song, 55-minute collection is produced by Pallbearer, mixed by Mario Quintero (Spotlights), and mastered by Adam Gonsalves.
Pre-orders (https://geni.us/PallbearerFOB2025Redux) are available now with the album available on multiple limited-edition vinyl variants: a band-exclusive metallic gold marble 2xLP (300 copies), a Profound Lore only iridescent blue marble 2xLP (500 copies), and standard black.
Pallbearer performs Foundations of Burden in full for the first time ever on Sept. 6, at Seattle’s Substation’s 10th Anniversary (tickets: https://bnds.us/z2ezd4).
Photo credit: Dan Almasy
Pallbearer is Brett Campbell (vocals/guitar), Devin Holt (guitar), Joseph D. Rowland (bass/vocals) and Mark Lierly (drums). The Little Rock, Arkansas-based band formed in 2008 and have since released four albums: Sorrow and Extinction (2012), Foundations of Burden (2014), Heartless (2017) and Forgotten Days (2020).
Pallbearer has received widespread praise with Rolling Stone dubbing their music “beautiful melancholia,” the New York Times saying, “Pallbearer takes the genre’s distorted guitars and dread and adds an ambitious element of optimism” and Decibel, who have twice afforded the band their cover slot, declaring the Pallbearer’s songs both “majestic” and “extraordinary.”
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