DANGEROUS TOYSDemolition will be releasing on December 12th, 2025, via Cleopatra Records. It’s been 30 years since a new studio album from DANGEROUS TOYS!
Amidst so much activity, and with the band’s long-awaited fifth album still in a state of gestation, fans can look forward to the arrival of Demolition, which features 10 tracks, all previously unreleased and recorded during the hiatus between the band’s second and third albums, 1991’s Hellacious Acres and 1994’s Pissed, as they continued refining their debut album’s unique concoction of Southern rock and driving metal.
Hand selected by DANGEROUS TOYS, “these old songs… obviously didn’t make the cut when choosing songs for official release,” the band remarks in the liner notes. All will be completely new to all the ears that hear them.
Demolition – Track-listing:
Rock Shock Cowboy Come Out Swinging Rattle My Cage Rhapsody in Barbed Wire One On One Live Burning Bridges Your Sister Backstreet Girl Shot To Hell SNAFU
One Band To Rule Them All! and Play Wacken Open Air!
One band to rule them all! Wacken Metal Battle Canada returns for 2026 battles across the country to send one independent metal band to play at Wacken Open Air, one of the world’s most prestigious and largest metal festivals.
Band submissions for Canada are now open until November 30th.
The national final for 2026 battles will be held in Montreal, QC.
“Canadian metal bands, this is your chance once again. This is the first step to a world of opportunity waiting for you. We invite you to play some great shows, expand your audience, and ultimately have your shot at playing Wacken Open Air,” adds WMBC organizer JJ Tartaglia.
The 2026 WMBC champion will receive the following: – A slot at the 2026 Wacken Open Air Festival. – Full professional backline provided. – $1,000 CAD towards flights to Germany. – VIP camping at the festival.
Canadian Battle Cities: Vancouver, BC Vancouver Island, BC BC Interior Edmonton, AB Toronto, ON Hamilton, ON Ottawa, ON Montreal, QC Quebec City, QC
Watch – Wacken Metal Battle 2025 – Aftermovie | Have You Heard the Future of Metal? – https://youtu.be/nCulXiLlaSw
The 2025 Canadian Battle Final took place on May 31st at Vancouver’s Rickshaw Theatre, where Hamilton, Ontario’s KILLOTINE, the Ontario regional winner, delivered a standout performance that earned them the top national title. A panel of industry judges selected KILLOTINE to represent Canada at the prestigious International Wacken Battle, held during Wacken Open Air from July 30th to August 2nd in Wacken, Germany, where over 85,000 metal fans from around the globe gathered.
Joining KILLOTINE on stage at the Canadian final were fellow regional champions: SOULTHIEF (Eastern Canada Winner – Ottawa, ON), BEYOND SUFFERING(Alberta Winner – Calgary, AB), and YEGG (British Columbia Winner – Nanaimo, BC). The event also featured a special guest headliner: Vancouver’s Arrow In The Quiver, the 2024 BC Final winner.
The national judging panel included a lineup of respected figures from the Canadian metal and music industry: Brittney Slayes (Unleash The Archers), JJ Tartaglia (Canadian Organizer of Wacken Metal Battle Canada), JJ Caithcart (Founder of SCRAPE Records and Host of Different Stages Radio), Kris Schulz (Founder of Empower Through Music and Owner of Horizon School of Music), Abelardo Mayoral (Founder and Operator of The Invisible Orange and OrangeTickets), Stan Schinners (Owner of Broken Neck Radio), Justin Dobbin (Owner and President of Main Stage Rehearsal Studios).
For the last 9 years of battles (2013-2016, 2018-2019, 2023-2025), Wacken Metal Battle Canada has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival, Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to COVID, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled.
As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2026 will be the 35th edition of the festival and will be held from July 29th to August 1st. The 2026 event is nearly sold out with a line-up that includes Def Leppard, Lamb Of God, In Flames, Savatage, Powerwolf, Emperor, Sepultura, and Running Wild, among others. Details here.
Wacken Metal Battle Canada is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among over 55 other countries’ champions, and represent Canada in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade and give independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience, along with the chance to win multiple prizes.
How it works: Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter, where one band will move forward to the Canadian national final. The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2026 and compete against the winners of other participating countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.
Power metal visionaries INDUCTION continue their unstoppable rise with the release of the electrifying title track and video “Love Kills”, taken from their forthcoming studio album Love Kills!, due out February 6, 2026 via Reigning Phoenix Music.
Feel the surge: “Love Kills” is a fierce anthem pulsing with raw emotion and unstoppable energy. The track captures both the pain and power of love’s downfall, celebrating the resilience that endures even after the flame seems to die. With soaring vocals, thunderous riffs, and cinematic emotion, “Love Kills” reminds us that even in the darkest moments, love’s light never truly fades.
Guitarist and Songwriter Tim Kanoa Hansen shares:
“Love Kills… but it’s never gonna die.’ This simple motto inspired most of Induction’s upcoming third album, which is why it became the title track. It’s deeply personal, full of raw emotion, but it also delivers a message of strength: life always goes on, and we are the masters of our own fate. No matter how dark the days, love will always return. As C. Joybell once wrote, ‘Love, I’m convinced, is found in the darkness. It’s the candle in the night.’”
Tim adds: “For me, this album carries a lot of raw and personal emotion. Life always moved forward, and even in the darkest times, love always found its way back. With LOVE KILLS! we explore the beauty and cruelty of love in a futuristic power metal context. It’s Induction at our biggest, boldest, and most fun yet.”
Following a storm of milestones, including a series of live dates supporting the legendary SAVATAGE, a frenetically acclaimed debut at Wacken Open Air, and the release of fan-favorite singles “Beyond Horizons” and “Dark Temptation,” INDUCTION are firing on all cylinders.
Crafted at Chameleon Studios and Boogie Park Studios in Hamburg, the album was produced by Tim Kanoa Hansen and mixed and mastered by Eike Freese in collaboration with the guitarist. Love Kills! marks the beginning of a new era for INDUCTION, defined by musical evolution, emotional depth, and a fearless drive to push the boundaries of modern power metal!
1. Virtual Insanity 2. War Of Hearts 3. Dark Temptation 4. Steel And Thunder 5. Strangers To Love 6. Beyond Horizons 7. Gods Of Steel (physical release exclusive) 8. Love Kills 9. I Am Evil 10. The Veil of Affection 11. Empress
In support of the upcoming album, the band will join VISIONS OF ATLANTIS and WARKINGS on the 2026 “Pirates & Kings Over Europe” tour, hitting 20+ cities across the continent in February and March!
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
Iron Maiden have announced dates in the USA and Canada for the Run For Your Lives World Tour 2026. The tour includes huge shows in Montréal and the Alamodome in San Antonio, two of the biggest rock shows Maiden have played in North America. They will also headline Louder Than Life, which is America’s biggest Rock Festival!
These upcoming tour dates will mark 45 years since Iron Maiden first visited Canada and the USA on the 1981 Killer World Tour, and feature some of the biggest shows the band has ever played there. The return to BMO Stadium concert in Los Angeles on September 25th will be the 25th time the band has played in the City of Angels. A history-making tour for sure!
Very special guests Megadeth will appear at all headline shows, with the addition of Anthrax for the dates in Montréal, Harrison, LA and San Antonio.
Run For Your Lives North American Tour Dates:
August 2026 29 Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena * September 2026 03 Montréal, QC – Parc Jean-Drapeau *^ 05 Harrison, NJ – Sports Illustrated Stadium *^ 09 Boston, MA – TD Garden * 11 Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live * 12 Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion * 15 Hershey, PA – Hersheypark Stadium * 17 Louisville, KY – Louder Than Life Festival 19 Shakopee, MN – Mystic Lake Amphitheater * 22 Chicago, IL – Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre * 25 Los Angeles, CA – BMO Stadium *^ 29 San Antonio, TX – Alamodome *^
Megadeth ^ Anthrax
Fan Club presale will kick off on Tuesday October 28.
Headline shows go on general sale on Friday October 31.
Trooper VIP will be available across all headline shows. Eddie’s Pop-up Dive Bar experience will also come across the Atlantic for the very first time.
For the rest of the world – don’t worry, there are still more countries to be announced for the Run For Your Lives World Tour 2026!
Iron Maiden have announced a return to Mexico for the Run For Your Lives World Tour 2026!
October 02 – Estadio GNP Seguros, Mexico City – MEXICO
This upcoming show will mark 34 years since Maiden first visited Mexico on the Fear Of The Dark World Tour, and this show is the eighth time at this award- winning venue.
Special guests for this show will be announced in due course. Our popular Trooper VIP experience will be available in Mexico for the very first time.
Fan Club presale will begin on Monday October 27, before tickets go on sale to the public on Friday October 31.
Watch “Beware the Creatures” (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO) HERE
Creatures were originally formed in the summer of 2019 in the city of Curitiba. Like most places in Brazil, the scene there is dominated by extreme metal. However, there are some small “pockets of resistance” carrying the torch for more of a traditional heavy metal sound and Creatures (along with a group called Trovão) is one of the most talented of the lot.
After having issued a few singles, Bart Gabriel offered the band a deal to release their debut album from 2021 through his former label, Iron Oxide Records. The follow-up Creatures II is now due to be released on High Roller Records.
Creatures II was recorded between September 2024 and March 2025 at Heavy Tron Studio, by Arthur Migotto (Hazy Hamlet). It was produced by Mateus Cantaleano and Migotto. Mateus Cantaleano wrote all the music and lyrics. The line-up on the recording was Marc Brito (vocals), Mateus Cantaleano (guitar), Ricke Nunes (bass), and Sidnei Dubiella (drums). There were also a few special guests, like Caio Vidal on keyboards and Arthur Migotto himself doing some additional vocals.
“Musically, I’d say the album is literally a mix of heavy metal and hard rock, with a darker, more evil vibe,” explains guitarist Mateus Cantaleano. “It carries what I believe is the essence of the band, dynamic songs that combine riffs with arpeggios, catchy choruses with darker minor melodies. Something like that, I think.”
Creatures were once described as a mixture of Dokken, Ratt and Judas Priest, a description Mateus Cantaleano can live with: “Absolutely, that’s true. Those bands, especially Dokken and Judas Priest, are very important in my life, and I carry their influence, even indirectly, in almost everything I do. Of course, I always aim for inspiration, not copying either of them exactly.”
ComparingCreatures IandCreatures II, the guitar player continues: “I’d say Creatures II is a bit heavier, darker, and a more mature album than its predecessor. While the first album was recorded just by me and Roberto, this time we had a full band involved. Both albums share the same essence – very dynamic songs, heavy tracks, power ballads, lots of vocal harmonies, catchy choruses, wild guitar solos, and so on. To me, ‘Beware The Creatures’ is the track that best sums up what I’m aiming for musically with Creatures.”
“Hypnotized” taken from REDSHARK’s forthcoming album Sudden Impact out on October 31st
Hypnotized” explores deception and how it can warp reality, creating a blurred line between truth and illusion, it is the story of a spell, inspired by Medusa and the Sirens in Greek mythology.
Watch the Visualizer Lyric Video for “Hypnotized” HERE
The brand new single “Hypnotized” is vailable on all platforms HERE
REDSHARK was founded in 2012 in Barcelona, Spain, by Philip Graves (guitar) with the aim of delivering Classic Pounding Heavy Speed Metal. Their traditional 80s metal influences may plunder the nostalgia circuit; yet REDSHARK are ruthlessly carrying the torch with great attitude, and powerful melodic songwriting.
Band line up: Pau Correas – Vocals Javier Bono – Guitars Philip Graves – Guitars Chris Carrest – Bass Alan Llano – Drums
Sudden Impact was produced & recorded by Jaume Perna “Jack Dark” at Capricorn Studios and mixed & mastered by Javi Félez at Moontower Studios. Recording drums by Edgar Beltri at La Atlántida Studio.
TRACK LISTING: 1 – Sudden Impact 2 – A Place for Disgrace 3 – Fire Raider 4 – Your Last Breath 5 – Hypnotized 6 – Rip your Bones 7 – Whispers of Time 8 – Beware of the Shark 9 – The Chase 10 – Fight the Rules of Power
Discography: Lights of Darkness Single (self released 2013) Rain of Destruction EP (self released 2016) Evil Realm EP (self released 2019) Digital Race (Listenable 2022) Sudden Impact (Listenable 2025)
After nearly a decade of silence, Montreal’s genre-defying metal band Fallstaf is back with a vengeance. Their long-awaited sophomore album, Ode to The Dead, is set for release this Fall 2025, and its first single, the title track, is streaming everywhere alongside a gripping lyric video.
Known as the pioneers of “brass metal,” Fallstaf made waves in 2011 with their debut ‘Bastard Son of a Pure Breed,’ produced by Kevin Jardine (Slaves On Dope). Their signature sound is groove-heavy and progressive metal laced, with trombone, earning them cult status in the Quebec metal scene. Yet in 2016, tragedy struck when frontman IANN suffered a near-fatal accident, leading to the band’s dissolution.
Now, after years of recovery and reflection, Fallstaf has reunited, reignited, and reimagined their sound. Ode to The Dead is a powerful, autobiographical journey through survival, grief, and rebirth. Produced once again by Jardine, the album features seven new tracks that blend sludge, thrash and hardcore influences with melodic hooks and brass-driven chaos.
“This album wasn’t made to impress; it was made out of friendship. Music is therapeutic. Metal brings people together, and we missed that energy,” says the band.
The first single and title track is a tribute to the deceased.
“They are no longer physically here, but they are always in our thoughts; that is the reason for the phrase “they walk among us”. The riff of the chorus gave rise to the rest of the song,” adds the band.
Watch the lyric video for “Ode To The Dead” and experience the rebirth of one of Montreal’s most original metal acts:
Fallstaf’s live shows remain unforgettable: suits and ties, a masked brass player, and a frontman with a robotic leg. “People think we’re a ska band, until the first chord hits,” they laugh. Stay tuned. Fallstaf will be kicking ass live soon!
Ode to the Dead will be available on all major streaming platforms on November 14th, 2025, along with an exclusive interactive collectible coffin USB drive.
Album Credits: Songs performed by: FALLSTAF Songs written by: Ian Lavoie/Kevin Jardine Produced by: Kevin Jardine Mixed by: Kevin Jardine Mastered by: Kevin Jardine Album artwork by: Ian Lavoie MAPL – Canadian Content
Friends, we are returning to the USA and Canada in 2026, and we are bringing Legends On Tour to your doorstep! We have a total of 24 shows lined up for the USA and 7 shows in Canada – a full-scale heavy metal invasion in honour of our new album “Legends”, out October 17th.
FEBRUARY – USA: 09 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL, War Memorial Auditorium 10 – Tampa, FL, Yuengling Center 13 – Houston, TX, 713 Music Hall 14 – Dallas, TX, South Side Ballroom 15 – San Antonio, TX, Boeing Center at Tech Port 18 – Phoenix, AZ, Arizona Financial Theatre 20 – Los Angeles, CA, The Kia Forum 21 – Wheatland, CA, Hard Rock Live 24 – Salt Lake City, UT, The Union Event Centre 26 – Loveland, CO, Blue FCU Arena 27 – Omaha, NE, Steelhouse Omaha, 28 – St. Louis, MO, The Factory
MARCH – USA: 02 – Des Moines, IA, Vibrant Music Hall 03 – Minneapolis, MN, The Armory 04 – Chicago, IL, The Salt Shed 07 – Cincinnati, OH, The Andrew J Brady Music Center 08 – Detroit, MI, The Fillmore 10 – Pittsburgh, PA, UPMC Events Center 11 – Philadelphia, PA, The Met 12 – Boston, MA, MGM Music Hall at Fenway 14 – Virginia Beach, VA, The Dome 15 – Washington DC, The Theater at MGM National Harbor 17 – Greensboro, NC, Greensboro Event Center 18 – Atlanta, GA, Coca-Cola Roxy
APRIL – CANADA: 06 – Halifax, NS, Scotiabank Centre 09 – Laval, QC, Place Bell 11 – Toronto, ON, Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto 14 – Winnipeg, MB, Burton Cummings Theatre 17 – Edmonton, AB, Edmonton Convention Centre 18 – Calgary, AB, Grey Eagle Event Centre 20 – Vancouver, BC, PNE Forum
GOTTHARD literally keep riding the wave of success – and their new single confirms the band’s enduring high impressively! Just days after their latest TV appearance – this time at Germany’s popular Sunday noon program, ZDF’s ‘Rock im Garten’ – the Swiss hard rock icons have released a brand new single called “Ride The Wave“.
The track continues the way the group have taken with their 2025 milestone Stereo Crush (March 21 via Reigning Phoenix Music), and will surely sweeten the last weeks of the summer – and also above and beyond, of course!
Loosely yet boldly kick-started by massive guitar riffing and drums, the single brings an instant feel-good vision to the listeners minds: the sun is burning while you’re cruising through the desert or along the coast in your vintage cabriolet. With “Ride The Wave,” GOTTHARD invite you to have the time of your life leaving all negativity behind and build on the life-celebrating momentum they’ve created on Stereo Crush. Turn it up!
“Ride The Wave went through a couple of versions and recording sessions before we finally found the right vibe for the album. It has this raw, old-school rock energy with gritty guitar riffs and a powerhouse vocal performance of Nic Maeder,” adds guitarist Freddy Scherer.
Set to make additional impact, the new song will also be part of GOTTHARD’s upcoming mini album, aptly titled More Stereo Crush. Further details as well as pre-order options will be announced later this year with even more new music paving its way. Stay tuned!
Photo credit: Manuel Schütz
L-R: Flavio Mezzodi (drums), Marc Lynn (bass), Nic Maeder (vocals), Leo Leoni (guitars), Freddy Scherer (guitars)
With their latest offering Stereo Crush,GOTTHARD reached the top of the official album chart for the 17th time (and for the 13th time in a row!) in their home country Switzerland. The band’s Austrian (#7) and German (#11) fan bases also gave them plenty of reason to celebrate in recent days.
Stereo Crush was produced, recorded and mixed by long-time producer Charlie Bauerfeind, who’s known for his work with the likes of HELLOWEEN and BLIND GUARDIAN, alongside co-producer and founding member Leo Leoni at Yellowhouse Studio. Mastered by Sascha “Busy” Bühren (TrueBusyness), artwork was once again provided by Thomas Ewerhard (AVANTASIA etc.).
19.12.2025 CH Bern – Festhalle (w/ KROKUS) 20.12.2025 CH Zurich – The Hall (w/ KROKUS) 2026 live: 05. – 07.06.2026 CZ Pilsen – Metalfest Open Air *NEW* 03. – 06.07.2026 SE Knislinge – Time To Rock Festival *NEW* 16.07.2026 DE Schopfheim – Sommersound *NEW*
Reigning Phoenix Music, in collaboration with Hasbro, a leading games, IP and toy company, is thrilled to announce that COLD SLITHER, the reimagined heavy metal menace inspired by the infamous band from G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero, is preparing to take New York by storm. The show will take place on October 11th, the same weekend as NYC’s Comic Con, where the Gramercy Theatre will be conquered by an explosive sonic force that fuses nostalgia with a modern metal powerhouse. Get your tickets HERE.
Zartan comments on the forthcoming NYC show:
“Well, well, it seems as though there are several potential recruits whom have a desire to join our small but elite society of Dreadnoks… This time in New York City! Our services are once again called upon by Cobra Commander and Reigning Phoenix Music to melt minds with Cold Slither! So be it, my Dreadnoks and I will see you all October 11th… Come prepared…Cobraaaaa!!”
The show announcement follows the release of the self-titled debut album in June of this year via Reigning Phoenix Music. Also on the horizon, the G.I. Joe-stanning supergroup are set to join the Decibel Flexi Series with an exclusive new banger, “Cobra Island.”
Cold Slither is a declaration of war. Fronted by the enigmatic Zartan and his ruthless Dreadnok bandmates Torch, Ripper, and Buzzer, the band fuses old-school heavy metal with anarchic energy and unrelenting force. With tracks built on punishing riffs, venomous vocals, and apocalyptic atmosphere, COLD SLITHER resurrects the myth and turns it into a modern-day metal juggernaut.
Featuring 10 original tracks and a remastered version of their cult-classic single “Cold Slither,” the album plunges into dystopian metal with themes of swamp-born menace and Cobra-fueled power. The Cold Slither album is available across digital and vinyl formats.
“I Am The Primal Fear” is the perfect track to mark the release of German metal force PRIMAL FEAR’s new album, Domination. Out today via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM), the 13-track record is a powerful statement of the band’s legacy and a showcase of their unmistakable sound.
Order Domination (excl. bundles, ltd. CD earbook, digipak-CD, jewel case-CD & various vinyl variants) & stream it here: https://primalfear.rpm.link/dominationPR
A future fan favourite and live anthem in the making, “I Am The Primal Fear” kicks off with a burst of solo drumming before the full PRIMAL FEAR engine roars to life, unleashing thunderous riffs and soaring melodic leads. The verses feel like an intense showdown, with vocalist Ralf Scheepers delivering a fierce performance, driven by the relentless rhythm section of bassist Mat Sinner and drummer André Hilger. Adding to the firepower is the band’s new guitar dream team, Thalìa Bellazecca and Magnus Karlsson, trading off with precision and power.
The intense call-and-response dynamic builds to a powerful, no-holds-barred chorus that sends a clear message: despite a few setbacks over the years, PRIMAL FEAR never considered calling it quits. The eagle was never gone, it was simply gathering strength, ready to soar once again and shake the metal world with an album that confidently claims its place among the top tier of heavy and power metal.
“Again, outta my way, I am the Primal Fear! No one can stop me and I’m gonna hunt you tonight, I’m your worst nightmare whenever you are trying to fool me!” states Scheepers.
Lyric video produced by Ingo Spörl (Omni Sensus Media)
Domination was recorded at Dennis Ward’s Kangaroo Studios (HELLOWEEN, ANGRA etc.) in autumn 2024, produced by Mat Sinner and co-produced by Ralf Scheepers as well as Magnus Karlsson. Rounded off by multiple PRIMAL FEAR mixing/mastering engineer Jacob Hansen (AMORPHIS, VOLBEAT etc.) at his own studios in Denmark, the album artwork was designed by Death.Milk.Designs.
Domination – Track Listing: 01. The Hunter 02. Destroyer 03. Far Away 04. I Am The Primal Fear 05. Tears Of Fire 06. Heroes And Gods 07. Hallucinations 08. Eden [feat. Melissa Bonny of AD INFINITUM] 09. Scream 10. The Dead Don’t Die 11. Crossfire 12. March Boy March 13. A Tune I Won’t Forget Bonus Track [physical only; excl. jewel case-CD] 14. Bridges Will Burn
L-R: André Hilgers (drums), Magnus Karlsson (guitars), Ralf Scheepers (vocals), Thalìa Bellazecca (guitars), Mat Sinner (bass, vocals)
PRIMAL FEAR live: Domination Tour 2025 w/ ELEINE Presented by Metal Hammer, musix, Rock Antenne, Rock It!, Break Out & ITM 05.09.2025 DE Hamburg – Markthalle 06.09.2025 DE Leipzig – Anker 07.09.2025 DE Bochum – Zeche 09.09.2025 DE Aschaffenburg – Colos-Saal
10.09.2025 DE Munich – Backstage 12.09.2025 DE Memmingen – Kaminwerk 13.09.2025 DE Mannheim – Capitol 14.09.2025 DE Regensburg-Obertraubling – Eventhall Airport 16.09.2025 CH Pratteln – Konzertfabrik Z7 18.09.2025 DE Berlin – Hole 44 19.09.2025 DE Naila – Frankenhalle 20.09.2025 DE Stuttgart – Im Wizemann (Halle) 21.09.2025 BE Sint-Niklaas – De Casino 23.09.2025 NL Amstelveen – P60 25.09.2025 PL Warsaw – Stodola 26.09.2025 CZ Prague – MeetFactory 27.09.2025 CZ Zlín – Masters of Rock Café 30.09.2025 ES Madrid – Mon 01.10.2025 ES Murcia – Garaje 03.10.2025 ES Barcelona – Salamandra 04.10.2025 ES Pamplona – Sala Totem
Rising Steel have released their new studio album Legion Of The Grave, out now via Frontiers Music Srl. To celebrate, they share the new single and accompanying visualizer, “Nightmare”, available now.
Watch the official visualizer for “Nightmare” HERE
Lead vocalist Emmanuelson described the new single by saying: “This third single from the new album transports us into a feeling between a sharp hard rock and the heavy of the 80’s revisited with Rising Steel sauce. This song is a perfect balance between power and melody, ultimately pure Rising Steel!”
About the album, the band commented: “Sharpened in both sound and spirit, we returned to a more old-school heavy metal approach – without losing the raw energy and intensity that have long defined our style. Every track hits with precision, driven by razor-sharp riffs, commanding vocals, and an organic production that channels the true passion of real metal.”
“The album explores darker and more introspective themes, focusing on lost identity, inner struggles, and the strength to rise again. With a mix of raw emotion and powerful imagery, we aim to take the listener on a journey through personal battles that reflect broader human experiences. It’s both a statement of resistance and a search for meaning”, they added.
Line Up: Emmanuelson – Vocals Steel Zard – Drums Tony Steel – Guitars Steff Leadmaster – Lead guitars Stone warrior – Bass
Rising Steel‘s new album, Legion Of The Grave is their fourth full-length studio effort and it sees the French metallers playing as ferociously as ever, while continuing to evolve their heavy and aggressive sound.
The album was recorded in France by Mathieu Gaud and Steel Zard at Studio de la Plaine (KNT) and Lezard Studio. Mixing duties were handled by Staffan Karlsson and Rickard Bengtsson at Sweetspot Studio in Sweden, known for their work with bands like Meshuggah and Arch Enemy. It was mastered by the renowned Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios in Finland, ensuring a production that’s as powerful and precise as the music itself.
Legion Of The Grave – Track-list:
1. Betrayer 2. King Of The Universe 3. Black Martin 4. Legion Of The Grave 5. Nightmare 6. Venomous 7. Messiah Of Death 8. Dead Mind 9. Trapped In A Soul’s Garden 10. Night Vision
Based in Grenoble, France, Rising Steel deliver a “not so” classical heavy metal experience, drawing strong influence from the ‘80s NWOBHM movement, as well as elements of hard rock and thrash. With nods to iconic bands like Judas Priest and Iron Maiden, their music also appeals to fans of Metallica, Accept, Saxon, Grand Magus, Nevermore, and Slayer.
Following the release of their debut EP Warlord (2014) and the full-length album Return Of The Warlord (2016), the band gained traction by sharing stages with acts such as Jaded Heart, Sister Sin, Nightmare, ADX, Nashville Pussy, and Annihilator. This helped increase their international visibility.
Their second and third albums, Fight Them All and Beyond The Gates Of Hell, both released via Frontiers Music Srl, further cemented their reputation in the European metal scene.
Now, with Legion Of The Grave, Rising Steel return with an explosive offering full of crushing riffs, high-speed rhythms, and no-compromise heavy metal power. It’s a must listen for headbangers seeking pure, unfiltered metal mayhem.
“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]
If you’ve been following the journey of “Babylon”, the highly anticipated debut full-length album from DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG, you already know what kind of powerhouse material this band delivers. Now, with the release of their fifth single, “Dead Man’s Hand“, the stakes are raised yet again. And if this is your first taste of the project, sit back, hit play, and enjoy this high-energy video clip pulled straight from the band’s studio sessions.
“Dead Man’s Hand” has a unique backstory: originally composed by Manuela Bibert on piano, the early demo featured only vocals and keys. From there, it was transferred note for note to guitar and Hammond organ. The results are unique: A pounding guitar riff meets a distorted, snarling organ line to form the backbone of a song that’s both driving and infectious.
Udo Dirkschneider, the iconic frontman and heavy metal legend, brings a vocal performance which by his own admission are exceptional for him. But the surprises don’t stop there: both Peter Baltes and Manuela step up with unexpected vocal highlights, adding rich texture and dimension to the track. And then there’s the chorus, a hands-in-the-air, stadium-sized refrain that just begs you to shout or sing along with.
With a “good time” spirit that perfectly balances the song’s grit and groove, “Dead Man’s Hand” showcases everything that makes DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG a thrilling new chapter in classic metal history. Watch the official video now, straight from the studio floor!
Set for release on October 3, 2025 by Reigning Phoenix Music, Babylonis now available for pre-order in a variety of stunning formats:
Limited Red, Gold & Black Marbled Gatefold Double Vinyl
Limited Red Opaque & Black Marbled Gatefold Double Vinyl
Gold Opaque Double Vinyl
Deluxe Earbook Edition with CD and enhanced 36-page booklet
Today, progressive metal legends QUEENSRŸCHE are excited to announce they’ll be hitting the road this coming fall on the “Volume and Vengeance Tour” alongside special guests ACCEPT. The tour will kick off on November 7th in Denver, CO at Summit and will conclude on December 20th in Temecula, CA at Pechanga Theater Casino.
Ticket pre-sales begin tomorrow and the general on-sale is Friday. For a full list of dates, please see below.
Vocalist Todd La Torre shares on the tour: “We are extremely excited to announce our upcoming 2025 U.S. fall tour with metal legends Accept!
For years and years both bands have discussed wanting to do a proper tour together, and the time has finally arrived. And while we both have our unique stylistic approaches, both bands continue to have a deep and revered history, shared by an amazing fan-base that is sure to enjoy this moment in time.
So it is with great pleasure that we invite you to experience the “Volume and Vengeance Tour” with QUEENSRŸCHE and Accept, and be part of metal musical history with us! See you soon!!!
The cool artwork you see was created by my good friend and friend of the band, Joe Helm.”
11/16: Columbus, OH @ TempleLive at the Columbus Athenaeum
11/18: Greensburg, PA @ Palace Theater
11/19: Wilkes-Barre, PA @ Kirby Center
11/21: Somerville, MA @ Somerville Theatre
11/22: Hartford, CT @ The Webster
11/23: Huntington, NY @ The Paramount
11/25: Sayreville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom
11/26: Harrisburg, PA @ Capitol City Music Hall
11/28: Ponte Vedra Beach, FL @ Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
11/29: Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room
12/02: Lake Buena Vista, FL @ House of Blues
12/03: Tampa, FL @ Jannus Live
12/05: Rocky Mount, VA @ Harvester Performance Center
12/06: Charles Town, WV @ Hollywood Casino
12/09: Fort Smith, AR @ Commandry at TempleLive
12/11: Houston, TX @ House of Blues
12/14: Dallas, TX @ House of Blues
12/16: Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren
12/18: Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
12/19: San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
12/20: Temecula, CA @ Pechanga Theater Casino
VIP Packages Include:
Pre-Show Meet & Greet
Photo-Op with band
VIP Laminate and Lanyard
VIP Bottle Opener Key-chain
VIP Koozie
VIP Ticket Magnet
Vinyl Tri-Ryche Sticker
Knit Beanie
Tour Guitar Pick Set
One personal item signed Please note: VIP packages do not include a ticket! Bring your camera/phone for the photo op. VIP Packages available here starting Friday July 11: https://www.national-acts.com/queensryche
Giles Lavery is best known as the vocalist of Warlord, Alcatrazz and Jack Starr. On top of that, he is also a highly prolific band manager, record producer and label co-owner.
DRAGONSCLAW is the name one of the first bands Giles Lavery co-formed with Ben Thomas in 2010, while still residing in Sydney, Australia. Their debut album Prophecy was quickly recorded in 2011, followed by Judgement Day (2013). And now, a record breaking twelve years later, it’s time for the follow-up.
Apart from Giles Lavery on vocals, Moving Target features Australian citizens Ben Thomas (guitars) and Aaron Thomas (bass) as well Warlord members Mark Zonder (drums) and Jimmy Waldo (keyboards).
“For me the direction on Moving Target was intended to be if Judas Priest had made an album somewhere in 1985 between Defenders Of The Faith and Turbo,” describes the vocalist on the sound of the new DRAGONSCLAW album, “with some of the second Fifth Angel album in there too.”
Keyboards are prominently featured on Moving Target, which was actually the original plan of the band: “I think for this album the keyboards are very important, they create the needed atmosphere and drama. I would say that we used them in a similar way that Virgin Steele did on Age Of Consent, namely to build atmosphere. I really like that haunting effect keyboards can have when used right. Like Tony Banks from Genesis does, or Tony Carey on his Planet P Project albums. Jimmy Waldo is one of those guys too.”
Probably the fastest and most upbeat number on Moving Target is called “Shadowfire”. And it comes with a surprise: “’Shadowfire’ reminded me of a current-day Riot song, so I asked Todd Michael Hall to sing on it with me and he was kind enough to do so!”
TRACKLISTING: 01 The Road Beneath Your Wheels 02 Survival 03 Cry Wolf 04 Don’t Break the Silence again 05 Back on the Streets 06 Ghost Soldiers 07 Shadowfire 08 (Tell me) All Your Lies 09 Raise Your Fist
LINE-UP: Giles Lavery – Vocals Ben Thomas – Guitar Aaron Thomas – Bass Jimmy Waldo – Keys Mark Zonder – Drums
Produced by Giles Lavery & Ben Thomas with Thomas Mergler Mixed and Mastered by Thomas Mergler at Tom’s Soundranch Artwork: All Things Rotten
After the chart-smashing success of their latest album, Bone Collector, followed by an extensive touring schedule, German iconic heavy metal force Grave Digger returns with a brand new, stand-alone banger that bites hard and howls louder! “Bark to Hell”, the band’s latest single, is a fiery descent into chaos, crowned by the king of torment himself.
Obey the call… or be dragged under, Grave Digger’s new track is out now on all digital services at this location: https://gravedigger.rpm.link/bthPR
Grave Digger frontman Chris Boltendahlcomments: “Hey folks, we’re back! And we’ve brought you our brand-new single: “Bark to Hell”! For us, this track is the final exclamation mark to close out our celebrated Bone Collector session with a bang. With “Bark to Hell,” we’ve packed in everything that defines Grave Digger, raw energy, dark atmosphere, and no-compromise power.
Hellish guitar riffs, pounding drums, and my unmistakable vocals are driving this beast forward. This one’s a true headbanger, no playlist should be without it! But let me make one thing clear: this isn’t a farewell. “Bark to Hell” is a triumphant afterburner, dark, loud, and gripping to the very last note. To all our die-hard fans: this one’s for you. Grave Digger still bites – hard.”
This year does not only see German iconic metal institution Grave Digger celebrate its 45th anniversary, but also their 23rd, chart success album Bone Collector, released in January 2025 via ROARhere).
Founded in 1980 in Gladbeck, they set out to conquer the world; who would have thought that 45 years later Grave Digger would be one of the most important, consistent and influential metal bands from Germany. With the release of their ground-breaking debut Heavy Metal Breakdown in 1984, an unprecedented career began that will find its logical continuation more than four decades later with their latest, new masterpiece Bone Collector, an album that sees the band going back to their old school roots.
Wake Up The Wicked Tour 2026 w/ very special guest HammerFall & special guest Wind Rose:
19.02.26 DK – Copenhagen / K.B. Hallen 20.02.26 NO – Oslo / Unity Arena 21.02.26 SE – Stockholm / Hovet 23.02.26 FI – Helsinki / Ice Hall 25.02.26 SE – Gothenburg / Scandinavium 27.02.26 DE – Bremen / ÖVB Arena 28.02.26 DE – Düsseldorf / PSD Bank Dome 01.03.26 DE – Nürnberg / Arena Nürnberger Versicherung 03.03.26 DE – Leipzig / Quarterback Immobilien Arena 04.03.26 DE – Ulm / Ratiopharm Arena 05.03.26 DE – Mannheim / SAP Arena 07.03.26 UK – London / OVO Wembley Arena
HELLOWEEN, the legendary German metal band with 21 gold and platinum awards and over ten million records sold, will release their highly anticipated new album Giants & Monsters this August. The album, now available for pre-order, follows their self-titled #1 2021 record and promises to be the most versatile and dynamic release of their career. Mixed at the legendary Wisseloord Studios in Hilversum, Netherlands (IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, DEF LEPPARD etc.),Giants & Monstersreaffirms the band’s position at the pinnacle of the metal world.
Leading the charge is the album’s first single, “This Is Tokyo,” accompanied by a visual homage to Japan. The powerful, four-minute anthem features vocalists Andi Deris and Michael Kiske and delivers a chorus designed for stadium sing-alongs. The song holds personal significance for Deris: “I’ve always wanted to write this song. Japan plays a special role in my life because I had my first big successes there. I wanted to create a tribute to Japan for a while now and finally found the right lyrics. Because ‘Tokyo’ sounds better than ‘Japan,’ the city stands for a whole country that is very important to me.”
HELLOWEEN will celebrate four decades of metal mastery with a global 40th anniversary tour. The European leg begins in mid-October, with initial dates selling out quickly and additional shows in Madrid and Bochum already on sale. Featuring an ultimate set list packed with surprises, the tour will showcase the band’s unparalleled legacy and ongoing creative power.
Giants & Monsters pushes the boundaries of HELLOWEEN’s sound, thanks to the instincts of producers Charlie Bauerfeind and Dennis Ward, as well as the band’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Per example, drummer Dani Löble recorded all tracks using three different drum kits to capture the perfect vibe for each song, a testament to their attention to detail and love of experimentation.
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)
The band’s chemistry continues to drive their success. “What keeps motivating us is the fact that we’re extremely different. It generates creative energy,” says guitarist Michael Weikath. Kai Hansen adds: “We try not to take ourselves and everything around us too seriously.”Deris sums it up: “In the end, we’re just seven guys who want to make music and enjoy the incomparable force that arises when we’re together. HELLOWEEN is way more powerful than the sum of its parts.”
With Giants & Monsters, HELLOWEEN boldly step into their fifth decade, proving once again why they remain one of the most influential and beloved bands in heavy metal.
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
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