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INDUCTION – Release Title Track And Video “Love Kills” From Upcoming Studio Album Love Kills! Out February 6th, via Reigning Phoenix Music

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on October 24, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Photo credit: FranzSchepers Dominik Gusch (bass), Justus Sahlman (guitars), Markus “Maks” Felber (drums), Gabriele Gozzi (vocals), Tim Kanoa Hansen (guitars)

Stream “Love Kills” HERE: 

https://induction.rpm.link/lksinglePR

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.’”

Stream / Download: 

https://induction.rpm.link/lksinglePR

Watch the music video premiering here: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GGawhmN018 

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!

Pre-Save / Pre-Order the album at: https://induction.rpm.link/lovekillsPR

Love Kills! – Track-List:

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

INDUCTION are:

Gabriele Gozzi | vocals
Tim Kanoa Hansen | guitars
Justus Sahlman | guitars
Dominik Gusch | bass
Markus “Maks” Felber | drums

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!

Info & Tickets: http://www.piratesandkings.com 

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

More on INDUCTION:

inductionofficial.com | Facebook | Instagram  |TikTok

YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | RPM

Source: C Squared Music

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IRON MAIDEN – Announce Run For Your Lives World Tour 2026 | North America Dates, Cities & Venues Listed

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , , on October 23, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

From Iron Maiden Facebook:

Run For Your Lives… North America!

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!

https://www.ironmaiden.com/

More info: https://www.ironmaiden.com/mexico-run-for-your-lives/

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.

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PISSING RAZORS – Return to the East Coast for the First Time Since 2003

Posted in groove metal, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on October 23, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Texas Groove Metal Veterans Announce 7-Date Tour with Special Guests Single Bullet Theory and select dates with Byzantine

El Paso’s legendary groove metal pioneers PISSING RAZORS are set to make their long-awaited return to the East Coast for the first time in over two decades. The upcoming seven-date run marks their first appearance in the region since 2004, when the band was touring in support of their Spitfire Records release, Evolution.

Now, in 2025, the band returns to the East in support of their acclaimed 2021 album Eulogy Death March, a tour that’s not only highly anticipated by fans but also historic in nature. This lineup is the closest to the original Pissing Razors roster the band has had in years and features:

Joe Rodriguez – Vocals
Eddy Garcia – Drums
Mat Lynch – Guitar
Geo Gomez – Bass

The East Coast leg will feature direct support from Single Bullet Theory, the long-running East Coast metal force fronted by Matt DiFabio. DiFabio has strong ties to Pissing Razors himself, having played guitar on the 2003 tour supporting Evolution. Now, over 20 years later, the two camps reunite on the same stages once again.

Joe Rodriguez shared his thoughts on the tour’s significance:

“The return to the East Coast after over two decades would mark a significant milestone, not just as a tour to the area with our friends in Single Bullet Theory but a reconnection with the fans in regions we haven’t formally visited in a long time. It symbolizes the longevity of the band and our dedication to the groove metal scene, keeping the genre alive in new and legacy markets.

For long-time fans on the East Coast, it would be a nostalgic and emotional event, potentially the first chance to see the band live in nearly a generation. For the band, it’s an opportunity to re-establish our presence, maybe test new songs (like tracks from our 2021 album Eulogy Death March), and grow our audience geography beyond our Texas-heavy touring footprint.”

Eddy Garcia added:

“It’s with great pleasure that we get to hit the East Coast for a few dates! We haven’t been that way since 2003! Many thanks to Matt and Single Bullet Theory! We look forward to seeing old friends and making some new ones! East Coast fans have always treated us well, and we look forward to playing all of these shows! Cheers!“

Formed in the mid-’90s, Pissing Razors gained a reputation for relentless touring and uncompromising live shows. From the late ’90s through the early 2000s, the band seemed to live on the road, clocking in tours alongside Cannibal Corpse, Six Feet Under, W.A.S.P., and select U.S. and European dates with Anthrax and NYHC legends Pro-Pain. Their impact helped shape the sound of American groove metal, influencing a new generation of heavyweights including Lamb of God and Gojira.

The upcoming East Coast tour promises to be a celebration of Pissing Razors’ legacy, a testament to their longevity, and a heavy reminder of their ongoing power and relevance in today’s metal scene.

PIssing Razors / Single Bullet Theory/ Byzantine:

10/31 – Richmond, VA. – Another Round
11/01 – Bensalem, PA. – Broken Goblet (with Byzantine)
11/02 – Sabbatus, ME. – Mixers (with Byzantine and Ascend to Power)
11/03 – Westfield, MA. – Gabes 252 (with Byzantine)
11/04 – Providence, RI. – Alchemy (with Thy Will Be Done)
11/05- Hamden, CT. – The Cellar
11/06 – Buffalo, NY. – Rockin Buffalo Saloon

www.facebook.com/PissingRazorsEPTX

www.facebook.com/singlebullettheory

Source: ClawHammer PR

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A Statement From THE CULT’s Ian Astbury And Billy Duffy

Posted in gothic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on October 22, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Photo credit: Jackie Middleton

Mother Nature has a cycle of change and evolution that is inevitable. The moon’s phases change, tides rise and fall. Change is necessary for creation and rebirth.

It is with this in mind that, following the remaining dates on our current North American The Cult/Death Cult 8525 Tour, we have decided to step away from touring for an undetermined amount of time. We have toured extensively over the last few years and we shall now shift our focus to writing, recording new music, and exploring other projects that shall be revealed over time. It is a time for us to turn inward to recharge our spiritual batteries.

When we return to the stage, it shall be with an even stronger fire and energy that we will share with all of you. Ours is a communal bond, and it will not be broken, simply paused.

Until then, we have five remaining shows on this current tour, culminating at The Shrine in Los Angeles on Oct 30. Please join us for what has been an incredible celebration of 40 years of The Cult and Death Cult.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the love and support. It keeps us alive.

“It’s been a beautiful three years celebrating our music with The Cult family around the world. Now it’s time to go home and spend time with our own families, and create some new music” – Billy

“My deepest gratitude to all who attended and immersed themselves in our world. I am deeply grateful to be connected to our Cult family as we ready ourselves for our final five shows for some time, and we take the opportunity to dive deeper into our next creative adventures. More shall be revealed. Blessings to you all.” – Ian

Billy & Ian

Thecult.us

Instagram.com/officialcult

Facebook.com/officialcult

Twitter.com/officialcult

Source: Speakeasy PR

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CREATURES Release New Single & Video for “Beware The Creatures” OUT NOW! | New Album Creatures II Out November 14th, 2025!

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, heavy metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on October 21, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

The new single “Beware the Creatures” is taken from CREATURES‘ 2025 album Creatures II, out on High Roller Records! 

Get your LP / CD at: https://www.hrrecords.de/CREATURES

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.”

Comparing Creatures I and Creatures 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.” 

On-Line:
https://www.facebook.com/creaturesheavymetal
https://www.instagram.com/creaturesheavymetal
https://creaturesheavymetal.bandcamp.com/

https://highrollerrecords.bandcamp.com/

Source: High Roller Records

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QUEMASANTOS – Teams Up With Guitarist Chris Irarrazábal of Chilean Thrash Legends NIMROD for “The Oneironaut”

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on October 21, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

L-R – Ignacio Orellana (Bass/Guitars/Drums) | Nelson Diaz (Vocals)

The international metal project Quemasantos returns with a haunting new visual experience: the official lyric video for “The Oneironaut”, a track inspired by the 19th-century writings of Allan Kardec on journeys of the soul. In this modern reinterpretation, the band transforms those spiritual ideas into a nightmarish, inter-dimensional voyage that unfolds within the realm of dreams. The track features guest guitarist Chris Irarrazábal of Chilean thrash metal band Nimrod.

Watch the lyric video – “The Oneironaut” at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wjG2pQEmpng

Add to your Spotify Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/track/0zVokpdf0F0YfK7gsixH9z

Nelson Díaz comments:

“It’s a song inspired by the 19th-century writings of Allan Kardec on what he called ‘journeys of the soul.’ Today, we could interpret it as a nightmarish vision of an interdimensional journey experienced during sleep.”

Ignacio Orellana adds:

“As we’ve been releasing one track after another, the sound has been evolving in search of what we truly want it to be. As the musician behind the music, it’s been challenging to balance the instruments so that each one shines, because each represents a part of the creator’s soul. I feel that this one leans a little more toward the drums’ side… but the bass, the bass. We’re preparing a few more surprises. Stay tuned and be ready to be surprised.”

Formed in the relentless underground of Santiago, Chile, NIMROD stands as one of the country’s pioneering thrash metal forces. Blending speed, aggression, and precision, the band has forged a sound rooted in classic ’80s thrash while pushing forward with a distinctly South American intensity.

Known for their explosive live shows and powerful songwriting, NIMROD has shared stages with both national legends and international acts, earning a loyal following across Latin America. With a catalog that captures decades of fury and evolution, the band continues to deliver pure, uncompromising metal, a testament to Chile’s enduring heavy scene.

Credits & Production Details:

  • Vocals: Nelson Díaz
  • Music: Ignacio Orellana
  • Lead Guitar: Chris Irarrazábal (Chilean thrash metal band Nimrod)
  • Vocals Recorded At: Ultrasonico Studios – Santiago, Chile
  • Music Recorded At: Oily Sound Studios – New York, USA
  • Visuals & Lyrical Concept: Nelson Díaz
  • Produced, Mixed & Mastered By: Ignacio Orellana

Video edited By: Promusicvideo.com

More info:

https://quemasantos.com

http://quemasantos.bandcamp.com

http://instagram.com/quemasantos1

http://www.facebook.com/quemasantos

Source: ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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Italian Metal Squad, HyperioN, Releasing Cybergenesis On January 15th | New Single “Deafening” Is Out Now!

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on October 18, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Bologna (IT) – Italian metal act HyperioN return with new LP, Cybergenesis, a dark sci-fi concept album for fans of traditional Heavy Metal. Fighter Records will release the album on January 15, 2026.

The aptly titled album opener, “Deafening,” is the album’s first single and is available now at youtu.be/U57MUq5Bf8A.

Stream it on all other platforms at: music.imusician.pro/a/t6CNIS0L.

Cybergenesis, HyperioN’s third full-length album, is eight tracks of powerful, dynamic Heavy Metal!

The concept of Cybergenesis fits seamlessly with the fiery heavy metal therein. A daring expedition into a space-time rift ends in disaster, awakening the Choir, an ancient alien hive mind from an alternate dimension, and plunging humanity into a desperate war for survival. On an Earth enslaved by the Choir’s army of cyborgs, a former commander is reborn as the Rhizome Rider, leading a rebellion from within and sacrificing himself to free humanity.

Rooted in classic sci-fi, from Star Trek to Ghost in the Shell, Cybergenesis tells a story of resistance and sacrifice, where the human spirit defies impossible odds.

Photo Credit: Paolo Cavanna

Line-up: (pictured l-r)

Davide Cotti – Guitars
Francesco Madonna – Drums
Max Morelli – Vocals
Simone “Nega” Cauli – Bass
Francis Dipasquale – Guitars

The album’s striking cover artwork was hand-painted on canvas by English artist Ryan T. Hancock, renowned for his work with bands such as Seven Sisters, Blood Star, and Stormborn. HyperioN chose a handcrafted, non-AI artwork to give Cybergenesis a tangible and authentic visual identity.

Cybergenesis Pre-orders coming soon on Bandcamp!

Track Listing:

  1. Deafening
  2. Rewire, Rebuild
  3. Yet We Still Fight
  4. The Shackles of Chronitus
  5. Blood Over Chrome
  6. Grain of Sand
  7. Rhizome Rider
  8. The Whole of Time

linktr.ee/hyperionband

fighter-records.com

Source: ClawHammer PR

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ACE FREHLEY – Rest In Peace, Rock Icon

Posted in classic rock, classic rock bands, Hard Rock, hard rock bands, Heavy Metal, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on October 17, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

ACE FREHLEY / 1951 – 2025

2025 is another year that hasn’t been kind in the news department, with the passing of music artists. My condolences to the family, friends, bandmates and fans of Ace Frehley, affectionately known also as Space Ace and Spaceman. 74 years old is young, as I’ve grown and been reminded how precious life on Earth is.

Ace Frehley (birth name Paul Daniel Frehley) was a founding member and lead guitarist of KISS and highly successful solo artist during his post KISS career. What a career! Performing live consistently and recording albums that have endured an everlasting relevance to this very day, Ace Frehley kept his showmanship Rockin’ straight into 2025.

As I grew up in the mid 70’s through the 80’s, KISS had that wow factor from their personas to their accessible discography and everything in-between. Ace Frehley was the member of KISS I always wished had more songs featuring him as a singer.

Listening to Ace Frehley sing and play his magic on “Shock Me,” 2000 Man” and “Speedin’ Back To My Baby” will be on repeat for awhile now, as my fondness for this Rock icon has never been stronger. I’ll also play very loud Aces’ guitar splendor with the KISS classic: “What Makes The World Go ‘Round.” Plus, the albums of Frehley’s Comet will be bringing back good times memories as well, for the remainder of my life.

Thank you, Ace Frehley, and rest and also rock in peace. You were a major soundtrack to my life. That one time I saw you perform live, with your band Frehley’s Comet, I’ll continue to cherish and talk about forever. God Bless your soul, Space Ace. – Stone

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REDSHARK Announce New Single: “Hypnotized” | Sudden Impact Album Releases October 31st

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, music videos, news with tags , , , , , on October 14, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Cover art by Stanislav Atanasov

“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)

Band Links:
FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

BANDCAMP

Subscribe to Listenable Records channel HERE

Source: Listenable Records

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Æternia – New Single “Forged In Fire” From Upcoming Album Is Out Now

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on October 13, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

“Forged in Fire,” the new single from German Power Metal Masters, Æternia, is out now! The single is the second released from forthcoming album, Into The Golden Halls.

Stream “Forged in Fire” at:

aeternia.bandcamp.com/track/forged-in-fire

Cruz Del Sur Music will release Into The Golden Halls on October 17 on CD, vinyl, and digital formats.

Having formed in 2020 with a sole EP making their mark in 2022, entitled The Quest, this wondrous band was born! Combining that epic and monumental sense of grandiosity and melody that you would anticipate from a band like pre-symphonic Blind Guardian or Helloween and adorned by stunning cover artwork by Adam Burke, this promises to be a real gem of the current scene that evokes majesty in every aspect both sonically and visually.

Boldly, the band decided to record and produce the album themselves, so you can feel their hard work ethic in every fibre of this music. A truly monumental debut album that all power metal fans must hear!

The band recorded and produced the record themselves, so every fiber of their album is testimony to their incredibly hard work. A massive sound can be felt that couples blinding guitar riffs and soaring leads atop unbreakable rhythmic battery from the drums and bass altogether held in place by commanding and soulful vocals.

Line-Up:

Sven Hamacher– Bass
Martin Kramer – Guitars
Daniele Gelsomino – Vocals
Hendrik Czirr – Drums
David Ponwitz – Guitars

Spinning lore from both history and a more fantastical realm, this is an epic conquest that you can truly lose yourself in while the musical majesty will keep you bewitched and engaged time and time again. As each spellbinding track flows from the last, you can gaze at the artwork (especially if you buy the vinyl which will include gorgeous colour variants and an A2 poster, plus a four page booklet).

This is one of those pieces of musical history that every single element will draw you in for something more than just a quick background listen.

Pre-order Into The Golden Halls:

CD: tinyurl.com/yc2tzkjm

LP BLACK: tinyurl.com/bd6f9dyd

LP LMT 200 MARBLED HALLS: tinyurl.com/3vcv2cxb

BANDCAMP: aeternia.bandcamp.com/album/into-the-golden-halls

Track Listing:

1. Ascending

2. Dragon’s Gaze

3. Five Rode Forth

4. Trial by Fire and Water

5. Forged in Fire

6. The Descendant

7. Lightbringer (Fall of the Church)

8. Lay of Hildebrand

facebook.com/aeterniaofficial

instagram.com/aeternia_band

cruzdelsurmusic.com

cruzdelsurmusic.bandcamp.com

Source: ClawHammer PR

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ROB ZOMBIE – The Great Satan Releases on February 27, 2026

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , on October 10, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

From Rob Zombie Bandsintown:

New album The Great Satan releases everywhere February 27, 2026. Pre-order & Pre-save: https://robzombie.bfan.link/the-great-satan

Listen to the new single “Punks And Demons” and watch the music video:
https://robzombie.bfan.link/punks-and-demons

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LYNCH MOB – The Final Album, Dancing With The Devil, Releasing On November 28th, via Rat Pak Records

Posted in Hard Rock, hard rock bands, Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on October 10, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

From Rat Pak Records:

Legendary guitarist George Lynch and his band Lynch Mob are set to release their highly anticipated final studio album Dancing with the Devil via Rat Pak Records due outon November 28, 2025, marking the final chapter in their storied career. Produced by Chris Collier, the album follows the success of their previous effort “Babylon” and showcases elements of classic Lynch Mob with a modern edge, fusing hard rock, blues, and soulful grooves with an unmistakable passion and energy. 

Dancing with the Devil revisits the classic Lynch Mob sound: a potent mix of blues-based hard rock, razor-sharp guitar work, and soulful vocals, delivered with the swagger and confidence of a band that has nothing left to prove. Fans of the early Wicked Sensation era will find familiar fire here with this masterful completion of their musical legacy. Additionally, George Lynch has decided to extend the bands legacy further. Due to high demand for additional performances and the upcoming release of the final studio album Dancing with the Devil, George will continue to fly the Lynch Mob banner into the future with a trek of encore performances. 

Get the full details and get in on some limited-edition signed CD & VINYL bundles at: https://ratpakrecords.com/collections/lynch-mob

Watch the video for “Dancing with the Devil” here: https://youtu.be/3XouoBcbK9A 

Stream or download the single here: https://lnk.to/3a5H5Rus

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NYC Doom Trio, PRECIOUS BLOOD, Release Video for “El Muerte” Single | False Prophets Out on October 29

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , on October 8, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

A new song and lyric video from NYC doom trio PRECIOUS BLOOD is now streaming! “El Muerte” is the third single off the band’s full-length debut album, False Prophets.

Watch the lyric video for “El Muerte” at youtu.be/OFdPTWqJsns

Stream more from PRECIOUS BLOOD on Spotify, Apple Music and Bandcamp.

False Prophets is set for release on October 29.

Fully formed in 2024, PRECIOUS BLOOD brings together three veterans of the NYC scene – AJ – guitar, vocals (Jesus Knevil, Snake Canyon), Dave Kramer – bass, vocals (Blood Feast, Suaka, Stanley), and Grace Perez – drums, vocals (The Wickedexorcist). The band’s shared love of doom and underground metal is expressed in an unholy concoction of rum-soaked riffs, brutal lyrics, and mystical tribal sounds.

With a signature sound best described as Blackened Caribbean Doom, PRECIOUS BLOOD delivers a unique blend of doom and thrash metal influenced tone, mixed with lyrical themes that draw profound inspiration from the enduring spirit of the Caribbean, shaped by brutal history of colonization, unwavering resilience of its people, and exploration of the darker aspects of human existence, including death, contemplation of mortality and the complexities of human suffering.

For fans of monstrous riffs, horror-inspired visuals, and genre-bending metal.

Track-list:
1) False Prophets
2) Bludgeoned & Charred [Video]
3) Footsteps of Babylon
4) Shadow of the Cross
5) Cemetery Burn
6) Old Man Abaddon [Video]
7) El Muerte [Video]
8) Whore’s Grave

False Prophets was recorded and mixed by Joe Hogan at Captain’s Cove Catskills Studios with mastering and additional engineering by AJ Tissian (The Wave Lab). The album was produced by Joe Hogan and PRECIOUS BLOOD. Album cover photo by Mia. Cover layout by PRECIOUS BLOOD.

Line-Up:
AJ -Guitar, Vocals
Grace Perez – Drums, Backing Vocals
Dave Kramer – Bass, Backing Vocals

linktr.ee/preciousbloodband

Source: ClawHammer PR

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Finnish Melodic Death Metal band OBSCURE FATE To Release Debut Album Later In 2026 | “Age of Delusion” Single Now Streaming

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on October 8, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Promo picture by Tiia Jefremoff

Finnish melodic death metal act Obscure Fate is about to release their debut album Shades of a Dying World. The release date will be announced later by Inverse Records. The first single “Age of Delusion” is unleashed today and it’s available here: https://push.fm/fl/obscure-fate-age-of-delusion 

The band comments:
“Age of Delusion is a dystopian and cynical view of the modern world. It criticizes those in power (politicians, the media, religion) who manipulate the masses with lies, fear, and illusions. The truth is lost and freedom is just an illusion. The song is both a warning and an accusation. Who benefits from all this, and why are people blind to it?”

Obscure Fate – Age of Delusion (single 2025) Single cover by Jarno Lahti

Credits:

Composed by Kaleva Kovalainen & Antti Möttönen
Lyrics by Tapio Möttönen

Mixed by Tero “TeeCee” Kinnunen and Mastered by Mika Jussila, Finnvox Studiot Oy

BAND BIOGRAPHY:

Obscure Fate was originally formed in 2008 in Paltamo, Finland, as the solo project of guitarist and songwriter Kaleva Kovalainen. In 2009, drummer Jari Keränen and bassist Petri Möttönen joined, giving the songs their first real band form. Shortly after, guitarist Joni Moisanen and vocalist Tapio Möttönen became official members, and together the group arranged dozens of tracks for full band performances. From the very beginning, Tapio handled the lyrics, with Petri contributing to the song Spectral Exile.

The current lineup was completed in 2019 when bassist Antti Möttönen replaced Petri. Musically, Obscure Fate is rooted in traditional melodic death metal, though elements of thrash and classic heavy metal also find their way into the band’s sound. Kaleva’s prolific songwriting provided a strong foundation for the band, while the lyrics explore themes of social criticism, fictional storytelling, and inner struggles.

In 2021, Obscure Fate released their first EP. Recording sessions for their debut full-length album began soon after, but due to various setbacks the process turned into a long and seemingly endless project. Finally, in April 2025, the band reached the final stages of completing the album, marking an important milestone in their journey. The debut album Shades of a Dying World is set to be released later in 2026 via Inverse Records. 

Links:
https://obscurefate.net
https://www.facebook.com/ObscureFateBand
https://www.instagram.com/obscurefateband
https://obscurefate.bandcamp.com

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DENIAL OF LIFE: Witness The Power EP By Tacoma Crossover Act To Be Released November 7th, On Creator-Destructor Records

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on October 7, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

photos by Liv Margullis

“Circle The Drain” Single Posted + EU Tour With Darkest Hour Underway

Creator-Destructor Records welcomes Tacoma, Washington-based thrash/crossover crew DENIAL OF LIFE to the label’s savage roster for the release of their new EP, Witness The Power, posting the cover art, track listing, and track “Circle The Drain.”

DENIAL OF LIFE is a metallic hardcore auditory assault forged in the Pacific Northwest. Channeling the speed and venom of Slayer, the primal fury of Sepultura, and the death-soaked grime of Entombed, they deliver a sound that is merciless, unrelenting, and steeped in darkness. With Brenna Gowin’s searing vocals riding the razor-sharp guitar work of Logan Miller and Dante Zickler, the crushing bass of Brian Bernard, and the pulverizing drums of Nick Cody, the band wages war on false hope and hollow promises.

photos by Liv Margullis

DENIAL OF LIFE’s new EP, Witness The Power, is a grim testament to rage and ruin and the beginning of relentless touring that will spread their chaos far and wide. DENIAL OF LIFE is not here to save you. They are here to burn it all down. Having only formed in 2019, the band has been making waves all over the world, bringing their unique style of crossover to headbangers and hardcore fans alike.

Stream DENIAL OF LIFE’s “Circle The Drain” on YouTube HERE and Bandcamp HERE.

Following several singles, promos, and the 2022 release of their debut LP, No Reason, extensive US touring and a four-week European headlining tour, the band now sets their sights on world domination.

Witness The Power was engineered by Jason Brooks, mixed by Taylor Young at The Pit Recording Studio (Nails, Kruelty, God’s Hate), mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege (Obituary, Internal Bleeding, Creeping Death), and completed with artwork by Stein Hansen.

With the EP’s lead single, the band states, “‘Circle The Drain’ is a love song about mourning a personal relationship and feeling shameful because the loss could have been avoided.”

Witness The Power will be released on 12” vinyl, CD, and digitally, via Creator-Destructor Records on November 7th. A music video, preorders and more will be issued over the coming days.

Witness The Power – Track Listing:

  1. Witness The Power
  2. God’s Favorite (Slave To The Blade)
  3. Circle The Drain
  4. Sword Of Fire
  5. Love Sting
  6. Not The One

The news of the new EP arrives as DENIAL OF LIFE launches a European tour, supporting Bleeding Through, Darkest Hour, and Shai Halud. Upon their return stateside, the band goes back out supporting Shai Hulud throughout the Western US in November. See all confirmed dates below and expect additional tour dates to be posted shortly.

DENIAL OF LIFE w/ Darkest Hour, Shai Hulud, Bleeding Through:
10/02/2025 Kavka Zappa – Antwerp, BE
10/03/2025 Tower – Bremen, DE
10/05/2025 Schlachthof – Wiesbaden, DE
10/06/2025 Naumanns – Leipzig, DE
10/07/2025 SO36 – Berlin, DE
10/08/2025 Futurum – Prague, CZ
10/09/2025 Dürer Kert – Budapest, HU
10/10/2025 Hirsch – Nürnberg, DE
10/11/2025 Kiff – Aarau, CH
10/12/2025 Backstage – München, DE
w/ Shai Hulud:
11/05/2025 The Aggie Theater – Fort Collins, CO
11/06/2025 Bluebird Theater – Denver, CO
11/07/2025 Urban Lounge – Salt Lake City, UT
11/08/2025 Neurolux – Boise, ID
11/09/2025 Hawthorne Theater – Portland, OR
11/11/2025 924 Gilman – San Francisco, CA
11/12/2025 Fulton 55– Fresno, CA
11/13/2025 1720– Los Angeles, CA
11/14/2025 Brick By Brick – San Diego, CA
11/15/2025 Garden Amphitheater – Garden Grove, CA

https://www.instagram.com/denial.of.life

https://denialoflife.bandcamp.com

https://creator-destructor.com

Source: EARSPLIT PR

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My Thoughts On Music Streaming

Posted in classic rock, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on October 6, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

I listen to music across a wide array of mediums, both physical and streaming. With that said, I’ve found myself listening on Spotify more this year than any other before it. With the ease of use and plethora of Metal choices, Spotify has been keeping me in the know. I’ve discovered more new bands, albums and songs like never before, due to the daily recommendations I receive from Spotify.

I actually feel spoiled with such easy access to my favorite music and yet I also feel gratitude. Technology can be more than a Pandora’s box as all the digital music platforms have proven. We’ve come a long way since those Napster days. Music is to be heard, enjoyed and not hidden from being celebrated. Spotify gives music to the masses, whether a user pays a monthly subscription (free from ads) or not.

My growing up during the late 70’s and into the early 80’s as a teenager in America had limited access to music on television; with MTV eventually changing the game. Beforehand there was American Bandstand, Soul Train and USA Networks’ Night Flight. I was a fan of all three! Had to be. It’s all we had for music on TV along with tidbits of related news.

The physical media was the mainstay back then, along with radio, of course. I never in a billion years could’ve foreseen such a remarkable future of music accessibility, via a hand-held phone, back in the day. That was Science Fiction back then. Star Trek stuff.

When it comes to how much artists are compensated from Spotify for listens, I have no clue. I’ve read about the negative blowback that many artists have toward the pay scale Spotify uses. All I can say, in my opinion, is you either use it as a means to get your music heard or you don’t. Admittedly, I will at times purchase physical music media based on what I discover from Spotify. This platform affords artists to sell merch from there as well.

On a side note, I have zero clue about how YouTube compensates musicians and bands. YouTube is easily the one digital platform I use the least for music. After I watch a newly released music video, I’m done, unless the video is worth my time to revisit. That’s just me.

I do know Bandcamp is honestly a tremendous platform for artists to make money; especially with the monthly Bandcamp Friday. I do love Bandcamp! I have purchased a nice collection of digital music, physical media and other merch over the years from Bandcamp. I so highly recommend checking out this platform if you haven’t already.

Thank you for visiting and reading about my thoughts on music streaming. I greatly appreciate all of you visitors! Please feel free to comment! Metal be thy name. – Stone

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Montreal Brass Metal Pioneers FALLSTAF Returns 15 Years After Debut With New Album: Ode To The Dead | Out November 2025

Posted in Heavy Metal, heavy metal bands, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on October 5, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Photo: Sébastien Roy

Unveil Lyric Video For Title Track

SIMM/Guitars – RICKK /Horns – IANN/Vocals – GOYY/ Bass – MATT/Drums

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:

Lyric Video – https://youtu.be/GM4EPsLnMlE

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!

Album pre-order – https://fallstaf.bandcamp.com/

Track Listing:

  1. Sunless Friday – 2:57
  2. Ode to the Dead – 3:27
  3. Battered Soul – 3:40
  4. Kings of the West Side – 3:31
  5. Under the Same Sky – 3:31
  6. Bastard Son – 3:45
  7. The Burden – 4:41
    Album length: 25:37

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

More info: 

https://www.facebook.com/fallstafmontrealbrassmetal

Source: ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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HELL IN THE CLUB – New Single & Lyric Video “Robert The Doll” Out Now

Posted in Hard Rock, hard rock bands, Heavy Metal, Metal, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , on October 4, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

FROM THE UPCOMING STUDIO ALBUM,
JOKER IN THE PACK, SET FOR RELEASE ON NOVEMBER 7, 2025
VIA FRONTIERS MUSIC SRL

WATCH HERE

PRE-ORDER HERE

Italian/Swedish hard rock/heavy metal band Hell In The Club share today their new single and accompanying lyric video, “Robert the Doll”, ahead of the release of their new studio album, Joker In The Pack, out on November 7, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl.

Vocalist Tezzi Persson revealed the story behind the track: “The story of Robert the Doll originates from the early 1900s, when a young boy received a seemingly innocent handmade doll as a gift. Soon after, strange things began happening in the house. The doll was said to move on its own, its expression changing when no one was looking… Watching… Waiting.”

“Whenever something went wrong, the boy had only one explanation: “Robert did it”. Over time, fear took hold. The doll was locked away but never forgotten”, she continued. “Today, the doll resides in a museum in Key West, Florida. Yet, many claim his spirit still lingers. Visitors who mock or disrespect him report accidents, misfortune, and strange occurrences shortly after. So, be on your best behavior… and beware of Robert the Doll.”

Watch the official lyric video for “Robert the Doll” HERE

Pre-Order “Joker In The Pack” HERE

Hell In The Club, a killer hard rock band with a style rooted in the classic ‘80s sound and its own modern identity, return with their seventh studio album, the first with Swedish singer Tezzi Persson.

The band stated: “This album marks a new era for us, the first chapter of a new beginning. Nine hard rock gems, plus a moving ballad, for an album that’s anything but boring. Intense, exciting, fun… in one word: rock! The wonderful cover artwork is by Alessandro Conti Mix and the master by the always excellent Simone Mularoni of Domination Studio.”

Founded by Andrea “Andy” Buratto (Secret Sphere), Dave “Damna” Moras (Elvenking) and Andrea “Picco” Piccardi, the band has carved out a solid reputation through six acclaimed studio albums, extensive European touring with acts like Crashdïet, Jettblack, and Crucified Barbara, and appearances at major festivals including Sonisphere, Basin Fire Fest, and Heineken Jammin’ Festival.

After signing to Frontiers Records in 2017, Hell In The Club released Hell Of Fame (2020), the Kamikaze EP (2020, celebrating their 10th anniversary), and their sixth album F.U.B.A.R. (2022), a straight-up hard rock record hailed as one of their strongest to date.

Following the departure of founding vocalist Dave Moras, the band faced a turning point. Instead of replacing him with a similar voice, bassist Andy proposed a bold shift: introducing a female singer. Enter Terese “Tezzi” Persson (Infinite & Divine, Venus 5), a powerhouse vocalist from Sweden with a voice perfectly suited to the band’s raw, high-energy style. After a single rehearsal, the choice was clear.

In April 2024, Tezzi officially joined the band, debuting with the single “Carolina Reaper.” Momentum quickly built toward the creation of their seventh album: Joker In The Pack.

This new album is the first with Tezzi fronting the band and it captures Hell In The Club at their fiercest. Ten tracks of pure adrenaline, from the fiery opener “The Devil Won’t Forget Me” to the emotional closer “When The Veil Of Night Falls.”

With powerful vocals, gritty guitars, and driving rhythms, Joker In The Pack doesn’t reinvent Hell In The Club, it reinvigorates them, launching a bold new era while staying true to their roots.

Joker In The Pack – Tracklist:

1.    The Devil Won’t Forget Me
2.    New Desire
3.    Dirty Love
4.    Robert The Doll
5.    Fairytale
6.    The Ocean
7.    Magnetars
8.    Pretty Little Freak Show
9.    Out In The Distance
10.  When The Veil Of Night Falls

Line Up:
Andrea “Andy” Buratto – Bass
Terese “Tezzi” Persson – Voice
Andrea “Picco” Piccardi – Guitar
Marco “Mark” Lazzarini – Drums

Follow HELL IN THE CLUB:
Website
Facebook
Instagram

Source: Frontiers Music s.r.l.

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INFINITY DREAM Unveil New Single and Music Video: “Freeze”

Posted in Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , on October 4, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Infinity Dream continues its ascent into the grand traditions of heavy metal with the release of their powerful new single, “Freeze” The track is the second single from their highly anticipated second full-length album, Silver Lining, set for release on October 17, 2025, via Nameless Grave Records.

Following last month’s “Lost Embrace” single, “Freeze” showcases the band’s mastery of atmosphere and dynamics. Majestic keyboards, harmonized guitars, and an anthemic blending of the mystique of occult rock with the hard-hitting power of classic metal. 

A brand new music video for the song is now streaming on the Nameless Grave YouTube channel.

For fans of Tony Martin-era Black Sabbath, Dio, and Rainbow, Infinity Dream crafts songs with emotional power and cinematic scope. Silver Lining promises to be their most ambitious work yet, pushing their sound into richer and more powerful territory.

The new single “Freeze” is available now on all digital streaming platforms.

The album Silver Lining is available for pre-order from the Nameless Grave Records webshop.

Source: Nameless Grave Records

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WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA Opens Band Submissions | One Band To Conquer Them All & Play Wacken Open Air 2026

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal festivals, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on October 3, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

One Band To Conquer Them All! After another successful year in 2025, to send one unsigned and independent American band to play the world’s most prestigious and largest already sold-out metal festivals, Wacken Open Air, Wacken Metal Battle USA announces submissions for the 2026 battle are now open as of October 1st until December 1st

“I am beyond stoked to bring back the Wacken Metal Battle to the US. Every year we get invited to participate is an opportunity to grow. This year will be no different. We will be bringing back some cities that haven’t participated in a few years, and we will be adding at least one new city/state to the competition. Do you have what it takes to represent the US at Wacken? Sign up now!” – Eric Dow – Artist & Promoter Relations.

American bands interested in participating can apply at https://www.metal-battle.com/countries/ (please select the United States as your country)

Watch – Wacken Metal Battle 2025 – Aftermovie | Have You Heard the Future of Metal? – https://youtu.be/nCulXiLlaSw

Wacken Battle Trailer Video – https://youtu.be/fjMugRXEc5g

The 2026 WMBU champion will receive the following:

  • A slot at the 2025 Wacken Open Air Festival.
  • Full professional backline provided.
  • $1,000 USD towards flights to Germany.
  • VIP camping at the festival.

At the 2025 WMBU national finals held this past June at Dingbatz in Clifton, NJ, Southern California and Arizona-based band MOURNING HIGH emerged as the seventh champion selected to represent the United States at the prestigious international showdown, Wacken Open Air, that took place from July 30th to August 2nd in Wacken, Germany, where over 185,000 attendees from around the world gathered.

Mourning High, crowned the West Coast Winner, competed alongside five other standout American bands: PRIME PROPHECY (New Jersey), WHAT’S WRONG (Pacific Northwest), PONTIFEX (Florida), FIREHAZE (East Coast), and BROKEN TIME (Texas).

A panel of seasoned industry professionals, including Jeff Buttermark (FM Management), Shawn Quinn (Napalm Records/FM Management), and Rob Caggiano (formerly of Anthrax and Volbeat), ultimately selected Mourning High as the top U.S. act to perform at the International Wacken Battle.

Spotify – 2025 WMBU National Finalists Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5q7Or6tHAsWsAGg8zQSVgZ

List of previous WMBU national winners: Cascade Effect (2024 – San Diego), Fadrait (2023 – San Diego), Mythraeum (2022 – San Diego), Monarch (2019 – San Diego), Voices of Ruin (2018 – Anaheim), and Corpse Hoarder(2017 – Philadelphia).

For the last 7 years of battles (2017-2019, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025), Wacken Metal Battle USAhas 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 already sold out with a line-up that includes Def Leppard, Lamb Of God, In Flames, Powerwolf, Emperor, Sepultura, and Running Wild, among others. Details here.

Wacken Metal Battle USA 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 the USA 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 American national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2026 and compete against the winners of 30 other countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

Links:
Metal-Battle.com
MetalBattleUSA.com
Facebook.com/metalbattleusa.official
X.com/MetalBattleUSA
Instagram.com/metalbattleusa.official

Source: ASHER MEDIA RELATIONS

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