The Finnish metal band Pohjoisen Soturit, formed in 2004, released the first single “Kuiskaus” (whisper in English) from their forthcoming third studio album N which is set to be released on May 2nd 2025 via Inverse Records.
The band comments: “It will go, go for it!” “Despite its title, the Pohjoisen Soturit single Kuiskaus is a brisk cadence and a well-shouted story about an unhappy family man who, as his last trick, burns down his house, family and himself. There’s such a nice groove vibe here.”
The fourth studio album of Finnish melodic metal highflyers ARION, “The Light That Burns The Sky,” will finally hit the shelves on February 28, 2025 through RPM (Finland: Ranka Kustannus; Japan: Avalon Label / Marquee Inc.). Following the enormously warm welcome of their hard-hitting yet powerfully melodic single “Like The Phoenix I Will Rise,” the band have now released the ultimate teaser for the record. ARION’s latest track, intriguingly titled “Blasphemous Paradise,” masterfully fuses two contrasting musical worlds. On one side, it’s driven by classic metal riffs and powerful, dynamic drumming, while on the other, Lassi Vääränen’s vocals take the spotlight, infusing the song with an unexpectedly pop-like feel.
“Being one of the more simple tracks on the album, Blasphemous Paradise is a hard rocking song mocking the nature of a pathological liar and the endgame of ‘catching’ them for their lies. While I composed it in just a day at the very early stages of writing this album, I intentionally kept it simple, but it took a lot of time to find the final lyrics. Once I found this ‘catching a criminal’ or ‘trial’ kind of theme, it sort of came together smoothly and I felt really happy about it!”comments songwriter/guitarist Iivo Kaipainen.
Pre-order The Light That Burns The Sky in your preferred format: [digipak-CD, coloured vinyl, digital] or pre-save the album on your favourite digital streaming provider (DSP): https://arion.rpm.link/tltbtsPR
In addition, “Blasphemous Paradise” arrives just in time for the start of ARION’s personal 2025 touring year: kicking off with five dates alongside STRATOVARIUS and SONATA ARCTICA in their home country, the group will embark on an 8-date “The Plague That Burns The Sky” co-headline tour with label mates BRAINSTORM with support coming from Italian progressive power metal outfit STRANGER VISION later this month. ARION’s current itinerary and ticket info can be found below!
The Light That Burns The Sky is a collaborative production, featuring songs written by Iivo Kaipainen, production and mixing by Matias Kupiainen of STRATOVARIUS with renowned sound engineers Jacob Hansen and Dan Lancaster collaborating on the song ‘Wings Of Twilight [feat. Melissa Bonny of AD INFINITUM].’ The mastering was handled by Ermin Hamidovic of Systematic Productions (ARCHITECTS, PERIPHERY, DEVIN TOWNSEND etc.), and the album boasts vibrant artwork by Giannis Nakos (Remedy Art Design; DYNAZTY, INNERWISH etc.).
“‘No Sins To Confess’ rocks without ballads and if I did not know better, I would have thought the album was an unknown gem from 1988!” HARDLINE MAGAZINE
You want it true, heavy and loud? You love the 80s and you would die for pure fuckin’ Heavy Metal? Then LÖANSHARK is your band! You will find everything your metal heart is beating for within their traditional sound, that takes no prisoners!
The Barcelona-based heavy metal trio unleashes their scorching, first full-length studio album No Sins To Confess! Out today via ROAR, No Sins To Confessis now available at this location: https://loanshark.rpm.link/nosinspr
Everything about LÖANSHARK is old-school and like a flashback into the early 80s metal scene. “This is what we feel and what we are, so it’s kinda impossible for us to not sound old-school, because it is in our DNA”,bassist Aless recently said. You will find that spirit within their sound, artwork, their logo or their look.
“For the cover artwork, we wanted that 80’s movie atmosphere, something eye catchy, dangerous, exciting and sexy! So we have choosen a smoky alley as the setting, long and sexy female legs, that hide a lethal weapon behind them, and there we are, about to die at the hands of this hitwoman who already has “another man in the trunk”. We want to maintain that “mafia” atmosphere in our work, we want it to be our identifying seal, in accordance with the name we chose for the band.”
LÖANSHARK was founded as a power-trio in 2017, in the heart of Barcelona and is currently taking the scene by storm as an uprising star on the NWOTHM heaven, just alongside Spanish fellow acts such as HITTEN, SAVAGED, WITCHTOWER or IRON CURTAIN. Following their 2018 debut EP “The Warning Session” and two singles – including their Underground hit “Fast, Heavy, Loud’N Proud” – which were all featured on the “The Gangland Tapes” CD in 2021. Now, LÖANSHARK has finally released their long-awaited No Sins To Confess.
The album also features re-recorded, early tracks “Machine Gunner” and “Heavy Metal Addicts” as well as a cover version of NWOBHM cult band MARSEILLE and their track “Open Fire”. In the end you will get ten exciting tracks of a young band, that is obviously on fire.
“I think we managed to sound fresh within the genre”, summarises Aless. “Obviously we play traditional heavy metal and that aura is going to reach you when you hear it, but at the same time we try to ensure that no riff reminds you explicitly of any other song. Another virtue we have is, that we are what you hear on the album. We try not to be pretentious with the production and when you see us live you will get a very similar experience. People are usually surprised by our live sound, created by just three crazy people.”
No Sins To Confess – track listing: 01. Electric Shockin’ Waves 02. Machine Gunner 03. The City Goes Fast 04. Another Man In The Trunk 05. Backstabber 06. Wet n’ Wild 07. Midnight Shooter 08. Bad Guys Don’t Lose 09. Open Fire 10. Heavy Metal Addicts
Kraków (PL) – Polish Death Metal duo, Dormant Ordeal, are set to release Tooth and Nail, the band’s first for Willowtip and fourth overall, on April 18! The album will be available on CD, vinyl, cassette, and digital formats, and follows widely praised third album, The Grand Scheme of Things.
“The first single, “Halo of Bones,” was the first song written for the album”. Guitarist Maciej Nieścioruk notes that “it was composed shortly after the release of 2021’s The Grand Scheme of Things” and “features the outstanding work of Chason Westmoreland who played drums on the whole album.” Nieścioruk goes on to say that “Halo of Bones” “is straightforward and to the point. Enjoy the first taste of Tooth and Nail.”
Photos by Piotr Dzik Maciej Nieścioruk – Guitars Maciej Proficz – Vocals
“We worked hard to make this fourth album happen,” says guitarist Maciej Nieścioruk. “JNS Studio once again did a great job tuning in to our suggestions, while having the support of Willowtip gave us freedom to focus on creativity without being distracted. Stick around and have a listen once it’s released, might be just what you’re looking for.”
Dormant Ordeal was formed in 2008. Their debut album It Rains, It Pours (2013), showcased the aggressive and energetic sound, while We Had It Coming (2016) refined their songwriting with thought-out structures and darker textures. Released in 2021, The Grand Scheme of Things was critically acclaimed for blending brutal precision with blackened influences and a thought-provoking lyrical approach. Over the years, known for their intense and atmospheric approach to the genre, the band has established itself as an impactful entity in the modern death metal scene.
Iconic Finnish hard rock monster squad LORDI live up to their name and present a frightening music video for their latest single “Hellizabeth” today. The track can also be found on LORDI’s upcoming 19th studio albumLimited Deadition, which will be released on March 21, 2025 via RPM.
Starring a ghost hunting duo searching for the obviously invisible main protagonist of the song, the new video guides fans into an abandoned, outlying house. The two explorers keep finding little hits of her haunting majesty – with a little surprise testing every watcher’s sturdiness – but never come to any proper result to prove her existence – to just end up being caught by Hellizabeth napping in the end. A cruel deed continuing her still unsolved mystery! Are YOU able to survive LORDI’s witching hour…?
Photo Credit: Marek Sabogal
L-R: Kone (guitars), Hiisi (bass), Mr Lordi (vocals), Mana (drums), Hella (keyboard)
Mr Lordi explains: “Hellizabeth is another typical LORDI song, both lyrically and musically. It’s styled in the vein of a horror film storyboard about a woman’s ghost house haunting experience. Musically, I think the main WOW moment is the weirdly progressive beginning of the song. It stems from childhood memories of trying to learn to play an instrument. It’s actually just the vocal melody of the verse being played in the style of a nine year-old, with the whole band playing the same thing in unison and nothing in between. That’s how at least my brain worked with music as a kid, before I realized ‘Oh, the vocal melody is different and the stuff in the background is supposed to give it harmony and chorus!”
Pre-orderLimited Deadition in your preferred format [digipak-CD, coloured vinyl, digital] or pre-save the album on your favourite digital streaming provider (DSP): https://lordi.rpm.link/limiteddeaditionPR
Known for their theatrical style and unique blend of 80s-inspired rock and heavy metal, LORDI’s latest creation is a nostalgic celebration of retro 80s toys, infused with a fresh and powerful energy. Building on the success of their 2023 albumScreem Writers Guild,Limited Deadition ventures into heavier riffs and faster tempos, creating a soundscape that is both familiar and invigorating.
The Electric Highway Festival is excited to announce the full lineup for the 2025 edition of the Festival being held inCalgary, AB on April 4 & 5 at Dickens (1000 9 Ave SW).
Canadian veteran sludge metal band BISON headlines the whole festival while doom metal band CASTLE headlines Friday night. They will be joined by Southern California band FEVER DOG, and various Western Canadian bands including LA CHINGA, BUFFALO BUD BUSTER, THE GETMINES, 88 MILE TRIP, and more.
The Final Full Line Up by Day:
Friday, April 4, 2025 Castle (San Francisco/ Vancouver) Buffalo Bud Buster (Calgary) Blacksmith and Brewer (Vancouver)) CHÛNK (Vancouver) Hydracat (Edmonton) The Astral Prophets (Calgary) BUNS (Calgary) Doors 5pm – Show 6pm
Saturday, April 5, 2025 Bison (Vancouver) La Chinga (Vancouver) Fever Dog (Southern California) The Getmines (Vancouver) 88 Mile Trip (Vancouver) Lover (Calgary) GEOFF (Calgary) Doors 5pm – Show 6pm
Advance 2-day passes are available for $75. Advance single-day tickets are $40 for Friday and $45 for Saturday
The Electric Highway Festival hosts various genres that range from Desert Rock, Stoner Metal, Doom, Sludge, Trippy Psychedelic, Surf Rock, Acid Rock, Noise Rock, Fuzz Rock, Space Rock, Blues Rock, Heavy Psych, Heavy Blues, Southern Rock, Fuzzy Punk, Sludgy Hardcore bands and variations of any of the previously mentioned styles. The festival includes a vendor area with interesting goods for attendees to take home with them.
Previous editions of the festival featured one of the event’s past favorites Californian headliners Sasquatch, Juno Award-winning Canadian band ANCIIENTS, Vancouver’s La Chinga, Space Queen, Dead Quiet, and more, Gnarwhal from Yellowknife, NWT, Calgary’s Gone Cosmic, Hombre, Flashback among many more, and a whole host of other great bands.
Extreme metal titans ATOLL are set to obliterate the South this April with their Southern Sacrifice Tour 2025, bringing their signature blend of slamming death metal, groove, and grindcore to a city near you. Touring in support of their latest album, Inhuman Implants, via Unique Leader Records, ATOLL is primed to unleash chaos with their most brutal and unrelenting performances to date.
Supported by DEMON KING (Artisan Era) of Nashville and RAT KING (Satanik Royalty Records) of Seatlle, this tour marks the first run with new drummer Mike Thomas, adding even more ferocity to an already devastating lineup.
The carnage kicks off in Fayetteville, AR, at Waystone Pizza on April 11, before ripping through Shreveport, Pensacola, New Orleans, Houston, Corpus Christi, Austin, San Antonio, and culminating in a Texas-sized finale at Reno’s Chop Shop in Dallas on April 20. Fans can expect a setlist stacked with pit-inducing slams, relentless brutality, and raw energy, drawing from their decade-long discography, including Prepuce (2022), Human Extract (2023), and Inhuman Implants (2024).
Tour Dates:
4/11/25 – Fayetteville, AR – Waystone Pizza
4/12/25 – Shreveport, LA – Bears
4/13/25 – Pensacola, FL – The Handle Bar
4/14/25 – New Orleans, LA – The Goat
4/15/25 – Houston, TX – The Pub 529
4/16/25 – Corpus Christi, TX – Boozers Rock Bar
4/18/25 – Austin, TX – The 13th Floor
4/19/25 – San Antonio, TX – Studio 210 Bar
4/20/25 – Dallas, TX – Reno’s Chop Shop
Since forming in 2014 in Phoenix, Arizona, ATOLL has built a reputation as one of the most uncompromising forces in extreme metal, sharing the stage with giants like SKINLESS, GORGASM, and ABORTED, while decimating festivals like Full Terror Assault Open Air, Denver Death Fest, and Sonoran Slam Fest. Known for their conceptually driven themes of nuclear fallout, mutations, animal aggression, aliens, and crime, ATOLL continues to push boundaries with their unapologetic approach to sonic destruction.
Tickets and event details are available at Bandsintown, with direct links to each show on Facebook Events. Prepare for slam-infested devastation—ATOLL is bringing the heaviest tour of 2025 straight to your city. See you in the pit.
ATOLL:
Wade Taylor – Vocals Cameron Broomfield – Bass Spencer Ferguson – Guitar Matt Markle – Guitar Mike Thomas – Drums
U.S. Traditional Heavy Metal quintet, Prehistoria, have released Cryptic Halo, their first full-length album, on CD and digital formats via Bandcamp, as well as on the usual streaming platforms. StormSpell Records will release the album February 15 on CD. The vinyl LP version will be released by Alone Records in the Spring.
Prehistoria had this to say about Cryptic Halo:
“We are thrilled to announce the completion of our debut album, Cryptic Halo. This project has been a true labor of love, forged through countless hours of passion, dedication, and focused effort. Rooted in traditional heavy metal, Cryptic Halo weaves in elements of power, thrash, and black metal to create a sound that’s both classic and dynamic. Crafted by devoted fans of heavy metal, for heavy metal fans, it stands as a celebration of the genre we hold so dear. It’s been a challenging yet rewarding journey, and we can’t wait to share this milestone with you as we prepare for its release.”
Alonso “Zo” Donoso – Vocals Shaun Cothron – Guitar Max Otworth – Guitar Ian Bender – Bass Cody Johns – Drums
BIO:
Prehistoria is a traditional heavy metal band hailing from the American Midwest, combining the raw power of classic metal with influences from power, thrash, and black metal. Their sound is steeped in the genre’s roots, delivering crushing riffs and soaring melodies with a sharp, modern edge that feels both familiar and new.
Cryptic Halo Credits:
All songs (except “Futle Invocation…”) written and performed by Prehistoria. “Futile Invocation of Cosmic Acknowledgement” written and produced by Dan Wagoner.
Lyrics by Alonso Donoso. Produced, tracked, and engineered by Dan Wagoner.
Drums recorded by Joe Viers at Sonic Lounge Studios. Additional guitars recorded by Ethan Vawter. Bass recorded by Ian Bender.
Mixed and mastered by Simone Mularoni at Domination Studio.
Logo design by Chris Hurst. Additional design by Alonso Donoso and Ian Bender.
METALUCIFER – 30 Years Of Heavy Metal Anniversary Tour – Featuring Special Guest INTRANCED:
MAY 31 Saturday – Sweden, Muskelrock Festival JUNE 01 Sunday – Denmark, Copenhagen, Beta JUNE 03 Tuesday – Germany, Aschaffenburg, Colos-Saal JUNE 04 Wednesday – Belgium, Diest, Hell JUNE 05 Thursday – Netherlands, Arnhem, Willemeen JUNE 06 Friday – Germany, Essen, Turock JUNE 08 Sunday – Germany, Oldenburg, MTS JUNE 10 Tuesday – Liechtenstein, Vaduz, Camaleon JUNE 11 Wednesday – Austria, Linz, Kapu JUNE 12 Thursday – Czech Republic, Pisek, Divadlo Pod Čarou JUNE 13 Friday – Poland, Black Silesia Festival
SABBAT shows: MAY 30_Muskelrock Festival JUNE 07 – Essen, Turock Battle Cry Fest. JUNE 14 – Black Silesia Festival JUNE 17,18,19 – Lahti, Turku, Jyvaskyla (Finland)
Swedish progressive metal pioneers MESHUGGAH are thrilled to announce the release of their new music video for “Ligature Marks”. The video has debuted as part of the celebration around the reissue of their critically acclaimed album Immutable, which is now presented in the remastered Indelible Edition, which will be released on April 4th, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music and is available for pre-order HERE.
Following the critical acclaim of the original 2022 release, theIndelible Edition of Immutable arrives with a sonic enhancement, redefining the album’s depth and clarity, and includes three riveting live tracks recorded during MESHUGGAH’s world tours in 2023 and 2024. These additions not only showcase the band’s raw live energy but also underline their commitment to pushing musical boundaries.
The video for “Ligature Marks” is directed by Anthony Dubois, known for his visionary approach that complements MESHUGGAH’s complex musical landscapes. The video captures live performance footage that brings the intensity of their stage presence directly to fans.
The Indelible Edition of Immutable transcends a typical reissue, offering a fully immersive experience that extends over an hour of MESHUGGAH’s meticulously crafted music. This special edition will be available in two exquisite formats: a two-LP gatefold vinyl and a single-disc Digipak. Each format boasts a remastered audio experience, enriched by breathtaking new artwork and layout. Notably, the inclusion of distinctive gold foil accents enhances both the tactile and visual appeal, making it a collector’s gem.
Coinciding with the album reissue, MESHUGGAH is set to electrify stages across the U.S. and Canada with a massive,tour starting this March. The tour showcases the band’s complex themes and intricate soundscapes, bringing their creative evolution to life.
MESHUGGAH will headline the run with full support from the iconic and equally legendary CANNIBAL CORPSE and CARCASS, both of whom are renowned for their visceral and compelling musical styles. This lineup creates a powerhouse of intense performances, blending MESHUGGAH‘s innovative metal fusion with the brutal death metal of CANNIBAL CORPSE and the melodic engagements of CARCASS.
Click on the link below for all the tour info you need:
Montréal (CA) – Prepare for ProgStorm, Canada’s first progressive metal festival! Into Eternity, one of the most respected names in progressive metal, will headline the inaugural ProgStorm Festival in Montréal on August 9, 2025. This marks the band’s highly anticipated return to the city, where they haven’t performed in several years. Fans will be able to experience their unique fusion of progressive, death, and power metal, as Into Eternity closes the first day of this one-of-a-kind event at Le Ministère.
Into Eternity has a rich history with Montréal, having shared the stage with some of the biggest names in metal at the Bell Centre. In 2006, they performed during Gigantour alongside Megadeth, Opeth, Lamb of God, and Arch Enemy, leaving an unforgettable mark on the Montréal metal scene. They returned in 2007 to perform again at the Bell Centre with Dream Theater and Redemption, further solidifying their place in the legacy of progressive metal.
Now, their long-awaited return to Montréal for ProgStorm Festival is set to captivate fans in a more intimate setting, making this a truly special moment for the band and their loyal followers. Stu Block, the band’s lead vocalist, also known for his work with Iced Earth, adds to the excitement, making this performance a must-see for fans of both progressive and traditional metal. A few words from founding member and lead guitarist, Tim Roth:
“Into Eternity is pleased to announce we are finally coming back to the great Heavy Metal city of Montreal! We will be headlining the ProgStorm Festival in August 2025. It is going to be incredible to finally come back to the Heavy Metal Capital of Canada Montreal Quebec! Rehearsals will be starting shortly and we are planning a great new Into Eternity setlist. We have fond memories of playing the Bell Centre in Montreal on our Tour with Megadeth and then again when we toured with Dream Theater. Montreal has always been a favourite city of ours to play from clubs to arenas. Thanks to the ProgStorm Festival team for inviting us to perform. Hopefully we will see some of our old friends at the show. See you all this August!”
The ProgStorm Festival, presented by The Progspace and organized by Metal Shed Productions and collaborators, will be Canada’s first-ever festival dedicated entirely to the progressive metal genre. Scheduled for August 9th and 10th, 2025, this festival is set to showcase a diverse range of progressive metal sub-genres, from the classic sounds to the most experimental and extreme.
Stay tuned for more updates as the full lineup for ProgStorm Festival is being unveiled!
Seattle (WA) – Death/thrash/black metal futurists, XOTH, will embark on a five-date tour of British Columbia (Canada) this coming April! The tour kicks off April 25 in Victoria.
XOTH will showcase tracks from critically acclaimed album, Exogalatic, one that Metal Injection wrote “is sure to launch your ass straight into the cold void of space.” Canadian brethren Dissolver will join XOTH for all shows, with Torrefy (April 25-26), Yegg (April 25-26, May 2), and Atrae Bilis (May 3-4) appearing on select dates.
Fri 4/25 – Victoria – Phoenix Bar – w/ Torrefy, Dissolver, Yegg Sat 4/26 – Nanaimo – The Globe Live Studio – w/ Torrefy, Dissolver, Yegg Fri 5/2 – Vancouver – KW Studios – w/ Dissolver, Yegg Sat 5/3 – Kamloops – Skyview Theatre – w/ Atrae Bilis, Dissolver Sun 5/4 – Kelowna – Jackknife Brewing – w/ Atrae Bilis, Dissolver
Dusktone is proud to announce the forthcoming release of The Obscure Light Awaits, the second full-length album by Italian death metal visionaries SONUM.
Mark your calendars for 11th April 2025, as the band returns to the forefront of death metal with a record that masterfully balances abstraction and ferocity.
The new single, the album’s title track “The Obscure Light Awaits”, is now premiering via the mighty Mystification ZineHERE.
Following the critical acclaim of their debut, Visceral Void Entropy (2022), SONUM delve deeper into the labyrinthine realms of dissonance and atmosphere. “The Obscure Light Awaits” is an ambitious work that simultaneously pushes boundaries and honours the roots of the genre.
The album eschews unnecessary complexity in favour of a tight focus on songwriting, weaving together intricate, sibylline passages with a raw, unrelenting power that shows the influence of the pioneering works of old and contemporary death metal legends such as Gorguts, Morbid Angel, Execration and Artificial Brain.
A true testament to SONUM’s evolution, The Obscure Light Awaits presents a sonic journey defined by dark, otherworldly textures and relentless energy. The band’s ability to merge atmospheric depth with crushing riffs showcases their commitment to creating music that is both immersive and uncompromising. It’s an exploration of contrasts – between the abstract and the visceral, the chaotic and the structured.
Fans of progressive and atmospheric death metal will find The Obscure Light Awaits to be a landmark release that stands tall amidst this year’s most formidable works.
Stay tuned for more singles and further announcements as we approach the release date.
Tracklist:
01. Due To Inner Mess… 02. In This Void We Dwell 03. Famine 04. Trapped In The Labyrinth of Aberration 05. Ad Mortem (Iter Est) 06. Beyond The Gate… 07. The Obscure Light Awaits 08. Nobody Is Innocent 09. Messenger Of Cosmic Dread 10. Deliver Us (Final Trip)
Line-up: Thomas Girardello – Vocals, Bass Mirko Marchesini – Guitars Francesco Tresca – Drums
All songs produced by SONUM Mixed & Mastered by Luca Dal Lago
Italian death metallers SUDDEN DEATH have signed to Time To Kill Records for the release of their fourth album,In Sinner Hate.
Their most blisteringly furious, ambitious, and eclectic record to date, In Sinner Hate delivers eleven tracks of brutal death metal mixed with elements of old-school heaviness.
The album was mixed and mastered by Stefano “Saul” Morabito (Fleshgod Apocalypse, Hour Of Penance, Hideous Divinity), with additional recordings by Marco “Cinghio” Mastrobuono (Hour Of Penance, Shores Of Null) and Giuseppe Orlando (Novembre, Stormlord).
Watch for more details on the new album release, new tour updates, and more news on other upcoming SUDDEN DEATH activities to be posted shortly.
Formed in 1997, SUDDEN DEATH are a death metal band hailing from Genzano (Rome). The band’s sound, initially inspired by the rawest old school death-thrash metal waves, slowly and progressively developed into a more brutal style, influenced by Cannibal Corpse and early Deicide. Nowadays the band set forth on a masterclass in technical and claustrophobic death metal with dense and intertwining guitars, sudden tempo and metric changes and more consistent and exasperated vocal parts.
So far the band has released three albums – Devoured Inside (self-produced) in 2001, Injection of Hate (Deadbang Records) in 2004, and Monolith of Sorrow (Killerpool Records) in 2015 – and the EP Stillborn (Art Gates Records) in 2018.
SUDDEN DEATH have played several shows throughout the Italian peninsula and around Europe, sharing the stage with important acts such as Suffocation, Gorgoroth, Vader, Napalm Death, Exodus, Dark Tranquility, Possessed, Pestilence and many others.
Line-up: Luis Maggio – Vocals Giorgio “Giorgioni” Cifuni – Guitar Francesca Mancini – Guitar Giuseppe Ciurleo – Bass Emanuele Aleo – Drums
Ontario’s premiere doom/stoner rock gathering Rhüne Mountain Festival are pleased to announce ECSTATIC VISION, ACID MAMMOTH, THE DEATH WHEELERS and SONS OF OTIS are confirmed to play the festival.
Set to take place on June 26-28th in Stoney Creek Ontario, this year’s edition of Rhüne Mountain Festival is one for the history books with legendary bands DOPETHRONE, INDIAN HANDCRAFTS and SONS OF ARRAKIS previously confirmed to play.
In the more than three decades of their existence, CREMATORY have seen trends come and go, while always staying true to their trademarks, they belong to one of Germany’s most distinctive gothic metal pioneers to date. Following their latest studio offering, IngloriousDarkness (2022), now, CREMATORY returns with a brand new single entitled “Destination”, the title track of the band’s forthcoming album that is slated for a release on May 2nd via ROAR!
“It’s a really tough song, but at the same time it has a catchy chorus that drills itself straight into the ear canal and won’t let go,” the band comments. “This song will also be the opener on the tour in May for the Destination album. A big punch in the face with a great chorus!”
CREMATORY: Felix Stass – Vocals Rolf Munkes – Gitarre Oliver Revilo – Bass Katrin Jüllich – Keyboards, Samples Markus Jüllich – Drums, Programming
With their 17th studio album, CREMATORY promises to reach new and even higher levels than ever before! Literally combining all the strengths and phases of the gothic metal pioneers, going back to their melodic death metal roots in places, diving deep into the gothic realm again but also surprising listeners, “Destination” will mark a triumphant return to the past combined with the strengths of the present.
The new studio album Destination is an ingenious mix of the 90s gothic metal times like Illusions, combined with hard melodic death metal hymns like “Act Seven” and modern electronic songs with German lyrics in the style of Revolution. More is not possible“, drummer Markus Jüllich recently said and added: ”With Destination the new standard of the modern melodic gothic metal era is determined! The previous album Inglorious Darkness was the start of Felix singing all the songs on his own again and now we’ve managed a perfect precision landing with Destination!”
With many more album details to be unveiled in the weeks ahead, one thing is already clear: CREMATORY are highly motivated, are upping the ante and definitely still have a lot to say even after 34 years of a successful band history!
CREMATORY Live: May 1, 2025 – DE – Kaiserslautern May 2, 2025 – DE – Leipzig May 3, 2025 – DE – Stuttgart May 4, 2025 – DE – Mannheim May 9, 2025 – DE – Regensburg May 11, 2025 – DE – Munich May 16, 2025 – DE – Erfurt May 17, 2025 – DE – Zwickau May 29, 2025 – DE – Oberhausen May 30, 2025 – DE – Potsdam May 31, 2025 – DE – Coesfeld
On March 7, 2025, progressive metal act SACROSANCT will unleash their new studio album, entitled Kidron via ROAR. A music video for the band’s latest, epic single “Coming Of The Scorpion” is now premiering below! To pre-order your album copy of Kidron visit:https://sacrosanct.rpm.link/kidronpr
With their third single release, SACROSANCT convince with another captivating hymn, full of melancholy and beautiful emotions. Join the ride end enjoy this growing anthem, now streaming on all digital services at:
SACROSANCT, established in 1988, are a well respected name in the metal scene, most known for their three classic albums during the early 1990s: Truth is – what is, Recesses for the depraved and Tragic intense. The band’s signature sound gradually progressed from sophisticated thrash metal to a more edgy, melodic and atmospheric aural landscape.
SACROSANCT: Max Morton – Vocals, Bass Randy Meinhard – Guitar Gerrit Knol – Guitar Jonas Schütz – Drums
The brainchild of founding member and lead guitar player Randy Meinhard (ex-Pestilence) returned in 2018, after a 25-year hiatus, with their fourth album “Necropolis”, which was highly acclaimed and bears all of the hallmarks and intricacies that defines SACROSANCT, with a strong emphasis on melancholic melodies and harmony guitar parts, as well as a focus on thought-provoking lyrics.
Six years later, SACROSANCT return with the even more powerful, still complex and catchy Kidron introducing their new singer Max Morton, who outshines the album with his clear, dynamic and unique voice. “The album combines all our trademarks, has a unique atmosphere due to all the circumstances we had to go through and is accessible and complex at the same time”, Randy Meinhard recently said.
The special thing about SACROSANCT is, that every album sounds different. As the four-piece recently revealed: “We always write and play songs in our own way. We can’t and won’t deny our roots. Of course, our first albums were more thrash-heavy, but there was a lot more going on in the songs. You just can’t reduce us to that. I personally love metal from Maiden to Priest to Fates Warning, VoiVod or Slayer. When writing songs, I try to find out how heavy or commercial a song can be in our own way. But we always want to touch people with the music and if, for example, a blastbeat can be combined with the classic Sacrosanct riff trademarks, then we have arrived at KIDRON.”
Kidron – track listing: 01 – Marching Days 02 – Avenging Angel 03 – Prince Of Clowns 04 – Coming Of The Scorpion 05 – Gethsemane 06 – Doorway Of Dreams 07 – Still Open Sore 08 – Before It Ends 09 – The Pain Still Lasts
Dragon Productions presents: RIOT V – 50th Anniversary Tour 1975-2025
Special guests: CRYSTAL VIPER
US Heavy Metal legends RIOT, will celebrate 50th anniversary of the band, with a series of exclusive live shows in Texas, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Sweden and Denmark.
Three Texas dates then a very unique live show at the KEEP IT TRUE Festival in Germany, where the band will perform extra set with special guests. On all other shows of this run, RIOT will be playing selection of classic songs, as well as several new fan favorites taken from the current album, “Mean Streets”.
DVS Affairs and AFM Presents: 03/19 Houston, Tx. Hells Heroes Fest, White Oak Music Hall 03/20 Austin, Tx. Come and Take It Live 03/21 San Antonio, Tx. The Tobin Center with Saxon
Dragon Productions Presents: RIOT – 50th Anniversary Tour 1975-2025 Special guests: CRYSTAL VIPER
25/04 Germany, Lauda-Koenigshofen, Keep It True * 27/04 Switzerland, Aarburg, Musigburg * 30/04 Italy, Milano, Legend 01/05 Italy, Rome, Traffic 02/05 Italy, Bologna, Alchemica 03/05 Slovenia, Medvode, Klub Jedro 04/05 Austria, Wien, Viper Room 03/07 Sweden, Gothenburg, The Abyss 04/07 Denmark, Copenhagen, Rust 05/07 Sweden, Knislinge, Time To Rock Festival
“…this will be one of the best and most accomplished albums you’ll hear this year.” EVER-METAL.COM, Beth Morait – 10/10 (!) Points
“…the Swedish hard rock/heavy metal lords are back with an excellent full-length!”METAL-TEMPLE.COM, “Metal Mark” Garcia – 10/10 (!) Points
Highly praised by specified press around the globe, Swedish masters DAYS OF JUPITER’s much-awaited fifth album The World Was Never Enough has been released through RPM today. Fans can order/stream the album now, here: https://daysofjupiter.rpm.link/twwnePR
Besides delivering captivating hard rock/metal tunes over and over again, the group are also known for capturing the essence of their art in the form of well-crafted music videos, mostly directed by long-time partner Andreas Lundin (Litbox Productions) – and the visualisation of the record’s title track is no exception: kept in blue shades, “The World Was Never Enough” matches the thought-provoking atmosphere surrounding the whole album.
“Get ready to be captivated and energised by a powerful, heavy and tough hard rock/metal song with enchanting melodies and a catchy and haunting hook. Featuring lyrics which dive into a story with a spy and 007-like feeling to it, it’s a story about two people on the run who have a bond that is stronger and bigger than this world could ever offer,” lyricist Robert Hilli reveals.
01. Original Sin 02. The World Was Never Enough 03. Machine 04. Desolation 05. The Fix 06. Parazite 07. My Heaven My Hell 08. Denial 09. Ignite 10. Invincible
On The World Was Never Enough,DAYS OF JUPITER’s first album in almost seven years, pure energy blends with raw rock ‘n’ roll spirit, resulting in a soundtrack for rebels and outsiders. Also made to spread the word of DOJ in new territories, the album consists of 10 excitingly varied tracks.
It was recorded at Sweden’s Orange Monkey Studio, where the band locked themselves for quite a while, directed by mixing/mastering engineer Peo Hedin and Robert Hilli, who also took care of photography duties for the new campaign, to record the follow-up to Panoptical [2018]. Brilliantly summarising the essence of the record, the band hired Zark Metal Artwork to design the TWWNE cover which layout was fine worked by Jenny Pettersson.
DAYS OF JUPITER are: Janne Hilli – vocals Marcus Lindman – guitars Johnny Grenwald – guitars Janne Karlsson – bass Magnus Larsson – drums
About DAYS OF JUPITER
With over 20 million streams on Spotify and widespread critical acclaim across four studio albums, DAYS OF JUPITER’s journey began in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden in 2010. Their debut album, Secrets Brought To Life [2012], marked their entrance onto the global stage, followed by a performance at the prestigiousSweden Rock Festival. Their albums OnlyAshes Remain and New Awakening helped expand their reach, landing them more live performances, including international shows. The band eventually supported DISTURBED in front of 10,000 fans in Estonia following the release of their fourth album, Panoptical [2018].
Now, with a strong new partnership with Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM), DAYS OF JUPITER are back with their fifth album, aiming to please their loyal fanbase and attract new metal fans worldwide.
New Video / Single Now Playing + Pre-Orders Available
Watch / Stream RIVERS OF NIHIL’s “House Of Light” HERE
Progressive death metal progenitors RIVERS OF NIHIL will release their eponymous fifth full-length on May 30th via Metal Blade Records.
Sixteen years and five albums into the Pennsylvania band’s career, RIVERS OF NIHIL is upping the ante with Rivers Of Nihil. Traditionally, a self-titled record can signal a return to basics and/or a fresh beginning, and in ten powerful songs, it’s clear that both those factors are in play. Founding bassist Adam Biggs became the band’s new lead vocalist/bassist in 2023; the same year marked the appearance of additional guitarist Andy Thomas (ex-Black Crown Initiate), whose vocals also play prominently on Rivers Of Nihil. Producers Carson Slovak and Grant McFarland at Atrium Audio captured the new dynamics across more than fifty minutes of music.
Photo by Mike Truehart
“I feel like these songs are the perfect blend of all our albums, with all the fat cut away,” says founding guitarist Brody Uttley. “There are more technical songs that call back to The Conscious Seed Of Light and Monarchy sound, but with a more mature understanding of how to pace a song. There’s a fair bit of the Where Owls Know My Name and The Work-type experimental stuff, but with a more refreshed perspective on those styles for the current era of the band.”
On June 15th, 2023, the band released a new single, “The Sub-Orbital Blues,” the first track with Biggs handling lead vocals following the 2022 departure of singer Jake Dieffenbach. It was also the first track to feature Thomas. A second single, “Hellbirds,” dropped on October 19th of that year. On April 29th, 2024, the band released the cut “Criminals” and an accompanying music video. Both “Criminals” and “The Sub-Orbital Blues” appear on Rivers Of Nihil.
The new album’s first single of 2025, “House Of Light,” is a track that “encapsulates the nature of what it is that we do perfectly while offering a different perspective on the sound with the new lineup,” explains founding member/guitarist Brody Uttley, who also plays piano and does the programming in the band. “Everything that our fans have come to love about our sound is demonstrated in this song with the new addition of Andy singing and Biggs on main vocals. It has the riffs, it has the big chorus, it has the prog, it has the solos, it has the sax. Just a real classic example of what we do as a band in 2025.”
Watch RIVERS OF NIHIL‘s “House Of Light” video, directed By My Good Eye Music Visuals, HERE.
Rivers Of Nihil also showcases additional musicians, including Patrick Corona on alto saxophone, Stephan Lopez on banjo, McFarland on cello, and a slate of other guest vocalists. Despite the fresh approach on Rivers Of Nihil however, the album fits neatly into the band’s discography. With Where Owls Know My Name(2018), RIVERS OF NIHILtranscended all labels applied to them, and with its 2021 follow-up, The Work, they forged further into new territory with Metal Injection calling the latter album “the group’s most cohesive, ambitious, meditative, and varied effort, with greater uses of philosophical significance and transcendental respites.”
Rivers Of Nihil will be released on CD and digital formats as well as vinyl in the following color variants:
Bleach & Ammonia (Light Blue Smoke – US) Adenochrome (Tiger’s Eye – US) Water & Time (Blue / Green Smoke – US) Stomach Acid (Blue / Yellow Smoke – US) House of Light (Yellow / Green Marbled – US Tour Exclusive) 180g Black (EU) Radiant Light (Neon Yellow Marbled – EU) Dark Teal w/ Orange & Yellow Splatter (EU – Ltd. 500) Gold w/ Black Dust (EU Impericon Exclusive – Ltd. 200)
Rivers Of Nihil Track Listing: 01. The Sub-Orbital Blues 02. Dustman 03. Criminals 04. Despair Church 05. Water & Time 06. House of Light 07. Evidence 08. American Death 09. The Logical End 10. Rivers of Nihil
RIVERS OF NIHIL: Adam Biggs – bass guitar, vocals Andy Thomas – guitar, vocals Brody Uttley – guitar, piano, keys, programming Jared Klein – drums, vocals
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