🎃 Get ready, pumpkinheads! Helloween’s “40 YEARS ANNIVERSARY TOUR” kicks off October 2025 with special guests Beast In Black. Don’t miss this epic power metal extravaganza celebrating four decades of pumpkin madness! The upcoming tour will be bigger, better and more impressive than ever!
Oct. 17 🇱🇺 Luxembourg, Rockhal Oct. 18 🇳🇱 Tilburg, 013 Oct. 20 🇬🇧 London, Eventim Apollo Oct. 22 🇫🇷 Paris, Le Zénith Oct. 24 🇨🇿 Prague, O2 Arena Oct. 25 🇸🇰 Zvolen, Tiposbet Arena Oct. 26 🇭🇺 Budapest, Papp Laszlo Arena Oct. 28 🇵🇱 Katowice, Spodek Oct. 31 🇩🇪 Bochum, Ruhrcongress Nov. 01 🇩🇪 Hamburg, Barclays Arena Nov. 03 🇳🇴 Oslo, Sentrum Scene Nov. 04 🇳🇴 Oslo, Sentrum Scene Nov. 06 🇫🇮 Helsinki, Ice Hall Nov. 08 🇸🇪 Gothenburg, Partille Arena Nov. 13 🇵🇹 Lissabon, Campo Pequeno Nov. 15. 🇪🇸 Madrid, La Cubierta des Leganés Nov. 19 🇮🇹 Mailand, Forum Nov. 20 🇨🇭Zürich, The Hall Nov. 22 🇩🇪 Stuttgart, Schleyerhalle
Rising metal force LIONS AT THE GATE has just unveiled their latest single, “Silhouettes of Me,” a powerful new track that explores the personal and emotional battles with addiction and depression. This introspective release showcases the band’s signature mix of haunting melodies and hard-hitting riffs, anchored by vocalist Cristian Machado‘s gripping lyricism and raw vocal performance.
“‘Silhouettes of Me’ is a song close to our hearts, lyrically touching on the struggles of addiction and depression, and the changes that it took to find victory over them,” says Machado.
The track weaves together themes of resilience and reflection, showcasing LIONS AT THE GATE‘s ability to balance both aggression and vulnerability. The accompanying video captures the intensity of the band’s live energy in a monochrome red setting, balancing darkness and hope. Watch it HERE.
Additionally, LIONS AT THE GATE is set to hit the road this December, joining local Texas metal heavyweights UPON A BURNING BODY for the “Cold Nights Over Texas” tour. They’ll be joined by genre-bending support act VCTMS, creating a high-octane lineup ready to deliver an unforgettable experience across six cities in the Lone Star State.
Fans can expect a dynamic mix of powerful, high-energy performances as LIONS AT THE GATE brings “Silhouettes of Me” and other fan favorites from their debut album, The Excuses We Cannot Make, to the stage. Tickets are available HERE.
There’s No Such Things As Monsters Tour – Wednesday 13, The Dead Rabbitts, & I Ya Toyah – ticket/tour info: http://www.officialwednesday13.com
03/14/25: Las Vegas, NV @ Count’s Vamp’d 03/15/25: Los Angeles, CA @ The Whisky 03/16/25: Berkeley, CA @ Cornerstone 03/18/25: Portland, OR @ Bossanova Ballroom 03/19/25: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon 03/21/25: Roseville, CA @ Goldfield Trading Post 03/22/25: Pomona, CA @ Glass House 03/23/25: San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick 03/25/25: Mesa, AZ @ The Nile Theater 03/26/25: Albuquerque, NM @ Launch Pad 03/28/25: San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger 03/29/25: Dallas, TX @ Trees 03/30/25: Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live 04/01/25: Birmingham, AL @ Saturn 04/02/25: Knoxville, TN @ Open Chord 04/04/25: Atlanta, GA @ The Loft @ Centerstage 04/05/25: Raleigh, NC @ Chapel Of Bones 04/06/25: Greenville, SC @ Radio Room 04/08/25: Baltimore, MD @ Zen West 04/09/25: Leesburg, VA @ Tally Ho 04/10/25: Sayreville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom 04/12/25: Hampton Beach, NH @ Wallys 04/13/25: Montreal, QC @ Foufounes Electrique 04/15/25: Toronto, ON @ Lee’s Palace 04/16/25: Buffalo, NY @ Rec Room 04/18/25: New York, NY @ The Gramercy 04/19/25: Stroudsburg, PA @ Sherman Theater 04/20/25: Lititz, PA @ Mickey’s Black Box 04/22/25: Pittsburgh, PA @ Crafthouse 04/23/25: Cleveland, OH @ Mercury 04/25/25: Columbus, OH @ The Kings Of Clubs 04/26/25: Flint, MI @ Machine Shop 04/27/25: Cadillac, MI @ Venue Event Center 04/29/25: Joliet, IL @ The Forge 04/30/25: Madison, WI @ The Annex 05/02/25: Denver, CO @ Oriental Theater 05/03/25: Colorado Springs, CO @ Black Sheep
The new Steeler video – premiering November 15th on the RFK Media YouTube channel: http://RFKvideos.com
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1980: the dawn of the American Heavy Metal movement, and the birth of Steeler, one of the bands whose sound would define that cultural revolution. Shortly after the release of their iconic 1983 self-titled album, that supernova exploded into multiple bands and projects that would each carve their own places in that era’s history, leaving an undeniable impact on a metal generation.
This triumphant reunion puts a powerful exclamation point on that legacy with the band’s first new song in over 40 years, and their first-ever official music video: https://youtu.be/aKxfj6KOHmA
This brand new (2024) song and video prove that four decades have done nothing to diminish the power and the passion upon which the band was built. “Give Me Guitars (Or Give Me Death)” celebrates the glory of an era that may be gone but certainly not forgotten, combining all the elements that made 80’s metal the soundtrack of so many lives: an anthemic chorus, screaming lyrics that pay tribute to songs and stars that paved the street of dreams, loud powerful music and incendiary guitar pyrotechnics.
That music is provided by men who lived it, then and now: vocalist/guitarist Ron Keel, lead guitarist Mitch Perry, drummer Mark Edwards, bassist Rik Fox, and session drummer Dwain Miller. The song was written by Ron Keel specifically for Steeler and is featured on his new RFK Media album release Keelworld.
The video was directed and produced by David Pear (watch the full clip for credits at the end). A documentary film is now in production by David Pear which will tell the entire story behind the Steeler legacy – American Metal – The Story Of Steeler will be released in 2025.
Queensrÿche founding guitarist Michael “Whip” Wilton is set to release his highly anticipated solo album, Volume 1, due out on December 6, 2024 via Rat Pak Records. Along with powerhouse Seattle vocalist Mark Winterman, drummer Sonny Sudra and bassist “Hodgy”, Michael offers nine power packed songs reminiscent of the sound he is best known for.
Mixed and Mastered by “Zeuss” (Queensrÿche, Rob Zombie, Shadows Fall), Vol 1 captures Michael’s ability to think outside the box with flavorful riffs, catchy melodies and thoughtful solos while still maintaining his signature sound. From the opening chords of “People Suffer” to the closing track “Drowning at Daybreak”, it is clear that Michael Wilton’s trademark style lays the bedrock for this well crafted offering.
You can now pre-order the all-new release from Michael Wilton of Queensrÿche – Whip Volume 1. Check out all the details and get in on some exclusive LTD bundles at:
Finnish hard rock band Rimbacher released their debut album High Hopes On The Rocks on November 1st via Inverse Records. The album presents classic AOR vibes, 80’s stadium rock sized attitude and also some hard straighforward rock and roll. The skillful band seasons their music with spices like powerful vocal harmonies, catchy melodies and classical art of guitar heroism.
“High Hopes On The Rocks is a very traditional classic rock album including tight brawl and love songs. The atmosphere revolves around big riffs and guitar heroism combined with very melodic and harmonic vocals. The lyrical themes are either timeless stories about the struggles of a sensitive narrator as well as having fun. The soundscape itself has very high energy and spirit throughout the whole album and the songs are delightfully diverse compared to each other. However the the core essence stays solid and the band’s enthusiasm is well heard.”
Guitar player Osku “Sticky” Kilpi continues:
”This album is what we think rock ’n’ roll is all about: plain, simple and straightforward hard rock with all the ups and downs of a typical rock album. No politics, no exceptions, no bulls**t.”
Exciting things are underway: as they record the follow-up to their highly acclaimed 2021 self-titled album with producer Charlie Bauerfeind, metal legends HELLOWEEN treat fans to another preview from their upcoming Live At Budokan release. This high-octane rendition of their timeless classic, “Eagle Fly Free”, captures the unmistakable chemistry between the band and the spirited Japanese audience at Tokyo’s Budokan, elevating the track to an entirely new level.
“A song that is just as wonderful and popular today as it was when it was first released. It comes with an effective overture, has a great upbeat and a brilliant, fast-paced ending. “Eagle Fly Free” has the ultimate vibe and encourages you to sing along. It has everything you would expect from an ‘evergreen,’ I love playing it,” states guitarist/vocalist Kai Hansen.
Pre-order Live At Budokan in your preferred physical format [digipak-2CD, 3LP (limited first edition in trifold), Blu-ray, DVD], pre-save it on your favourite digital service provider (DSP), or pre-order the album digitally to receive “Eagle Fly Free (live)” and “Best Time (live)” instantly: https://helloween.rpm.link/liveatbudokanPR
ENFORCED, the unstoppable force of crossover thrash, is back with their blistering new EP, A Leap Into the Dark. Featuring six powerhouse tracks, this EP delivers everything fans have come to expect from the Virginia-based quintet: searing riffs, unrelenting aggression, and lyrics that pull no punches. Stream the full EP HERE.
Accompanying the release is the brand-new video for the lead single, “Betting on the End.” This incendiary track juxtaposes the idea that “politicians are ‘gambling with our lives’” against the concept that everyday people are doing it for them. “It’s a spiral about the devaluation of human life in the modern age. It feels like we’re all just chips to be wagered, but at its core, we’d be wagering our own lives regardless. So can you blame an entity for essentially mocking your own behavior? It works both ways and on every level; be it an individual or an overpowered government. The house wins in the end.”
Recorded with Lance Koehler, A Leap Into the Dark is a direct follow-up to the band’s acclaimed 2023 album War Remains. With three new songs and remastered versions of fan favorites, the EP captures the raw, relentless energy that has become synonymous with ENFORCED’s sound.
A Leap Into The Dark Tracklist:
“Betting on the End”
“A Leap Into The Dark”
“Deafening Heartbeats”
“Casket” (2024 Remaster)
“Deadly Intentions” (OBITUARY Cover)
“The Chase is On” (ENGLISH DOGS Cover)
A Leap Into The Dark is the sound of ENFORCED journeying into new levels of intensity and aggression. Fans can expect nothing less than a full-throttle aural assault as the band continues to carve their place in the pantheon of modern thrash.
ENFORCED:
Knox Colby (Vocals) Will Wagstaff (Guitars) Zach Monahan (Guitars) Ethan Gensurowsky (Bass) Alex Bishop (Drums)
The release of A Leap Into the Dark comes just ahead of the band’s highly anticipated European tour. This November, ENFORCED will hit the road with GATECREEPER and 200 STAB WOUNDS for a full-throttle series of shows across Europe. The tour kicks off in Dublin on October 30, 2024, and includes stops in the UK, Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Scandinavia.
European Tour Dates:
10/30 Dublin, IE @ Whelan’s
10/31 Bristol City, UK @ The Fleece
11/01 London, UK @ O2 Academy Islington
11/02 Manchester, UK @ Damnation Fest
11/03 S-Hertogenbosch, NL @ Sepulfest
11/04 Wiesbaden, DE @ Schlachthof
11/05 Zurich, CH @ Dynamo
11/06 Milan, IT @ Legend Club
11/07 Vienna, AT @ Arena
11/08 Munich, DE @ Backstage
11/09 Essen, DE @ Turock
11/10 Hannover, DE @ Musikzentrum
11/11 Copenhagen, DK @ Pumpehuset
11/12 Oslo, NO @ John Dee
11/14 Tampere, FI @ Olympia
11/15 Helsinki, FI @ Aaniwalli
11/16 Oulu, FI @ Kantakrouvi
11/18 Stockholm, SE @ Kollektivet Livet
11/19 Gothenburg, SE @ Film Studios
11/20 Hamburg, DE @ Knust
11/21 Berlin, DE @ SO36
11/22 Leipzig, DE @ UT Connewitz
11/23 Stuttgart, DE @ Im Wizemann
11/24 Antwerp, BE @ Zappa
For more information about ENFORCED and their upcoming projects, visit:
Detroit (MI) – Detroit power metallers, DEMON BITCH, have premiered “Master of the Games,” the title track and second single from their long-awaited sophomore album!
Gates of Hell Records (a Cruz Del Sur Music sub-label) will release Master of the Games November 29 on CD, vinyl, and digital formats.
The sophomore effort from Detroit, Michigan pillars of classic metal Demon Bitch, Master of the Games is a nine-song effort that is unmatched and unpredictable!
An eight-year buffer between studio albums left Detroit true metallers Demon Bitch with one, singular option: To be as uncompromising as possible. While there was an assortment of lessons learned along the way, Demon Bitch used their time wisely to ensure their sophomore Master of the Games long-player turned out exactly like they wanted.
Recorded in Lansing, Michigan between 2022 and 2024 under the watchful eye of George Szegedy, Master of the Games evokes the raw, obscure feelings of underground power and classic metal and captures it throughout nine songs of timeless glory.
Demon Bitch features several members of the heralded White Magician within its ranks, including vocalist Logon Saton, the guitar tandem of Lord Mars and Solon Saton and Drummer Master Commander. The band is rounded out by returning bassist B. Beastmaster, who was featured on the 2014 Death is Hanging… EP.
At its core, Master of the Games is a chaotic offering of obscure and underground U.S. power metal and classic heavy metal with some eclectic moments ranging from 1970s sensibilities to more extreme influences.
The over-the-top approach found on the band’s Hellfiends debut remains, although Demon Bitch has injected several epic moments to make the album even more dynamic. And it’s all tied together by lyrical themes of fantasy, legends and lore, highly disputed claims about the world around us, mystery, secrecy and the unknown captured through ominous, esoteric and dark romantic expression. According to Logon, the stories told in the lyrics are “left pretty open for interpretation in most cases, but I certainly think there’s some interesting concepts for you to look into.”
The album’s artwork was handled by Logon, who wanted to complement some of the more esoteric and mysterious aspects that Master of the Games encompasses, both lyrically and musically. He was working on both the lyrics and the artwork around the same time period, so he spent a lot of time staring at the painting while writing and thinking of ideas. This helped to inspire some lyrical passages in songs like “Sentinel at the Spire,” “Tower of Dreams” and “Soldiers of Obscurity.”
The release of Master of the Games was preceded by Demon Bitch’s first-ever European dates. The band played Chaos Descends in Germany; a festival populated by some of the truest diehards in the metal scene.
Demon Bitch also played a few exclusive club shows in Vienna and Croatia. Not surprisingly, the response was universally positive. And, now, with the release of Master of the Games around the corner, the next phase of Demon Bitch’s career begins. Let the games begin!
Call your chiropractor – WARFIELD has arrived with breakneck force!
WARFIELD state about signing with Napalm Records: “This is happening! We are more than proud to announce that Warfield has officially signed with Napalm Records. After over a decade of pouring our souls into this band, this is very special to us. We also want to take this opportunity to genuinely thank all the people who supported us along the way. We can’t wait to let you all know what we have in store for you. Are you ready for this?”
Senior A&R Sebastian Münch says about WARFIELD: “Warfield creates the same feelings you get when you listen to Kreator, Sodom or Destruction for the very first time! Warfield are lethal, authentic and surprisingly fresh! We are incredibly proud to join forces with Warfield from the metal stronghold Kaiserslautern!”
Reading, Pennsylvania-based progressive death metallers RIVERS OF NIHIL will embark on a full European tour in February. Support comes from Prog legends CYNIC as well as BEYOND CREATION and labelmates DÅÅTH! Full dates below.
Comments RIVERS OF NIHIL: “We can’t wait to return to Europe on The Aggressive Progressive Tour this February. We are honored to have Cynic, Beyond Creation, and Dååth along with us for the ride. This lineup truly embodies both the ‘aggressive’ and ‘progressive’ nature of what this tour is all about. We can’t wait to see all of you, and who knows? Maybe even bring some new music along for the trip.”
THE AGGRESSIVE PROGRESSIVE EU/UK TOUR 2025 RIVERS OF NIHIL w/ CYNIC, BEYOND CREATION, DÅÅTH:
28.02.25 Germany Köln Essigfabrik 01.03.25 Belgium Antwerp Zappa 02.03.25 France Paris La Machine 04.03.25 UK Glasgow Slay 05.03.25 Ireland Dublin Academy 06.03.25 UK Bristol The Fleece 07.03.25 UK Southampton Engine Rooms 08.03.25 UK Manchester Club Academy 09.03.25 UK London Electric Ballroom 10.03.25 UK Birmingham XOYO 12.03.25 Netherlands Haarlem Patronaat 13.03.25 Germany Hamburg Gruenspan 14.03.25 Sweden Stockholm Fryshuset Klubben 16.03.25 Finland Helsinki Tavastia 18.03.25 Norway Oslo John Dee 19.03.25 Denmark Copenhagen Pumpehuset 21.03.25 Poland Warsaw Proxima 22.03.25 Germany Berlin Columbia Theater 23.03.25 Germany Nürnberg Z-Bau 24.03.25 Austria Wien Flex 25.03.25 Hungary Budapest Dürer Kert 26.03.25 Germany München Backstage 27.03.25 Italy Milan Slaughter Club 28.03.25 Switzerland Aarau Kiff 29.03.25 Germany Karlsruhe Substage
Ticketing details and further information can be found at: lnk.to/RON-EUROPE2025 – ticket sale starts October 25th at 11am CET.
“Embrace The Lie” Video/Single Now Playing + Preorders Available
“I never intended to pick up with THE GATES OF SLUMBER ever again in 2014. While I did start the band and wrote most of the first album it was never intended to be a one man show.”
— Karl Simon, 2024
Indiana-based doom metal behemoths THE GATES OF SLUMBER return with their self-titled new full-length, set for release on November 29th via Svart Records. The record serves as the band’s first new output since 2011’s The Wretch and their sixth overall.
In advance of the record’s release, the band has unveiled a video for “Embrace The Lie,” an ode to lying news media outlets and political talking heads.
Watch THE GATES OF SLUMBER’s “Embrace The Lie” video at THIS LOCATION. Stream the track at THIS LOCATION.
The Gates Of Slumber will be available on CD and digitally as well as vinyl in the following color variants: Black/White Marble, Transparent Blue (limited), and Black. Find physical preorders HERE and digital preorders HERE.
THE GATES OF SLUMBER was formed by Karl Simon in 1998 and underwent various lineup incarnations between 1998 and 2001, when the Blood Encrusted Deth Axe demo was recorded with Jamie Walters aka Dr. Phibes/Athenar (Boulder, Midnight) on drums and bass. In 2003, Jason McCash took over all bass duties and was a long-time member of the band until his untimely passing in 2014, after which Simon decided it was time to call it quits.
That was until 2019 when renowned metal festival Hell Over Hammaburg wanted to bring the band back to the stage to perform at the festival’s 2020 edition. Simon reformed the band with its original drummer Chuck Brown and bassist Steve Janiak. “We’d been asked several times to play Hell Over Hammaburg. But there was no ‘we’ to play,” said Simon. “The germ of the idea started. We started re-learning songs from the first LP. It wasn’t too long into the rehearsals that we started coming up with new songs.”
Following a short reunion tour, the COVID pandemic decelerated the band’s writing process. Half of the album was written; however, the remaining half was left to stew in its juices. But they toiled on ultimately composing six wholly engrossing new hymns of true doom metal excellence. With chest quaking songs honoring such greats as Saint Vitus and Penance, straight forward bangers, lyrics inspired by the Black Death and John Carpenter’s The Fog, The Gates Of Slumber is a truly crushing work to behold.
Oct. 15, 2024, LOS ANGELES – Jerry Cantrell’s new album, I Want Blood, arrives this Friday, and to celebrate its arrival the iconic musician has announced a North American tour of the same name.
The trek kicks off on Jan. 31 in Niagara Falls and makes its way across the country, concluding in Cantrell’s home state of Washington.
Tickets go on-sale this Friday at 10 a.m. local time with an exclusive artist pre-sale starting Wednesday at 10 a.m. For ticket information, visit jerrycantrell.com/tour. Filter supports on all dates.
“[This album] packs a punch and it hits you in the face,” Cantrell shared in a recent interview with Loudwire adding, “I couldn’t think of a more impactful title than I Want Blood.”
Ahead of the album’s release, Cantrell has been featured on the cover of Revolver, participated in a career-spanning conversation with Rick Beato, and has received widespread praise album for the collection’s heavier sound. Metal Hammer described I Want Blood as having an “iconic sound, sludgy guitars and soulful vocals.”
I Want Blood was recorded at Joe Barresi’s JHOC Studio in Pasadena, Calif., and features contributions from Duff McKagan (Guns N’Roses), Mike Bordin (Faith No More), Robert Trujillo (Metallica), Greg Puciato (Better Lovers, ex-Dillinger Escape Plan), Gil Sharone (Team Sleep, Stolen Babies), and Lola Colette.
Jerry Cantrell tour dates:
October 17 Pioneertown, CA Pappy & Harriet’s SOLD OUT
November 8 Huechuraba, Chile Fauna Primavera November 10 Comuna 15, Argentina C Complejo Art Media November 12 São Paulo, Brazil Audio
January 31 Niagara Falls, ON Fallsview Casino Resort February 1 Sayreville, NJ Starland Ballroom February 2 Portland, ME Aura February 4 Boston, MA Citizens House of Blues Boston February 5 New York, NY Irving Plaza February 7 Silver Spring, MD The Fillmore – Silver Spring February 8 Bensalem, PA Parx Xcite Center February 11 Huntington, NY The Paramount February 12 Norfolk, VA The NorVa February 14 Raleigh, NC The Ritz February 15 Atlanta, GA Buckhead Theatre February 16 Louisville, KY Mercury Ballroom February 18 Columbus, OH The Bluestone February 19 Indianapolis, IN Murat Egyptian Room at Old National Centre February 22 St. Louis, MO The Hawthorn February 23 Chicago, IL The Vic Theatre February 25 Tulsa, OK Tulsa Theater February 26 Houston, TX House of Blues Houston February 27 San Antonio, TX The Aztec Theatre March 1 Mesa, AZ The Nile Theater March 2 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues Las Vegas March 4 Los Angeles, CA The Belasco March 5 Ventura, CA The Majestic Ventura Theater March 7 Spokane, WA Knitting Factory – Spokane March 8 Portland, OR Wonder Ballroom March 9 Seattle, WA Moore Theatre
I Want Blood is available on CD, digitally, and multiple 2LP vinyl variants: https://bio.to/JerryCantrell. A bonus spoken word version of each song on I Want Blood is included with each vinyl release.
Photo credit: Darren Craig
Jerry Cantrell is an iconic American troubadour, celebrated for his distinctive guitar playing, soulful vocals and profound songwriting. Known for his work in both Alice In Chains and as a solo artist, the GRAMMY-nominated musician has sold in excess of 30 million albums, has been named one of the greatest guitar players of all time by both Guitar World and Rolling Stone, and has been instrumental in shaping the sound of modern rock music. Over his career, he has released six studio albums with Alice in Chains, three solo full-lengths, has had his music featured in films from Cameron Crowe, Judd Apatow and Ben Stiller and made cameos in “Deadwood” and “Jerry Maguire.”
Anticipated New Album Out January 17th Pre-Order Now
HAZZERD, one of thrash metal’s most exciting young contenders, have released the new single and lyric video for “Deathbringer” – the first taste of their awaited new album. Check out “Deathbringer” now on all streaming/download platforms, or watch the video, created by Raf Orteaga, HEREhttps://youtu.be/-_C6HBXaq-U
“Deathbringer” comes from the Canadian band’s forthcoming album, The 3rd Dimension, which is scheduled for release January 17th on CD and limited-edition colored vinyl variants (300 copies) including Mars Attacks and Angry Sea, as well as 100 limited run of cassettes.
The 3rd Dimension is the anticipated follow-up to 2020’s Delirium, one of the best and consistent sellers at M-Theory Audio that even received a nod from Megadeth’s Dave Mustaine who championed the group as a promising thrash hopeful, alongside Power Trip.
“Following the release of our second album, Delirium, an album which focused heavily on darker subject matter such as human agony, insanity, death and disease. This time we wanted the album to be less involved in the darker side of humanity, and made it a goal to make it much more fast-paced and to the point,” notes drummer/singer Dylan Westendorp.
“The 3rd Dimension portrays our human influences through media. Whether that be television, movies, music, or video games. Each song tells its own story through a narrative inspired by something created in the 3rd Dimension (3D media),” explains Dylan. “We’re also depicting the continuing decay of our mascot Mitsy, with his new Cyberpunk aesthetic brought to life by the one and only Andrei Bouzikov! We can’t wait for you all to decipher the tracks and tell us how you interpret them!”
The 3rd Dimension will be released January 17thand pre-orders launch today at our webstore and at Bandcamp https://lnk.to/hazzerd with more EU and retail outlets and a digital pre-save adding as we near release date.
“Thank you all for being so patient with us while we worked on the band as a whole and the new album over the last few years,” states Dylan. “We really can’t wait for you to hear it. This is for you — the fans, the underground.”
HAZZERD was initially formed by Westendorp and guitarist Brendan Malycky, two Calgary teens who were inspired by the early work of thrash legends such as Overkill, Metallica and Anthrax. After solidifying their lineup with the addition of lead guitarist Toryin Schadlich (also of Traveler) and bassist David Sprague, the group recorded their full-length debut, Misleading Evil, which was released via Canada’s World War Now Records.
HAZZERD caught the attention of M-Theory Audio who snapped up the promising outfit and released Delirium in 2020 taking the band to the next level. The album, like The 3rd Dimension, was mastered by Johnny Gasparic (Into Eternity) and features cover artwork once again by Andrei Bouzikov (Municipal Waste, Toxic Holocaust, Skeletonwitch).
Earlier this year, HAZZERD were invited to contribute two exclusive songs, “Skin Peeler” and “Stella Screams,” in collaboration with author Julie Hiner from Killers & Demons for her horror book project, Thrash Track. HAZZERD wrote the music to Julie’s lyrics for an experimental side adventure.
In recent years, HAZZERD has performed alongside the likes of Hatchet, Striker, Vicious Rumors, Archspire, Spellcaster and Grim Reaper in addition to playing noted Canadian festivals such as Loud As Hell and Armstrong MetalFest.
HAZZERD 2024: Drums/lead vocals: Dylan Westendorp Lead Guitar: Toryin Schadlich Bass: David Sprague Rhythm Guitar: Nick Schwartz Rhythm guitar on the album recorded by: Brendan Malycky
Get ready to dive headfirst into the electrifying world of HELLOWEEN with their new live album Live At Budokan, a colossal release that immortalises their iconic performance at Tokyo’s legendary Nippon Budokan! Dropping on December 13, 2024 through Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM), this release will be available in a plethora of formats: 2CD-digipak, 3LP vinyl in trifold, Blu-ray, DVD and digital.
Each version is meticulously crafted to suit the metal community’s diverse tastes, ensuring every fan can relive the raw, unfiltered energy of HELLOWEEN. Pre-order/pre-save the album here: https://helloween.rpm.link/liveatbudokanPR
To tide fans over until Live At Budokanarrives, the band have launched the first single “Best Time (live)”. This electrifying live version of the hit single and most streamed track (more than 11 million streams on Spotify) from HELLOWEEN‘s self-titled reunion album [2021] can be watched here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XT1ITfb76-0
Guitarist Sascha Gerstner comments: ‘“Best Time'” captures the energy and the moment when everything fits together perfectly and you leave everything negative behind. For me, this track is an anthem for all those nights when you’re heading towards the future. That’s why it conveys exactly this mood in concert as if you were living in a single great moment that lasts forever.”
This release celebrates the grand finale of HELLOWEEN‘s epic world tour from 2022 to 2023. Spanning over 30 countries on three continents, the tour was nothing short of a triumph, drawing massive crowds and showcasing the band’s undying appeal, the sold-out concert inTokyo is the crowning glory of the cycle.
Known for their explosive stage presence and high-voltage performances, HELLOWEEN‘s shows are fueled by the unique chemistry among the band members. Triple lead-guitar attacks from Michael Weikath, Kai Hansen, and Sascha Gerstner alternate with goosebump inducing duets from vocalists Michael Kiske and Andi Deris, occasionally supported by Kai Hansen, the band’s original singer and third voice. He also takes the spectators on a journey back in time with a medley from the band’s early days, returning to the origins of their sound – HELLOWEEN, the godfathers of melodic speed metal.
Choosing the Nippon Budokan for this live recording was no coincidence. A venue rich in musical history, it has hosted countless legendary concerts and is an accolade for every music group that has played there. HELLOWEEN are the first German band ever to record a live album in the Nippon Budokan, and for the members it was a dream come true.
Lead vocalist Michael Kiske described the show as “surreal, with the electrifying fan energy creating a magical atmosphere.” Bassist Markus Grosskopf spoke of the venue’s profound personal and historical significance, expressing how humbling and inspiring it was to perform in a place that shaped their own musical journeys.
The live recording’s technical brilliance is another highlight. With 29 cameras capturing every nuance, the production team ensured that each moment of the concert is preserved in stunning detail. This attention to detail means the Blu-ray and DVD versions offer an immersive viewing experience, making fans feel like they are right there in the front row.
The setlist of this live album is a treasure trove of surprises, contains the entire 2-hour+ show and offers a fresh experience compared to previous releases like United Alive [2019]. This thoughtful song selection honors both the die-hard fans craving something new and the band’s rich musical legacy, showcasing their evolution and expansive repertoire.
This live album is more than just a concert recording; it’s a celebration of HELLOWEEN‘s enduring impact on the metal scene. It promises to bring the magic of an unforgettable performance straight into fans’ homes, offering a piece of music history that embodies the spirit and energy of a legendary band at their peak.
HELLOWEEN are: Michael Kiske – vocals Andi Deris – vocals Kai Hansen – guitars, vocals Michael Weikath – guitars Sascha Gerstner – guitars Markus Grosskopf – bass Daniel Löble – drums
CATEGORY 7, featuring John Bush (Armored Saint, Anthrax), Phil Demmel (Kerry King, Machine Head), Mike Orlando (Adrenaline Mob), Jack Gibson (Exodus), and Jason Bittner (Shadows Fall, Overkill), today announces their 2025 first ever tour in support of their self-titled Metal Blade debut.
The fourteen-show trek commences on March 6th in Baltimore, Maryland and runs through March 23rd in Atlanta, Georgia. Direct support on all shows will be provided by Exhorder (except Milwaukee). Additional support will be provided by Hand Of The Tribe on all dates, as well as Dead By Wednesday on the first four dates, and Engineered Society Project on the remainder of the tour, starting in Warrendale.
Comments vocalistJohn Bush, “Looking forward to CATEGORY 7 blowing off the roofs of some venues on the East Coast and Midwest in March of 2025. This will be the first time the band will be playing live so come and check out some killer musicianship. Playing songs from the debut record should be fun. See ya there!”
Adds guitaristPhil Demmel, “Batten down your hatches because the C7tempest is about to touch ground in the US this March! We are all so thrilled to launch this band and bring our show through the states! See you in the eye of the storm!”
Presales on Blabbermouth.net and Knotfest.com will begin tomorrow, October 9th with the general on sale beginning Friday, October 11th. VIP upgrades will be available for all shows at category7official.com. The VIP purchase does not include the show ticket. See all confirmed dates below.
CATEGORY 7 w/ Exhorder, Dead By Wednesday, Hand Of The Tribe: 3/06/2025 Baltimore Soundstage – Baltimore, MD 3/07/2025 Starland Ballroom – Sayreville, NJ 3/08/2025 Middle East – Downstairs – Cambridge 3/09/2025 Underground Arts – Philadelphia, PA w/ Exhorder, Engineered Society Project, Hand Of The Tribe: 3/11/2025 Jergel’s – Warrendale, PA 3/12/2025 The Asylum At Temple Live – Cleveland, OH 3/14/2025 The Machine Shop – Flint, MI 3/15/2025 The Forge – Joliet, IL 3/16/2025 The Rave II – Milwaukee, WI ** 3/18/2025 Fine Line – Minneapolis, MN 3/19/2025 Bourbon Theatre – Lincoln, NE 3/21/2025 Pop’s – St. Louis, MO 3/22/2025 Exit/In – Nashville, TN 3/23/2025 The Masquerade (Hell) – Atlanta, GA ** w/ H1Z1, Misfire, Engineered Society Project, Hand Of The Tribe (no Exhorder)
Category 7 was released on July 26th to worldwide critical acclaim and debuted at #8 on the Billboard Rock Chart. The band has released four videos to date for the tracks “In Stitches,” “Exhausted,” “Mousetrap,” and “Apple of Discord.” The band has received major support from the Sirius XM channel Liquid Metal.
Category 7 was produced, engineered, mixed, and mastered by Mike Orlando at Sonic Stomp Studios with art and layout by Carlos Fides at Artside Studio (Angra, Evergrey, Kamelot). Stream and purchase the record at: metalblade.com/category7.
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