Swedish melodic metal supergroup CYHRA (Featuring AMARANTHE Co-Founder Jake E and current THE HALO EFFECT, KAMELOT, THE CROWN, and SUBURBAN TRIBE members) unveil an epic modern metal offering in their empowering new single “Bleed With Pride“. As CYHRA celebrates their 10th anniversary year, the new release arrives alongside the announcement of the band’s fourth studio albumRequiem For A Pipe Dream scheduled to be released on June 5th, 2026, via Reigning Phoenix Music.
CYHRA frontman Jake E comments,“‘Bleed With Pride’ is about learning to trust your scars instead of hiding them. For a long time, I carried the weight of the past like something that needed to be buried. But the truth is, those wounds kept me honest. They became my compass. This song is about the internal war, the silent thunder you fight inside and choosing not to let it drown you. If I’m going to bleed, it’s not out of shame anymore. It’s with pride. Because every scar means I survived, I rebuilt, and I kept burning.”
“Bleed With Pride” aptly encompasses the central themes of the forthcoming Requiem For A Pipe Dream. This rhythmic track, fueled by a driving momentum, delivers a resonating effect alongside the emotive lyrics. CYHRA‘s high-octane sound is captivating and energizing; providing encouragement and strength to keep progressing despite past difficulties.
L-R: Jake E (vocals, keys), Marcus Sunesson (guitars), Jesper Strömblad (bass, guitars), Euge Valovirta (guitars, bass), Alex Landenburg (drums)
Requiem For A Pipe Dream – Track Listing: 1. Bleed With Pride 2. Superman 3. Miss Me When I’m Gone 4. Ghostbound 5. In The Center Of A Miracle 6. Skin From Bones 7. Ghost I’m Meant To Be 8. Mark Of My Sins 9. Venom In Me 10. Box With Spirits 11. Hold Your Fire feat. Samy Elbanna [Bonus Track]
Band contest for final slots to be announced shortly
Szczecin, Poland; 27 March 2026:Hells Bells Festival has revealed the final two bands for its debut edition, which will take place on 26-27 June 2026.
Leading the final announcement is Pro-Pain: a cornerstone of the NYHC scene for over three decades and synonymous with uncompromising, groove-laden aggression. Since their early 90s debut, Foul Taste of Freedom, they have remained one of the most consistent forces in the crossover scene, bridging the gap between thrash metal and New York hardcore with a discography packed with anthems. Their performance on the opening Friday will celebrate the band’s 35th anniversary and is set to be a definitive moment for fans of the metal-hardcore crossover.
Joining them are the local heroes, The Analogs. Formed in Szczecin in 1995, they have grown to become the most recognisable and influential street punk band in Poland, boasting a substantial following abroad as well. Over three decades, their music has served as a raw and honest chronicle of gritty realities and social struggles. For this homecoming show, the band will perform a special, curated set consisting exclusively of classics from their earliest, most iconic albums, offering the Szczecin crowd a high-octane trip through the foundations of the Polish underground.
Beyond the established billing, the festival will soon launch a dedicated band contest, offering a unique opportunity for emerging acts to join the 2026 lineup and showcase their music on the Szczecin waterfront.
Pro-Pain and The Analogs join a line-up that covers heavy metal, punk, rock and extreme metal. Across three stages, the festival will deliver everything from the traditional heavy metal legends of Dirkschneider and Grave Digger to the extreme of Possessed, Vader, NunSlaughter, and Dead Congregation. The thrash metal contingent is bolstered by the technical assault of Gama Bomb and the legendary FrankBlackfire, while the fuzz-drenched riffage of Belzebong provides a stoner-doom counterpoint.
The punk and hardcore legacy of Discharge, UKSubs, Cockney Rejects, TheLastResort, and local icons TheAnalogs and Dezerter stands alongside the horrorcore energy of Słoń and the avant-garde darkness of Furia and Dola. Furthermore, the festival remains a vital platform for the new generation, showcasing the rising power of The Materia, The Stubs, Owls Woods Graves, Hamulec, My Own Abyss, Seks W Czasach Wojny, Pretensje, Drowned In Silver and Diving Stove.
As previously announced, the festival has entered its next pricing tier. This pool of tickets will be available only until 31 May 2026 (or until sold out): Full Weekend Pass (PLN 409), Friday Ticket (PLN 199), Saturday Ticket (PLN 229). The festival also continues to offer the discounted Youth Pass (ages 13-18) and Family Pass (adult with child under 13).
“Wow! Amazing! Goliath has charted higher than anything we’ve ever done, this is just so epic on so many levels! Thanks to every single person who helped make this possible. 15 on the Billboard 200! And these other countries charts are off the hook! Squeezed our way in there with all the pop and rap and country, somehow we forced our way in! STOKED!!”
Founded in 1984, Chastain emerged as a powerhouse of American heavy metal, driven by the neoclassical precision of guitar virtuoso David T. Chastain. Based in Cincinnati, the band became a cornerstone of the Shrapnel Records era, a time when technical proficiency and “shred” guitar were reaching their zenith. Unlike many of their contemporaries who focused solely on instrumental flair, Chastain prioritized songcraft, blending intricate, sophisticated guitar work with the grit of what would become known years later as power metal.
A defining element of the band’s identity and their greatest weapon is the legendary vocalist Leather Leone. At a time when the metal scene was overwhelmingly male-dominated, Leone established herself as one of the most powerful and commanding voices in the genre.
Her performance on The Voice of the Cult remains a masterclass in metal vocals, characterized by a rasping, aggressive delivery that never sacrifices melody. Her chemistry with David T. Chastain’s darkening compositions elevated the band from a technical project to a true cult icon of the underground.
Originally released in 1988 and now re-issued by Nameless Grave Records, The Voice of the Cult is widely regarded as one of the best works in the genre and the title track has stood the test of time to be considered a true heavy metal anthm. This definitive CD reissue features an all-new layout and a 16-page booklet including insightful liner notes by Sarah Kitteringham. To further cement its status as an essential artifact of 80s heavy metal, the release includes two bonus demo tracks, featuring one unreleased song that has never been heard by fans until now.
This past Christmas, my best Metal buddy in the Metal Universe, aka Scott Coverdale, gifted me this IRON MAIDENThe Trooper Funko Pop! This is part of the Funko Pop! Albums series. Classic Eddie!I’m very delighted to own this beauty!
The Trooper has been released in the past as both a 12” and 7” vinyl, represented as the cover artwork you see here behind the Eddie Funko. I first owned The Trooper 12” vinyl many solar eclipses ago. Circa 1983 to be exact.
Above: back cover of box
The captivating artwork for The Trooper, featuring Eddie, was created by the legendary Derek Riggs.
Above: taken out of box
Thanks for taking a look and visiting Metal Odyssey! Enjoy your week and take care of each other out there. Metal be thy name. – Stone
We’re releasing our ninth studio album Temptation’s Gates on June 26, 2026 via Napalm Records. We’re also introducing our new singer, Swedish-English musician Nicole Willerton.
Our former frontwoman Capri has stepped down due to her busy schedule. We sincerely thank her for over a decade together, including five albums and extensive touring, and wish her all the best.
1-LP Gatefold Vinyl Marbled Translucent Red Black, incl. 12-page 12” Booklet – strictly limited to 100 copies worldwide (Napalm Mailorder exclusive) PRE ORDER NOW FROM HERE:NAPALM RECORDS
A new chapter has begun: Finnish melodic metal force ARION return with a bang, launching the album cycle for their upcoming fifth studio album with the brand-new single “Hurricane”, released via RPM. The track is a fast-paced, modern melodic metal anthem that stands out with its theme of cathartic empowerment, a massive chorus hook, and the band’s signature infectious riffing.
Driven by an arena-ready chorus and sharp songwriting, “Hurricane” initially feels like a classic hit in the making. Yet ARION add a clever twist, breaking away from predictable structures and injecting a fresh, modern edge that keeps listeners on their toes. More singles will follow throughout 2026, with the full album scheduled for release at the beginning of 2027, following their European tour with GLORYHAMMER and MAJESTICA in October 2026.
Guitarist Iivo Kaipainen comments:“We are happy to come back with this new fantastic single called ‘Hurricane’! The song features an especially massive and catchy chorus and infectious main riff, which are both long time trademarks for the band. Sounds like a traditional hit format song? WRONG! There’s a cool modern twist waiting to break the linear true and tried hit song formula that will definitely catch every listener off guard. See for yourself!”
[Photo Credit: Ville Juurikkala]
About ARION:
ARION are among Finland’s most exciting modern melodic metal exports. Known for their high-impact songwriting, technical skill and engaging stage presence, the band continues to bridge the gap between classic and modern metal.
Over the years, ARION have toured extensively across Europe and Japan with acts such as DREAM THEATER, GLORYHAMMER, BATTLE BEAST, BLOODBOUND and SONATA ARCTICA. They have also collaborated with renowned vocalists including Elize Ryd (AMARANTHE), Noora Louhimo and Melissa Bonny (AD INFINITUM / KAMELOT).
With tens of millions of streams to their name, including the standout track At The Break Of Dawn surpassing 20 million streams and achieving gold status in Finland, ARION have firmly established themselves as one of the most important new wave metal export acts from the country. Their continued evolution and international presence underline their growing importance in the global metal scene.
Swedish melodic metal force PRIME CREATION have unveiled a brand new lyric video for their first single, “Galactic Rebirth”, taken from their upcoming studio album Souls Of The Fallen, set for release on June 26, 2026 via ROAR – A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music. Pre-orders have just started at: https://primecreation.rpm.link/soulsPR
With “Galactic Rebirth,” the band delivers a powerful first glimpse into the album’s cinematic and emotionally charged direction, combining soaring melodies with relentless heaviness. The track dives deep into themes of cosmic conflict and existential struggle, as the band unveils:
“The song is about a cosmic war fought at the edge of extinction, where a dying sun and endless darkness set the stage for a final stand. It follows celestial warriors bound together by fate, legend, and shared sacrifice as they face overwhelming odds. Themes of fear, pain, and loss run through the battle, but so does defiance and unity. Overall, it’s about rising together to confront annihilation and leaving a mark through courage, even if victory comes at a cost.”
Souls Of The Fallen – Tracklist: 1. Galactic Rebirth 2. Ghosts 3. Blood Harvest 4. Souls of the Fallen 5. Alliance 6. Lost Legacy 7. Legends Never Die 8. Ashes of Trust
Formed in Sweden in 2015, PRIME CREATION quickly established themselves as a driving force in modern melodic heavy metal. Rising from the ashes of the power metal band Morifade, the group brought together skilled and experienced musicians with a clear vision: combine technical precision with powerful songwriting and a contemporary edge.
Following their self-titled debut in 2016 and the critically acclaimed Tears Of Rage (2019), the band continued to evolve, culminating in Tell Freedom I Said Hello (2023), which gained strong international attention. Known for their dynamic live presence, PRIME CREATION have toured across Europe and shared stages with acts like Masterplan and appeared at festivals alongside Europe and W.A.S.P.
With Souls Of The Fallen, produced by Niels Nielsen (Ghost, In Flames), the band take another decisive step forward, pushing their sound into darker, more progressive territory while staying true to their melodic roots.
PRIME CREATION: Esa Englund – Vocals Robin Arnell – Lead Guitar Rami Tainamo – Rhythm Guitar Henrik Weimedal – Bass Guitar Kim Arnell – Drums
Japanese power metal vocalist Saeko is set to return to the stage with two exclusive shows in Japan this May, under the banner “SAEKO LIVE IN JAPAN 2026”, while also revealing the upcoming release of her new EP, Back to Life, scheduled for July 18, 2026.
The two special events will take place in Osaka (May 12, Panhead Groove) and Tokyo (May 14, SUNRIZE) and will feature a unique format combining a talk session and an exclusive live showcase, including the performance of two songs from the upcoming EP.
These concerts represent a rare and exciting collaboration between artists from different musical traditions, bringing together European melodic power metal and the rich heritage of Japanese neoclassical metal.
The live line-up for these shows includes: SaekoKitamae on vocals, Guido Benedetti (Trick or Treat) on guitars, Masashi Okagaki on keyboards (Terra Rosa, Jill’s Project, Aphrodite) and Kaz Nakamura on bass (Kelly Simon’s Blind Faith, Rachel Mother Goose).
The presence of legendary keyboardist Masashi Okagaki, a key figure in Japan’s neoclassical metal scene and leader of Terra Rosa, adds a distinctive and historically significant element to the performances, while bassist Kaz Nakamura brings his experience and technical mastery to complete a powerful and dynamic line-up.
Saeko is widely recognized as a pioneering artist in the international metal scene. Originally from Osaka, she moved to Germany in the early 2000s to pursue her musical career, collaborating with prominent European musicians and releasing her debut album Above Heaven Below Heavenin 2004. That same year, she toured Europe with metal icon Doro Pesch, and in 2005 she made history as the first Asian female artist to perform at Wacken Open Air, the world’s largest heavy metal festival. Following her second album Life (2006), Saeko returned in 2021 with Holy Are We Alone, marking a powerful comeback after a long hiatus and reaffirming her unique artistic identity: Melodic Power Metal with emotional depth and a cross-cultural perspective.
Now, with the upcoming EP Back to Life, Saeko continues to build on her legacy, connecting past and present through a renewed creative vision.
Tickets for the Wacken Open Air are available here.
On April 18th, 2026, 35 Wacken warm-up concerts will rock the globe! Almost 24 hours will pass between the first show in Japan and the last in Mexico, all of them filled with the best heavy metal music, with celebrating fans coming together for this special event. A live experience carried by the legendary Wacken spirit.
The worldwide party is being organized by various promoters from the global community of the Wacken Metal Battle, the festival’s own band competition, which now includes 102 participating nations. Promoters from 35 of these countries have joined forces for the Wacken anniversary to celebrate the worldwide warm-up party.
“The core idea is to bring the world together and unite it through what we love most: music! That’s what the Metal Battle community stands for, that’s what we stand for, and that’s what Wacken Open Air has represented since day one,”emphasizes festival founder Thomas Jensen.
In Germany, the warm-up will be celebrated at Hamburg’s Betty club starting at 8 p.m. The Boston-based band Lansdowne will bring their hook-driven, energetic rock to the Hanseatic city. The international event “One World One Stage” is being organized by Salman U. Syed, who is responsible for the Metal Battle at W:O:A and has been shaping the global networking of the scene for years.
(Phantom Excaliver – Photo Credit: WOA Festival GmbH)
“The sense of unity within the metal scene is strong worldwide, and bands as well as promoters in the individual countries immediately threw themselves into setting a powerful sign of unity while celebrating 35 years of Wacken Open Air together with us!”
The event in Hamburg on April 18th, therefore, seamlessly joins the global chain of parties. The event stands for unity, passion, and heavy metal without borders.
Tickets and further information about the warm-up parties around the globe are available here.
Additionally, impressions from the shows in all participating countries will be shared during the day via the social media channels of the Wacken Open Air. #oneworldonestage
Each country will present bands in a club selected by the local Metal Battle promoters.
For example, in Canada, Toronto, ON’s The Garrison will host the 2018 Canadian battle champions, Centuries of Decay as guest headliners for the Ontario Final along with Toronto round winners Dawn Vally, Gravearth, and Misothronos. More info here.
And in the USA, Tampa Bay, FL’s The Brass Mug will host the Southeast Regional Final with Endera (Savannah, GA), Nocturnal Dawn (Orlando, FL), Esca (GA / SC), ENDURUS (Tampa, FL), Dead Alive (Nashville, TN), Ramtha (St. Petersburg, FL) with guest co-headliner Psykotribe (Tampa, FL) and headliner Malevolent Creation (Tampa, FL). More info here.
In Tokyo, Phantom Excaliver will perform alongside three other Japanese bands. The musicians won the Wacken Metal Battle in 2023 and joyfully accepted their prize, after their singer briefly fainted. “The line-up at our warm-up party brings together the history, present, and future of the Japanese metal scene,” says Yutaro Shindo, Japan’s Metal Battle promoter.
Organizer Raúl Saavreda from Bogotá is also eagerly anticipating the event in his hometown: “Our warm-up party will be insane! With Tribute2Wacken, the first tribute band dedicated to a festival will perform — playing only songs devoted to the Wacken Open Air.” Additional tribute bands will perform highlights of British Heavy Metal. Saavreda is also the founder of Wacken Latinos, an association of Latin American fans who visit the Holy Ground in northern Germany every year. “A year without W:O:A is unimaginable for me,” he states. “When I first went there in 2019, Wacken changed my life. On the fields, I recharge my batteries — it’s a special time when I reunite with friends and fully devote myself to metal. The festival is my religion.”
Stjepan Juras from Zagreb confirms that most globally active promoters share similarly close ties to W:O:A. The respected music manager, author, and Iron Maiden expert represents Wacken Open Air and Metal Battle in his native Croatia, where he also organizes the warm-up party. “Wacken is not just a festival. The spirit and the community set it apart from other festivals. That’s also thanks to founders Thomas Jensen and Holger Hübner, who celebrate among their fans, maintain close contact with visitors, and are truly part of the scene.”
Since the very beginning, the motto of both W:O:A organizers has been “By fans for fans!” and that naturally applies to the 35 warm-up shows on April 18, 2026, as well. “Normally, Wacken welcomes the world,” says founder Holger Hübner. “On this day, it’s the other way around: the world welcomes Wacken and together we celebrate a global heavy metal party.”
Tickets for the Wacken Open Air are available here.
Hamburg-based power metal veterans IRON SAVIOR return today with their brand-new album, Awesome Anthems Of The Galaxy, out now via PERCEPTION–a division Of Reigning Phoenix Music. With this release, the band led by Piet Sielck transforms iconic ’80s hits into powerful, melodic metal anthems, blending nostalgia with the unmistakable IRON SAVIOR sound.
The album is receiving strong praise: Rock Magazine writes it’s “surprisingly packed with strong hit potential!”, while Break Out Magazine confirms: “Damn powerful anthems, brilliantly executed by IRON SAVIOR!”. Stormbringer adds: “Awesome Anthems Of The Galaxy is an album that proves one thing: nostalgia can sound pretty damn heavy when you run it through the IRON SAVIOR engine!”
To celebrate the release, the band have also premiered a brand-new music video for their thunderous cover version of the Michael Sembello classic “Maniac”. The track perfectly showcases IRON SAVIOR’s ability to turn catchy pop structures into driving heavy metal, combining pulsating synth melodies with razor-sharp guitar riffs and a soaring, instantly memorable chorus. The result is an energetic reimagining that stays true to the spirit of the original while delivering a much heavier punch.
After reigniting their cosmic engines with Machine World – Reforged in 2025, IRON SAVIOR embark on their boldest mission yet. With Awesome Anthems of the Galaxy, IRON SAVIOR tap into the heart of ’80s pop culture, combining nostalgia, passion and the band’s trademark precision and fire, proving that the past can shine brighter than ever when reforged in metal.
Album Track Listing: 01. Fame 02. All I Need Is A Miracle 03. When The Rain Begins To Fall 04. Maniac 05. Take On Me 06. Relax 07. What A Feeling 08. Against All Odds 09. Separate Ways 10. Suburbia 11. Here Comes The Rain Again 12. She’s Like The Wind 13. (I Just) Died In Your Arms Tonight 14. Forever Young 15. Since You Been Gone 16. Call Me 17. Catch Me I’m Falling
“After the huge success of the 2002 Condition Red bonus track “Crazy” (SEAL), which was actually used in a HBO TV show, we have been asked by fans and medias almost constantly to do a complete cover tracks album,”Sielck recently said, and adds: “So… two decades later here we are!”quotes frontman Piet Sielck. “Awesome Anthems continues the transformation from pop-to-metal in IRON SAVIOR style as started with SEAL’s “Crazy” and EURYTHMICS’ “Sweet Dreams. We are absolutely proud of the outcome, which never loses the original vibe of the tracks but yet is 100% IRON SAVIOR. Just listen yourself… I guarantee a lot of smiles while doing so!”
From the electrifying rush of A-HA’s “Take On Me” and the thunderous drama of Phil Collins’ “Against All Odds” to the cinematic pulse of Jermaine Jackson & Pia Zadora’s “When The Rain Begins To Fall” and the adrenaline-fueled “Maniac”, IRON SAVIOR turn pop classics into heroic, melodic metal anthems. With Awesome Anthems of the Galaxy, IRON SAVIOR prove once more that great songs never age, they just get heavier!
“Here’s the cover artwork of the Leatherwitch debut album, painted by the amazing Mario Lopez. That’s right: no AI, no computers, a real painting! I hope you will like it as much as I do!
The album, titled “First Spell”, is coming out on May 29 on Listenable Records. The first pressing on splattered vinyl will be limited to 666 (!) copies, there will also be a CD edition, and each version will include different bonus track.”
LEATHERWITCHdebut 7” vinyl single out on April 23!
“Close To The Bone” Video/Single Now Playing + Preorders Available
American heavy metal icons, ARMORED SAINT, are back with their anticipated new full-length, Emotion Factory Reset, set for release on May 22nd through Metal Blade Records.
Emotion Factory Reset, the lineup’s ninth studio album since 1984’s March Of The Saint, is a resurrection of sorts, a tearing down and a rebuilding in eleven songs of diverse musicality and lyrical themes. Produced, as were the previous four albums, by bassist Joey Vera and mixed by Jay Ruston (Anthrax, Stone Sour), the record finds the quintet challenging themselves.
Songs like “Close To The Bone,” “Hit A Moonshot,” and “Every Man-Any Man” have ARMORED SAINT honoring their past as one of the most respected and recognizable bands in heavy music while making forward-thinking music rooted in the present.
“Each ARMORED SAINT record, to me, is like a new skin for the band, a different chapter. I don’t think we’ve ever repeated ourselves,” says Vera. “Every album has been pretty different from the previous one, a snapshot in time. In 2026, Emotion Factory Reset is where our heads are at.”
Emotion Factory Reset – Track Listing:
1. Close To The Bone
2. Every Man-Any Man
3. Not On Your Life
4. Hit A Moonshot
5. Buckeye
6. Compromise
7. It’s A Buzzkill
8. Throwing Caution To The Wind
9. Ladders And Slides
10. Bottom Feeder
11. Epilogue
“When we start coming up with songs, I always say we can do whatever we want,” notes vocalist John Bush. “Use all our influences through the years, diverse music that we listen to and love, and let that seep in and bring something new out of us. It leads to something more adventurous.”
Bush, one of music’s most respected vocalists, operates from a place of passion and presence in the studio and on stage. In fact, about 85% of his vocals from the last three ARMORED SAINT records are taken from the demo sessions, capturing the raw power.
While Vera is a granular and detailed writer, like Bush, the bassist says, “I try not to overthink and be right where I’m at that time. I really don’t look over my shoulder much, like, ‘what did I do in the past? What’s going on in the next lane?’ Once the ball starts rolling, I just sit back and let it happen.”
The collaborative nature of Emotion Factory Reset led to the album title, a phrase from guitarist Phil Sandoval. “To me, ‘Emotion Factory Reset’ means to reset yourself back to clarity. Take a pause and breathe before you respond or react. You can’t control outside events, but you can control your mind,” the guitarist says. “How you interpret things is what hurts you, not the event itself.”
His brother, drummer Gonzo notes, “the world is going through a technological upswing/awakening. I look at our planet as the factory and in the most positive way we need to realign, reimagine, reset for our better selves.”
In advance of the record’s release, the band presents the first single and album opener, “Close To The Bone.” Comments Bush, “The first track on the record sounds like vintage ARMORED SAINT, yet vintage that comes out in 2026! How did we do that? The title of the record, Emotion Factory Reset appears as the first line of the bridge. Killer riffs, awesome rhythms and attacking vocals gets this train rolling.”
Bush continues, “the title implies the human response to withdraw and keep things to yourself instead of being confrontational; Something I believe we all struggle with as humans. Do you just say, ‘aww, whatever man,’ or do you say, ‘hey, fuck you!’ Depends on the moment, I guess.”
Adds Vera, “Musically, this song was inspired by my love and appreciation for metal that was coming out around the time of the NWOBHM, which is right when ARMORED SAINT was formed. As always, I try to reimagine my early influences by giving them a slight modern twist.”
Guitarist Jeff Duncan agrees, “I like to think that ARMORED SAINT doesn’t keep making the same album over and over. Emotion Factory Reset is another musical chapter for the band. When the five of us play together, we have a special chemistry and our first single ‘Close To The Bone’ demonstrates this perfectly; it’s musically sophisticated but still retains the ARMORED SAINT signature sound.”
Watch ARMORED SAINT’s video for “Close To The Bone,” directed by My Good Eye: Music Visuals, HERE.
The record will be released on CD digipack (w/ 20-page booklet) and digital formats as well as vinyl in the following color variants:
Amber Marble (US) Orange and Red Marble (US) Citron Smoke (US – Brutal Panda Exclusive) 180g Black (EU) Beige Gray Marbled (EU) Clear Black Gold Smoke (EU – Ltd. 500) Metallic Gold Black Dust (EU – Ltd. 300) Clear Gold Splatter (EU – Ltd. 200)
Additionally, a special European edition of the CD digipak includes the bonus track “One Chain (Don’t Make No Prison),” only available digitally until now.
A special European edition of the single gatefold LP comes w/ insert and DL card + 7” vinyl “One Chain (Don’t Make No Prison),” (only available digitally until now) w/ an etching on the B-side, a poster and slipmat.
ARMORED SAINT’s Emotion Factory Reset was recorded across several studios including 606 Studios, Secret Hand Studios, Skullseven Studios, Constantine Studios, and Bridge Recording, engineered by Oliver Roman, Bill Metoyer, Joey Vera, and Jason Constantine, and features cover art by DDKing.
Catch ARMORED SAINT live throughout the Spring and Summer months with more dates to be announced in the weeks to come.
ARMORED SAINT Live: 4/19/2026 Rainbow Bar & Grill – West Hollywood, CA w/ L.A. Guns, Pentagram, Alien Ant Farm, Boy Hits Car 5/17/2026 San Luis Metal Fest – San Luis Potosí, MX 5/22/2026 Rock Hard Festival – Gelsenkirchen, DE 6/06/2026 Milwaukee Metalfest @ The Rave/Eagles Club – Milwaukee, WI 7/30/2026 Pumpehuset – Copenhagen, DK w/ Metal Church 7/31/2026 Skogsrojet Festival – Rejmyre, SE 8/01/2026 Pustervik – Gothenburg, SE w/ Testament, Metal Church 8/02/2026 Mejeriet – Lund, SE w/ Testament, Metal Church 8/05/2026 Brutal Assault – Jaroměř, CZ 8/07/2026 Alcatraz Festival – Dessel, BE 8/08/2026 Poppodium Boerderij – Zoetermeer, NL *ARMORED SAINT headlining show 8/09/2026 Keep It True Legions – Geiselwind, DE 8/11/2026 Progresja – Warsaw, PL w/ Savatage, Nevermore 8/12/2026 Collosseum – Kosice, SK w/ Vio-Lence 8/13/2026 Klub Studio – Krakow, PL w/ Testament, Metal Church 8/29/2026 Stonedead Festival – Newark, UK
CORROSION OF CONFORMITY will head West this July for a two-week headlining tour with support provided by Whores and Crobot. The trek, which begins on July 6th in Houston, Texas and runs through July 22nd in Lincoln, Nebraska, serves as the second leg of their North American tour set to commence next month.
Tickets go on sale Friday, March 27th at 10:00am local time at coc.com/pages/tour. See all confirmed dates below.
CORROSION OF CONFORMITY w/ Whores, Crobot: 7/06/2026 Scout Bar – Houston, TX 7/07/2026 Granada Theater – Dallas, TX 7/08/2026 The Far Out Lounge – Austin, TX 7/10/2026 The Nile Theater – Mesa, AZ 7/11/2026 The Regent Theater – Los Angeles, CA 7/12/2026 The Glass House – Pomona, CA 7/13/2026 Great American Music Hall – San Francisco, CA 7/15/2026 Hawthorne Theatre – Portland, OR 7/16/2026 The Crocodile – Seattle, WA 7/17/2026 Rickshaw Theatre – Vancouver, BC 7/18/2026 Knitting Factory – Spokane, WA 7/19/2026 Shrine Social Club – Boise, ID 7/21/2026 Federal Theatre – Denver, CO 7/22/2026 Bourbon Theatre – Lincoln, NE
Previously announced dates:
CORROSION OF CONFORMITY: 4/07/2026 The Masquerade – Atlanta, GA * 4/08/2026 The Pyrle – Greensboro, NC * 4/09/2026 Starland Ballroom – Sayreville, NJ ^ 4/11/2026 The Palladium – Worcester, MA ^ 4/12/2026 Kodak Center Theater – Rochester, NY ^ 4/14/2026 The Factory – Chesterfield, MO ^ 4/15/2026 Manchester Music Hall – Lexington, KY ^ 4/17/2026 VooDoo at Harrah’s Kansas City – North Kansas City, MO ^ 4/18/2026 Anthem at Hard Rock Sioux City – Sioux City, IA ** 4/19/2026 The District – Sioux Falls, SD ^ 4/21/2026 Mesa Theater – Grand Junction, CO ^ 4/22/2026 Metro Music Hall – Salt Lake City, UT (COC only) 4/23/2026 Treefort Music Hall – Boise, ID ^ 4/24/2026 Cargo Concert Hall – Reno, NV ^ 4/25/2026 Sick New World – Las Vegas, NV Festival Date 4/27/2026 Sunshine Theater – Albuquerque, NM ^ 4/28/2026 The Horseshoe – Midland, TX ^ 4/29/2026 The Aztec Theatre – San Antonio, TX ^ 5/01/2026 Vinyl Music Hall – Pensacola, FL ^ 5/02/2026 The Signal – Chattanooga, TN ^ 5/03/2026 The Orange Peel – Asheville, NC ^ 5/05/2026 Phoenix Concert Theatre – Toronto, ON * 5/06/2026 Fairmount Theatre – Montreal, QC * 5/07/2026 Le Poisson Rouge – New York, NY *** 5/08/2026 Underground Arts – Philadelphia, PA *** 5/09/2026 Mr. Smalls Theatre – Millvale, PA *** 5/10/2026 The Roxy – Lakewood, OH *** 5/12/2026 The Machine Shop – Flint, MI *** 5/13/2026 The Pyramid Scheme – Grand Rapids, MI *** 5/14/2026 Outset – Chicago, IL *** 5/15/2026 Cannery Hall – Nashville, TN *** 5/16/2026 Tipitina’s – New Orleans, LA ***
CORROSION OF CONFORMITY will be touring in support of their mammoth new double album, Good God / Baad Man, set for release next Friday, April 3rd via Nuclear Blast!
Produced by Grammy award winner Warren Riker (Fugees, Down, Cathedral) and featuring cover art by famed New Orleans artist Scott Guion, Good God / Baad Man was recorded at Blak Shak Studios in Riffissippi, USA, Dockside Studios in Maurice, Louisiana, and Bee Gee Barry Gibb’s home studio in Miami, Florida.
Watch a video for the record’s first single, “Gimme Some Moore,” HERE and “You Or Me” HERE.
Good God / Baad Man will be released on digipak CD and digital formats as well as vinyl in the following color variants:
Gatefold 2xLP w/ Belly Strip – Black Vinyl (Retail) 2 Separate Jacket LPs w/ Belly Strip – LP 1 Blue/LP 2 Red (Mail Order + Band Exclusive)
French Heavy Metal band, Sins of Shadows, are set to release their third full-length album! The Last Frontier, which features Tasos Lazaris on vocals, will be released on May 5th. More direct and heavier than its predecessors, the album reflects the band’s evolution toward a sharper, more dynamic, yet still melodic sound, but with a renewed sense of urgency.
A music video for the album’s first single – “Tell Me Why” – is available at: youtu.be/XjetYq_v_bY
Musically, Sins of Shadows draws from the energy of the NWOBHM (Iron Maiden, Saxon), the ambition of progressive and power metal (Symphony X, Iced Earth), and heavier bands like Megadeth or Testament. Their twin-guitar harmonies, echoing Thin Lizzy, bring a touch of warmth and nostalgia to a sound that remains both personal and timeless. In short, the Sins of Shadows sound burns with modern intensity and a passion that ignites on every stage.
FFO: Iron Maiden, Iced Earth, Judas Priest, Megadeth, Testament
Track Listing:
1. The Void 2. The Last Frontier 3. Walls of Past 4. Tell me Why 5. Rise Again 6. Prologue 7. As Darkness Falls 8. The End of the Road 9. One Last Journey
Band photo by Nicolas Jacon
Line-up:
Nicolas Jacon: All Guitars Sebastien Normand: Bass Rodolphe Plachesi: Drums
Featured vocals by Tasos Lazaris
Credits:
All music and lyrics by Nicolas Jacon. Mixed and Mastered by Sebastien Normand at Aedonia Productions. Artwork by Aleh.
BIO:
After releasing two EPs, Sins of Shadows (2014) and Today’s the Day (2016), the duo was joined by bassist Sebastien Normand (Esquys, ex-Nepenthys) in 2018, leading to the recording of their first full-length album, The Master’s Way. That album set the tone for the band’s blend of heavy and progressive influences.
With drummer Rodolphe Plachesi joining soon after, the band released Imperium, featuring Eric Casteglia as guest vocalist. Entirely self-produced like all their work, Imperium took a more conceptual and introspective direction, drawing inspiration from the philosophical writings of Spinoza and Frédéric Lordon.
Following Imperium, Sins of Shadows released several singles, including one featuring Henning Basse (Metalium, ex-Firewind), further expanding their sound and collaborations.
Rachel Bolan announces Gargoyle of the Garden State, his first-ever solo album, arriving June 12. First single, “At War With Myself” (feat. Danko Jones), is out now.
“Gargoyle of the Garden State is not a project, it is every bit of my soul,” says Bolan. “Like me, it knows when to be serious and also knows where the party is.”
Produced by Nick Raskulinecz, the album features an all-star lineup of friends including Corey Taylor, Danko Jones, Nuno Bettencourt, Damon Johnson, Steve Conte and of course Skid Row bandmates Scotti Hill, Snake Sabo, and Rob Hammersmith.
Seattle (WA) – Heavy Metal bangers TELOMYRAS are back! Three years after releasing their self-titled debut EP, the band is primed for the release of their first full-length album, Duskfall!
The album’s first single, “Attrition,” is available on YouTube and Bandcamp.
Since the release of their debut EP, Telomyras have been hard at work honing their unique blend of classic heavy metal and extreme metal with the songs that make up Duskfall. Telomyras delivers a riff driven metallic assault with aggressive guitars in the vein of bands like Sanctuary and Megadeth, and a dual lead guitar attack inspired by classic and progressive metal.
Sammie Gorham’s classically trained opera vocal technique shines through the record with soaring highs, contrasted by her guttural screams that accentuate the brutality of the record. With the addition of the power and technique of new drummer Gavynn Peterson, Telomyras is here to define a new era of heavy metal with Duskfall.
I won’t get long winded on this, promise! While doing a bit of Spring cleaning a couple weeks ago or so, I found a small box with these 7” vinyls inside! Metal! I honestly put this box away and forgot about it for some time. I’ll let the pics do the talking. Metal be thy name! – Stone
METAL INQUISITOR (front)METAL INQUISITOR (back)HIRAXHIRAX
Thank you for looking! Have a safe and fun week! Be kind out there, cuz our world really needs it. – Stone
L-R: Max Friesen (Drums) | Chris Osterman (Lead Vocals / Lead Guitar) | Megan Merrick (Lead Guitar) | Leighton Holmes (Bass)
Headline Hometown Show in Vancouver + Cross Canada Tour! Plus Armstrong Metal Fest, Loud As Hell Open Air Fest
Vancouver, Canada’s traditional heavy metal torchbearers IRON KINGDOM proudly announce the release of “Defenders,” the first single and music video from their upcoming sixth studio album, “Shadows and Dust,” due out June 6, 2026. The album is also being released in partnership with Steel Shark Records (France), which will offer an exclusive EU edition limited to just 300 double‑CD copies.
Disc 1 will contain the full Shadows and Dust album, while Disc 2 will feature a “Best Of” collection highlighting tracks from Iron Kingdom’s previous five releases. In addition, the label will introduce a third vinyl colour (100 copies) available only to EU fans.
“Defenders” sets the tone for Shadows and Dust with a powerful blend of speed, emotion, and classic heavy metal grit. Inspired by the Battle of Gdansk, the track pays tribute to the Polish soldiers who held their ground for seven days against Nazi invasion, an act of courage that deeply resonates with vocalist/guitarist Chris Osterman, whose own family history is tied to the conflict.
“Being that my family is half Polish, this song strikes a chord for me. I imagined what my great‑grandfather experienced riding with the Polish cavalry in WWII, and I also imagined what people in Ukraine must be feeling right now. Even though the song is fast and heavy, it’s very emotional. It speaks to the courage of those who defend their families, their friends, and their way of life,” says Osterman.
Musically, “Defenders” channels the band’s signature blend of classic heavy metal, drawing influence from acts like Tyran Pace and Primal Fear, with soaring melodies, galloping riffs, and a relentless sense of urgency.
Shadows and Dust sees IRON KINGDOM exploring darker lyrical themes, death, hardship, impermanence, while maintaining the triumphant spirit and melodic fire that define their sound.
“This album plays in a dark realm of topics, but I think that’s what will make it accessible to people going through tough times. The music shows hope for a positive way out. It’s a journey from front to back,” adds Osterman.
Track Listing: 1. Defenders 2. Eternal Emperor 3. Dreamless Sea 4. Deadhouse Gates 5. Line Of Fire 6. Blood And Steel 7. Shadow Of Time 8. Dark Demands 9. Starlight 10. Sacred Fire
The album’s artwork by Alan Lathwell was inspired by the track “Blood and Steel” and the Malazan Book of the Fallen series by Steven Erikson, depicting an army marching through a harsh, unforgiving landscape, a metaphor for perseverance through adversity.
IRON KINGDOM will celebrate the release of Shadows and Dust with a hometown headline show at the Rickshaw Theatre on June 5, delivering the high‑energy, classic‑metal stage show they’ve become known for. Info at: https://orangetickets.ca/detalles_evento.php?id_evento=2127
Following the album launch, the band will hit the road across Western Canada with confirmed festival appearances at Armstrong Metal Fest and Loud As Hell Festival.
Album pre-order (release date June 6th, 2026) available at the following links:
June 05 – Vancouver, BC – The Rickshaw July 02 – Nanaimo, BC – The Globe July 03 – Victoria, BC – Lucky Bar July 04 – Cumberland, BC – The Waverley July 05 – Powell River, BC – The Carlson Loft July 17 – Armstrong, BC – Armstrong MetalFest July 21 – Prince George, BC – Knox Performance Centre July 23 – Whitehorse, YT – Lefty’s Well July 24 – Dawson City, YT – The Pit July 25 – Dawson City, YT – The Pit July 26 – Whitehorse, YT – TBD July 28 – Yellowknife, NT – The Underground July 29 – Fort Smith, NT – Dirty O’ Fergie’s July 30 – Edmonton, AB – Starlight July 31 – Drumheller, AB – Loud As Hell Open Air Festival Aug 01 – Winnipeg, MB – Park Theatre Aug 02 – Thunder Bay, ON – Bloom Bar + Lounge Aug 03 – Sudbury, ON – The Lounge 390 Aug 04 – London, ON – Supply & Demand Aug 05 – Waterloo, ON – Maxwells Aug 06 – Hamilton, ON – TBC Aug 07 – Toronto, ON – Bovine Aug 08 – Montréal, QC – Foufounes Électriques Aug 09 – TBD – TBD Aug 10 – TBD – TBD Aug 11 – Woodstock, NB – Monteith Manor Aug 12 – Halifax, NS – Gus’ Pub Aug 14 – Corner Brook, NL – TBC Aug 15 – St. John’s, NL – The Rockhouse Aug 17 – Truro, NS – Marigold Cult. Centre (Lobby) Aug 18 – Quebec City, QC – L’Anti Aug 19 – Ottawa, ON – Dominion Tavern Aug 21 – Saskatoon, SK – TBC Aug 22 – Calgary, AB – Dicken’s Aug 23 – Kelowna, BC – Jackknife Brewing
Formed in 2011, IRON KINGDOM have spent over a decade championing the classic heavy metal tradition, drawing influence from legends such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Helloween, Scorpions, and Rush. Known for their electrifying live performances, intricate musicianship, and unwavering dedication to the genre, the band has toured extensively across Canada, the USA, Europe, and Brazil, sharing stages with acts like Night Demon and Blaze Bayley.
Shadows and Dust marks the next chapter in their evolution, an album that blends old‑school metal spirit with fresh energy and emotional depth.
In a year marking the 40th anniversary of their initial formation, under the moniker Black Death, 2026 sees the return of the imperishable Norwegian duo and influential genre legends Fenriz and Nocturno Culto and their new studio album Pre-Historic Metal, set for release on May 8th via Peaceville Records.
Following swiftly on from the recently released The Fist in the Face of God boxset covering the band’s revered early Black Metal period, it is time for the Norwegian riff-meisters to emerge from their caves once more, for their new opus of high calibre old metal, under the banner of Pre-Historic Metal.
As Fenriz himself proclaims of the title’s symbolic origin, “Prehistoric is a loose term.I just figure it’s our VIBE, our take on things and it’s more a statement that we use old style to create something new”.
A continuation of 2024’s stellar ‘It Beckons Us All’, ‘Pre-Historic Metal’ is a ferocious slab of primal epics & gargantuan riffs with organic sound, graced with the ever-present permeating spirit of the 70s and 80s. This next chapter in Darkthrone’s unyielding saga presents a vast odyssey through the sonic landscapes of Thrash, Black, Heavy and Doom Metal and, adorned with a punishing and “in your face” guitar presence, Darkthrone stirs the cauldron of savage creativity with a nod to the writing methods which were indicative of their earlier works of the late 80s, but with a more refined craft.
Photo credit – Peer Olav Kittilsen
Summarizing what the album represents, Fenriz explains: “It means that we are metal. With very loud guitars. “Frightfully barbaric but not without finesse”, I call it. We collaborated in the studio more than ever, who’s playing what is still in a purple haze, but last but not least it was a sort of hardening of the arteries – we decided to tighten the tourniquet and do 8 effective songs brimming with riffs instead of the airy plodding we so much enjoy usually”.
Photo credit – Peer Olav Kittilsen
Pre-Historic Metal was recorded at Chaka Khan Studios, Oslo, with production work conducted by Ole Øvstedal, Silje Høgevold & Mads Luis. Mastering was carried out by Jack Control at Enormous Door, and Maor Appelbaum Mastering.
Pre-Historic Metal – Track listing: 1. They Found One Of My Graves (05:17) 2. Pre-Historic Metal (04:19) 3. Siberian Thaw (06:45) 4. Deeply Rooted (04:58) 5. The Dry Wells Of Hell (06:12) 6. So I Marched To The Sunken Empire (03:21) 7. Eat Eat Eat Your Pride (04:51) 8. Eon 4 (05:24)
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
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