BARREN PATH (Gridlink, Maruta), the new force in grindcore, will embark on the West Coast MMXXVI tour at the end of April for a seven-date jaunt. Willowtip label-mates, GIGAN, will appear on four of those dates. The tour wraps up in Seattle at Northwest Terror Fest.
Tour dates are as follows:
April 30 – San Diego, CA – The Banshee* May 1 – Long Beach, CA – Que Sera* May 2 – Los Angeles, CA – Zebulon May 3 – Atascadero, CA – Dark Nectar May 4 – Sacramento, CA – Cafe Colonial* May 5 – Oakland, CA – Thee Stork Club* May 9 – Seattle, WA – Nuemos (Northwest Terror Fest)
*Dates with GIGAN
Willowtip Records released BARREN PATH debut album, Grieving, last year on Halloween. The album is available on CD, vinyl, and digital formats. Stream/Purchase below:
With the release of “Scarlet Beast – Leviathan,” BELPHEGOR return at their most menacing and deliberate, delivering a track that moves with the force of an advancing colossus. Built upon lumbering, monolithic riffs and a suffocating sense of inevitability, the single embodies a towering presence, vast, unrelenting, and absolute.
“Scarlet Beast – Leviathan” does not chase speed; it commands submission. Favoring tension, density, and sheer authority over velocity, the song fuses ritualistic black metal atmosphere with the crushing weight of death metal. The result is a sonic behemoth, oppressive, deliberate, and unstoppable, advancing through scorched terrain with death trailing in its wake.
The single arrives as BELPHEGOR kick off their North American “Praise The Beast” tour, carrying this new chapter directly onto the stage. The track’s immense weight and deliberate pacing translate into a live experience built on tension and command, setting the tone for a run that promises ritual intensity across the continent.
Accompanying the single is a stark and uncompromising music video that captures the essence of true darkness. Gritty and raw in execution, the visual counterpart strips away artifice and embraces ritualistic imagery, shadow, and decay. It is not spectacle, but invocation.
With “Scarlet Beast – Leviathan,” BELPHEGOR once again prove their mastery of controlled devastation. The beast does not rush. It advances. And nothing stands in its path.
Praise The Beast North American Tour 2026:
02/19 – Brooklyn, NY, Brooklyn Monarch 02/20 – Lowell, MA, Taffeta Music Hall 02/21 – Montreal, QC, Le Studio TD 02/22 – Toronto, ON, Lee’s Palace 02/23 – Lakewood, OH, Mercury Music Hall 02/24 – Joliet, IL, The Forge 02/26 – Denver, CO, HQ 02/27 – Albuquerque, NM, Launchpad 02/28 – Haltom City, TX, Haltom Theater 03/01 – Houston, TX, Scout Bar 03/02 – San Antonio, TX, Paper Tiger 03/05 – Mesa, AZ, The Rosetta Room 03/06 – San Diego, CA, Brick by Brick 03/07 – San Francisco, CA, DNA Lounge 03/08 – Roseville, CA, Goldfield Trading Post 03/09 – Los Angeles, CA, 1720 03/10 – Anaheim, CA, The Observatory
Independent label powerhouse M-Theory Audio is thrilled to announce the signing of Long Island metal force EXTINCTION A.D. To kick off this new chapter, the band will release their fierce new single “Dead Men Running” on all streaming/download platforms setting the stage for an explosive year ahead.
“The band is excited to be working with M-Theory Audio because we have a very specific outline for the entirety of 2026 and how we want to attack the entire year. Finding the right group to be in the foxhole with us for this marathon was extremely important,” reveals singer/guitarist Rick Jimenez.
“Dead Men Running is all about diving headfirst into what you know is right for you despite all opposition from the outside world as well as internal conflict. The journey towards self-actualization is insanely difficult but there is no greater goal to seek.”
Fans should expect a blistering sonic attack and a message of resilience at the core of the track’s explosive energy.
Since forming in 2013 in Medford, Long Island from the ashes of This Is Hell, EXTINCTION A.D. has forged a reputation for relentless crossover thrash infused with hardcore urgency and socially charged themes. Over the past decade the band has grown from raw underground roots to sharing stages with respected acts and carving out a distinct voice in the modern metal landscape.
Critics and metal media have taken note of the band’s evolving ferocity and musical identity. Their 2018 single “Age of Revenge” was celebrated by MetalSucks as a “tornado track” with a chorus “menacing, anthemic, and catchier than a bear trap,” suggesting that “thrash’s future looks bright” with a band like EXTINCTION A.D. at the helm.
Earlier releases, on labels like Good Fight and Unique Leader, further showcased the band’s capability to merge fierce riff work with emotional and thematic depth. Their output has drawn comparisons to powerful East Coast thrash and hardcore hybrids, with critics praising their raw energy and ability to keep the classic thrash ethos alive while pushing it forward.
Thrashing just as hard as their predecessors, the band also break their surroundings down and deliver some heavy as hell riotous mosh; hitting that all-important sweet spot mixture of ‘80s thrash, ‘90s extreme metal and New York hardcore, all encompassed into one. Never afraid to speak their minds amidst a divisive world, EXTINCTION A.D. brings a decisive power to match their frenetic energy. The endgame is not just rebellion but revolution.
UPCOMING LIVE: 4/12 – OCNY Vets Center – New Windsor, NY 6/20 – Empire Underground – Albany, NY 6/27 – NJ Metalfest – Debonair Music Hall – Teaneck, NJ
EXTINCTION A.D. are: Rick Jimenez – vocals and guitar Ian Cimaglia – lead guitar and vocals Tom Wood – bass Mike Sciulara – drums
Seattle (WA) – Cruz Del Sur Music has released new Greyhawk album, Warriors of Greyhawk. The official video for the title track is out as well and available at: youtu.be/fa44hjT_qq4
Greyhawk will hit the road in May with Alestorm and Twilight Force for the Mostly Canadian Tour 2026. Tour dates are as follows:
May 19 – Montreal, QC @ Place Bell May 22 – Toronto, ON @ Rebel May 23 – Sudbury, ON @ The Grand May 25 – Thunder Bay, ON @ NV Music Hall May 26 – Winnipeg, MB @ Burton Cummings Theatre May 28 – Edmonton, AB @ Midway Music Hall May 29 – Calgary, AB @ MacEwan Hall May 31 – Vancouver, BC @ Commodore Ballroom
Fusing classic U.S. power metal, AOR and all things epic metal; Greyhawk returns with their third album of triumphant battle hymns!
Refreshed, rejuvenated and ready for adventure; Greyhawk are back with their third album of epic, melodic power/heavy metal fused with an anthemic AOR angle. Shredding guitars, soaring vocals, powerful rhythms and songs that will stick with you are all a part of this majestic opus.
From the very beginning you will be met with soaring guitars, pounding riffs and a classic heavy/power metal attack from the instrumentals. Grandiose and powerful vocals complete the mix, which is perfectly blended by Henrik Udd’s sublime production which is detailed and grandiose. Daniel Porta has provided artwork for this record and clearly the band have had a strong input on all aspects of the release to make sure the entire experience is gripping for you, the fans.
The siege of Seattle intensifies as the Soldiers of Steel Festival reveals the second wave of artists set to storm the stage at Substation from August 13th through August 16th, 2026. This latest announcement further solidifies the festival’s mission to bring the finest in traditional, power, and thrash metal to the Pacific Northwest.
Leading this second charge are Oregon’s Saint, the legendary pioneers of “Apocalyptic Metal,” delivering a high-octane, Judas Priest-style sonic assault fueled by soaring vocals and blistering riffs. For over 40 years, these “Warriors of the Son” have remained an unstoppable force in the scene, proving that true faith and pure heavy metal are a match made in heaven. Joining them for a can’t-miss appearance is North Carolina’s Widow. Active since 2000 with five acclaimed albums under their belt, this performance marks the band’s long-awaited debut in the Pacific Northwest.
The second wave also highlights a formidable array of power and traditional heavy metal:
ADAMANTIS: Bringing the fire of Massachusetts power metal to the West Coast, these No Remorse Records warriors are known for their soaring melodies and epic compositions.
HEAVY METAL SHRAPNEL: A masterclass in high-octane instrumental shred and traditional heavy metal excellence led by Andrew Lee and ex-Yngwie vocalist Mark Boals.
CHAMBER MAGE: One of the most exciting names in the current epic heavy metal underground, delivering powerful, riff-driven storytelling.
SUBVERSION TRIGGER: Les Evans (ex-Cryptic Slaughter) and Brad Mowen (The Accüsed) bring a lethal dose of high-speed aggression and technical precision.
These bands join an already monumental lineup that includes the homecoming of Sanctuary, the first U.S. appearance in 40 years for Sacred Blade, and a 40th-anniversary celebration of The Accüsed AD.
Ticket & Pass Information: Fans are encouraged to act quickly, as VIP and Weekend passes are moving fast.
Weekend Pass ($90): Access to the main festival dates on Friday, August 14th and Saturday, August 15th.
VIP Pass ($150): The ultimate experience covering all four days (Pre-fest, main festival, and afterparty). VIP passes include an exclusive festival t-shirt, a commemorative poster, and additional TBA festival treasures.
All-star heavy metal band DEATH DEALER and Massacre Records are deeply saddened to share difficult news concerning guitarist and founding member Ross “The Boss” Friedman.
The band has issued the following official statement: “We are devastated by the news that our brother, Ross the Boss, has been diagnosed with ALS.
From the very first day this band came together, we have operated as more than musicians, we are a brotherhood. That bond, that loyalty, and that respect for one another will never change.
This diagnosis, however, inevitably changes the road ahead for Death Dealer in terms of new music and live performances. Ross is not someone who can be replaced, nor would we ever try.
His contribution to heavy metal is monumental, timeless, and deeply woven into the fabric of this genre. His legacy stands on its own and will continue to inspire generations.
Right now, our focus is not on stages or studios, but on standing beside our brother as he faces this battle with the strength and courage that has always defined him.
We ask the metal community to keep Ross in your thoughts and to honour him the way he has always honoured the music, with passion, loyalty, and heart. We stand with Ross. Always.”
Massacre Records stands fully united with DEATH DEALER during this time. Ross “The Boss” Friedman is not only a legendary guitarist whose influence has shaped generations of heavy metal musicians worldwide, but also a respected artist whose dedication, integrity and passion embody the very spirit of the genre.
April 30 – Worcester, MA • Palladium Upstairs May 1 – Brooklyn, NY • Brooklyn Monarch May 2 – Baltimore, MD • Baltimore Soundstage May 3 – Philadelphia, PA • Decibel Magazine Metal & Beer Fest – Philly 2026 May 5 – Atlanta, GA • Masquerade (Hell) May 7 – Houston, TX • White Oak Music Hall May 8 – Dallas, TX • The Studio May 9 – Austin, TX • Come and Take It Live May 12 – Los Angeles, CA • The Regent May 13 – San Diego, CA • Brick By Brick May 14 – Berkeley, CA • Cornerstone May 16 – Portland, OR • Hawthorne Theater May 17 – Seattle, WA • El Corazon May 20 – Denver, CO • Oriental Theater May 22 – Minneapolis, MN • Fine Line Music Cafe May 23 – Chicago, IL • Bottom Lounge May 24 – Detroit, MI • Crofoot Ballroom May 25 – Cleveland, OH • The Grog Shop May 26 – Pittsburgh, PA • Preserving Underground May 27 – Toronto, ON • Lee’s May 28 – Montreal, QC • Fairmount Theatre
Digital Album Deluxe (incl. 6 Tracks Bonus Album) Digital Album
EVERGREY LIVE 2026:
Australian Tour 28.04.26 AU – Perth / The Rosemount 30.04.26 AU – Canberra / The Baso 01.05.26 AU – Sydney / Crowbar 02.05.26 AU – Melbourne / The Corner 03.05.26 AU – Brisbane / Crowbar
Additional Shows & Festivals:
25.–26.04.26 BR – São Paulo / Bangers Open Air 08.05.26 AE – Dubai / P7 Arena, Media One Hotel 03.–06.06.26 SE – Norje / Sweden Rock Festival 04.–07.06.26 PL – Gdańsk / Mystic Festival 10.06.26 NL – Amsterdam / (with Iron Maiden) 12.06.26 NL – Uden / De Pul 13.06.26 NL – Zoetermeer / Boerderij 22.06.26 FR – Paris / (with Iron Maiden) 27.06.26 RO – Chimbay / Rockstadt Extreme Fest 11.09.26 US – Atlanta, GA / Headlining Progpower USA
Freedom World Crusade As Special Guest to HammerFall:
12.09.26 US – Raleigh, NC 13.09.26 US – Leesburg, VA 15.09.26 US – New York, NY 16.09.26 US – Worcester, MA 18.09.26 US – Derry, NH 19.09.26 CA – Ottawa, ON 20.09.26 CA – Montreal, QC 22.09.26 CA – Toronto, ON 23.09.26 US – Lakewood, OH 24.09.26 US – Columbus, OH 25.09.26 US – St. Charles, IL 26.09.26 US – Hobart, IN 27.09.26 US – Green Bay, WI 29.09.26 US – Denver, CO 01.10.26 US – Pomona, CA 02.10.26 US – Los Angeles, CA 03.10.26 US – San Juan Capistrano, CA 06.10.26 US – Portland, OR 07.10.26 CA – Vancouver, BC 08.10.26 US – Seattle, WA
On February 15, 1979: JUDAS PRIEST performed at Nakano Sun Plaza in Tokyo, Japan. This concert was recorded for their live album: Unleashed In The East. This live album was produced by Tom Allom. This was the last JUDAS PRIEST album that Les Binks performs on.
On February 15, 1981:JUDAS PRIEST performed at Forest National (aka) Vorst Nationaal in Brussels, Belgium, a stop on their 1981 World Wide Blitz Tour. The band were touring in support of their 7th studio album, released in 1981: Point Of Entry.
February 15, 1984: On Their Metal Conqueror Tour, JUDAS PRIEST performed in Kaunitz, West Germany at Ostwestfalenhalle, in support of their 9th studio album: Defenders Of The Faith.
On February 15, 1991: Ontheir Painkiller Tour, JUDAS PRIEST performed at Oberschwabenhalle in Ravensburg, Germany, supporting their 12th studio album Painkiller. This marked the first tour and studio album with drummer Scott Travis.
Thank you for visiting and looking back on some JUDAS PRIEST history! Metal be thy name – Stone.
Digital Single/Music Video Online; On Tour This Month
From the forge. From the flame. From the will that does not bend.
Today, SILVER TALON unleashes “Iron” – a new single and music video forged in defiance and hardened in heavy metal. Listen now on all streaming/download platforms.
Built on thunderous riffs, soaring melodies, and steel-clad rhythm, “Iron” channels the spirit of classic heavy metal while striking with sharpened modern force. It is a battle hymn for the unbreakable, a soundtrack for those who refuse to yield when the pressure rises.
“This one has been a long time coming, and we’re proud to finally unleash it into the wild. As you might have guessed, ‘Iron’ is a song about cultivating strength, embracing pain, and crushing everything that stands in your way,” states guitarist Bryce VanHoosen.
The official music video for “Iron” is now live HERE – a visual embodiment of that fire and fury. Turn the volume high. Let it shake the walls. Let it remind you what heavy metal is meant to feel like.
With their foundation forged in steel, Silver Talon sharpens the blade once more. This is a preview of a new album being finalized, yet to be mixed/mastered, for release later this year. Spread the word. The forge is burning.
Tour Dates: 2/21 – High Water Mark – Portland, OR 2/22 – Shredder – Boise, ID 2/23 – Aces High Saloon – Salt Lake City, UT 2/24 – Ren’s Den – Albuquerque, NM 2/26 – Rockhouse – El Paso, TX 2/27 – Paper Tiger – San Antonio, TX 2/28 – Lost Well – Austin, TX
SILVER TALON: Wyatt Howell – Vocals Bryce VanHoosen – Guitar Devon Miller – Guitar Walter Hartzell – Bass Nick Van Dusen – Drums
History: Formed in 2017 from the ashes of acclaimed Pacific Northwest metal act Spellcaster, SILVER TALON emerged with a shared mission: keep the heavy metal flame burning bright.
Armed with a virtuosic triple-guitar attack, thunderous rhythm section, and the soaring vocals of Wyatt Howell (Sanctifyre), the band quickly established their sound with 2018 demo tracks “Devil Machine” and “Warrior’s End,” showcasing a potent mix of masterful hooks, lush melody, and technical firepower.
They expanded on that foundation with their self-released debut EP, ‘Becoming A Demon,’ featuring re-recorded demo tracks with producer Zack Ohren (Exmortus, Machine Head), three new originals, and a cover of Sanctuary’s “Battle Angels” with guest guitarist Jeff Loomis (Nevermore, Arch Enemy).
In May 2021, SILVER TALON released their M-Theory Audio debut, ‘Decadence and Decay’ — a masterclass in hook-driven, guitar-fueled heavy metal. Featuring cover art by renowned fantasy artist Gerald Brom and a guest appearance from King Diamond guitarist Andy La Rocque on “Resistance 2029,” the album drew widespread acclaim. Decibel wrote the band “sound absolutely immortal,” while Metal Injection praised their “killer” triple-guitar attack.
The band has since solidified their reputation as torchbearers of triumphant heavy metal with live performances alongside Exmortus, Savage Master, Unleash The Archers, Striker, Powerglove, Hatchet and more.
Watch DOWN’s “Right Place, Wrong Time” video HERE.
Iconic heavy metal supergroup DOWN returns with a special cover of Dr. John’s “Right Place, Wrong Time!”
New Orleans native Dr. John was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist. His music combined New Orleans blues, jazz, R&B, soul, and funk. “Right Place, Wrong Time” was the first single from Dr. John’s 1973 album, In the Right Place, and became the most popular single of his career. The song has been featured in various films and television shows, including Dazed And Confused and American Horror Story: Coven.
DOWN’s cover and accompanying video, shot last March by Mike Holderbeast, comes in celebration of the Mardi Gras season and serves as a homage to Dr. John and his appearances on The Midnight Special TV series, a late-night musical variety show that aired from 1972 to 1981.
Elaborates vocalist Philip H. Anselmo, “Dr. John’s ‘Right Place, Wrong Time’ is probably one of the first songs I ever learned or knew of as a kid. We grew up in the French Quarter and Dr. John’s music was everywhere. Recording this song was something that I always wanted to do and I’m happy that I did it with DOWN. The video was an absolute blast to make. Even my mom is in it! Because of her, I know Dr. John’s music very well.”
Watch the video of DOWN’s festive rendition of Dr. John’s “Right Place, Wrong Time” HERE.
You know it’s DOWN as soon as you hear them. Featuring vocalist Philip H. Anselmo, guitarists Pepper Keenan and Kirk Windstein, drummer Jimmy Bower, and bassist Pat Bruders, there’s no mistaking those gargantuan riffs, swamp blues leads, crashing drums, and hypnotic howls for absolutely anybody else under the sun. The band upholds a certain tradition that countless fans celebrate, expanding their own musical mythos as they leave its pillars intact and untouched.
Stand by for updates on new DOWN music in the months to come.
New two-day black metal fest brought to you by Fortress Festival and Reaper Agency UK
First bands confirmed include Moonlight Sorcery, Inferno, Aristarchos and Cnoc An Tursa
Event in collaboration with Anarchy Brew Co. who will also launch a new “Fortress IPA” brew
Newcastle, UK – The team behind Fortress Festival and Reaper Agency UK has announced a brand-new event, Tynebound, set to take place in the North East of England. Following the success of the sold-out Fortress Festival editions in Scarborough, this new gathering brings a focused curation of raw and atmospheric black metal to Newcastle.
The event will be held across two days on 5-6 September at Anarchy Brew Co. To mark the first edition, Anarchy Brew Co. will release a curated range of limited brews, including a specially commissioned Fortress IPA.
The first four bands have been confirmed for the inaugural edition of Tynebound. Across two unforgiving days in early September, bands will summon everything from primitive raw black metal to bleak, expansive atmospheres, performed in close quarters and at full volume. This is music rooted in isolation, anger, and landscape – the kind that belongs in the North.
Finnish melodic black metal act Moonlight Sorcery will return to the UK for an exclusive performance as the Sunday headliner. This follows their appearance at Fortress Festival last year and marks a rare opportunity to see the band live.
Joining them are Czech black metal veterans Inferno, known for their shift from primitive roots to avant-garde, mind-altering compositions. The line-up also features the elusive Aristarchos, surfacing for a rare live appearance, and Scottish black metal group Cnoc An Tursa, who will perform material from their long-awaited new album, A Cry For The Slain, which blends black metal with evocative Gaelic melodies as tales of banshees, giants, dragons and ancient legends are brought roaring to life.
With a focus on providing an intense, close-quarters experience, capacity for Tynebound is strictly limited to 500 guests. Tickets are available now via the Reaper Agency UK BigCartel store.
ATAVISTIA raise their horns and throw open the tavern doors with the release of “Mystic Tavern,” the first single from their forthcoming full length album Old Gods Awaken, set for release on May 15th, 2026 via Blood Blast Distribution.
“Mystic Tavern” showcases a bold and spirited side of the band. Centered around the concept of a never ending celebration, the track blends blistering blast beats, shifting time signatures, and an irresistibly folktouched bridge built to move crowds. It is epic, mischievous, and technically sharp in equal measure.
“Mystic Tavern” was the first song written for Old Gods Awaken and set the tone for the album’s direction. The record embraces shorter, catchier, and more straightforward songwriting while retaining the ferocity and progressive ambition that define ATAVISTIA’s identity. Folk metal textures weave seamlessly into blackened intensity, reflecting the band’s instinct driven approach to composition.
The single arrives alongside an official music video, bringing the song’s celebratory chaos to life and offering fans their first glimpse into the world of Old Gods Awaken.
Track Listing:
Raise All Thy Horns
Mystic Tavern
Seeker of Time
To a New World
I Skogens Djup
Goddess of My Dreams
Ride the White Storm
Old Gods Awaken
Old Gods Awaken runs 43 minutes and 21 seconds and represents the uplifting first chapter of a two album concept. Incorporating Swedish and Finnish lyrics for the first time in the band’s catalog, the album draws from Nordic heritage and mythic atmosphere while delivering some of ATAVISTIA’s most memorable hooks to date. From tavern revelry to forest mysticism and epic progressive climaxes, the record marks a confident evolution in their sound.
With “Mystic Tavern” now unleashed, ATAVISTIA invite listeners to step inside, raise a horn, and prepare for the awakening.
Formed in 2017 in Vancouver, Canada, ATAVISTIA takes their fans on a spellbinding journey though vast sonic landscapes of snow covered forests, desolate tundras, and permafrost-laden landscapes. Fans of WINTERSUN, ENSIFERUM, DIMMU BORGIR, and XANTHOCHROID will be enthralled by the elements of melodic death metal, black metal, and Scandinavian folk that is intricately woven together throughout their diverse soundscape.
February 13, 2024 – KREATOR performed at Hindley Street Music Hall in Adelaide, Australia, with In Flames. This was the first stop on their Klash Of The Titans Tour of Australia.
February 13, 2018 – KREATOR performed along with Sabaton at Showbox in Seattle, Washington. This was a stop on the North American Tour 2018, supporting their studio album Gods Of Violence.
February 13, 2017 – KREATOR shared the stage with Sepultura at Siemens Arena in Vilnius, Lithuania. Soilwork and Aborted opened. This was on their Gods Of Violence Tour.
Nameless Grave Records is proud to announce the signing of LIVIDUS, a project that stands at the crossroads of progressive black, death, and avant-garde metal. Anchored by the incredible vocal presence of Uta Plotkin (ex-Witch Mountain), the band will release their debut full-length, Scarabaeus, on April 17, 2026.
The album marks a significant return for Plotkin, showcasing her trademark seamless interplay between clean, emotive singing and punishing screams. Joining her in the current iteration of the band is an elite lineup of the Portland underground featuring Christy Cather (Ludicra), Rob Shaffer (Uada, Dark Castle), and Michael Thompson (ex-Silver Talon).
Produced, mixed, and mastered by Keith Merrow at Merrowsound Studios, Scarabaeus eschews modern trends for a weird approach reminiscent of the adventurous spirit found in Voivod, Hammers of Misfortune, and the progressive peaks of Death, Nevermore, and Emperor.
“LIVIDUS is the exploration of the unexpected,” the band states. “We wanted to bridge the gap between the melodic and the dissonant, using the viola and Uta’s vocal range to tell a story of endurance and the aftermath of trauma. This is heavy metal at its most eccentric.”
East Nashville hard rock force KALAMITY KILLS has released its powerful new single, “These Days Are Evil,” an urgent and unflinching anthem confronting division, manipulation, and digital-age addiction while calling listeners back to human connection and personal responsibility.
Written primarily by frontman Jamie Rowe in late 2024 and completed in collaboration with guitarist Jamey Perrenot, the track captures a sense of cultural unrest and psychological tension that feels unmistakably current. Blending aggressive riffs, driving rhythms, and a massive, chant-ready chorus, “These Days Are Evil” stands as one of the band’s most focused and explosive releases to date.
“I wrote most of this song in late 2024 knowing it was something special,” says Rowe. “Putting it in Jamey Perrenot’s hands to take it across the finish line has resulted in my favorite KALAMITY KILLS track to date. Look, it’s no secret the world is in a dark place these days, but we have a say in how we treat others. I want to see the good in people. An act of kindness goes a long way right now. Maybe we all need to take a second away from our screens and show up for someone in the real world. That’s what this song is really about: waking up to the manipulation, refusing to be pawns in their game, and choosing connection over division. We can’t control the chaos around us, but we can control how we respond to it.”
The single explores themes of manufactured outrage, screen-driven identity, fear-based messaging, and the constant battle for attention and influence. At its core, however, the message is not despair but choice. While the world may feel unstable, the band emphasizes that individuals still control how they treat one another.
Emerging from East Nashville’s thriving rock underground, KALAMITY KILLS continues to build momentum with music that challenges as much as it energizes. “These Days Are Evil” reflects a band unafraid to confront uncomfortable truths while offering a path forward rooted in awareness and compassion.
Legendary heavy metal powerhouse NEVERMORE have signed with Reigning Phoenix Music. The band also welcomes to the line-up Jack Cattoi on guitar, Semir Özerkan on bass, and new vocalist Berzan Önen. To showcase the new lineup, NEVERMORE‘s first live appearance will take place on April 1st, 2026, in Istanbul, Turkey.
On this new chapter, guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams share: “We are thrilled to announce that Nevermore has officially signed with Reigning Phoenix Music! It was obvious from the start that they were the perfect partner for the new era of Nevermore. Their passion for metal music combined with the extensive industry pedigree of their team made the choice easy. We can’t wait to get back on stage in front of our fans in Istanbul on April 1st, and we are just as excited to finish writing and putting together the new Nevermore album!”
Reigning Phoenix Music Co-Founder Gerado Martinez comments on NEVERMORE joining the RPM roster: “There are no words to describe how proud and excited RPM is at the prospect of being part of Nevermore’s next chapter. Having been a fan since 1995 when I saw them on tour with Death, I’ve followed them on their entire musical journey and cannot wait for what is yet to come.”
Directed and produced by Ola Englund, NEVERMORE have released a documentary film showcasing their rehearsals in January of this year at Swans Neck Soundworks in Väderstad, Sweden. Featuring powerful, raw performances of their tracks including “The River Dragon Has Come”, “Engines of Hate” and “The Heart Collector”, it offers a thrilling insight into the band’s new era.
The film also sees guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams discuss their decision to bring NEVERMORE back, introduce the new members, and reveal their thoughts throughout the audition process. Additionally, Loomis and Williams share news of forthcoming festival appearances across 2026 and future plans for NEVERMORE.
Icelandic heavy metal force POWER PALADIN have unveiled a brand-new lyric video for their latest single “Glade Lords Of Athel Loren.” Following the recent release of their first album teaser single “Sword Vigor,” the band now delivers another powerful taste of what’s to come.
The song is taken from POWER PALADIN’s highly anticipated new album Beyond The Reach Of Enchantment, set for release on March 27 via ROAR – A Division of Reigning Phoenix Music, and sees the band embracing classic heavy metal and epic power metal influences, fueled by dynamic riffs, melodic leads and a commanding, larger-than-life atmosphere.
Guitarist and songwriter Atli Guðlaugsson comments: “Glade Lords of Athel Loren is a roaring power metal anthem that chronicles the exploits of the Lords of Laurelorn and their heroic struggle to extinguish the masters of rock and iron.”
With their new offering Beyond The Reach Of Enchantment, POWER PALADIN take the next step in their musical journey. The album features eight epic tracks, each unfolding like a chapter in a sweeping saga of power, mystery and adventure.
Building on the success of their debut With the Magic of Windfyre Steel, the band delivers a more mature and refined sound while fully retaining the energy and spirit that defined their early days. The album was mixed by Haukur Hannes (AUÐN, DYNFARI) and mastered by Frank de Jong (BLEEDING GODS), resulting in a production that is both powerful and crystal clear.
Beyond The Reach Of Enchantment – Track-list:
Sword Vigor
Glade Lords Of Athel Loren
The Royal Road
The Arcane Tower
Aegis Of Eternity
Camelot Rock City
Keeper Of The Crimson Dungeon
Valediction
Once again, POWER PALADIN pay homage to their influences, IRON MAIDEN, DIO and HELLOWEEN, while confidently carving out their own place in the modern power metal landscape. The album artwork, created by James Child (Astral Clock Tower Studios), perfectly captures the adventurous and fantastical essence of the record, that promises to be a bold and immersive next chapter for POWER PALADIN!
POWER PALADIN:
Atli Guðlaugsson (vocals)
Bjarni Þór Jóhannsson (guitars)
Ingi Þórisson (guitars)
Einar Karl Júlíusson (drums)
Bjarni Egill Ögmundsson (keyboards)
Kristleifur Þorsteinsson (bass)
About POWER PALADIN:
Formed in Iceland, POWER PALADIN emerged from a shared passion for classic heavy metal, soaring melodies and fantasy-driven storytelling. Since their inception, the band has blended the spirit of traditional power metal with the raw edge of NWOBHM influences, forging a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Their debut album With the Magic of Windfyre Steel quickly established POWER PALADIN as a rising force in the international power metal scene. With Beyond The Reach Of Enchantment, the band further expands their musical and lyrical universe, proving their dedication to epic songwriting, strong hooks and timeless metal values.
BELZEBONG, DOLA and SEKS W CZASACH WOJNY join the ranks for Szczecin’s debut edition
Early Bird tickets sold out – General weekend tickets available!
Szczecin, Poland; 12 February 2026: Hells Bells Festival has unveiled its third wave of band additions to its 2026 inaugural edition. Leading the charge is one of the most iconic voices in heavy metal history, Dirkschneider, who will bring a career-defining set of Accept classics to the Szczecin riverfront on 26-27 June 2026.
Dirkschneider will arrive in Szczecin with a very specific mission: a set comprised entirely of Accept’s greatest hits. While the performance will lean heavily on the legendary “Balls to the Wall” album, fans can expect other Accept anthems too.
In a move that deviates from typical festival hierarchies, the organisers have opted for a “Main Acts” philosophy. Rather than a single headliner, the debut edition will be driven by multiple headline shows. Dirkschneider joins the likes of Grave Digger, Cockney Rejects, Discharge, Furia, Vader and Dezerter.
Adding a heavy dose of fuzz to the lineup are Belzebong, who are widely regarded as one of Poland’s premier musical exports in the stoner/doom genre. Their hazy, riff-driven walls of sound have earned them a cult following across the international festival circuit, making them a perfect fit for the industrial atmosphere of Łasztownia.
The experimental side of the underground is represented by Dola. Over the last decade, the band has emerged as one of the most fascinating entities in Polish music, defying easy categorization. Their sound is a bleak and beautiful fusion of avant-garde black metal, ritual ambient, and sludge, occasionally punctuated by jazz and electronic elements. It is music that demands total focus and offers a unique, immersive experience.
Finally, the festival welcomes the raw energy of Seks W Czasach Wojny (transl.: Sex in Times of War). One of the most talked-about young punk crews in Poland, they have built a massive following through a strict DIY ethic and incendiary live shows that often outshine the veteran acts on the bill. Their inclusion brings a vital, fresh spirit to the 2026 lineup, proving that the future of the Polish punk scene is in safe hands.
Hells Bells Festival will take place in the heart of Szczecin, Poland, on 26-27 June 2026. The venue is the scenic Plac Gryfitów on Łasztownia, a historic island district in Szczecin known for its iconic “Craneosaurs” (historic port cranes) and stunning views of the Oder River. The festival will deliver a mix of international legends, top domestic acts and younger new bands.
Early bird weekend tickets have sold out but general weekend tickets are still available via the official festival website. In addition to standard passes, the festival offers reduced rates for minors (ages 13-18) and special family tickets (for children under 13 with a guardian).
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