Italian melodic power metal force ALTERIUM is set to return with the brand-new EP Stormrage, further cementing the band’s place among the most promising names in the new wave of European power metal.
Stormrage, a powerful chapter that bridges their acclaimed debut Of War And Flames and their upcoming full-length work, will be released on July 25, 2025.
The EP will be available in exclusive physical formats:
Digipack CD, limited to 500 hand-numbered copies, featuring two bonus tracks
7” Vinyl, released in three colored variants, each limited to 100 hand-numbered copies
1. Stormrage 2. Sui 3. Paradise Lost (Symphony X cover) – available only on the CD version 4. Of War and Flames (Orchestral version) – available only on the CD version
To support the release, ALTERIUM will embark on a series of select shows and festivals across Europe and will make their highly anticipated US debut at the ProgPower festival in Atlanta.
This new chapter sees the band sharpening their songwriting and delivering a fresh burst of adrenaline that both longtime fans and newcomers will appreciate. Epic, melodic, and unrelentingly driven,Stormragereaffirms ALTERIUM’s mission to carry the torch of European metal with pride and power.
Featuring two brand-new singles, Stormrage continues the band’s tradition of blending agile riffs, epic atmospheres, and battle-hardened energy. With soaring vocals, blazing guitar work, and a heroic spirit running through the music, the EP captures the essence of classic power metal while pushing ALTERIUM’s sound into exciting new territory.
Upcoming Shows:
28/6/2025 – Odyssea Rock Fusion Fest (Romania) 05/7/2025 – Spluga Celtica – Campodolcino (Italy) 12/7/2025 – Festa dell’Unicorno – Vinci (Italy) 29/8/2025 – Forest Metal Festival – Bad Wörishofen (Germany) 04/9/2025 – ProgPower USA – Atlanta (USA)
There must be an undying source of inspiration, creativity and endurance where Swedish metal institution ELEINE originate from. How else would you explain non-stop touring – including their 2024/2025 debut headline run – and releasing four full-length albums, two electric and even an acoustic EP since their foundation in 2014? While they’re working on studio album no. 5, ELEINE didn’t want to let their fellowship wait even longer and therefore announce the release of a brand new EP.
Rewarding those without the band wouldn’t be what it is today – their endlessly supportive fan base – the Swedish outfit will put out We Stand United on September 5, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music, concurring with the first date of the Domination European tour which will see ELEINE enter the stages as special guests to German metal commandos PRIMAL FEAR.
The EP will comprise five tracks, featuring two unheard pieces: an intro called “Towards The Fields” as well as its title song, a future live favourite cementing the massive bonding between both band and fans, which makes the limited CD and vinyl versions of We Stand United a must-add to every ELEINE collection.
The self-produced offering was recorded at Studio Bohus in Kungälv, Sweden before ELEINE handed the new material to trusted mixing/mastering engineer Thomas “Plec” Johansson (The Panic Room Studio). With the layout finished by Madeleine, the EP’s artwork was then crafted by the band’s long-time partner Nestor Avalos alongside the front-woman.
Despite delivering brand new music, an unknown live recording is leading the way to the release of We Stand United, which once again refers to the special connection between ELEINE and their supporters.
Original members Madeleine Liljestam (vocals) and Rikard Ekberg (guitars, vocals) state: “To introduce you to our upcoming EP we chose this one live track as the first single. We feel it represents us and presents ELEINE in a setting we love and one we do very well: PERFORMING LIVE! This is ‘Never Forget’ live from Masters of Rock 2024 in the Czech Republic, and although we had just slept 1-2 hours, scorching hot sun and 50°C (122°F) on stage – we had a great show with an amazing crowd at one of the best festivals out there. We are also rising from a rough start of 2025, and we are reclaiming our lives that truly felt like under the darkest of skies. The scars are present, but ELEINE is and will always remain – alongside with our dedicated and loyal fans!”
HELLOWEEN, the legendary German metal band with 21 gold and platinum awards and over ten million records sold, will release their highly anticipated new album Giants & Monsters this August. The album, now available for pre-order, follows their self-titled #1 2021 record and promises to be the most versatile and dynamic release of their career. Mixed at the legendary Wisseloord Studios in Hilversum, Netherlands (IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, DEF LEPPARD etc.),Giants & Monstersreaffirms the band’s position at the pinnacle of the metal world.
Leading the charge is the album’s first single, “This Is Tokyo,” accompanied by a visual homage to Japan. The powerful, four-minute anthem features vocalists Andi Deris and Michael Kiske and delivers a chorus designed for stadium sing-alongs. The song holds personal significance for Deris: “I’ve always wanted to write this song. Japan plays a special role in my life because I had my first big successes there. I wanted to create a tribute to Japan for a while now and finally found the right lyrics. Because ‘Tokyo’ sounds better than ‘Japan,’ the city stands for a whole country that is very important to me.”
HELLOWEEN will celebrate four decades of metal mastery with a global 40th anniversary tour. The European leg begins in mid-October, with initial dates selling out quickly and additional shows in Madrid and Bochum already on sale. Featuring an ultimate set list packed with surprises, the tour will showcase the band’s unparalleled legacy and ongoing creative power.
Giants & Monsters pushes the boundaries of HELLOWEEN’s sound, thanks to the instincts of producers Charlie Bauerfeind and Dennis Ward, as well as the band’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Per example, drummer Dani Löble recorded all tracks using three different drum kits to capture the perfect vibe for each song, a testament to their attention to detail and love of experimentation.
Photo credit: Mathias Bothor
L-R: Daniel Löble (drums), Michael Weikath (guitars), Markus Grosskopf (bass), Michael Kiske (vocals), Sascha Gerstner (guitars), Andi Deris (vocals), Kai Hansen (guitars, vocals)
The band’s chemistry continues to drive their success. “What keeps motivating us is the fact that we’re extremely different. It generates creative energy,” says guitarist Michael Weikath. Kai Hansen adds: “We try not to take ourselves and everything around us too seriously.”Deris sums it up: “In the end, we’re just seven guys who want to make music and enjoy the incomparable force that arises when we’re together. HELLOWEEN is way more powerful than the sum of its parts.”
With Giants & Monsters, HELLOWEEN boldly step into their fifth decade, proving once again why they remain one of the most influential and beloved bands in heavy metal.
Giants & Monsters – Track Listing: 01. Giants On The Run 02. Savior Of The World 03. A Little Is A Little Too Much 04. We Can Be Gods 05. Into The Sun 06. This Is Tokyo 07. Universe (Gravity For Hearts) 08. Hand Of God 09. Under The Moonlight 10. Majestic
August 15th will see Dutch metal frontrunners Martyr release their forthcoming studio offering entitled Dark Believer.
The album will be available on CD, Vinyl and Digital formats through the band’s label ROAR, pre-order your favorite choice of format now on: https://martyr.rpm.link/dbalbumPR
After Martyr just recently revealed their album title track, the five-piece band is now premiering a music video for their new single “Wrath of the Fallen”!
“The second single from our new album Dark Believer hits like a storm. Wrath of the Fallen doesn’t wait,it kicks in immediately with a crushing riff, pounding drums, and thunderous bass,”the band comments. “And it gets even heavier when the superb vocals tear through. From the first second to the last, it’s non-stop, punishing metal that refuses to let go. Lyrically, this track is about crawling through darkness and despair, only to rise again with rage in your heart and fire in your veins. When you’ve lost everything…When you’re surrounded by shadows… “Voices remind me I’m real.” This is the sound of the fallen fighting back. For the outcasts, the damned, the survivors, This is your battle hymn. This is Wrath of the Fallen.”
Album Track-list: 01 – Darkness Before Dawn 02 – Dark Believer 03 – Wrath of the Fallen 04 – Cemetery Symphony 05 – Insidious 06 – The Weight of Words 07 – Venoms Scent 08 – Harvest Of Souls 09 – Legions Of The Cross
MARTYR: Rop van Haren – Vocals Rick Bouwman – Guitars Justin Schut – Guitars Vinnie Wassink – Bass Elwin Molenaar – Drums
Less than three months before their new album Domination hits the shelves (September 5, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music), German metal frontrunners PRIMAL FEAR shift up another gear with “TheHunter“. The second single from the record tells a conceived story while it musically sounds the attack for the quintet’s upcoming record.
Being also the opening track of Domination, the track builds up tension with anthemic lead harmonies before bursting drums and guitars break through the idyll to set the tone for another highly melodic piece from PRIMAL FEAR’s musical forge. The single additionally cements the thoroughly positive impression the group left with first single “Far Away”, which saw them introduce their striking new line-up.
“Science fiction scenery, the beast is behind you, it’s me, I’m THE HUNTER, so better watch out, I smell your blood and I’m gonna get you!” warns vocalist Ralf Scheepers grinningly.
Photo credit: Heiko Roith
L-R: Mat Sinner (bass, vocals), André Hilgers (drums), Thalìa Bellazecca (guitars), Ralf Scheepers (vocals), Magnus Karlsson (guitars)
Picking up the dystopian theme of the single, director Patric Ullaeus (IN FLAMES, AMARANRATHE, EVERGREY etc.) placed the band — Scheepers, bassist/vocalist Mat Sinner, guitarists Thalìa Bellazecca and Magnus Karlsson, and drummer André Hilgers — in ruined environment to create a ‘metal as f**k’ music video where they find themselves surrounded by hellfire.
01. The Hunter 02. Destroyer 03. Far Away 04. I Am The Primal Fear 05. Tears Of Fire 06. Heroes And Gods 07. Hallucinations 08. Eden [feat. Melissa Bonny of AD INFINITUM] 09. Scream 10. The Dead Don’t Die 11. Crossfire 12. March Boy March 13. A Tune I Won’t Forget Bonus Track [physical only; excl. jewel case-CD] 14. Bridges Will Burn
02.07.2025 DE Ballenstedt – Rockharz Open Air *SOLD OUT* 18.07.2025 IT Cremona – Luppolo in Rock 21.08.2025 DE Haddeby – Baltic Open Air 23.08.2025 UK Newark – Stonedead Festival *SOLD OUT*
“Domination” Tour 2025 w/ ELEINE 05.09.2025 DE Hamburg – Markthalle 06.09.2025 DE Leipzig – Anker 07.09.2025 DE Bochum – Zeche 09.09.2025 DE Aschaffenburg – Colos-Saal 10.09.2025 DE Munich – Backstage 12.09.2025 DE Memmingen – Kaminwerk 13.09.2025 DE Mannheim – Capitol 14.09.2025 DE Regensburg-Obertraubling – Eventhall Airport 16.09.2025 CH Pratteln – Konzertfabrik Z7 18.09.2025 DE Berlin – Hole 44 19.09.2025 DE Naila – Frankenhalle 20.09.2025 DE Stuttgart – Im Wizemann (Halle) 21.09.2025 BE Sint-Niklaas – De Casino 23.09.2025 NL Amstelveen – P60 25.09.2025 PL Warsaw – Stodola 26.09.2025 CZ Prague – MeetFactory 27.09.2025 CZ Zlín – Masters of Rock Café 30.09.2025 ES Madrid – Mon 01.10.2025 ES Murcia – Garaje 03.10.2025 ES Barcelona – Salamandra 04.10.2025 ES Pamplona – Sala Totem
THE WAIT IS FINALLY OVER! OUR NEW ALBUM, VIDEO SINGLE, TOUR DATES & COVER REVEALED!
2 years after the release of THE DARK TOWER, we are excited to introduce you to INQUISITION, our highly anticipated new album, that will be released on August 22nd, 2025 via Napalm Records.
Our new album cover painted for the band by our friend magicfingers Gyula Havancsák, the videoclip recorded by Dream Film Factory and for the recording and production, our old friend V.O.Pulver at Little Creek Studio in Switzerland!
Inquisition will be available on August 22, 2025 in the following formats:
1 CD Digipak
1 LP Black
1 LP Translucent Orange (GSA, CH – SWISS EDITION)
1 LP Translucent Orange Black Splatter
1 LP Cross Red Black
2 LP Die Hard Gold Black Marbled (feat. 1 LP Inquisition + 1 LP The Night Of The Witch LIVE Album, 8p Booklet)
BLACK RED Band Limited numbered to 200 edition with poster.
Deluxe Wooden Box (feat. CD + Live CD + Autograph Card + Pendant + Gloves + Patch)
Music Cassette
Digital Album
BURNING WITCHES Live – US Tour:
08/30/25 – Pompano Beach – FL – Piper’s Pub 08/31/25 – Clearwater – FL – Road House 09/02/25 – Atlanta – GA – Masquerade 09/04/25 – Covington – KY – Madison Live 09/05/25 – Westland – MI – Token Lounge 09/06/25 – Columbus – OH – The King Of Clubs 09/07/25 – Cleveland – OH – Beachland Ballroom 09/09/25 – Pittsburgh – PA – Crafthouse Stage & Grill 09/10/25 – Harrisburg – PA – Club XL 09/11/25 – Philadelphia – PA – City Winery 09/12/25 – Teaneck – NJ – The Debonair Music Hall 09/13/25 – New Bedford – MA – The Vault 09/14/25 – Hampton Beach – NH – Wally’s 09/17/25 – Annapolis – MD – Rams Head On Stage 09/18/25 – Virginia Beach – VA – Elevation 27 09/20/25 – Sanford – FL – West End Trading Co
Europe – WITCHES AND KINGS TOUR 2026:
09.01.26 Milano – Legend Club IT 10.01.26 Obertraubling – Airport DE 11.01.26 Zlin – Masters Of Rock Cafe CZ 13.01.26 Rubigen – Mühle Hunziken CH 14.01.26 Brugg – Salzhaus CH 15.01.26 Basel – Sudhaus CH 16.01.26 Langenthal – Old Capitol CH 17.01.26 Zug – Galvanik CH 18.01.26 St.Gallen – Grabenhalle CH 19.01.26 Glarus – Kulturzentrum Hölastei CH 20.01.26 Monthey – Pont Rouge CH 21.01.26 Wetzikon – Kulturfabrik CH 23.01.26 London – The Dome UK 24.01.26 Birmingham – The Asylum UK 25.01.26 Manchester – Academy 3 UK 27.01.26 Kortrijk – DVG Club BE 28.01.26 Paris – Backstage By The Mill FR 29.01.26 Essen – Turock DE 30.01.26 Kaiserslautern – Kammgarn DE 31.01.26 Aschaffenburg – Colos Saal DE 01.02.26 München – Backstage Halle DE 03.02.26 Nürnberg – Hirsch DE 04.02.26 Leipzig – Hellraiser DE 05.02.26 Hannover – Musikzentrum DE 06.02.26 Hamburg – Logo DE 07.02.26 Uden – De Pul NL 08.02.26 Heerlen – Nieuwe Nor NL 10.02.26 Lyon – Rock N Eat FR 11.02.26 Barcelona – Salamandra ESP 12.02.26 Murcia – Garaje ESP 13.02.26 Madrid – Revi Live ESP 14.02.26 Vitoria – Urban Rock ESP
ADDITIONAL DATES:
25.04.26 Reinhardshagen – Wezer Metal Meeting DE 03.05.26 Diest – Hell Open Air BEL 09.05.26 Rautheim DE Rock In Rautheim DE 26.06.26 Oschersleben – Rock & Metal Dayz DE
Four years since their latest, much-acclaimed studio offering Rage Of War, Belgian combat metal powerhouse FireForce returns with their brand new song “Battle of Ramadi”! The thunderous track blending all of the band’s trademarks of epic, raging heavy power metal inspired by historical events, war and mythology, comes with a music video that is now premiering below.
FireForcestates: “This one is about the battle between a regular army and opponents who act like ghosts between the ruins, and don’t fight by the normal rules of engagement. And the frustration and emotions of the soldiers involved.“
“We always knew that no words or short recap videos could truly capture what we experienced together during the “Wolfsnächte 2024” tour. Every night was its own kind of magic – still, we wanted to find a way to hold on to those memories and share them in the most powerful way possible. That’s why we decided to record the full, massive, sold-out show at the Olympiahalle in Munich – to preserve just a piece of what we all felt on this tour.”
“Wildlive (Live at Olympiahalle) will be released on March 6, 2026 on DVD/Blu-ray, in various beautiful audio formats and digitally. This is more than a live release. It’s a tribute and manifestation to the moments we created together.”
This tour marks 25 glorious years of Dawn of Victory — and we’re bringing you a legendary setlist filled with timeless anthems and powerful tracks from our latest albums!
Standing with us on this mighty journey are our fierce allies: Enforcer Witherfall Striker
Prepare for a night of symphonic power metal glory – see you in the front row!
9/5 – Austin, TX – Come and Take it Live 9/6 – Dallas, TX – Granada Theater 9/8 – Mesa, AZ – The Rosetta Room 9/9 – Los Angeles, CA – 1720 9/10 – San Francisco, CA – DNA Lounge 9/11 – Portland, OR – Nova PDX 9/12 – Seattle, WA – El Corazon 9/13 – Vancouver, BC – The Pearl 9/15 – Salt Lake City, UT – Metro Music Hall 9/16 – Denver, CO – The Oriental Theater 9/17 – Lawrence, KS – The Bottleneck 9/18 – Joliet, IL – The Forge 9/19 – Lakewood, OH – Mercury Music Lounge 9/20 – Toronto, ON – The Garrison 9/22 – Montreal, QC – Le Studio TD 9/23 – Quebec City, QC – Salle Montaigne 9/24 – Boston, MA – Middle East Downstairs 9/25 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Monarch
In support of their latest, critically-acclaimed studio album Glory Or Nothing (released in March 2025 via ROAR at THIS LOCATION!),French hard ‘n’ heavy rockers OVERDRIVERS are premiering a brand new music video for the aptly self-titled, high-voltage track “Overdrivers”!
The band comments: “Overdrivers – the true story of small-town guys trying to conquer the world with their Rock ‘n’ Roll!”
Watch the new “OVERDRIVERS” clip, directed and edited by Julien Metternich, now premiering HERE
Since 2015, OVERDRIVERS have been tearing through the Northern Lands like a runaway freight train. Born from nowhere and fueled by pure rock rebellion, these four hard-hitting rockers bring the kind of thunder only cranked-up Marshall amps can deliver. With their amps on blast, they claimed every stage in their path, quickly earning a reputation for leaving chaos and converted fans behind them.
Once they’d conquered every inch of their homeland, the band set their sights on broader horizons, unleashing their electric storm on Spain and beyond. With relentless shows, OVERDRIVERS brought their raw, headbanging energy to rock lovers everywhere, proving that in the face of their All-Powerful Rock’N’Roll, resistance is futile!
Armed with a series of explosive releases, Rockin’ Hell (2016), She’s On Her Period (2018) and the Rock Out! EP, the band rallied thousands of followers and forged an unbreakable army of die-hard fans, while they have just unleashed their most powerful weapon yet: Glory Or Nothing! Their latest masterpiece dropped like a bombshell, reigniting their worldwide crusade and solidifying their place as a force in modern rock. Brace yourself and get ready to rock: OVERDRIVERS are here. Louder, fiercer, and more unstoppable than ever!
Glory Or Nothing – track listing: 01 – Kings of the Road 02 – Overdrivers 03 – Glory Or Nothing 04 – My Girlfriend Is a Pornstar 05 – Cobra Kai 06 – Guitar Playboy 07 – Bad Breath Girl 08 – Meet the Monsters 09 – Ready for the Rodeo 10 – We Are One 11 – Perfection Is My Name 12 – In Fear, Blood and Fire
OVERDRIVERS are: Adrien Desquirez – Lead vocals, rhythm guitar Anthony Clay – Lead guitar, backing vocals Florian Morgano – Drums, backing vocals Lion Das Neves – Bass
This is a major milestone for Finnish melodic heavy metal band Invincia, as they officially release their debut EP, The Enemy Within, across all digital platforms. At the heart of this powerful 3-track collection is the brand-new single “Moon”, a haunting ballad accompanied by an epic official music video, also out now.
Following the strong impact of their first two singles, “The Enemy Within” and “Act of Insurrection”, the band closes this first chapter with “Moon”, a track that reveals the emotional and atmospheric side of Invincia’s sound. Deeply influenced by the theatrical flair of Savatage and the early prog-metal mysticism of Queensrÿche, the song delivers soaring vocals, melancholic melodies, and an epic build that explodes into a powerful climax.
Tracklist – The Enemy Within EP: 1.The Enemy Within 2.Act of Insurrection 3.Moon
The EP was mixed and mastered by renowned producer Erik Mårtensson (Eclipse, W.E.T.) at Mass Destruction Production, ensuring a rich, polished sound that captures the band’s musical depth and dynamic range.
“It’s a mystic and emotional ballad inspired by the powerful nordic nature and a rich storytelling tradition.” says guitarist and founderJoel Karlsson
Despite being 100% independent, Invincia has already gained early recognition in the Nordic Metal scene, including both first 2 singles in Spotify’s official “Metallia Suomesta” playlist, and a growing global audience. The band’s blend of classic Heavy Metal influence, (Savatage, Helloween, Queensryche, Judas Priest, Dio), with contemporary emotions and storytelling is quickly making them one to watch.
INVINCIA are: Kenneth Nylund – Lead Vocals Joel Karlsson – Guitar Alexander Södergård – Guitar Jonas Öman – Bass Mikael Ahlholm – Drums
Hasbro, a leading games, IP and toy company, in collaboration with Reigning Phoenix Music, have unleashed a series of epic announcements for Cold Slither, a newly reimagined heavy metal band based on the infamous fictional group from the iconic 1985 animated seriesG.I. JOE: A Real American Hero.
“This isn’t just an album, it’s a sonic strike straight from Cobra Command!” said Cold Slither. “We’re back, louder, heavier and deadlier than ever. We can’t wait for G.I. JOE fans and metalheads to experience the raw power of our music, culminating in our live debut at San Diego Comic-Con. Prepare your ears for total domination… Let’s Rock and Cobra Roll!”
Following the success of “Cold Slither” and “Knock Em Dread,” the band’s explosive new single, “Thunder Machine,” is now streaming on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music. The hard-hitting track, inspired by the Dreadnoks’ brutal battle rig, delivers cinematic riffs and raw energy; an explosive anthem forged from chaos, rebellion and heavy metal fury.
Coinciding with the single drop, preorders are now live for Cold Slither, the band’s full-length debut album, including a limited “Dreadnok Attack Orange” marble vinyl variant available via Reigning Phoenix Music and select retailers like Amazon, Amoeba and indie record stores.
Featuring 10 original tracks and a remastered version of their cult-classic single “Cold Slither,” the album plunges into dystopian metal with themes of swamp-born menace and Cobra-fueled power.
The Cold Slither album arrivesJuly 25 across digital and vinyl formats, including San Diego Comic Con-exclusive “Zartan Chameleon Blue” and “Blood Moon Red” vinyl variants available only at the Hasbro and RPM booths, respectively.
LIVE DEBUT: SAN DIEGO COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL
Cold Slither will make its explosive on-stage debut during San Diego Comic-Con with a one-night-only concert experience on Thursday, July 24, at San Diego’s Brick by Brick. Presented by Hasbro and Reigning Phoenix Music, this 21+ event promises a full-force blend of original metal mayhem and ‘80s nostalgia.
Event Details – Cold Slither Live @ SDCC:
Date: Thursday, July 24, 2025
Time: Doors at 8 PM | Show at 9 PM
Venue: Brick by Brick, 1130 Buenos Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
Merch: Limited-edition show-only gear including an exclusive t-shirts, posters, LPs, CDs and collectible pin sets
This high-octane live experience kicks off the biggest weekend in pop culture and gives fans a first taste of Cold Slither’s signature metal-fueled rebellion. A must-attend for any G.I. JOE fan who still lives by the battle cry: “Yo Joe!”
Stay tuned for more product details and reveals in the lead-up to Comic-Con. For the latest information on G.I. JOE, follow the official brand social channels on Instagram and Facebook.
Watch JOE STUMP’S TOWER OF BABEL’s “Days Of Thunder” video by Very Metal Art HERE.
JOE STUMP’S TOWER OF BABEL – the hard rock quintet who brings the finest European ingredients to their no-nonsense rock ‘n’ roll – will release Days Of Thunder July 4th on Silver Lining Music.
JOE STUMP’s supreme six-string shredding skills are known throughout the rock and metal scenes, both as the lead guitarist of Alcatrazz and as the shred specialist associate professor at the Berklee College Of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Having torn new earholes with their 2017 debut Lake Of Fire, STUMP and company take it a step further and higher with ten glorious slices of riff-driven, Rainbow/Deep Purple-styled anthems.
Along with the soaring vocals of Jo Amore, the tight-fist-drumming of Mark Cross, the multi-dimensional Mistheria (aka The Maestro) on keyboards, and Nic Angileri nailing down the rhythms on bass guitar, STUMP has once again prevailed in bringing heavy, energetic, yet gloriously melodic music to the table with a style and panache rarely seen in 2025.
“All of my influences are the classic European hard rock masters, whether it’s Ritchie Blackmore, Michael Schenker, or Gary Moore,” offers STUMP. “Naturally, the record gives a modern take on those classic sounds. I also love classical music of course, like Bach, Tchaikovsky, Vivaldi, and I wear all those influences on my sleeve. I do have more of a metal background, and my touch is quite a bit more aggressive, but this Days Of Thunder record is more of a hard rock album than it is a metal record.”
The record’s title track and first single “Days Of Thunder” propels itself off with typically blistering STUMP riffs which shimmer with dazzling technique, Amore’s vocals helping to further evoke the classic era of ‘80s European rock. STUMP comments, “It’s a badass tune that has a Rainbow vibe to it but heavier and reminiscent of early ‘classic’ Dio, something you could hear on the Dream Evil or Holy Diver albums. The band just went for it and the track immediately took on a life of its own… Jo’s great vocals, Mark’s killer playing and of course The Maestro destroying on the keys; it all matches up perfectly!”
Watch JOE STUMP’S TOWER OF BABEL’s “Days Of Thunder” video by Very Metal Art HERE.
Days Of Thunder will be available on CD and digital formats. Find preorders HERE.
On Days Of Thunder, songs such as “Sacrifice” and “The Princess” dance at the edge of speed and classic fireball rocking, the latter allowing some outrageous solos to unfold from both Mistheria and, of course, STUMP, who proudly re-establishes his pedigree as one the world’s best axesmiths. The mysterious and hazy groove of hip-swinger “Alone In The Desert” is a smokey backbeat dragging you into its soulful swagger.
All in all, taking a ride with Days Of Thunder is a Jedi mind trick of vintage sounds with ultra-fresh and vibrant sensibilities that will transport you back to the Hammersmith Odeon and the days when unabashed hard rockin’ talent, power, color, and flare were celebrated and venerated.
Days Of Thunder Track Listing:
1. Dominum
2. Rules Of Silence
3. Days Of Thunder
4. Blind Are Your Eyes
5. Alone In The Desert
6. In The Heat Of The Night
7. Sacrifice
8. Black Knight’s Prelude
9. Trust Me
10. The Princess
Days Of Thunder was produced by Mark Cross, mixed by George Aspiotis and Mark Cross at Studio Aspiotis in Greece, and mastered by Ade Emsley at Table Of Tone Mastering in the UK.
Following their acclaimed comeback Here For None (2023), WARMEN turns the page with Band Of Brothers, their most powerful and cohesive album to date, set for release on August 15th via Reaper Entertainment.
In 2025, WARMEN presents themselves heavier, tighter, and more determined than ever before. The new record combines brutal heaviness, anthemic melodies, and cinematic atmosphere cementing the band’s evolution from a side project to a fully-fledged force in melodic death metal. “We really wrote this album together,” says band founder Janne “Warman” Wirman. “It feels like a real band, a true band of brothers.”
WARMEN’s Band Of Brothers was recorded at various locations across Finland and refined by Mikko Karmila (mixing) and Mika Jussila (mastering) at the legendary Finnvox Studios. Frontman Petri Lindroos (Ensiferum) delivers aggressive vocals and distinctive guitar solos, adding new energy and helping to define the band’s modern sound. The cover artwork was once again created by Aleh Zieliankievic, who also worked on Here For None.
The first single, the title track “Band Of Brothers,” will play a central role in the band’s 2025 live set. Following the album release, WARMEN will embark on an extensive touring schedule across Europe, including debut shows in Hungary and Switzerland, as well as a major headlining tour in Finland. The official album launch will kick off with a special release show at Summer Breeze Open Air on August 15th.
Band Of Brothers – Track Listing:
1. Band Of Brothers
2. One More Year
3. Nine Lives
4. When Doves Cry Blood
5. Out For Blood
6. Kingdom Of Rust
7. March Or Die
8. Untouched
9. Coup De Grâce
10. Dethroned
11. The Kiss Of Judas (Stratovarius Cover)
WARMEN: Janne “Warman” Wirman – keyboards Petri Lindroos – vocals Antti “Warman” Wirman – guitar Jyri Helko – bass Seppo Tarvainen – drums
Saty tuned for more on WARMEN’s Band Of Brothers to be announced in the weeks to come.
After nearly a decade since their debut, metal band PATCHWORK returns with the release of their powerful new album, Scars. The album is accompanied by the debut of a lyric video for the emotionally devastating closing track, “At The End,” available HERE.
Formed in 2010 by five longtime friends reuniting after years away from music, PATCHWORK has evolved from a thrash cover band into a formidable force of original songwriting. Scarsserves as a conceptual sequel to their 2015 debut Exit Wounds, digging deeper into the emotional and psychological aftermath of trauma. Where Exit Wounds explored the moment of impact, Scars lingers in its wake.
The album showcases PATCHWORK‘s signature fusion of thrash, power, and speed metal, sharpened by tighter songwriting, intense performances, and guest contributions from heavyweights like Bobby Gustafson, Kragen Lum, Michael Gilbert, Dallas Toler-Wade, and Ronnie Parmer. New vocalist Heith Gruner and bassist Liza Sanchez inject fresh energy into the band’s lineup, giving the record a modern edge while staying true to its roots.
Among Scars’ 13 tracks is the heart-wrenching closer, “At The End,” a tribute to late band member Mark Sheetz, who passed away from cancer in 2023. Featuring lyrics written by Dave Caruana, solos by Kragen Lum, and a final recorded message from Sheetz himself, the track stands as the album’s emotional core.
Scars was written over six years and recorded at multiple studios, including Scars Studio and The Junkyard, with reamping completed at TVR Studio. The album’s production mirrors its themes: raw, honest, and unrelenting. Scars is available for purchase HERE.
Dutch metal powerhouse Martyr has announced their brand new studio album entitled Dark Believer for an August 15th release on ROAR! A video clip for the band’s first single, the colossal album title track is now premiering below!
“The first single from our upcoming album Dark Believer is HERE. During the writing and recording process, this song evolved into something dark and mysterious,” the band states. “Embracing the shadows, where demons lurk, witches chant, and lost souls are drawn into the unknown. Heaviness meets melody. Crushing riffs. Epic vocals. Relentless bass and drums. It’s pure MARTYR metal. Dark Believer is your first descent into the abyss we’ve carved on our new album. A taste of evil, despair and hypocrisy that stains the soul of humanity.”
Watch the video clip for “Dark Believer” premiering HERE
Martyr is a metal band from the Netherlands, forging their legacy since 1982. The world first took notice in 1985 when their track En Masse (Stand Or Die) appeared on Metal Blade’s iconic Metal Massacre VI compilation alongside acts like Possessed, Dark Angel, and Nasty Savage. That same year, their debut album For The Universe became an instant classic, praised by Encyclopaedia Metallum for its superior songwriting.
MARTYR: Rop van Haren – Vocals Rick Bouwman – Guitars Justin Schut – Guitars & Synths Vinnie Wassink – Bass Elwin Molenaar – Drums
Now, on August 15, 2025, Martyr is set to unleash their seventh studio album, Dark Believer, through ROAR. With headline slots, festival appearances, and club shows on the horizon, Martyr continues to prove why they remain one of metal’s most enduring forces!
Album Track-list: 01 – Darkness Before Dawn 02 – Dark Believer 03 – Wrath of the Fallen 04 – Cemetery Symphony 05 – Insidious 06 – The Weight of Words 07 – Venoms Scent 08 – Harvest Of Souls 09 – Legions Of The Cross
French symphonic power metal band Fairyland are pleased to share their new single and official video “Karma”, taken from their new studio album The Story Remains, scheduled for June 13th, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Bassist Willdric Lievin described the new single: “Karma is a song about the type of people who like using others. It’s a song about a selfish, egoistic, self-centered individual who only wants to please himself, without any consideration for other people. His hallmark: empty words, broken promises, words that are not followed by actions. He doesn’t know that by living like this, he hurts people around him. He doesn’t know that “what goes around comes around”. Musically it’s one of the most beautiful gems that Phil Giordana ever made. The majestic, epic, rich orchestrations make this song unique”.
Talking about the new record, Lievin stated: “After the passing of the Fairyland’s founder and mastermind Phil Giordana, we faced the challenge to finish the fifth album. Phil left plenty of material, but it required a lot of further work. It wasn’t easy but in the face of adversity we excelled and managed to complete the album. This, along with a new lineup, starts a new chapter in the history of Fairyland. It continues the symphonic, power metal quality that Fairyland is known for, but we decided to add some new elements to this musical landscape”.
“The Story Remains is richer and more versatile than previous albums, and we are exploring new musical and lyrical territory for the band. We are happy and proud of this new album, and we hope that listening to it will give you a lot of delight. Welcome back to Fairyland”, he continued.
The Story Remains perfectly incarnates the band’s trademark sound, and songs like “A New Dawn” or “Karma” are a perfect example of the amazing album that will make every symphonic metal freak’s heart beat with excitement!
The Story Remains – Track-list: 1. Downfall 2. To Stars And Beyond 3. Karma 4. A New Dawn 5. We Shall Hunt The Sun 6. Hopeless Still 7. Samsara 8. Unity 9. Council Of The Gods 10. The Chosen Ones 11. Unbreakable 12. Postscript 13. Suffering Ages (Feat. Elisa C. Martin)
Line Up: Archie Caine – Vocals Willdric Lievin – Guitars, bass, backing vocals Gideon Ricardo – Keyboards Brieuc De Groof – Guitars JB Pol – Drums
Emerging from New York’s vile, creature-infested underground, fantasy heavy metal band CASTLE RAT have announced details of their impending sophomore album, The Bestiary. Their follow-up to last year’s critically lauded debut, Into The Realm, The Bestiary will be collaboratively released on September 19th by King Volume Records (US) and Blues Funeral Recordings (UK/Europe).
Since their formation in 2019, CASTLE RAT have created a vivid labyrinth of fantasy lore led by “The Rat Queen” (AKA Riley Pinkerton). Together with “The Count,” “The Plague Doctor” and “The All-Seeing Druid,” the group has carried out countless battles against “The Rat Reaperess” with riffs, swords and spells on stages across the country.
Recorded by Randall Dunn (Sunn O))), Wolves in the Throne Room, Björk) and mixed by Jonathan Nuñez (Torche, Restless Spirit), the band’s latest odyssey features 13 spellbinding tracks of epic carnage and mystical metal.
The Bestiery– Track-list:
1. PHOENIX I: Ardent 2. WOLF I: Tooth & Blade 3. WIZARD: Crystal Heart 4. SIREN: The Pull of Promise 5. UNICORN: Carnage and Ice 6. PATH OF MOSS 7. CRYSTAL CAVE: Enshrined 8. SERPENT: Coiled Figure 9. WOLF II: Celestial Beast 10. DRAGON: Lord of The Sky 11. SUMMONING SPELL 12. SUN SONG: Behold The Flame 13. PHOENIX II: Cinerous
Commenting on the album, The Rat Queen states:
“‘The Bestiary’ is a conceptual book of beasts containing a collection of mystical creatures from a world forgotten. The last remaining souls of each have been gathered and preserved by ‘The Wizard.’ Cautionary tales of each beast and The Wizard himself are woven through the power of traditional heavy metal song and spell.”
With the record’s announcement, CASTLE RAT have unveiled plans for “The Book of Beasts Tour” in late summer in support of The Bestiary. Purchase tickets here: https://bnds.us/jnqiyj
CASTLE RAT Tour Dates: Sep 5 – Boston, MA – Sonia Sep 6 – Elizabethtown, NY – Otis Sep 7 – Montreal, QC – Piranha Bar Sep 8 – Toronto, ON – Lee’s Palace Sep 9 – Columbus, OH – Ace of Cups Sep 10 – Chicago, IL – Reggies Sep 12 – Kansas City, MO – The Ship Sep 13 – Colorado Springs, CO – What’s Left Fest Sep 14 – Salt Lake City, UT – Urban Lounge Sep 16 – Seattle, WA – Clockout Lounge Sep 17 – Portland, OR – Star Theater Sep 18 – Austin, TX – Fantastic Fest Sep 20 – Berkeley, CA – Cornerstone Sep 21 – Los Angeles, CA – Zebulon Sep 22 – San Diego, CA – The Casbah Sep 23 – Phoenix, AZ – Last Exit Sep 24 – Albuquerque, NM – Sister Sep 27 – Houston, TX – Last Concert Sep 28 – New Orleans, LA – Gasa Gasa Sep 30 – Atlanta, GA – The Earl Oct 1 – Asheville, NC – Eulogy Oct 2 – Raleigh, NC – Chapel of Bones Oct 3 – Charlottesville, VA – Southern Cafe Oct 4 – Baltimore, MD – Ottobar Oct 5 – Brooklyn, NY – Music Hall of Williamsburg
Castle Rat is a Medieval Fantasy Doom Metal band hailing from NYC, led by “The Rat Queen,” Riley Pinkerton, on rhythm guitar and lead vocals. On her mission to expand and defend “The Realm” from those who seek to destroy it, The Rat Queen is joined by “The Count” (Franco Vittore), on lead guitar and backing vocals; “The Plague Doctor” (Charley Ruddell), on bass and “The All-Seeing Druid” (Joshua Strmic) on drums. Together they face the relentless wrath of their archnemesis: Death, Herself — “The Rat Reaperess.”
Along their journey, Castle Rat have played in support of Monolord (SE), Acid King (CA), Green Lung (UK), and appeared at festivals including Desertfest NYC, RPM Fest and Hopsmoker, among others.
Since the band’s pre-plague inception in October 2019, Castle Rat have released their debut album, “Into The Realm,” with King Volume Records in April 2024, which has racked up over one million Spotify streams and held the post as the #1 Best-Selling Hard Rock/All Rock Album on Bandcamp upon its release.
The band has cultivated a fiercely loyal following by curating a riveting, interactive, lore-laden live performance, complete with a choreographed battle scene, recruiting fans who crave swords & sorcery, stoner & doom, battle-babes & beasts, Frazetta & Sabbath.
2025 began with an explosive start. Castle Rat launched a record-breaking Kickstarter to fund their second album, fully funding the campaign in just 37 minutes. The month-long fundraiser went on to be the most successful metal Kickstarter in over a decade, closing out at $139K.
“To commemorate 50 years louder, we’re pleased to announce ‘The Manticore Tapes’ will be released on 27th June. This ‘lost’ album from 1976 marks the first-ever studio recordings of the ‘three amigos’ line-up and has never been heard before, until now! Watch the new video for ‘Motörhead’ and preorder with merch bundles now.”
Available on a classic black 1LP, CD and as a deluxe expanded 2LP bookpack, all formats include additional alternate takes and instrumentals for a unique insight into the birth of this legendary band.
Additionally the deluxe bookpack comes with an extra bonus LP – the classic bonus Live: Blitzkrieg on Birmingham ‘77 as well as a bonus 7” featuring two previously unreleased tracks live at Barbarellas Birmingham in 1977.
There’s also a 24 page booklet with liner notes from long-time collaborator Kris Needs.
Release date: June 27th, 2025
Track-list: LP1 1 INTRO (INSTRUMENTAL) 2 LEAVIN’ HERE 3 VIBRATOR 4 HELP KEEP US ON THE ROAD 5 THE WATCHER 6 MOTÖRHEAD 7 WITCH DOCTOR (INSTRUMENTAL) 8 IRON HORSE / BORN TO LOSE (INSTRUMENTAL) 9 LEAVIN’ HERE (ALTERNATE TAKE) 10 VIBRATOR (ALTERNATE TAKE) 11 THE WATCHER (ALTERNATE TAKE)
LP2 — Live: Blitzkreig on Birmingham ’77 1 MOTÖRHEAD 2 VIBRATOR 3 KEEP US ON THE ROAD 4 THE WATCHER 5 IRON HORSE 6 LEAVIN’ HERE 7 ON PAROLE 8 I’M YOUR WITCH DOCTOR 9 TRAIN KEPT A-ROLLIN’ 10 CITY KIDS 11 WHITE LINE FEVER
7″ — Live at Barbarella’s Birmingham ’77 1 MOTÖRHEAD 2 KEEP US ON THE ROAD
Following the success of their debut single “The Enemy Within”, Finnish melodic heavy metal band Invincia returns with a vengeance. Their new single, “Act of Insurrection”, is out now on all digital platforms, accompanied by a powerful lyric video that dives deep into the rebellious spirit of the track.
“Act of Insurrection“ channels the adrenaline and fire of classic heavy metal, echoing the energy of Judas Priest, the galloping power of Iron Maiden, and the epic, melodic weight of Helloween and Savatage.
The track is the second release from their upcoming self-produced EP The Enemy Within, due out June 6, 2025. Once again, the band collaborated with Erik Mårtensson (Eclipse) at Mass Destruction Production for mixing and mastering, bringing top-tier clarity and punch to Invincia’s signature sound.
With two singles now out and more on the way, Invincia is proving themselves a rising force in melodic heavy metal, one that blends old-school power with fresh energy and an uncompromising DIY spirit.
INVINCIA are: Kenneth Nylund – Lead Vocals Joel Karlsson – Guitar Alexander Södergård – Guitar Jonas Öman – Bass Mikael Ahlholm – Drums
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