Four years since their latest studio album, Rage Of War, Belgian combat metal powerhouse FireForce has returned with new song material. Following the previously-released single, “The Battle Of Ramadi”, today, the band is premiering a video clip for their new song “Living On The Edge”!
This blast beast of a track, featuring razorsharp riffs, epic vocals and raging heavy metal power, tells the story “of a jet fighter pilot and his everyday flirting with death,” the band comments. “Dedicated to Pavlo Ivanov, a Ukrainian Air Force F-16 fighter jet pilot, who was killed in action on Saturday, 12 April 2025.”
Today, progressive metal legends QUEENSRŸCHE are excited to announce they’ll be hitting the road this coming fall on the “Volume and Vengeance Tour” alongside special guests ACCEPT. The tour will kick off on November 7th in Denver, CO at Summit and will conclude on December 20th in Temecula, CA at Pechanga Theater Casino.
Ticket pre-sales begin tomorrow and the general on-sale is Friday. For a full list of dates, please see below.
Vocalist Todd La Torre shares on the tour: “We are extremely excited to announce our upcoming 2025 U.S. fall tour with metal legends Accept!
For years and years both bands have discussed wanting to do a proper tour together, and the time has finally arrived. And while we both have our unique stylistic approaches, both bands continue to have a deep and revered history, shared by an amazing fan-base that is sure to enjoy this moment in time.
So it is with great pleasure that we invite you to experience the “Volume and Vengeance Tour” with QUEENSRŸCHE and Accept, and be part of metal musical history with us! See you soon!!!
The cool artwork you see was created by my good friend and friend of the band, Joe Helm.”
11/16: Columbus, OH @ TempleLive at the Columbus Athenaeum
11/18: Greensburg, PA @ Palace Theater
11/19: Wilkes-Barre, PA @ Kirby Center
11/21: Somerville, MA @ Somerville Theatre
11/22: Hartford, CT @ The Webster
11/23: Huntington, NY @ The Paramount
11/25: Sayreville, NJ @ Starland Ballroom
11/26: Harrisburg, PA @ Capitol City Music Hall
11/28: Ponte Vedra Beach, FL @ Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
11/29: Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Culture Room
12/02: Lake Buena Vista, FL @ House of Blues
12/03: Tampa, FL @ Jannus Live
12/05: Rocky Mount, VA @ Harvester Performance Center
12/06: Charles Town, WV @ Hollywood Casino
12/09: Fort Smith, AR @ Commandry at TempleLive
12/11: Houston, TX @ House of Blues
12/14: Dallas, TX @ House of Blues
12/16: Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren
12/18: Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
12/19: San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
12/20: Temecula, CA @ Pechanga Theater Casino
VIP Packages Include:
Pre-Show Meet & Greet
Photo-Op with band
VIP Laminate and Lanyard
VIP Bottle Opener Key-chain
VIP Koozie
VIP Ticket Magnet
Vinyl Tri-Ryche Sticker
Knit Beanie
Tour Guitar Pick Set
One personal item signed Please note: VIP packages do not include a ticket! Bring your camera/phone for the photo op. VIP Packages available here starting Friday July 11: https://www.national-acts.com/queensryche
After setting the tone with “It Takes Two To Tango”,“Time To Listen” and “Hellbreaker”,DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG (DATOG) unveil their most heartfelt release yet: “Strangers In Paradise”.
“Strangers In Paradise” is a true goosebump-inducing rock ballad that gets under your skin, an extraordinary song in every respect. Manuela’s soulful voice opens the track as she accompanies her own vocals on piano, with a haunting beauty, before Peter joins in with a longing and emotional vocal delivery. The song then rises into a powerful chorus where Udo sings more clearly, deeply, and emphatically than ever before, a true vocal highlight for all fans.
Mathias’ virtuoso guitar solo in flamenco style adds a stunning twist before leading into the grand finale, complete with the signature DATOG harmonic choruses. “Strangers In Paradise” is not only a standout track on the upcoming album Babylon, but is also a love letter to life’s journey itself. Even in moments of doubt about the future, it reminds us that being alive is a miracle and is worth every struggle.
Anything but strangers to the rock and metal world, Udo Dirkschneider, Peter Baltes, Stefan Kaufmann, Mathias Dieth, Sven Dirkschneider and Manuela Bibert deliver a tight, dynamic, and passionately crafted performance throughout the album Babylon, that was superbly captured within the walls of the legendary Dierks Studios.
Set for release on October 3, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music, Babylon is now available for pre-order in a variety of stunning formats:
Limited Red, Gold & Black Marbled Gatefold Double Vinyl
Limited Red Opaque & Black Marbled Gatefold Double Vinyl
Gold Opaque Double Vinyl
Deluxe Earbook Edition with CD and enhanced 36-page booklet
Digipak CD featuring a 24-page booklet
Jewelcase CD featuring a 24-page booklet
Pre-orders are available now – secure your copy of this powerful statement from one of metal’s most iconic voices and this extraordinary band: https://datog.rpm.link/babylonPR
Babylon – Track Listing: 01. It Takes Two To Tango 02. Babylon 03. Hellbreaker 04. Time To Listen 05. Strangers In Paradise 06. Dead Man’s Hand 07. The Law Of A Madman 08. Metal Sons 09. Propaganda 10. Blindfold 11. Batter The Power 12. Beyond The End Of Time
Six years after Sacrifice Your Future, Bavarian thrash metal force White Mantis return with their second album Arrows at the Sun. Many things happened in the years after their critically acclaimed debut full-length, not least significant changes within the group’s line-up.
After having parted with guitarist Andre Krimbacher on friendly terms, Matthias Mizera stepped into the fold and was eventually replaced by Enrico Pertoso, “a killer lead guitarist who already played on the The Iron Curse EP in 2022” according to bass player Jan Strobl.
Watch new video “Nekrotornado” HERE Order new album Arrows at the SunHERE
Putting more complex material into focus, Arrows at the Sun continues on the path the band has followed ever since drummer Thomas Taube and bassplayer Jan Strobl joined in 2016 and 2018 respectively. “Based on a traditional thrash metal foundation, the new songs also display some weird, chaotic and progressive influences,” the bassist explains. “Given the members’ different musical backgrounds, we are always open to diverse songwriting.”
As a consequence, White Mantis have refined their sophisticated style of lyric writing even further. The album deals with sociopolitical issues, technocriticism and scepticism towards progress but also spirituality and death as a mystery of life. “Our interpretation of the title describes the struggle between mind and matter, with the sun symbolizing the destruction of causality and the withdrawal of all life.” This is captured in the artwork by Velio Josto, which also sees the return of the mantis as the band’s mascot.
Track-listing: 01 Nekrotornado 02 Arrows at the Sun 03 Pass the Torche 04 Divide and Kill 05 Atavistic Power 06 Over Your Pale Bones 07 Toxic Sniper 08 Roboticator 09 Reality Exists 10 Altar of Technology
It’s easy to hear influences from Voivod or early Megadeth on “Arrows at the Sun,” yet for the most part, White Mantis are very much themselves, with songs such as ‘Reality Exists” or the title track encapsulating their own brand of thrash: crushing melodies, frantic rhythms and multiple turns, all without sacrificing their catchiness.
Given the huge potential of the band, Jan’s final words seem almost too modest: “Self-assessment is always a double-edged sword,” he says. “We know our strengths and therefore prefer to let others assess our significance within the current thrash scene.”
Line-Up: Matthias Pletz – Vocals, Guitar Enrico Pertoso – Guitar Jan Strobl – Bass Thomas Taube – Drums
A new force is rising from the hard rock underground, and it’s coming for blood. ALPHA DESTROYER, the explosive new band featuring Martin Sweet (Crashdïet), Kelly LeMieux (Buckcherry), and Eric Sexton-Dorsett (Sleepless), has officially announced their formation and the impending release of their debut album Fast Lane, coming later this year on Necromantic Press.
Forged over four years of late-night riffs, shared stories, and mutual respect aboard the Monsters of Rock Cruise, ALPHA DESTROYER is a five-headed beast that fuses the muscle of modern heavy metal with a razor-sharp melodic edge. Rounding out the lineup are guitarist/producer Kevin Hahn and drummer Ryan McPhaill, both of whom bring decades of high-calibre experience and intensity to the fold.
Watch the teaser video for Fast Lane at this location.
With influences rooted in heavy rock, classic metal, and progressive doom, Fast Lane is a ten-track juggernaut that kicks down the door from the opening riff. From the high-octane charge of opener “Straight Into the Grind” to the brooding stomp of “Manic Messiah”, ALPHA DESTROYER weaves stories of struggle, power, and survival with a sound that’s both brutal and anthemic.
The track listing for ALPHA DESTROYER‘s Fast Lane album is as follows:
1 – Straight Into the Grind
2 – Masterplan
3 – Dirt in the Ground
4 – Lobotomized
5 – Transmission
6 – Fast Lane
7 – Sweet Dreams From Oblivion
8 – Manic Messiah
9 – Conspiracy
10 – The Prophet
ALPHA DESTROYER is not here to ask permission, they’re here to make noise. Follow the band online and join the inner circle before the fuse is lit.
JOE STUMP’S TOWER OF BABEL, the hard rock quintet who brings the finest European ingredients to their no-nonsense rock ‘n’ roll, are pleased unveil their high-octane video for “Rules Of Silence.” The track is taken from the new album Days Of Thunder, set for release Friday, July 4th on Silver Lining Music.
‘“Rules Of Silence’ feels to me like one of those old up-tempo Rainbow songs, such as ‘Lost In Hollywood’ or ‘Fire Dance,’” explains Stump. “It’s one those ‘driving’ tracks, and it’s one of my favourite riffs on the record. I love the balls of something that rocks like that, it’s got a lot more vibe and it’s fun to play.”
Watch JOE STUMP’S TOWER OF BABEL’s “Rules Of Silence” video, directed by David Amore and Esther W. Pink, HERE.
Watch the band’s previously released “Days Of Thunder” video, by Very Metal Art, HERE.
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, and 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 on Days Of Thunder.
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.
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.
A new gathering in the Pacific Northwestern heavy metal community has been unveiled, as the inaugural edition of SOLDIERS OF STEEL FESTIVAL has been confirmed for the first weekend of August in Seattle.
SOLDIERS OF STEEL FESTIVAL is a showcase of American Pacific Northwest traditional heavy metal and adjacent bands old and new. Its maiden edition will feature sets from The Lord Weird, Slough Feg, Leather Leone (Chastain set), Q5, Twisted Tower Dire, Danava, Greyhawk, Hammer Head (exclusive first reunion show), Taist Of Iron, and more! The festival is presented by NW MetalFest, NW Metalworx Music, Nameless Grave Records, and BabeFinder General LLC.
Brandon Corsair of Nameless Grave Records and more, one of the co-promoters of the event, states, “We – the NW Metalworx guys, Amy from Solicitor, and myself – felt like the region was really lacking in a suitable heavy metal centered festival post-COVID, with the last I can think of being NW Metalfest II and Eliminator Festival in 2019.
We have such a rich scene – both of great modern bands and classic ones that are still active – that a festival like this felt almost like it had to happen, and so, SOLDIERS OF STEEL FESTIVALwas born! We can’t wait for everyone to headbang to the lineup that we put together for this first edition of the festival. See you there!”
SOLDIERS OF STEEL FESTIVAL will take place August 1st and 2nd at the Substation in Seattle, Washington. View the full festival lineup below. Tickets are available now at THIS LOCATION.
SOLDIERS OF STEEL FESTIVAL Lineup:
August 1st, 2025: Slough Feg Q5 Danava Taist Of Iron Serpent Rider Coven Blade Rope
August 2nd, 2025: Leather Twisted Tower Dire Greyhawk Hammer Head Rick Pierce Group Solicitor Silver Talon Time Rift I Am The Intimidator Colony Drop
After the chart-smashing success of their latest album, Bone Collector, followed by an extensive touring schedule, German iconic heavy metal force Grave Digger returns with a brand new, stand-alone banger that bites hard and howls louder! “Bark to Hell”, the band’s latest single, is a fiery descent into chaos, crowned by the king of torment himself.
Obey the call… or be dragged under, Grave Digger’s new track is out now on all digital services at this location: https://gravedigger.rpm.link/bthPR
Grave Digger frontman Chris Boltendahlcomments: “Hey folks, we’re back! And we’ve brought you our brand-new single: “Bark to Hell”! For us, this track is the final exclamation mark to close out our celebrated Bone Collector session with a bang. With “Bark to Hell,” we’ve packed in everything that defines Grave Digger, raw energy, dark atmosphere, and no-compromise power.
Hellish guitar riffs, pounding drums, and my unmistakable vocals are driving this beast forward. This one’s a true headbanger, no playlist should be without it! But let me make one thing clear: this isn’t a farewell. “Bark to Hell” is a triumphant afterburner, dark, loud, and gripping to the very last note. To all our die-hard fans: this one’s for you. Grave Digger still bites – hard.”
This year does not only see German iconic metal institution Grave Digger celebrate its 45th anniversary, but also their 23rd, chart success album Bone Collector, released in January 2025 via ROARhere).
Founded in 1980 in Gladbeck, they set out to conquer the world; who would have thought that 45 years later Grave Digger would be one of the most important, consistent and influential metal bands from Germany. With the release of their ground-breaking debut Heavy Metal Breakdown in 1984, an unprecedented career began that will find its logical continuation more than four decades later with their latest, new masterpiece Bone Collector, an album that sees the band going back to their old school roots.
New Jersey Thrash Metal quartet, Condition Critical, are set to release their third full-length album (and first since 2016’s Operational Hazard). Their most intense and complete effort to date, Degeneration Chamber will be released on September 5th.
A music video for the album’s first single, “Cryonic Intestinal Preservation,” is available at: youtu.be/dl3Oj-GUpHI
Unapologetically true to their roots, the new album pushes the band’s sound to new extremes. It is heavier, faster, slower, and more technically unrelenting. Every track is sharpened for maximum impact, delivering a refined yet feral evolution of their signature thrash assault.
This is not just another record, it’s the definitive Condition Critical statement: uncompromising, chaotic, and forged in pure aggression.
FFO: Slayer, Demolition Hammer, Vio-lence, Kreator, Exodus, Devastation and Pestilence.
Track Listing:
Wretched Aggression
Deconstructive Horrors
Cranial Dissolution
Hydroponic Mutation
Postmortal Simulation
Psychological Epidemic
Incubation Disposal
Cryonic Intestinal Preservation
Excarnation
Credits:
Mixed & Mastered by Mike Low. Guitars & Bass engineered by Tony Barhoum. Drums engineered by James Suprenant & Big Goon Studios. Vocals engineered by Apollo. Artwork by Andrei Bouzikov. CD Layout design by Tom Martin. All music written and produced by Condition Critical.
Photo Credit: Aura
Line-Up:
Ryan Taylor – Vocals / Guitar Tony Barhoum – Lead Guitar Mike Dreher – Bass Ryan Donato – Drums
BIO:
Formed in 2010, Condition Critical delivers high-intensity, no-bullshit thrash metal in the tradition of the genre’s most violent pioneers. Described as “a literal war of sound that attacks you with deadly perfection” (New Wave of Thrash Zine), they’ve built a reputation on relentless riffage, vicious stage presence, and tours across the U.S., Europe, and Russia.
They’ve shared stages with notable acts such as Obituary, Demolition Hammer, Napalm Death, Morbid Saint, Revocation, and Havok.
Wake Up The Wicked Tour 2026 w/ very special guest HammerFall & special guest Wind Rose:
19.02.26 DK – Copenhagen / K.B. Hallen 20.02.26 NO – Oslo / Unity Arena 21.02.26 SE – Stockholm / Hovet 23.02.26 FI – Helsinki / Ice Hall 25.02.26 SE – Gothenburg / Scandinavium 27.02.26 DE – Bremen / ÖVB Arena 28.02.26 DE – Düsseldorf / PSD Bank Dome 01.03.26 DE – Nürnberg / Arena Nürnberger Versicherung 03.03.26 DE – Leipzig / Quarterback Immobilien Arena 04.03.26 DE – Ulm / Ratiopharm Arena 05.03.26 DE – Mannheim / SAP Arena 07.03.26 UK – London / OVO Wembley Arena
Milwaukee thrash metal powerhouse, BRAY ROAD returns with “Wasted Mutiny“, the second single from their highly anticipated (currently untitled) upcoming album.
A follow-up to 2024’s “Burn”, this new song brings the aggression to a new level, fusing death-laden brutality, hardcore urgency, and the undeniable groove of classic thrash. Raw and relentless, “Wasted Mutiny” is a pummeling, in-your-face anthem of resistance and rebellion.
“Lyrically, the song delivers a defiant message: reject the manipulation of a broken political system and reclaim your autonomy,” comments the band. “It’s a battle cry for free thinkers and a warning to those who blindly follow.”
Ghost Cult Magazine presents the exclusive premiere of the lyric video for “Wasted Mutiny.” Watch the video at this location.
The band will appear at two US festivals this summer, the NYDM Annual in West Chicago, IL, and the Blades of Steel Metalfest in Madison, WI. Dates as details are as follows:
August 8 – 9: NYDM Annual @ WC Social Club – West Chicago, IL
Bray Road: Nino Anthony – Vocals/Guitars Peter Kissane – Drums David Moran – Bass
BRAY ROAD derives its name from an actual road in Elkhorn, WI, where the popular cryptozoological werewolf-like creature, the Beast of Bray Road, is said to stalk the area.
The band’s debut full-length recording (recorded in 2015 via Cavern Entertainment), Feast Upon the Helpless, was released in the Spring of 2017.
BRAY ROAD’s follow-up 5-song E.P. entitled Formation was released in early 2019 and highlighted the band’s direction, featuring a more aggressive and heavy approach across the board, while still maintaining the Thrash / Groove Metal elements that complemented the BRAY ROAD sonic landscape.
BRAY ROAD‘s latest release “Focused.Fierce.Relentless…” 2023, highlights the band’s current musical direction.
BRAY ROAD has shared the stage with and opened for International touring acts such as Testament, Raven, Jungle Rot and the legendary Grim Reaper, Battlecross, Morbid Saint, Deceased, Embalmer, N.S.O.A. RAVEN, Whiplash, Prong, DRI, TOXXIC, Morta Skuld, Ross The Boss, and many regional touring acts, and continue to storm the local and regional scene with some of the best bands and venues around.
Ferocious metal upstarts LIONS AT THE GATE will hit the road this fall as part of DEATH ANGEL’s highly anticipated North American tour. The 17-date run kicks off November 26 in Denver, CO, and concludes December 17 in Los Angeles, CA, promising an unforgettable lineup of thrash, groove, and sonic brutality.
Joining the tour as direct support is the explosive TOXIC HOLOCAUST, with rising thrashers MISFIRE opening each night. When LIONS AT THE GATE take the stage, they’ll bring their signature fusion of aggressive grooves, melodic hooks, and impassioned intensity to fans across the country.
“Excited and honored to support the legendary Bay Area metal band Death Angel this Winter! Their albums Frolic Through The Park and Act III were worn thin on my record player. Looking forward to seeing the lion pride and making new friends!” – Cristian Machado
FULL TOUR DATES:
11/26 – Denver, CO – Oriental Theater 11/28 – Joliet, IL – The Forge 11/29 – Davenport, IA – Capitol Theater 11/30 – Minneapolis, MN – Varsity Theater 12/2 – Indianapolis, IN – Vogue 12/3 – Pittsburgh, PA – Mr Smalls Theater 12/4 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Monarch 12/5 – Worcester, MA – The Palladium 12/6 – Albany, NY – Empire Live 12/7 – Reading, PA – Reverb 12/10 – Dallas, TX – Southside Ballroom 12/11 – Houston, TX – Warehouse Midtown 12/12 – Corpus Christi, TX – House of Rock 12/13 – San Antonio, TX – Vibes 12/15 – Albuquerque, NM – Sunshine Theater 12/16 – Tucson, AZ – 191 Toole 12/17 – Los Angeles, CA – The Belasco
General public on-sale begins Friday, June 27 at 10 AM local time. Additional presale opportunities will roll out earlier in the week. Tickets will be available HERE.
About LIONS AT THE GATE:
Nestled in the creative heart of Los Angeles, LIONS AT THE GATE features an ensemble of seasoned musicians, including vocalist Cristian Machado, formerly of ILL NIÑO, alongside guitarists Diego Verduzco and Ahrue Luster, whose past stints with ILL NIÑO and MACHINE HEAD have seasoned their artistry. They are joined by bassist Stephen Brewer, previously of WESTFIELD MASSACRE, and drummer Josh Cuadra.
Together, they burst onto the music scene with their electrifying debut single “Not Even Human,” which rocketed to #3 on the Apple Metal charts, followed by “Bed of Nails,” celebrated for its widespread acclaim on Billboard. Their debut album, The Excuses We Cannot Make, launched in August 2023, marking a bold new chapter and debuting on Billboard’s Top 100, Top New Artists, and Heatseekers charts.
Above are 8 VOIVOD band logo pins I bought at their February 28th, 2024 show in Columbus, Ohio, at King Of Clubs. I can never pass over the band pins at the merch tables, when I hit up the concerts! The mighty VOIVOD were in true Metal form that night! You can read all about my time seeing VOIVOD by clicking the link below! Metal be thy name. – Stone
I bought this CD single of Black Sabbaths’ “Paranoid” with the B side of “Iron Man” back around 2007. If I remember correctly, I found this little metal gem at Best Buy. The CD tray slides out from the cardboard jacket.
I can’t find the actual release date for this CD single, yet it was released to promote Black Box: The Complete Black Sabbath 1970-1978; which was released back on April 27, 2004, via Warner Bros./Rhino.
Black Sabbaths’ Paranoid studio album was originally released in Europe on Sept. 18, 1970 and includes both “Paranoid” and “Iron Man”.
Black Sabbath: Tony Iommi (guitar), Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Geezer Butler (bass), Bill Ward (drums)
Thanks for stopping by and checking out my Black Sabbath CD single! Stay safe out there and Metal be thy name. – Stone
Mystical masters of heavy metal CASTLE RATT recently announced their latest epic The Bestiary will be unleashed on September 19th via King Volume Records (US) and Blues Funeral Recordings (UK/Europe).
Today, the otherworldly outliers introduce fans to the protagonist in their forthcoming saga, the “Wizard.” Available for streaming now, and accompanied by an enchanting video revealed at Decibel, “WIZARD” sets an ominous and heavy tone for one of metal’s most bewitching odysseys.
Regarding the new single, Charley Ruddell (Plague Doctor) states:
“Musically, ‘WIZARD’ was a big step in a new direction for us as a band. We found ourselves collaborating more closely with each other and piecing together ideas more intricately than on previous songs. We channeled the new wave of british heavy metal; the galloping drum break and harmonized guitar leads were largely inspired by Iron Maiden and Judas Priest. Franco’s solo at the end, which was recorded in one take, was inspired by ‘Electric Eye.’”
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.
Commenting on the new album, The Rat Queen says:
“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.”
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
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