Death metal gladiators EXDEO, the Juno-nominated project of KATAKYLSM frontman Maurizio Iacono, have unleashed their highly anticipated new EP Year Of the Four Emperorson Reigning Phoenix Music, via its partnership with Distortion Music Group. The album is out now digitally and on CD, with a limited edition vinyl to follow on March 14th, 2025. To celebrate, the band has also unveiled a stunning lyric video for the EP’s penultimate track “Vitellius”. The lyrics reveal a man driven by bloodlust, yet powerless to escape his fate. Vitellius’ violent end is portrayed with haunting finality, a reminder of Rome’s volatile power.
The band is also currently on tour in Europe in support of DARK FUNERAL and FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE. They will follow this up with a North American tour in the spring in support of SEPTICFLESH and VLTIMAS.
1/10 Burgos, SPA Sala Anden 1/11 Madrid, SPA Sala del Wizink 1/12 Barcelona, SPA Razzmatazz 2 1/14 Lyon, FRA La Ryaonne 1/15 Trezzo sull’Adda, ITA Live Club 1/16 Zurich, SWI Komplex 457 1/17 Munich, GER Backstage Werk 1/18 Budapest, HUN Barba Negra 1/19 Zagreb, CRO Boogaloo 1/21 Vienna, AUT Simm City 1/22 Kosice, SLO Colloseum 1/23 Wroclaw, POL A2 1/24 Prague, CZE Meet Factory 1/25 Leipzig, GER Hellraiser 26.01.2025 NL Utrecht – TivoliVredenburg * * w/ FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE only
NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES
2/10 Houston, TX White Oak Music Hall 2/11 Dallas, TX Granada Theater 2/12 Albuquerque, NM Sunshine Theater 2/13 Mesa, AZ Nile Theater 2/14 San Diego, CA Brick by Brick 2/15 San Francisco, CA DNA Lounge 2/16 Los Angeles, CA 1720 2/17 Las Vegas, NV Sinwave 2/19 Denver, CO The Oriental Theater 2/20 Lawrence, KS Granada Theater 2/21 St. Paul, MN Amsterdam Bar & Hall 2/22 Joliet, IL The Forge 2/23 Cleveland, OH TempleLive Cleveland @ Asylum 2/24 Toronto, ON Concert Hall 2/26 Ottawa, ON Overflow 2/27 Montreal, QC Le Studio TD 2/28 Worcester, MA The Palladium (upstairs) 3/1 Albany, NY Empire Live 3/2 New York, NY Gramercy Theater
On April 11th, Italian pagan/folk metal masters ELVENKING will release their new full-length, Reader Of The Runes – Luna, via Reaper Entertainment. The album marks the spectacular conclusion to the Reader Of The Runes trilogy and promises to close the saga with epic melodies, dark mysticism, and untamed energy in an unforgettable way. In advance of the record’s release, today the band unveils latest single, “Luna,” along with a spectacular music video directed by Matteo Ermeti.
“Luna” serves as the emotional centerpiece of the album and perfectly embodies ELVENKING’s essence. Guitarist and songwriter Aydan describes the song as “a piece that shows ELVENKING in its purest form – epic, powerful, and filled with deep emotion.”
Watch ELVENKING‘s “Luna” video HERE. Stream the track HERE.
Watch ELVENKING‘s official visualizer for the album’s first single, “Throes Of Atonement,”HERE.
Additionally, ELVENKING‘s brand new online shop is now live at shop.elvenking.net. Fans can find preorders for Reader Of The Runes – Luna in various formats, including CD, vinyl (with limited Splatter and Glow-In-The-Dark editions), and a luxurious boxset, available in both CD-only and CD + Marbled vinyl versions, limited to 500 copies worldwide.
With Reader Of The Runes – Luna, ELVENKING not only closes their most ambitious musical journey but also sets a new benchmark in their impressive career. Frontman Damna sums it up perfectly, “This album is the culmination of all our previous work, a project we are incredibly proud of.” Dive into the world of ELVENKING and let their unique magic enchant you!
Reader Of The Runes – Luna Track Listing:
Season Of The Owl
Luna
Gone Epoch
Stormcarrier
Starbath
On These Haunted Shores
The Ghosting
Throes Of Atonement
The Weeping
Reader Of The Runes – Book II
ELVENKING is currently part of the legendary Paganfest Tour in Europe and has a special treat: a limited CD single featuring the tracks “Luna” and “Throes Of Atonement.” This exclusive release is limited to 500 copies and includes a voucher, redeemable in the new shop when purchasing the album — a gift for their loyal fans.
New Album, Scorched Earth, Out January 24th Via AOP Records
Austrian post-black metallers Harakiri for the Sky are back with a vengeance, unveiling an intense new music video for the new single “Keep Me Longing” that perfectly encapsulates their signature blend of raw emotion and dreamy soundscapes. The video, directed by Tim Hanke-Zilles, is premiering on Youtube at 18:00 CET today: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psYrzpTWlFo
“With our latest video for the song “Keep Me Longing” we wanted to write a storyline that plays with two heavy contrasts: Two protagonists, which handle the feeling of loss and despair in two completely oppositional ways. One tries to get rid of his negative feelings by autoaggression in loneliness and the other one finds distraction in the vastness of the city and destructive behaviour. And I think that’s also what life is about: Antagonism and contrasts and how you handle them”, the band comments.
HARAKIRI FOR THE SKYare: M.S. – guitar, bass, songwriting J.J. – vocals, lyrics
In addition, Harakiri For The Sky just announced a full European Tour – tickets are already on sale and you can find the dates to all confirmed shows here:
Europe Jan 24 – Hamburg, DE – Kultur Palast Jan 25 – Burglengenfeld, DE – VAZ Jan 26 – Lindau, DE – Club Vaudeville April 2 – Budapest, HU – Barba Negra April 3 – Vienna, AT – WUK April 4 – Munich, DE – Backstage April 5 – Warsaw, PL – Hybrydy April 6 – Prague, CZ – Futurum Bar April 7 – Leipzig, DE – UT Connewitz April 8 – Berlin, DE – Lido April 9 – Copenhagen, DK – Lille Vega April 10 – Esjberg, DK – Tobakken April 11 – Herford, DE – Kulturwerk April 12 – Weiher, DE – Music Hall April 13 – Cologne, DE – Kantine April 14 – Utrecht, NL – TivoliVredenburg April 15 – Neunkirchen, DE – Geblasehalle April 16 – Paris, FR – La Machine du Mouloin Rouge April 17 – Zwolle, NL – Hedon April 18 – Bruges, BE – Cactus Club April 19 – Aarau, CH – Kiff April 20 – Geneva, CH – L’Usine
North America Feb 20 – Detroit, MI – Sanctuary Feb 21 – Toronto, ON – Velvet Underground Feb 22 – Montreal, QC – Fouf’s Feb 23 – Boston, MA – Brighton Music Hall Feb 24 – New York, NY – Gramercy Theater Feb 25 – Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Soundstage Feb 26 – Greensboro, NC – Hangar 1819 Feb 27 – Atlanta, GA – The Earl Feb 28 – Orlando, FL – Conduit Mar 1 – Pensacola, FL – Handlebar Mar 2 – Houston, TX – Bronze Peacock @ House of Blues Mar 3 – Austin, TX – Come And Take It Live Mar 4 – Albuquerque, NM – Launch Pad Mar 5 – Phoenix, AZ – Rebel Mar 6 – San Diego, CA – Brick By Brick Mar 7 – Los Angeles, CA – Echoplex Mar 8 – San Francisco, CA – Neck of the Woods Mar 9 – Portland, OR – Bossanova Ballroom Mar 10 – Seattle, WA – El Corazon Mar 12 – Salt Lake City, UT – Metro Music Hall Mar 13 – Denver, CO – Bluebird Theater Mar 14 – Omaha, NE – Reverb Mar 15 – Chicago, IL – Reggies
Too Late For Goodbyes (feat. Serena Cherry / Svalbarduk)
Bonus tracks available on special Editions: Street Spirit (Fade Out) (feat. P.G. of GROZA) – Radiohead Cover Elysian Fields (feat. Daniel Lang / Backwards Charm)
Little Rock (AR) – Beatdown Death Metal Horde, Open Kasket, will release their debut full-length album, Trials of Failure, on February 7!
A crushing slab of Death Metal, Trials of Failure comes to you on digital and cassette formats by California-based label, Barbaric Brutality Records. The album will also be available via the Open Kasket Bandcamp page.
Thematically, Trials of Failure revolves around self deprecation and full criticism of one’s self. Sonically, the album is a demolition demonstration of caustic riffing and relentless pummeling. Add guest vocal spots on “Internal Threat” (Stan Liszewski of Terminal Nation), “Chain Whip” (Bryson Sherick of Backbiter), and “Chemical Death” (Jackson Edwards of Zashed), and the package is complete. Subtly is anathema. Force is paramount.
The album’s first single, “Internal Threat” feat. Terminal Nation), will be released on January 17.
Track Listing:
1. Ersatz (Sine Die)
2. No Value
3. Internal Threat (feat. Terminal Nation)
4. Bruised Sprainstein
5. Should
6. Putrid Existence
7. Defective
8. Chain Whip (feat. Backbiter)
9. Chemical Death (feat. Zashed)
10. Ripped Up
Line-Up:
Fox Stillman – Vocals Jacob Stillman – Guitar Ethan Graham – Guitar Jake Rasch – Bass/Vocals Ryan Thibault – Drums
BIO:
Open Kasket is a Beatdown Death Metal band straight from Little Rock, AR. Formed in 2022, the band’s sound revolves around slamming riffs, groovy drums, and monstrous bass. These components together create the all out violent sound that the band delivers.
Credits:
Drums engineered at Wolfman Studios. Mixed/Mastered/Reamped by Conor Haines at Corruption Studios.
Polish Death Metal Legends VADER have posted on their Facebook Page wrapping up 2024 and revealing some predictions for 2025, which has just begun. In fact, the new year will also be full of news for the death metal band, which will release the EP “Humanihility” in spring, while in autumn 2025 they will begin recording for the new full-length album. Also planned for this year, are the reissue of the classic “Black To The Blind”, and the summer tour to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the album “Litany”, which for the occasion will be performed live in its entirety.
Vader stated: “The year 2024 is coming to an end. How was it for the band? As usual, it was very busy. We continued the 40th anniversary of Vader on tours in the USA/Canada and Europe. We played a few festivals in the summer – including Jarocin after 30 years of absence! At the end of August we returned to Grindstone Studio to record brand new material for an EP. We ended the year with the “Freezing Hell” tour, which went around the Baltic Sea. 2024 is also another year played with Michal Andrzejczyk behind the drums. A few months ago, Michał also joined the happy endorsers of TAMA drums.
And what about plans for 2025? The new year will be even more intense. First of all, this spring will see the release of the completely new EP “Humanihility” since the release of “Solitude In Madness” in 2020, as well as the long-awaited reissue of the classic album “Black To The Blind” from 1997 in a new cover with the original cover by Jacek Wiśniewski. Both titles will be released by Nuclear Blast. The recording session for the next full length Vader album will also start in the fall of 2025! Next year will also be Vader’s return to the stages of summer festivals. And we will appear at 20 of them. 2025 will also be the 25th anniversary of the release of the album “Litany”. Therefore, in the summer season, you will be able to hear the entire album as part of a concert set. Most of the songs from this classic album for the band have not been played since its premiere in 2000, and some have never been played. So 2025 will be absolutely explosive and truly vaderish \m/ And we already INVITE you ALL!! Expect our arrival under the banner of Massive Music \m/”
On upcoming EP, Vader issued the studio update: “Yesterday in “Spiderclass” studio in Wroclaw we were working on leads to the upcoming NEW Vader EP “Humanihility” for Nuclear Blast. Mauser works on His part in home studio in UK too. This was a last step before final mix & master of the recording. Scott Atkins should finish the production in Grindstone Studio by middle of January. More details coming soon….”
SABER is an LA-based metal band known for their uniquely sleazy take on the NWOBHM sound. The band emerged organically in 2018 after lead guitarist Joel Dominguez – who was already working on some similar material with rhythm guitarist Jesus Delgado and bassist David Sanchez, received a message from singer Steven Villa about starting a new 80s inspired project.
A series of thundering tracks followed soon after, which were refined into their 2021 debut album Without Warning. Produced and released with the help of Trevor William Church, who also filled in as the drummer, the album was overwhelmingly positively received, being named as one of Bandcamp’s best albums of the year and outranking Exodus and Iron Maiden on BraveWords’ annual Top 30 list.
Sonically and aesthetically, Saber’s artistic identity is firmly rooted in the 80s. With Jesus now as their drummer and the addition of guitarist Antonio ‘Yogi’ Pettinato, the fearsome fivesome pass influences from Judas Priest and Queensryche to Riot and Iron Maiden through a unique lens, creating a distinctly energetic audiovisual experience that resonates with their diverse and growing fanbase.
SABER: Steven Villa – Lead Vocals Joel Dominguez – Lead/Rhythm Guitar Jesus Delgado – Drums David Sanchez – Bass Guitar Antonion Pettinato – Rhythm/Lead Guitar
CREDITS: Sub-Genre: Heavy Metal | Producer: Trevor William Church | Cover Artwork: The Pit Forge, Daniel Porta | Photographer: | Artist Origin: USA
We will release Savage Master‘s fifth album, Dark & Dangerous, on March 28th on CD, vinyl LP, and cassette. Since 2013, the band has redefined occult heavy metal with their electrifying sound and dynamic live shows. Influenced by Judas Priest and Jag Panzer, Dark & Dangerous delivers arena-ready hooks and Stacey Savage’s signature vocals. Blending personal struggles and dark fantasy, the album invites listeners to embrace their inner fire. Preorder details arrive February 2nd.
Modern metal powerhouse REEPER, led by multi-instrumentalist and visionary Elias Andrada, is set to kick off 2025 with the release of the highly anticipated “The Butterfly Effect Deluxe Edition“. This special edition of their groundbreaking album drops on January 8th across all major digital platforms. Fans can pre-save or order now at this link: https://acortar.link/I1hKOP.
With The Butterfly Effect Deluxe Edition, REEPER offers a bold reimagining of their signature sound. Speaking about the release, Elias shared: “We wanted this Deluxe Edition to be more than just a re-release. It’s a complete experience for our fans, featuring new tracks, enhanced sound, and details that tell the story behind every riff and every lyric. We can’t wait for you to hear it!”
Tracklist for The Butterfly Effect: 1. Blur Horizon 2. Fire From Athens 3. Rain 4. Just Enough 5. For All That We Have 6. Self-Indulgent 7. Timelapse 8. Get Out Of My Mind 9. Out Of Color 10. Frequency
Every instrument on the album was masterfully performed by Elias Andrada, showcasing his unparalleled musicianship and commitment to REEPER’s sound.
Visuals That Resonate! The album’s stunning artwork, designed by renowned Argentine creator AbstractChaos, features a vibrant butterfly set against a blue backdrop. This fresh visual direction reflects the band’s evolution, breaking away from traditional metal imagery and inviting fans to interpret their music in new and exciting ways.
Join the movement and experience The Butterfly Effect Deluxe Edition on January 8th. REEPER is ready to set the tone for a new era in modern metal. Don’t miss it!
For more updates, visit REEPER’s official platforms and get ready to experience The Butterfly Effect Deluxe Edition!
Founded in 2016 in Spain, REEPER has consistently pushed the boundaries of modern metal. Under the leadership of Elías Andrada, the band has become known for their innovative sound and relentless evolution. Over the years, they’ve worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including producer Travis Wyrick and Traa Daniels of P.O.D., creating a unique blend of metalcore and djent that resonates deeply with today’s audiences.
With three groundbreaking studio albums under their belt, their latest release, The Butterfly Effect (October 27, 2023, through Art Gates Records) showcases their artistic growth and proves their ability to stand out in a crowded genre. The album is a testament to their dedication to constant innovation and their commitment to leaving a lasting mark on the metal scene.
While waiting for next news and announcements, go and check out their latest videos:
Ukrainian sensations JINJER innovate with their unrivaled fifth modern metal masterpiece! New album “DUÉL” will be released on February 7, 2025. Pre-order NOW!
“Dark Oblivion” is the brand new single from British death metal collective, AS THE WORLD DIES. The track comes by way of the band’s second studio album, Nebula, set for release on March 21st via Reaper Entertainment.
Nebula is a gripping journey through the realms of crushing death metal and cosmic mysticism. Band leader and death metal veteran Scott Fairfax explains, “This album is the quintessence of what AS THE WORLD DIES is all about. We pushed our musical boundaries to create something both brutal and thought-provoking. It’s heavier, darker, and more profound than anything we’ve done before.”
The album dives into themes of apocalyptic prophesies and human insignificance, epitomized by the looming presence of the asteroid Apophis, a key inspiration behind the band’s cosmic death metal sound. Adding a progressive touch with atmospheric ‘80s synths and a haunting industrial edge, Nebula expands the boundaries of the genre while maintaining its relentless death metal core.
Watch AS THE WORLD DIES‘ lyric video for “Dark Oblivion” HERE.
Written and recorded primarily in Fairfax’s studio Riff Central, Nebula is a testament to his singular vision and expertise. With a noteworthy resume featuring bands like Memoriam and Massacre, Fairfax delivers an album that is as musically intricate as it is thematically profound. “Atmosphere is everything to me,” he notes. “Songs must tell a story; otherwise, they’re just a collection of riffs.”
The latest single, “Dark Oblivion,” is a tour de force showcasing the band’s signature blend of heavy, melodic riffs and apocalyptic storytelling. With its brooding atmosphere and devastating impact, the track serves as a chilling anthem for the end times.
Nebula is set to challenge and redefine death metal conventions with its fusion of raw aggression and thoughtful composition. Mixed and mastered by Anthony Wall, the record promises to be an unforgettable chapter in the band’s journey.
Nebula will be available on CD, vinyl, and digital formats. Find preorders at THIS LOCATION.
AS THE WORLD DIES: Scott Fairfax – lead guitars/keyboards Darren Mcgillivray – guitars Chris Mcgrath – drums Bill Richmond – bass Jay Price – vocals
Death/Thrash Metal stalwarts AVENGER OF BLOOD sign to M-Theory Audio and bring you a new single/lyric video entitled “Revenge Is My Name.” Ripping and ruthless, “Revenge Is My Name” takes no prisoners in its all-out assault as the band pummels and crushes all in their wake.
‘“Revenge Is My Name’ is a song about violence and anger! The inspiration came from our love of slasher and horror films, as well as a lot of the first-person perspectives you see on social media and such these days,” explains drummer Shannon Frye. “The world can be a violent place, and songs like this are an outlet for those who experience the same thing.”
“Revenge Is My Name” is the first slice from the band’s forthcoming EP of the same name. ‘The ‘Revenge Is My Name’ EP features four new songs from the re-energized quintet and will be released April 25th on limited (200 copies) throes of ash colored vinyl and CD.
“We are excited to work with Marco and the M-Theory Audio staff,” states Shannon. “Having been friends for a long time and knowing Marco’s dedication, work ethic and knowledge, we knew we made the right decision in this new partnership! We look forward to releasing this new EP and much more great things to come.“
M-Theory label president Marco Barbieri has been a fan of the group almost 20 years and their paths have crossed many times over the years whether it was being considered for Century Media, handling music publishing deals, booking AOB on locals shows, producing a single for Relapse, or handling digital distribution, Marco has always lent a helping hand to the guys and he’s proud to finally add them to the label roster.
Originally hailing from the Bay Area thrash scene, AVENGER OF BLOOD moved down to Las Vegas after recording a couple demos. Capturing a deal with JCM Records the group issued their debut ‘Complete Annihilation’ in 2005 which put AVENGER OF BLOOD on the map and conscience of thrash fans worldwide. Several opportunities presented themselves to perform at festivals like Minneapolis Mayhem, Millennium Music Conference, Monsters of Metal and the Northwest Deathfest.
Two years later AOB appeared on the infamous ‘Speed Kills… Again’ compilation, which featured unknown names at the time like Warbringer, Toxic Holocaust, Enforcer and Merciless Death setting the stage for the thrash revival. The same label, Heavy Artillery, signed AVENGER OF BLOOD and released the classic album ‘Death Brigade’ in 2008, which even featured cover art from Joe Petagno (infamous for Motorhead, in addition to works by Krisiun and Sodom).
Momentum was halted when singer/guitarist Eric Greaney and bassist Shawn Loureiro left the group, but Shannon and guitarist Marc Flores have persevered by bringing in new musicians to keep the dream alive recording various releases, such as a split 7” with Witchaven, the ‘Spawn of Evil’ EP (2012) and ‘On Slaying Ground’ full-length (2016).
Now having a stable line-up for the past years, rounded out by singer Sal Lalli, guitarist Chris Garcia, and bassist Corey Sorrenti, the group even re-recorded the band’s debut last year calling it ‘Completely Re-Annihilated’ and performing at Blades of Steel Fest, alongside Flotsam & Jetsam, Vio-lence, Exciter, Jag Panzer, Massacre, Artillery and Riot V, as well as supporting Death Angel and Ruthless on shows in NV and CA. AVENGER OF BLOOD is ready to punish you relentlessly on ‘Revenge Is My Name’; with live performances in the works and already starting to lay down the full-length for 2026.
Prepare for the rise of darkness – BLACK & DAMNED are ready to set the metal community ablaze! With their unique blend of epic power metal and dark, atmospheric sounds, the South German formation is now releasing their third album, which is set to be released on March 14, 2025 under the auspicious title “Resurrection”. The band captivates with thunderous guitar riffs, intense rhythms and gripping vocals that whisk you away into a world full of myths and inner conflicts. Their music is a storm of power and emotion, perfect for anyone who wants to experience the ultimate metal rush!
“Resurrection” will be released on ROAR (Grave Digger, Mystic Prophecy, Crematory and others), with whom BLACK & DAMNED have just recently signed a new record deal. The album pre-sale has just started at this location:
A music video for the band’s first single release, the captivating track “Ruthless Wrath”, is now premiering below! Stream the song on all digital providers at:
“The content addresses the current situation of humanity,” the band comments. “That people react more and more with anger to events and statements. And this anger is then responded to with anger from the other side. Until one side escalates with volatile anger!”
It is now clear that the band from the Stuttgart area can be described as a real enrichment of the heavy metal world and so they took no prisoners, used the energy of past live shows and composed ten new neckbreakers, which they recorded in the fall of 2024 under the aegis of ex-Primal Fear guitarist Stefan Leibing. Once again, this gripping melancholy hovers over the entire work, which is incredibly captivating and addictive. BLACK & DAMNED have grown together as a unit and with “Resurrection” the band created a profound, melodic and melancholic heavy metal album with lasting anthems!
“Resurrection” track listing: 01. Silence Breaker 02. Ruthless Wrath 03. Red Heavens 04. Bound By The Moon 05. Circle Of Amnesia 06. Injustice 07. Searing Flames 08. Shadows 09. Reborn In Solitude 10. Navigate Me To The Sun
Releasing On January 10th, 2025 on Reigning Phoenix Music via its partnership with Distortion Music Group
EX DEO, the Juno nominated project of KATAKYLSM frontman Maurizio Iacono, will unleash their EP Year of the Four Emperors. The EP is their first with Reigning Phoenix Music and will be released on January 10th, 2025 exclusively on tour and through the RPM webstores. Further physical editions, including exclusive vinyl, will be released February 14th. The band will also embark on a tour of Europe In January in support of DARK FUNERAL and FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE before heading to North America in the spring in support of SEPTICFLESH and VLTIMAS.
To commemorate the release announcement, the band has revealed the first single “Vespasian” along with a lyric video which can be watched HERE:
Maurizio comments about the song: “The EP’s closing track is an anthem of resilience and renewal. Vespasian emerges as a figure of stability amid the chaos, and the music reflects his calculated strength. Triumphant melodies intertwine with thunderous percussion, capturing his consolidation of power and the restoration of Rome’s fractured empire. The lyrics exalt Vespasian as the harbinger of a new era, culminating in a resounding declaration of victory and legacy. His reign ushers in the Flavian dynasty and a semblance of peace.”
1/2 Hamburg, GER Markthalle 1/3 Oberhausen, GER Turbinenhalle 2 1/5 St. Niklaas, BEL De Casino 1/7 London, UK O2 Academy Islington 1/8 Paris, FRA La Machine 1/9 Toulouse, FRA Bikini 1/10 Burgos, SPA Sala Anden 1/11 Madrid, SPA Sala del Wizink 1/12 Barcelona, SPA Razzmatazz 2 1/14 Lyon, FRA La Ryaonne 1/15 Trezzo sull’Adda, ITA Live Club 1/16 Zurich, SWI Komplex 457 1/17 Munich, GER Backstage Werk 1/18 Budapest, HUN Barba Negra 1/19 Zagreb, CRO Boogaloo 1/21 Vienna, AUT Simm City 1/22 Kosice, SLO Colloseum 1/23 Wroclaw, POL A2 1/24 Prague, CZE Meet Factory 1/25 Leipzig, GER Hellraiser 26.01.2025 NL Utrecht – TivoliVredenburg * * w/ FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE only
NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES
2/10 Houston, TX White Oak Music Hall 2/11 Dallas, TX Granada Theater 2/12 Albuquerque, NM Sunshine Theater 2/13 Mesa, AZ Nile Theater 2/14 San Diego, CA Brick by Brick 2/15 San Francisco, CA DNA Lounge 2/16 Los Angeles, CA 1720 2/17 Las Vegas, NV Sinwave 2/19 Denver, CO The Oriental Theater 2/20 Lawrence, KS Granada Theater 2/21 St. Paul, MN Amsterdam Bar & Hall 2/22 Joliet, IL The Forge 2/23 Cleveland, OH TempleLive Cleveland @ Asylum 2/24 Toronto, ON Concert Hall 2/26 Ottawa, ON Overflow 2/27 Montreal, QC Le Studio TD 2/28 Worcester, MA The Palladium (upstairs) 3/1 Albany, NY Empire Live 3/2 New York, NY Gramercy Theater
Finnish hard rock and metal legends LORDI are set to release their highly anticipated 19th studio album, Limited Deadition, on March 21, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM). The album is spearheaded by the electrifying lead single, “Syntax Terror,” a track that thrusts listeners into a game-like world with spacy melodies, thunderous riffs, and irresistibly catchy hooks.
Mr Lordi comments: “The writing of this song started out with its main keyboard riff. I played around with those mono sounds, trying to come up with something with a very 80s action movie opening score feel. ‘Syntax Terror’ actually almost became the album title, but then it was discovered that other people have had the same idea way before I did. On the verses I was thinking of JUDAS PRIEST, on the chorus of MANOWAR and – as icing on the cake – Udo Dirkschneider-type of screams to belch out the title. Don’t ask what the lyrics are about. ‘Syntax Terror’ is a very 80s heavy metal style song, painting abstract pictures with every line!”
Already generating excitement among fans, the single promises to be a highlight in LORDI‘s monstrous catalog. Pre-orders are available here: https://lordi.rpm.link/limiteddeaditionPR
Known for their theatrical style and unique blend of 80s-inspired rock and heavy metal, LORDI‘s latest creation is a nostalgic celebration of retro 80s toys, infused with a fresh and powerful energy. Building on the success of their 2023 album Screem Writers Guild,Limited Deadition ventures into heavier riffs and faster tempos, creating a soundscape that is both familiar and invigorating.
Recorded at IluSound Studio and Finnvox Studios in Helsinki, Limited Deaditionwas produced by Mr Lordi, mixed by Ilkka Herkman, and mastered by Pauli Saastamoinen. As always, Mr Lordi took charge of the album’s striking artwork and layout, channeling his passion for 80s memorabilia into every detail. “It’s some kind of sibling album to its predecessor,” Mr Lordi explains. “We’re still walking the path of AOR-inspired music, but this time, with a more metal touch in terms of riffs and tempo. We’ve always written what felt right and natural, and this album is no exception.”
The thematic heart of Limited Deadition lies in Mr Lordi’s lifelong obsession with collecting, inspired by the action figures and toys of his childhood. “The album topic of 80s toys is actually just a loose theme, but it’s been accompanying me since I was little. I’ve always been a collector of various stuff, and I’m even some kind of a hoarder. I can’t even remember which my first own toy was, but my obsession basically started with “Muppet Show” dolls, followed by “Star Wars” and “E.T.” figures, with the latter actually being my favourite movie of all time.”
The album opens with “SCG XIX The Hexecutioners,” setting the stage for an exciting blend of cinematic and melodic heavy rock. Tracks like “Legends Are Made Of Clichés” and “Skelephant In The Room” highlight LORDI‘s knack for creating larger-than-life anthems. Meanwhile, the poignant ballad “Collectable” reflects on the fleeting value of physical objects in a digital world, while the title track, Limited Deadition, makes a bold statement celebrating collectors and their passion.
To support the release, LORDI will embark on a global Limited Deadition tour, beginning in Finland and expanding internationally. Fans can expect a monstrous spectacle, complete with new tricks and surprises.
Limited Deadition will be available on all major streaming platforms and in physical formats on March 21, 2025. Pre-orders for the album and tour tickets are now live. With the explosive single “Syntax Terror” already setting the tone, fans can prepare for an unforgettable addition to the LORDIverse.
Get ready to unleash the monster within – Limited Deadition is coming!
LORDI are: Mr Lordi | vocals Kone | guitars Hiisi | bass Hella | keyboard Mana | drums
LORDI live:
21.03.2025 FI Tampere – Tavara-asema 22.03.2025 FI Helsinki – Tavastia-klubi 25.03.2025 PL Warsaw – Progresja 26.03.2025 PL Gdansk – B90 28.03.2025 NL Amstelveen – P60 29.03.2025 NL Drachten – Poppoadium Iduna 30.03.2025 NL Sittard – Poppodium Volt 02.04.2025 UK Wolverhampton – Wulfrun Hall 03.04.2025 UK Newcastle – NX 05.04.2025 UK Manchester – Academy 2 06.04.2025 UK Glasgow – Galvanizers SWG3 08.04.2025 UK London – Islington Assembly Hall 09.04.2025 UK Bristol – SWX 11.04.2025 FR Savigny-le-Temple – L’Empreinte 12.04.2025 FR Saint-Lô – Le Normandy 13.04.2025 BE Sint-Niklaas – De Casino 15.04.2025 FR Lyon (Villeurbanne) – La Rayonne 16.04.2025 FR Strasbourg (Ostwald) – Le Point d’Eau 17.04.2025 FR Montbéliard – L’Axone
MOB RULES continues with their flagship German power metal, they’ve been known for in the scene! Founded in 1994, since their legendary debut album “Savage Land” (1999) and its glorious successor “Temple Of Two Suns”, they have been delivering anthemic and highly melodic power metal that has taken on symphonic and progressive traits over the years. Their discography, which now comprises nine studio albums, contains highlights throughout, above all the hit-packed “Among The Gods”, the epic “Radical Peace” with the long track “The Oswald File” and their chart-breaker “Beast Reborn”, which pushed MOB RULES to #37 in the German album charts. Most recently, the band around frontman Klaus Dirks thrilled with the best-of compilation “Celebration Day – 30 Years Of Mob Rules” including some new recordings and cover versions of IRON MAIDEN, GHOST, DIO and others.
MOB RULES are currently back in the recording studio, working under the direction of Markus Teske (Symphony X, Vanden Plas, U.D.O. and others) on their tenth, as yet untitled studio album, which is scheduled for release in late summer 2025. However, they would like to release a first forerunner at the beginning of next year. “All the songs have been written and large parts of them have already been recorded,” reveals the frontman and goes into even more detail: ”You can look forward to an album that is special in many respects, with which we have managed to build a bridge between yesterday and today. In other words, our own band history partly served as inspiration. The material is multi-layered and conceptually structured.
This much can already be revealed: In addition to the CD and vinyl, there will be an additional physical product of the album, in which we have brought in all our creativity and spared no expense or effort to offer the fans the ultimate experience of the new record. More will be revealed in due course, but we can already tell you that the first single will be called “Back To Savage Land”.”
MOB RULES are also expecting a breath of fresh air from their new label partner ROAR (Grave Digger, Mystic Prophecy, Sacred Steel and others). “We were very pleased about the great interest and the resulting signing of MOB RULES with the newly established label ROAR,” comments singer Klaus Dirks and adds: “As a band, we find everything we could wish for there, both structurally and in terms of know-how and the human component. We have a long-standing relationship of trust with some of the employees there. Among them is Markus Wosgien, who has followed MOB RULES with great interest for a long time and whose perseverance and creative input have convinced us. We are looking forward to working together, but would also like to take this opportunity to thank the SPV/Steamhammer crew once again for their trusting cooperation over the last 10 years.”
The record company is just as happy. “Mob Rules have been with me for 25 years now. In the nineties, as a power metal fan you could blindly buy anything with the “Limb Music” seal of approval. I remember the first pre-release tapes of brand-new acts like Angra, Rhapsody, Eldritch, Abraxas and Mob Rules! Limb Schnoor had a special knack in this area and since then Mob Rules have been a musical companion that has surprised and inspired me time and time again. Now it has finally worked out and we can forge new plans together, which include the upcoming studio albums as well as numerous reissues and surprises of some back-catalog titles,” states ROAR A&R Markus Wosgien.
LISTENABLE records are delighted to welcome Belgium’s most ferocious offspring COFFIN FEEDER.
The band features members of Aborted, Leng Tch’e, When Plagues Collide and Fleddy Melculy, spew forth a high energy blend of groove laden death metal, grind and hardcore. Since its inception in 2021, COFFIN FEEDER unleashed 2 EP’s (‘Stereo Homicide’, ‘Over the top’) and played a ton of club shows through Europe. With already some festivals in Europe under their belt such as Brutal Assault & Summer Breeze, the band is continuing to take names and kick ass worldwide.
Hot on the heels of ’The Beast against Beast’ European tour this past November, with their brothers Benighted and Baest, COFFIN FEEDER have now been focusing on the release of their forthcoming album and we can only urge everyone to be ready for some Big Trouble!
BAND LINE UP: Sven De Caluwe: Vocals Bart Govers: Guitar/vocals Jeroen Camerlynck: Guitar/vocals Jan Halbert: Bass Siebe Hermans: Drums
Sven De Caluwe (Vocals) comments: “We’re thrilled to be joining the ranks for Listenable Records for our debut full-length album BIG TROUBLE that will be out somewhere next spring! Listenable has been the home of many quality acts throughout the years and also marked the beginnings of Aborted so in a way it’s like coming home for that nice sundae to tickle your tonsils. Get ready for a massive onslaught of blasts and grooves to run you over like a bulldozer. The whole thing has been mixed and mastered by the mighty Dave Otero (Aborted, Archspire, Cattle Decapitation, Shadow of Intent) so you know it’s gonna be finger licking good! Alongside that we have a few other very neat surprises, so stay tuned for more!”
DISCOGRAPHY: Stereo Homicide (ep – 2022) A Good Supply of Body Bags (Digital 2022) Over the Top (ep – 2022)
Album art by Adam Burke. Logo design by Chris Hurst.
U.S. Traditional Heavy Metal quintet, Prehistoria, will release Cryptic Halo, their first full-length album, on February 11, 2025 via StormSpell Records. The album follows the 2022 release of debut EP, Cursed Lands.
“We are thrilled to announce the completion of our debut album, Cryptic Halo. This project has been a true labor of love, forged through countless hours of passion, dedication, and focused effort. Rooted in traditional heavy metal, Cryptic Halo weaves in elements of power, thrash, and black metal to create a sound that’s both classic and dynamic. Crafted by devoted fans of heavy metal, for heavy metal fans, it stands as a celebration of the genre we hold so dear. It’s been a challenging yet rewarding journey, and we can’t wait to share this milestone with you as we prepare for its release.”
Alonso “Zo” Donoso – Vocals Shaun Cothron – Guitar Max Otworth – Guitar Ian Bender – Bass Cody Johns – Drums
Track Listing:
Futile Invocation of Cosmic Acknowledgement
Rise
Salvation Denied
Obsidian Gateways
Everlasting Legacy
Paradise Lost
Crown of the Resolute
Crucible of Shadows
Dreamchaser
BAND BIO:
Prehistoria is a traditional heavy metal band hailing from the American Midwest, combining the raw power of classic metal with influences from power, thrash, and black metal. Their sound is steeped in the genre’s roots, delivering crushing riffs and soaring melodies with a sharp, modern edge that feels both familiar and new.
Cryptic Halo Credits:
All songs (except “Futle Invocation…”) written and performed by Prehistoria.
“Futile Invocation of Cosmic Acknowledgement” written and produced by Dan Wagoner.
Lyrics by Alonso Donoso.
Produced, tracked, and engineered by Dan Wagoner.
Drums recorded by Joe Viers at Sonic Lounge Studios. Additional guitars recorded by Ethan Vawter. Bass recorded by Ian Bender.
Mixed and mastered by Simone Mularoni at Domination Studio.
Additional design by Alonso Donoso and Ian Bender.
New Single/Video ‘Path Of Our Disease’ Streaming Now!
Southern California metalcore giants BLEEDING THROUGH are back! After much anticipation, the band has announced their long-awaited, ninth full length album, NINE, will be released on February 14th via SharpTone Records.
Following the release of eviscerating singles, ‘Our Brand Is Chaos‘ and ‘Dead But So Alive‘, BLEEDING THROUGH emerges six years after the release of Love Will Kill All, for one of the most vicious and unrelenting records of their celebrated career, NINE.
Commenting on the impending record, vocalist Brandan Schieppati says:
“There’s so much passion and aggression on this album. If you’re a fan of us, you won’t be let down. This is everything we’ve been working towards. This is the culmination of 25 years. This is Bleeding Through in its purest form.”
Today, the band reveals the album’s next merciless single, ‘Path Of Our Disease‘, which is accompanied by the music video below.
Adding about the new single, Schieppati says:
“Path Of Our Disease’ is a song about the disgusting social climate of the world. We are becoming a species that is never satisfied. We think the grass is always greener and are forgetting what loyalty is. We are being led be liars and fakes down a path of disappointment. It’s time to break free.”
BLEEDING THROUGH Tour Dates: (w/GOD FORBID, NEKROGOBLIKON, I DECLARE WAR, CARNIFEX) Dec 14 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues Dec 15 – San Diego, CA – The Observatory North Park
1. Gallows 2. Our Brand Is Chaos 3. Dead, But So Alive 4. Hail Destruction 5. Lost In Isolation (Feat. Doc Coyle/God Forbid) 6. Last Breath 7. Path Of Our Disease 8. I Am Resistance (Feat. Andrew Neufeld/Comeback Kid) 9. Emery 10. War Time (Feat. Brian Fair/Shadows Fall) 11. Unholy Armada
After 25 years, eight albums, and countless gigs, Bleeding Through persist as a tried-and-true outlier in heavy music and culture.
Anticipated New Album Out January 17th Pre-Order Now
HAZZERD, one of thrash metal’s most exciting young contenders, have released the new single and lyric video for “Deathbringer” – the first taste of their awaited new album. Check out “Deathbringer” now on all streaming/download platforms, or watch the video, created by Raf Orteaga, HEREhttps://youtu.be/-_C6HBXaq-U
“Deathbringer” comes from the Canadian band’s forthcoming album, The 3rd Dimension, which is scheduled for release January 17th on CD and limited-edition colored vinyl variants (300 copies) including Mars Attacks and Angry Sea, as well as 100 limited run of cassettes.
The 3rd Dimension is the anticipated follow-up to 2020’s Delirium, one of the best and consistent sellers at M-Theory Audio that even received a nod from Megadeth’s Dave Mustaine who championed the group as a promising thrash hopeful, alongside Power Trip.
“Following the release of our second album, Delirium, an album which focused heavily on darker subject matter such as human agony, insanity, death and disease. This time we wanted the album to be less involved in the darker side of humanity, and made it a goal to make it much more fast-paced and to the point,” notes drummer/singer Dylan Westendorp.
“The 3rd Dimension portrays our human influences through media. Whether that be television, movies, music, or video games. Each song tells its own story through a narrative inspired by something created in the 3rd Dimension (3D media),” explains Dylan. “We’re also depicting the continuing decay of our mascot Mitsy, with his new Cyberpunk aesthetic brought to life by the one and only Andrei Bouzikov! We can’t wait for you all to decipher the tracks and tell us how you interpret them!”
The 3rd Dimension will be released January 17thand pre-orders launch today at our webstore and at Bandcamp https://lnk.to/hazzerd with more EU and retail outlets and a digital pre-save adding as we near release date.
“Thank you all for being so patient with us while we worked on the band as a whole and the new album over the last few years,” states Dylan. “We really can’t wait for you to hear it. This is for you — the fans, the underground.”
HAZZERD was initially formed by Westendorp and guitarist Brendan Malycky, two Calgary teens who were inspired by the early work of thrash legends such as Overkill, Metallica and Anthrax. After solidifying their lineup with the addition of lead guitarist Toryin Schadlich (also of Traveler) and bassist David Sprague, the group recorded their full-length debut, Misleading Evil, which was released via Canada’s World War Now Records.
HAZZERD caught the attention of M-Theory Audio who snapped up the promising outfit and released Delirium in 2020 taking the band to the next level. The album, like The 3rd Dimension, was mastered by Johnny Gasparic (Into Eternity) and features cover artwork once again by Andrei Bouzikov (Municipal Waste, Toxic Holocaust, Skeletonwitch).
Earlier this year, HAZZERD were invited to contribute two exclusive songs, “Skin Peeler” and “Stella Screams,” in collaboration with author Julie Hiner from Killers & Demons for her horror book project, Thrash Track. HAZZERD wrote the music to Julie’s lyrics for an experimental side adventure.
In recent years, HAZZERD has performed alongside the likes of Hatchet, Striker, Vicious Rumors, Archspire, Spellcaster and Grim Reaper in addition to playing noted Canadian festivals such as Loud As Hell and Armstrong MetalFest.
HAZZERD 2024: Drums/lead vocals: Dylan Westendorp Lead Guitar: Toryin Schadlich Bass: David Sprague Rhythm Guitar: Nick Schwartz Rhythm guitar on the album recorded by: Brendan Malycky
Phoenix nu-metal juggernauts SICKSENSE are back! Following two critically praised EPs, the band is readying the release of their debut full-length album, Cross Me Twice, on February 14, 2025 with Earache Records.
From the maleficent minds of dual vocalists Vicky “Killer V” Psarakis (THE AGONIST) and Rob The Ripper, comes a new wave of nu-metal. With the added arsenal of guitarist Agent Phil [Philip Lykostratis], bassist The Gothfather [Richard Regier] and drummer Smokin’ J [Joseph Polizzi], SICKSENSE have crafted their heaviest record yet, melting nu-metal elements with metalcore and electronic touches for a unique spin on the rejuvenated genre.
Commenting on the record, Killer V states:
“Our upcoming album, ‘Cross Me Twice’, takes the listener on an emotional rollercoaster of a journey. We evolved from our traditional nu metal sound, by incorporating more modern metal and electronic elements into this album. The heavy parts got heavier, the soft parts got softer and the catchy parts got catchier. ‘Cross Me Twice’ explores a wider dynamic range, which leaves the listener not knowing what to expect with each release.
We were going through numerous personal issues amongst ourselves as a band while working on this record, which inevitably led to us parting ways with former members and bringing in new ones to complete it. These issues inspired the lyrical themes for each song. It wasn’t easy to go through and create, but we’re extremely proud of the end result.
I remember spending countless hours working on keys and the overall sound design of ‘Cross Me Twice’, on top of all the vocal arrangements I normally task myself with. Teaming up with our producer, Joey Doherty, was the final step and best decision we could have made to bring you guys what we believe will be one of the absolute best sounding albums of 2025.
There’s something for everyone to enjoy here and we hope it means as much to our listeners as it does to us. It’s truly special.“
Today, the band has revealed their latest single, ‘Wildfires‘, from the impending album, accompanied by the music video below.
Adding about the song, Rob The Ripper says:
‘“Wildfires’ is a fun braggadocio anthem about being the best you can be and not feeling sorry about it. It’s a call-out song directed towards our peers for them to be better people and create better music. Too many artists are ‘fake nice’ to your face, then talk smack about you behind your back. If you feel a certain way about someone, just be honest. Many bands play it safe with their music too. They’re afraid to push boundaries. We aren’t. We’ll incorporate rapping, singing, screaming, R&B, hip-hop and electronic music. Whatever fits and feels right for each song. We did this with ‘Wildfires’. It’s got it all. From a songwriting and production perspective, we do it exceptionally well. ‘Wildfires’ is a special song for all the fans who love us and it’s especially for our fans in denial who love to hate us.“
1. Sellout 2. Wildfires 3. Throwback 4. Fever Dream 5. Invisible 6. On Repeat 7. Masquerade Parade 8. In This Carousel 9. Here Come All The Memories 10. Follow Me
About SICKSENSE:
It’s rare that a debut album inspires such fervent anticipation, but the thrill surrounding a full-length from Sicksense is concrete. A band who have nurtured their community from seedlings to an army of “Deli-boos” (if you know, you know), Sicksense made instant waves in the metal scene upon the release of their two EPs Kings Today and Fools Tomorrow.
These collections saw their music garner support from metal connoisseurs such as TankTheTech, feature in the ring with ex-NXT and NOAH pro-wrestler Stallion Rogers, and hit Spotify’s Alternative Metal and New Nü playlists alongside other trailblazers in the future of metal. These two small portholes into their vibrant world have turned heads in the industry and metal fandom alike, receiving comparisons to nü-metal titans like Slipknot, Evanescence and Limp Bizkit in the process.
Sicksense have now announced their debut album ‘Cross Me Twice’, news which will see anticipation on all sides finally relieved. With ‘Cross Me Twice’, the band take their nü-metal influences and Frankenstein them into a hydra monster that sees the heads of metalcore, progressive metal and power metal combine into a modern experiment gone very right. The album is all a nü-metal fan could hope for while bringing new color to the genre.
It’s this versatility that sets Sicksense apart in the nü-gen surge. The adventurous ‘Cross Me Twice’ is as fantastically otherworldly with luminous keys and glacial melodies as it is gritty with nü-metal grooves and stomach-lurching djent. Conjurers of jeweled light and chroma, commanders of shadow and moonbeams, Sicksense create such a thickly immersive atmosphere that it feels as though you can see the album just as much as you can hear it.
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
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