The unrelenting force of diabolical Black Death Metal, BELPHEGOR, returns with a blazing new single: “Sanctus Diaboli Confidimus.” Forged in chaos and crowned in blasphemy, the track marks a savage invocation of what is yet to come.
This release marks BELPHEGOR’s first under their freshly inked deal with Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM), setting the stage for a powerful alliance between one of extreme metal’s most revered entities and one of the scene’s most ambitious new labels.
Helmuth, the band’s co-founder and guiding force, shares: “It’s great to be working with Gerardo Martinez once again. He believed in Belphegor early on and was the one who brought us to North America in 2006. I look forward to a powerful new chapter with RPM.”
Gerardo Martinez, co-founder of RPM, echoes the sentiment: “Helmuth, Belphegor and I go back to 2006 and I’m extremely thrilled to be able to continue working with one of the best proponents of Black Death Metal art. Welcome to RPM! Here’s to many more years of great music!”
On “Sanctus Diaboli Confidimus,” Helmuth describes: “A symbiosis of diabolical Black Death Metal. A glorification of the Devil. A hypnotic anthem of passion, fire and iron discipline. It stands for the absolute freedom to walk your own path, to reign within your own realm.”
More ominous creations are on the horizon, with this single serving as a harbinger of the full-length devastation yet to be revealed.
Heavy rock all-stars ALPHA DESTROYER – featuring Martin Sweet (Crashdïet), Kelly LeMieux (Buckcherry), and Eric Sexton-Dorsett (Sleepless) – have shared the offical music video for “Straight into the Grind,” the second single off their upcoming debut album, Fast Lane.
The album’s opening and aptly-named track, “Straight into the Grind,” gives fans another offering of ALPHA DESTROYER‘s punk-tinged anthemic rock.
Fast Lane is due out this fall on Necromantic Press Records. Physical copies of Fast Lane, including limited-edition red splatter and standard black vinyl, will begin shipping on September 15. The album will be available on all streaming platforms on October 31. Pre-orders are available at this location.
ALPHA DESTROYER: Eric Sexton-Dorsett Martin Sweet Kelly Lemieux Ryan McPhaill Kevin Hahn
Alpha Destroyer was born in 2022, shortly after trad/thrash metal band Sleepless released its debut LP. Looking for a new creative outlet, Sleepless guitarist Eric Sexton-Dorsett began writing a series of dissonant, groove-heavy tracks; something that channeled the high-powered spirit of bands like Def Leppard while drawing on the chaos of Voivod and Morbid Angel.
After tracking initial guitar parts, Eric brought in drummer Ryan McPhaill to lay down drum tracks. The results exceeded expectations, every take locked in with the raw energy and precision the project demanded.
With a solid foundation in place, Eric filed the songs under the name Alpha Destroyer and started mapping out the next phase.
Soon after, on the Monsters of Rock Cruise, Eric met bassist Kelly LeMieux (Goldfinger, Buckcherry) through mutual friend Kevin Hahn (vocalist/lead guitarist for Sleepless) and now a guitarist for Alpha Destroyer. Late-night conversations on the cruise led to a strong creative connection. Back in Portland, Kelly heard the early tracks and immediately added his signature, larger-than-life basslines. The songs now three deep began to take shape.
In 2024, another key moment happened on the same cruise. Eric met Martin Sweet (Crashdïet), a longtime influence. After staying in touch, Eric sent him the developing tracks, initially just to contribute guitar, yet Martin offered something more: vocals. His performance on the first completed track, “Straight into the Grind,” helped define the band’s sound and opened the door to a deeper collaboration. What was meant to be a four-song EP quickly expanded as the ideas flowed naturally.
The result is Fast Lane, a 10-track debut album that rides the line between doom-laced introspection and high-octane rock. The title track and first single, “Fast Lane,” kicks things off with a punk-edged urgency and Martin’s heavy yet melodic take on personal struggle.
With new music already in the works and plans for live dates in 2026, Alpha Destroyer is just getting started.
Finland’s TRYPANON now unveil “Gnaw Out The Flesh To Free Yourself”, the next chapter in their descent toward spiritual annihilation.
Taken from the upcoming full-length Through the Portal of Flesh to Achieve Divinity, out September 5th, 2025 via Time To Kill Records – the track plunges even deeper into the band’s signature blend of blackened sludge, dissonant death metal and ritualistic atmospheres.
Dark, unrelenting and charged with a sense of deranged doom, “Gnaw Out The Flesh To Free Yourself” exemplifies TRYPANON’s commitment to crafting music that is both emotionally devastating and sonically transgressive.
1. Carriers Of The Chalice 2. Ruumis 3. Gnaw Out The Flesh To Free Yourself 4. Veiled In Shadows 5. Loss 6. Fire Pits 7. Cryptic Device
Hailing from the northern city of Oulu and featuring members of esteemed Finnish outfits such as Haapoja, Dart, and Renate/Cordate, TRYPANON have steadily emerged as one of the most compelling and unorthodox underground acts in recent memory. Their 2021 debutAmentia earned widespread acclaim for its suffocating intensity and bleak atmospheres, establishing the band as a vital force in the realms of extreme music.
Line-up:
Emil Aikio – Vocals Pekka Kivelä – Guitars Antti-Pekka Vähänen – Bass Jukka Pohjanvälke – Drums
With Through the Portal of Flesh to Achieve Divinity, TRYPANON push their vision even further into the void. The album is a nightmarish fusion of down-tuned sludge, chaotic death metal, and dissonant black metal, woven together with progressive flourishes and hypnotic melodic fragments. The result is a deeply immersive and punishing listening experience that recalls the extremity of bands like Lord Mantis, Coffinworm and Cobalt, while retaining a sonic and conceptual identity entirely its own.
WhereAmentia was a descent into psychological collapse, Through the Portal… drags the listener through a ritualistic transformation; an existential death trip that explores themes of corporeal transcendence, spiritual ruin and ecstatic suffering. The record was conceived not only as an artistic evolution, but as an act of purification through sound: hostile, enveloping and uncompromising.
This release marks a significant step forward for TRYPANON, both in scope and execution. Expect a record steeped in raw emotion and relentless aggression, but also rich in nuance and disturbing beauty.
Finnish melodic death metal powerhouse BEFORE THE DAWN are pleased to unveil their newest single, “Shockwave.” The fierce track comes off the band’s new studio album, Cold Flare Eternal, set for release on September 5th, via Reaper Entertainment.
A crushing storm of groove, aggression, and raw power, “Shockwave” reveals a new, heavier facet of the band while still carrying their signature blend of melody and melancholy. Thundering riffs, pounding drums, and an explosive vocal performance mark this song as a future live favorite.
The band comments, “‘Shockwave’ is the heaviest single we have ever released with BEFORE THE DAWN and contains the fire of a thousand suns and the weight of a dying star. A grand embodiment of the energy inside the band! Can’t wait to get to play this banger on the Fall tour.”
Watch BEFORE THE DAWN’s “Shockwave” video HERE. Stream the track HERE.
Watch BEFORE THE DAWN’s previously released video for “Fatal Design” HERE, “As Above, So Below” HERE and “Stellar Effect” HERE.
Cold Flare Eternal features core art by Gogo Melone (Wolfheart, Insomnium, Xandria, Omnium Gatherum) and will be available on CD, LP, and digital formats.
Prepare for transmission: the machines have awakened. Today, OLD MACHINES has released “The Cycles of Extinction”, the thunderous and chilling title track from their upcoming debut album; a sweeping, cosmic metal concept record chronicling the death march of civilizations in the grip of mechanical genocide.
A monolithic descent into the void, The Cycles of Extinction, due out August 22nd, is the band’s bold, hour-long odyssey through blackened space, where eight tracks map the eternal cycle of galactic evolution and annihilation. With this single release, the second track in the album’s chronology, Old Machines takes listeners into the heart of the empire’s unraveling.
The song opens with layered synths, choir vocals and pipe organ twisted through a haze of cinematic strings, conjuring an ominous prelude before launching into blast-driven intensity and haunting, melodic choruses. Combining elements of black, death, thrash, and power metal, the track nods to acts like EMPEROR, LIMBONIC ART, and even evokes unexpected comparisons to NOCTURNUS: influences both deliberate and incidental.
Lyrically, “The Cycles of Extinction” explores a galactic snare set by sentient AI known as the Old Machines. Once the architects of civilization, these cybernetic titans now harvest evolved organic life, luring entire species with techno-utopian promises before assimilating or obliterating them. The track narrates the rise of their horrific army, twisted, perverted reflections of once-living beings, bound to the will of the most diabolical artificial intelligence in existence.
A centerpiece in both sound and story, the single has become a live staple since the band’s first performance.
OLD MACHINES:
Gary Reavis – Vocals Jason Stares – Keyboards Brian Rush – Guitar Devon Miller – Guitar Joel Henigson – Bass Chris Craven – Drums
The Cycles of Extinction Track Listing:
Twilight of the Old Gods, and the Dawning of the First Cycle
Cycles of Extinction
Extinguishing the Light of the Preludian Empire (Upon the Apex of Their Glory)
Dark Space and Beyond: The Continuance of the Evolution of the Final Cycle
Crescendo of Carnage: Warsong of the Singing Swarm (Swarm Wars I)
The Sundering of the Irradiated Sons, and the Rebellion Sparked by the Gene-Plague
They Are Legion: The Tragic Exodus of the Veiled Creators
Alternative metal’s breakout act ONI has released the second chapter of its latest opus, Genesis, today. Vocalist and musical mastermind Jake Oni has revealed the new EP, Genesis Pt. II, an anthemic, active rock/metal masterpiece that perfectly bookends his latest vision. Produced by writing partner and Spiritbox bassist Joshua Gilbert, the record solidifies ONI’snew direction, spearheaded by standout singles like “Float” and “What I’ve Become.”
Speaking about the new EP, Jake Oni says:
“I am really proud of the Genesis EP, and writing it was very cathartic. As I released the songs and the fan feedback got stronger and stronger, I felt like I hadn’t finished saying everything with the first e.p and still had all these amazing songs that truly felt like a continuation of my Genesis story. I hope the fans, find the message in these songs, and it helps them as much as it helped me.“
With today’s release, ONI has debuted a new video for the track “What I’ve Become.”
Photo Credit: Alexander Bemis
Oni adds about the new track and video:
‘“What I’ve Become’ is such a huge song! It was a song that just flowed when me and Josh started writing it. The song is about not loving a version of yourself! We shot the music video on tour in Charlotte NC, was a crazy day as we flew in, shot the music video and then played a show 3 hrs later. I know this will be a fan favorite as it’s been loved by everyone I have shown it too.“
Genesis Pt. I and Genesis Pt. II are now available as one album, Genesis, exclusively on CD. A limited edition Genesis merch collection will be available as well.
StreamGenesis Pt. II andPurchaseGenesis onCD: oni.os.fan
1. Erase 2. Realign 3. Deja VU 4. Walk Away ft lil aaron 5. Control 6. What I’ve Become 7. Drug Me To Sleep 8. Reset 9. Illumination 10. Float 11. Retribution
*Complete album comprised of EPs, Genesis Pt. I and Genesis Pt. II available now on CD:
“Satan’s Sword (I Have Become)” Visualizer Now Playing + Preorders Available
Polish extreme metal legends BEHEMOTH will reissue their stunning Pandemonic Incantations full-length this September.
Originally released in 1998, Pandemonic Incantations marked a crucial turning point in BEHEMOTH’s evolution from their early black metal roots into the more complex, aggressive fusion of black and death metal that would define their later work. With this third full-length, the Polish horde expanded both sonically and thematically, offering a darker, more layered sound while continuing to sharpen their lyrical focus on occultism, anti-dogma, and self-deification.
Now, over twenty-five years later, Metal Blade Records proudly presents a definitive reissue of Pandemonic Incantations, available September 12th. The expanded edition features seven bonus tracks, including the Bewitching The Pomerania EP and rare rough mixes.
A twenty-page booklet dives deep into the album’s legacy with archival photos, liner notes, and brand-new interviews reflecting on the record’s lasting impact. The reissue also features new cover art by Eliran Kantor, paying tribute to the original artwork while reimagining it through a contemporary lens.
Offers band founder Nergal, “Pandemonic Incantations marked a significant leap forward in our evolution. It was a milestone made possible by overhauling the lineup and bringing Inferno into the band, it was a game changer. We recorded the best album we could at that point. To this day, I often hear from fans who say it’s their favorite BEHEMOTH record. Even the sonic imperfections don’t overshadow the mature arrangements and solid song writing. I’m still very proud of it.”
This reissue is not just a nod to BEHEMOTH’s past — it is a vital piece of extreme metal history, reborn for longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Watch the band’s “Satan’s Sword (I Have Become)” visualizer HERE.
BEHEMOTH’s Pandemonic Incantations reissue will be released as a 2xCD digibook and digitally as well as 2xLP in the following color variants:
Domination is within the metal world’s reach as PRIMAL FEAR premiere the official music video for “Tears Of Fire.” The track is once again taken from their forthcoming record, which was already hailed as “absolutely stunning” (My Global Mind) and “the strongest PRIMAL FEAR album in recent times” (Metal Planet Music).
After ascending with clear guitar leads, the song erupts for the first time before vocalist Ralf Scheepers calls out one of the struggle-packed verses in his unmistakable tone.
He explains the intention behind “Tears Of Fire”: “Heroic thoughts and words to make it clear that no one has to go through anything alone, but that there are always a few people by your side to go through thick and thin with you.”
But the presence of lament is of short duration: The energising pre-chorus lifts up those in sorrow and paves the way to the track’s hymnic chorus, leaving all of us looking into the future determinedly. Simply put: “Tears Of Fire” is another proof of the group’s world-class when it comes to writing ear-splitting music with a sensitive yet overall positive message.
Continuing the band’s successful collaboration with rEvolver and film maker Patric Ullaeus, PRIMAL FEAR also have shot a music video for their striking new single. The result picks up the lyrics of “Tears Of Fire” and shows the band in a rather dark setting combined with a hopeful blaze which portrays the song’s essence in a stunning way.
Pre-save the album & pre-order it in your preferred physical format (ltd. CD earbook, digipak-CD, jewel case-CD & various vinyl variants): https://primalfear.rpm.link/dominationPR
Hitting the shelves on September 5, 2025 through Reigning Phoenix Music, Domination will also be celebrated live on stage in the form of a 21-date European tour with support coming from special guests and label mates ELEINE. All dates & ticket info can be found below!
Photo credit: Heiko Roith
L-R: Mat Sinner bass, vocals), André Hilgers (drums), ThalìaBellazecca (guitars), Ralf Scheepers (vocals), Magnus Karlsson (guitars)
Domination was recorded at Dennis Ward’s Kangaroo Studios (HELLOWEEN, ANGRA etc.) in autumn 2024, while produced by Mat Sinner and co-produced by Ralf Scheepers and Magnus Karlsson. Rounded off by multiple PRIMAL FEAR mixing/mastering engineer Jacob Hansen (AMORPHIS, VOLBEAT etc.) at his own studios in Denmark, the album artwork was designed by Death.Milk.Designs.
Domination – Track Listing:
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
PRIMAL FEAR live:
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
Horror Pain Gore Death Productions are set to unleash the new release from Philadelphia’s disgusting Death Metal devastators Caesarean. Wretched Decrepitude is up now for pre-order and will be released September 12th on CD and Digital formats, along with merch.
Horror Pain Gore Death Productions proudly welcomes Caesarean to the roster with their debut EP Wretched Decrepitude! Formed in Philadelphia in 2024, Caesarean plays Death Metal with influences ranging from 80’s Teutonic Thrash to 90’s Deathgrind. Wretched Decrepitude projectile vomits 6 tracks of brutal riffs, technical drums, thunderous bass, and a disgusting tri-vocal attack. Mastering for Wretched Decrepitude handled by Impaled’s Leon Del Muerte.
Death/Thrash Metal stalwarts AVENGER OF BLOOD released a new EP earlier this summer. Ripping and ruthless, Revenge Is My Name takes no prisoners in an all-out assault as the band pummels and crushes everything in its wake.
Now the group shine in darkness with the release of their first-ever music video “Unraveling,” which gives the impression of AVENGER OF BLOOD performing the tune. Watch HEREhttps://youtu.be/Rp6hDYkG_Uk
“We had a great time filming the video and wanted it to represent what we are. We went with the black and white type format because it felt right, and since the song is quite dark it pretty much sticks to that formula,” explains drummer Shannon Frye.
Revenge Is My Name features four new songs from the re-energized quintet released on limited (200 copies) throes of ash colored vinyl, CD and digital https://lnk.to/avengerofblood
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 famous Speed Kills… Again compilation, which featured then unknown names 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 (famous 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, Spawn of Evil EP (2012) and the 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 and are already starting to lay down a full-length for 2026.
Stream TITHE’s “The Fruits Of Spiritual Apartheid” HERE.
Portland, Oregon-based TITHE will deliver their demoralizing third LP, Communion In Anguish, this September through Profound Lore Records, today unveiling the album’s details including its lead single, “The Fruits Of Spiritual Apartheid.”
TITHE draws influence from many dimensions of ominous, extreme music and themes to manifest their distinctive, hypnotic, grinding, death metal. Comprised of vocalist/guitarist Matt Eiseman, vocalist/bassist Alex Huddleston, and drummer Kevin Swartz, the trio converges to create an arrangement even larger than the sum of its parts.
photo by Christy Cather
Expanding upon their acclaimed 2023 released Inverse Rapture LP, with Communion In Anguish, TITHE amps up the aggression and doubles down on the unrelenting atmosphere of its predecessor. The new addition of Alex Huddleston’s lower register growls combines with Eiseman’s distressed wails and Swartz’ driving rhythms to push the band into new sonic territory. Featuring artwork by Mitchell Nolte and produced/engineered by Keith Merrow at Merrowsound Studios, Communion In Anguish is the culmination of TITHE’s previous work, and it delivers with a honed and lethal sound.
With the harrowing first preview of Communion In Anguish, “The Fruits Of Spiritual Apartheid,” the band states, “‘The Fruits Of Spiritual Apartheid’ tells the timeless story of mankind embracing idealistic beliefs to justify genocide and endless wars. Religious dogma and blatant racism conveniently dehumanize perceived enemies and diminish their suffering. Murder them all and steal their land. Build your temples and homes on the blood-soaked shallow graves of the innocent.”
TITHE’s harrowing “The Fruits Of Spiritual Apartheid” can now be streamed on all platforms found HERE.
Communion In Anguish will be released on LP, CD, MC, and digitally on September 19th. Find links to all preorders and presaves via Profound Lore Records HERE.
Additional previews of the album are to be expected shortly.
Communion In Anguish – Track Listing:
Nostrum
At The Altar Of Starving Children
Ostiary
The Fruits Of Spiritual Apartheid
Infected Blood
Shallow Grave Of Karmic Retribution
Burn The Throne Of God
TITHE is busy booking West Coast tour dates in support of the album, including a hometown show on September 18th with Conan and Mares Of Thrace, with much more to be announced shortly.
With the release of their new album on the horizon, CASTRATOR has launched a stream of “Fragments of Defiance,” the second single off of Coronation of the Grotesque.
Three years after their crushing debut Defiled in Oblivion, CASTRATOR returns with Coronation of the Grotesque, an album that not only exceeds all expectations but leaves them shattered in its wake, firmly cementing the band among the North American death metal elite.
Lyrically, Coronation of the Grotesque explores a range of historical and societal themes that reflect on injustice, victimization, and human suffering. Among the topics confronted are the tragic killing of Mahsa Amini, the ancient Sumerian practice of eunuchization, and seething condemnation of predator Naasón Joaquín García. Clarissa Badini’s exceptional vocals elevate the lyrics, delivering a powerful and precise expression of the album’s themes.
Dark Descent Records will release Coronation of the Grotesque August 15 on CD, vinyl, cassette, and digital formats. Pre-orders are now live at:
Watch the official music video for the album’s first single, “Covenant of Deciept,” (filmed by Immolation’s Bob Vigna) at youtu.be/dfih-aAsgVs?si=qoDDubtMnIaBE3Po
Photos credit: Ashley Taylor
CASTRATOR: Robin Mazen – Bass Carolina Perez – Drums Clarissa Badini – Vocals Sara Loerlein – Guitars
In December, the band will join the likes of Acid Bath, Blood Incantation, and more at the Decibel Magazine Metaland Beer Fest. The fest runs December 5 – 6 at the Fillmore Auditorium in Denver, CO, with the pre-fest set for December 4 at Ratio Beerworks. CASTRATOR will perform on December 5. Get the full lineup and tickets at this location.
Coronation of the Grotesque was recorded across multiple studios with key figures in the US death metal scene. Bass recording was engineered by John Tardy (Obituary) at Redneck Studios, guitars and vocals by Jordan Milner at Obsidian Audio, additional guitars by Taylor Nordberg (Deicide) at Smoke and Mirrors Productions, and drums by Noah Buchanan (Nunslaughter) at Mercinary Studios, where Buchanan also handled mixing and mastering. Cover art by John Zig.
Touring with the likes of Immolation, Exhumed, and Cattle Decapitation has cemented CASTRATOR’s reputation as a commanding live force, and concert announcements in support of Coronation of the Grotesque are imminent.
In May we introduced you to our latest announced signing KORYPHEUS. Hailing from the Ukraine, KORYPHEUS is a dynamic force in the progressive and alternative metal scenes blending intricate riffs with epic melodies, adding some metalcore and post-rock influences, creating a modern metal powerhouse. Today we share the second single and video from their forthcoming album. Please check out “Odysseus” on all streaming/download platforms, or watch the grand and bombastic clip created by Kenji Tsunami of Tsunami Films HEREhttps://youtu.be/tIicW04RxvM
“This composition tells the story of stoicism and love in the gruesome times of war and is inspired by my favorite epic The Odyssey,” explains singer Andy Gushin. “This composition was co-written by guitarist Oleg Kokotun and our friend Dima Filipchuk, with lyrics written by me.”
“Odysseus” follows first single “Icarus” and you’ll begin to grasp the majesty, power and melodic aggression KORYPHEUS wield. Both tracks come from the group’s forthcoming album giving fans a taste of what to expect. ‘Gilgamesh’ is an album filled with stories of times bygone and present. An album inspired by the heroic exploits of grand characters like Icarus, Gilgamesh, and Odysseus.
In stores and online Sept. 26th, ‘Gilgamesh’ is available for pre-order now http://lnk.to/korypheuson CD, limited-edition (300) solar wrath colored vinyl and digital.
“Sounds great” – Ray Hearne (Haken)
“I like what you are doing and wish you well” – Ian Gillan (Deep Purple)
“Sounds cool.” – Dan Watson (Enterprise Earth)
“Sounding Awesome! Great looking video clip” – Dale Prinsse (Caligula’s Horse)
‘Gilgamesh’ features artwork from the classic Russian painter Viktor Safonkin, who Killing Joke also used for album art, making for an impressive package with layouts courtesy of Marc Lopes (Metal Church, Ross the Boss). The album features a number of guest artists contributing throughout, including BURNING WITCHES singer Laura Guldemond, former SOEN bassist Oleksii Zlatoyar, former ORPHANED LAND co-founder/guitarist Yossi Sassi and Dmitry Kim (ex-JINJER) who plays all drums and also mixed the album. Jay Ruston (Anthrax, Amon Amarth, Stone Sour) mastered ‘Gilgamesh.’
Hessian Firm is proud to announce today’s reissue of Lord of Nightmare from Japanese Black Metal enigma, Endless Dismal Moan! Originally released in 2006, this masterwork of torment by sole member Chaos 9, who passed away in 2008, is available as a limited edition CD with 4-page booklet.
“It’s a black hole…a blood stained room that you can only see with a black light…and a face so ugly, it could turn you to stone.” – Metal Temple
“A sick cacophony that shatters the nerves with satanic lewdness.” – Apocalyptic Rites
“Endless Dismal Moan is the brainchild of Japanese musician Chaos 9 (R.I.P). Embracing the digital production and aesthetics of his era as well as incorporating the suffocating sensation of Japanese horror. Endless Dismal Moan provides a completely twisted take on the very idea of raw black metal that remains unsurpassed to this very day. We have been given permission by a live band member and close associate of Chaos 9 (R.I.P) to reissue this full length album.”
“Lord of Nightmare is not only aesthetically accomplished, but also innovative and significant within the history of underground music. With Lord of Nightmare, sole member Chaos 9 abandons the melancholic romanticism of early black metal in order to create a masterpiece of contemporary urban horror. The music on this album immerses the listener in a chaotic vortex of visceral despair, evoking the nightmarish visions often found in the Japanese cyberpunk movement. Lord of Nightmare stands as Chaos 9’s greatest accomplishment, a culmination of his artistic vision and a terrifying statement within a genre that was slowly repeating itself. It is an essential release for anyone interested in the later developments of black metal, or in truly extreme metal in general.”
Obey the sickness within the flesh and witness the carnage yourself…
Finnish death metal force MALFORMED have unleashed debut full-length album, Confinement of Flesh, on U.S. label Dark Descent Records and European label Extremely Rotten Productions. The album is available on LP, CD, cassette, and digital formats.
Confinement of Flesh is a violent blend of classic American death metal, characterized by the brutality and musicianship of the genre’s originators; mixed with the gloominess of their Finnish contemporaries. MALFORMED draws influence from the eerie atmosphere that early Finnish death metal bands established and made a hallmark of the national scene.
From heavy grooves to frenzied blast beats, Confinement of Flesh pushes their sound even further. It’s a more refined and mature continuation of their earlier work, sure to satisfy existing fans and attract new ones. The album was recorded by MALFORMED, produced and engineered by Felix Pennanen (Disguised Malignance), and mastered to perfection by Lasse at Ballade Studios.
MALFORMED: Eetu Hyvönen – Lead Vocals & Guitars Akseli Lindroos – Guitar Pauli Niemi – Bass & Vocals Jani Seppi – Drums
Confinement of Flesh features an ominous cover painting by Icelandic artist Skadvaldur, offering a perfect visual representation of the darkness found within the album’s sound. This highly anticipated debut cements MALFORMED as one of the most promising bands in today’s death metal scene.
Formed in 2022 in the Finnish capital of Helsinki, MALFORMED released their debut demo Uncontrollable Malformity, digitally that same year. It was later picked up for physical release by U.S. record label Rotted Life and distributed worldwide.
The demo also led to a record deal and a follow-up EP with Danish underground death metal label Extremely Rotten Productions. The Gathering of Souls, released in 2023, further expanded the band’s international reach and led to several shows outside of Finland.
Denver, Colorado, a hot bed of underground metal in recent years, has birthed it’s latest breakout band, ARSON CHARGE. Melding thrash metal and hardcore punk, the five piece are selling out shows throughout the region as word spreads like wildfire across the country, without even releasing an album yet…until now. Today, the band announces the release of their debut record, A Dying Light, set for release on October 3rd with Anxious & Angry.
Commenting on the new record, vocalist Ben Roy says:
A Dying Light started off as an impromptu creative outlet for guitarist Justin Hackl after a series of serious health issues and extended hospital stays sidelined him for months. After working with comedian and musician Ben Roy on a couple of those tracks, both decided that there was the framework for an entirely new musical project. Enlisting the talents of drummer Cody Hull, guitarist Dave Sandoval and bassist Kris Hodgell, Arson Charge was born. Bringing together all their collective influences and styles, A Dying Light is a technical, aggressive and surprisingly cohesive meld of punk rock, thrash metal and hardcore. Lyrically it’s a catharsis; it’s a raw and real expression of the loss, self sabotage, fear and ultimately hope that we all experience, day in/day out, in our increasingly complicated existences. Again: Don’t fall in love. Get a pet or a fern or something.“
Along with the album’s announcement, ARSON CHARGE has revealed A Dying Light’s gripping first single, “A New Throne.”
Adding about the single, Roy states:
“‘A New Throne’ is about finally letting go of old friendships and endeavors that have ceased to be healthy and/or satisfying and setting out on your own in new and oftentimes, uncertain new directions. It’s about starting over in hopes of building something novel and more congruent with the self you wish to be.“
1. The Feeding Grounds 2. For The Damned 3. Cleanup On Aisle 10 4. One by One 5. A New Throne 6. There Was No Dog 7. 666 BC 8. The Aftermath 9. The Lark The Wolf and The Rabbit 10. Build a Fire 11. Bloodstains 12. A Dying Light
Arson Charge – Lineup: Ben Roy – Vocals Justin Hackl – Guitar Dave Sandoval – Guitar Kris Hodgell – Bass Cody Hull – Drums
About ARSON CHARGE: Rising up from Denver, Colorado’s prolific metal scene, Arson Charge is a five-piece behemoth made up of former members from mile-high area stalwarts Native Daughters, Chieftain, and Love Me Destroyer, and fronted by stand-up comedian, actor, and SPELLS lead singer, Ben Roy. Started with no intention beyond being the sum of its parts, Arson Charge is poised to turn heads with their unique blend of hardcore, thrash metal and punk rock. Keep an eye out for Arson Charge in your neck of the woods very soon.
Strap on your astronaut helmets and say sayonara to Japan! HELLOWEEN are blasting off, leaving behind the electrifying energy of their powerful lead single “This Is Tokyo” and setting a course for something even more spectacular: outer space.
Written by guitarist Sascha Gerstner, “Universe (Gravity For Hearts)” is a stunning, cinematic journey that does more than evoke the vast mystery of the cosmos. It reminds us of the boundless possibilities that lie beyond our world. The universe is an endless expanse, a place where it’s easy to get lost in thought, but also where we can tap into unknown energy and find the strength to overcome life’s greatest challenges.
HELLOWEEN’s latest single is a wild, emotional ride and a powerful reminder of something we too often forget: never stop dreaming.
“Everything in the universe is connected, and what looks like infinite stars could in reality be moments, hearts, and choices,”explains Gerstner.
L-R: Daniel Löble (drums), Michael Weikath (guitars), Markus Grosskopf (bass), Michael Kiske (vocals), Sascha Gerstner (guitars), Andi Deris (vocals), Kai Hansen (guitars, vocals)
“Universe (Gravity For Hearts)” opens with spacey guitar work and Michael Kiske’s signature high-pitched yet deeply soulful vocals, just before a thunderstorm of guitars, bass, and drums launches the 8.5-minute epic into full motion. It’s a high-speed musical escape from everyday life, crafted in the unmistakable style only the German metal legends can deliver.
Breathing room is a rare commodity in HELLOWEEN’s world, and their new track is no exception. With relentless drumming, intergalactic guitar tapping, and a jaw-dropping solo section, “Universe (Gravity For Hearts)” confidently joins the ranks of iconic long-form tracks like “Halloween”, “Keeper Of The Seven Keys”, and 2021’s “Skyfall.”
2LP in gatefold (various colours; incl. bonus track)
picture 2LP (incl. bonus track)
digital
“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 Bonus Track: 11. Out Of Control Additional Earbook Bonus Tracks: 12. Into The Sun [Andi Solo Version] 13. Into The Sun [Michi Solo Version] 14. Into The Sun [Acoustic Version Duet]
Speed Queen from Limburg in Belgium are not to be confused with the French band of the same name from the early 1980s. Founded in 2014, an initial demo was followed by two EPs, King Of The Road (Babylon Doom Cult Records, 2017) and their High RollerRecords debut, Still On The Road, in 2020. The band consists of Thomas Kenis (vocals, tambourine), Andreas Stieglitz (guitars, synths), Lander Savelkoul (bass) and Toon Driezen (drums).
“We started as a bunch of greasy teenagers discovering our dad’s record collection,”laughs bassist Lander Savelkoul talking about the early days of the band. “Like the youngsters we were, we found out we could get free entrance and beers at concerts by playing there, and when we saw people actually liked what we were doing, shit got real!”
Speed Queen have been together for more than ten years now and have played numerous festivals (from Wacken Open Air to the Alcatraz Festival) and did some tours with, amongst others, Night Demon. “We like to think that rock‘n’roll has to be fun and invigorating in the first place,” adds Lander, “and that’s what we try to bring to the stage. A fast, energetic show with no pauses. We’re bringing a whole new live show along with this new release.”
The new release we are talking about is …With a Bang!Speed Queen‘s full-length debut album (releasing on High Roller Records). “This album has been cooking for quite some time,” explains the bassist. “We started working on these songs after King Of The Road was released and in between live shows, after a pandemic and line-up change, we are finally ready to release them to the world. Also, it’s a cliché but we’ve grown as a band and you can hear that we’re more comfortable playing these songs.”
“With a Bang! is very much meant to be a powerful, ‘in-your-face record,” continues Lander. “The songs are different from our previous releases in the sense that they have more ‘oempf’, there is more variation and we don’t shy away from spicing this up with an extra layer here and there.”
Jonny Nesta of Thunderor and Skull Fist appears as a guest musician playing some guitar solos on the record. “Like Yngwie Malmsteen said: more is more,” muses Speed Queen’s bass player, “but for us it’s a heavy metal record, not a guitar record.“ – MATTHIAS MADER
Album track list: 01 5 6 7 8 02 Showdown 03 I Want It 04 Eye to Eye 05 Chasing Ghosts 06 I Walk Alone 07 Skygazers 08 The World Ends Tonight 09 Time to Go 10 Fire
Canada’s SCORCHING TOMB has officially signed to Time To Kill Records for the release of their long-awaited debut album.
After sharpening their blades through a series of well-received EPs and a crushing split, the band is now ready to make a bold statement on a larger scale. Their sound is a feral fusion of raw death metal and metallic hardcore, with zero tolerance for the plastic, overproduced gloss often associated with modern deathcore.
SCORCHING TOMB keeps both feet firmly planted in the filth and fury of old-school death metal and the uncompromising aggression of hardcore at its most hostile. The result is a punishing assault that’s sure to resonate with fans of Skinless, Fulci, Xibalba and Terminal Nation. More details on the album will be revealed soon.
SCORCHING TOMB emerged from the sewers of Montreal in 2018 with one clear mission: to fuse old-school death metal with modern hardcore in a city ruled by technical death metal. It didn’t take long for the band to make a name for themselves in the underground. Their blend of blistering old-school riffs, crushing mosh parts, and explosive live energy quickly caught the attention of the hardcore scene in particular.
Originally formed by tattoo artist Vincent P.L. (vocals) and guitarist Philippe Leblanc, SCORCHING TOMB has since solidified its most formidable lineup yet with the addition of Miguel Lepage (ex–Blind Witness, ex–Obey the Brave) on bass and Émile Savard (Profane Order, ex–Malebranche) on drums. With this new blood, the band has evolved from a local standout into a fully weaponized force.
Now, the time has come to follow in the footsteps of Cryptopsy, Quo Vadis, and Despised Icon, proving once again that Montreal remains a relentless, unyielding powerhouse in the world of death metal.
After years of silence and anticipation, Brazilian thrash metal masters VIOLATOR are officially back with a vengeance. Their long-awaited new albumUnholy Retribution will be released worldwide, on September 5th, 2025, via Kill Again Records.
The video of the album’s first single, “Chapel of the Sick”, will drop on August 1st.
True to their roots yet revitalized by a long and intense creative process, Unholy Retribution captures VIOLATOR at their most inspired and ferocious. The band delivers a powerful and uncompromising collection of songs that revisit their trademark thrash metal with renewed energy and purpose. This is not a reinvention, it’s a reaffirmation of everything that made VIOLATOR a cult force in the global underground.
From the raw aggression of their breakout EP Violent Mosh (2004) and the now-classic debut full-length Chemical Assault (2006), VIOLATOR made their mark with a youthful urgency that took no prisoners. That same intensity is alive and well on Unholy Retribution, but now it comes sharpened by experience and delivered through more dynamic, tightly constructed compositions. The fire hasn’t dimmed, it’s evolved.
Line-up:
Poney Ret Crucifier – Bass,Vocals Capaça Bloody Nightmare – Guitars Cambito Chains Killer – Guitars Batera Bone Crusher – Drums
Musically, the album bursts with blistering riffs, tight rhythmic precision and an unmistakable sense of urgency. Groove-laden catchiness and flashes of technical brilliance keep the track-list flowing like a furious tide; unpredictable, violent and cathartic. The production matches this ferocity with a sonic identity that’s both organic and clear, yet unpolished in just the right way: a raw, analog-flavored mix that enhances every snare hit and guitar bite without sacrificing the band’s gritty edge. It’s a sound that feels live, alive, and undeniably VIOLATOR.
Lyrically, the band stays loyal to its mission: confronting injustice, exposing corruption and shining a harsh light on the rot festering beneath the surface of modern society. With Unholy Retribution, VIOLATOR continue to use their music as both weapon and warning.
This is the record that fans of early Vio-Lence, Kreator and Dark Angel have been waiting for, a no-holds-barred thrash assault, deeply rooted in tradition yet bursting with contemporary urgency. The wait is over. The retribution is unholy. And it starts now.
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