Black Magick Metal Heathens of Europa!! We are returning…
Following a week of metal debauchery with DEVASTATOR in the UK, we will traverse the mainland, hitting several countries for the first time! BEWARE!
MAY 24 LONDON, UK • Black Heart * MAY 25 BIRMINGHAM, UK • The Flapper * MAY 26 NEWCASTLE, UK • The Cluny * MAY 27 NOTTINGHAM, UK • Billy Bootleggers * MAY 28 GLASGOW, UK • Slay Studio * MAY 29 MANCHESTER, UK • Star & Garter * MAY 30 BOURNEMOUTH, UK • Bear Cave * JUNE 1 GENT, BE • Asgaard JUNE 2 DÜSSELDORF, DE • Pitcher JUNE 4 GDAŃSK, PL • Mystic Fest JUNE 6 HIRSCHFELD, DE • Chronical Moshers OA JUNE 7 BRATISLAVA, SK • FUGA JUNE 8 LJUBLJANA, SV • Mensa Pri Koritu JUNE 10 MILAN, IT • Live Club JUNE 11 ROME, IT • Euro Social Park JUNE 13 GRIES, DE • Iron Fest OA JUNE 15 LEEUWARDEN, NL • Into the Grave Fest
New York’s Quemasantos have released a lyric video for their new single ‘Stalking Sharks’ featuring a guest guitar solo from Marco Cusato (Warpath, Somberwind). Written and performed entirely by Ignacio Orellana along with the lyrics, vocals, and overall concept conceived by Nelson Diaz.
This is the band’s first track in English since they formed in 2012 with Spanish lyrics. ‘Stalking Sharks’ is available on all major streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. Stream this and all the Quemasanto’s music on the band’s Bandcamp.
Nelson Diaz comments: “Returning to the direct thrash with warlike inspirations is something that shakes me internally, especially if it is with musicians of the caliber of Ignacio (Orellana) and our special guest Marco Cusato, who is an eminence of Latin American thrash.”
Ignacio Orellana comments: “For us, it’s a privilege to be able to create music, specifically Thrash metal music. It is what moves us and what has inspired us since we were kids. To be able to work with some of your childhood heroes it is just a dream come true. Happy to be alive and keep doing what we do best.”
All the music of ‘Stalking Sharks’ was recorded at Oily Sounds Studios in NYC. The vocals and the guitar solo were recorded at Attic Studios in Chile by Marco Cusato.
Quemasantos: Nelson Diaz – Vocals Ignacio Orellana – Bass/Guitars/Drums
Epic power metal warriors Braveride return with “Executioner”, the first single from their upcoming album The Great Awakening set for release on April 18th, 2025, via Rockshots Records. A battle hymn of unstoppable force, “Executioner” delivers soaring melodies, galloping riffs, and a thunderous rhythm section embodying the band’s signature blend of symphonic and epic power metal.
Alongside the release, Braveride has unveiled an official lyric video, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the song’s powerful themes while following the evocative storytelling of the lyrics. Designed to bring the narrative and emotion of “Executioner” to life, the lyric video enhances the track’s epic and cinematic nature, reinforcing the battle-driven intensity of the song. With striking visuals and a compelling lyrical flow, the video serves as the perfect gateway into the world of The Great Awakening, setting the tone for the album’s mythical journey.
Blending the grandiosity of symphonic orchestrations, classic guitar finesse, and a relentless drive, “Executioner” is a perfect showcase of Braveride’s artistic vision, where raw power meets intricate composition. As part ofThe Great Awakening, the track fits seamlessly into the album’s overarching fantasy concept where every song contributes to a mythical world of battles, heroes, and destiny.
With this new chapter, Braveride further solidifies its place in the epic power metal scene, making “Executioner” the perfect introduction to an album set to resonate deeply with fans of Rhapsody of Fire, Blind Guardian, and Manowar.
Track Listing: 1. Twilight 2. Executioner 3. Nightmares are Real 4. Souls are Marching 5. Temple of the Unholy Reign 6. The Gate 7. Delfekor 8. Gionis 9. Unspoken Terror 10. The Final Confrontation
Braveride – Line Up: Marios Christakis: Guitars, Orchestrations, Lyrics and all music compositions Marcello Vieira: Vocals, Vocal Additional Arrangements, Additional Lyrics Antonis Gerogiorgos: Drums Wolf De Iuliis: Bass
Founded in 2004 by Marios Christakis, Braveride was created with the vision of blending epic power metal with symphonic elements and a cinematic approach to storytelling. Over the years, the band has evolved refining their sound from the raw energy of their debut Heroic Deeds (2006) to the grandeur, more complex compositions featured in The Great Awakening (2025).
Inspired by fantasy literature, sword-and-sorcery tales, and epic battles, Braveride’s music transports listeners into mythical worlds. With soaring vocals, galloping rhythms, intricate orchestrations, and classical guitar passages, their sound stands out as a powerful force within the epic power metal landscape. Their ability to balance complexity and melody, creating both immersive full-album experiences and standalone anthems, has earned them a dedicated following among fans of Rhapsody of Fire, Blind Guardian and Manowar.
Photo Credit – Obscene Productions | L-R – Jack Sutherland (Guitars), back Johnny VanderRoest (Guitars), front Joshua Hahn (Vocals), L-R – Greg Smith (Drums)
Red Deer, AB extreme metal outfit Art of Attrition unleashes their latest single “Subserviate & Decay”. The track showcases the band’s signature blend of relentless brutality and melodic complexity while pushing into bold new territory.
“Subserviate & Decay” delivers the classical Art of Attrition sound that fans have come to expect – a devastating combination of 8-string guitars, gravity blast beats, and guttural vocals – before taking an unexpected turn after the bridge breakdown. The band expands:
“It is modern primitive. It embodies all you love about Art of Attrition and then slaps you in the face with a caveman club. We loved writing this song, recording the parts, and developing its uniqueness in our catalog. It serves as a visceral reminder of the necessity of internal self-love and confidence.”
Since their formation in 2019, Art of Attrition has carved out their niche in the extreme metal landscape; their 2023 debut album The Void Eternal and 2024’s …And It Will All End Forever established them as a force in the technical deathcore scene. The single represents a conscious step outside the band’s comfort zone, incorporating elements from other genres they love. It is especially recommended for fans of Lorna Shore, Aversions Crown, and Kublai Khan.
In additional news, Art of Attrition along with2024 Wacken Metal Battle Canada Champions, Toronto, ON’s Beguiler be hitting the road across Canada, east to the west this May for “The Subservient Bloodletting Tour” (dates listed below). This cross-country trek marks a new chapter for both bands as they expand their reach, unleashing their most punishing sets to date along with new songs to unveil. Enter the moshpit for these two bands’ audio assaults of some good ol’ extreme sonic carnage!
Some of you may have already come across it, but we’re excited to share that a new strictly limited 7” picture vinyl for “Kyrie Klitorem” is on the way! These special collector’s editions tend to go fast, so we wanted to give you a heads-up. It’s set for release on February 28th and is available now through EMP (Europe) and Napalm Records (worldwide).
Photo Credit @stutteringuzii (Instagram) | L to R: Alex S (Bass), Cristian S (Guitars/Vocals), Mischa M (Vocals), Carlos G (Drums)
Montreal aggro-metal troupe CHÜZO will be hitting the road in March for weekend warrior dates in Ontario for shows in Oshawa, Toronto, and Hamilton. The tour dates are in support of their latest EP M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay) unleashedthis past October and produced with Kevin Jardine (Slaves On Dope, Uplift Recording Studio) (dates listed below).
The band recently released their latest knock-out music video “Bruised and Broken”, which can be seen and heard at: https://youtu.be/0mVkPAsgN3k
“This track is about being pushed, provoked, and instigated to the point of no return. When in life one encounters certain individuals whose existence is to only make you angry and enraged; to bully you and disrespect you beyond aggravation, and the inevitable result that losing your temper and seeing red does to the individual being provoked and instigated is what this track is about. The utter destruction and devastation that awaits the foolish person who dares to provoke a person who has been pushed to the edge of human insanity; fuck around and find out!” adds the band.
CHÜZO‘s new EPM.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay) is a three-track record that marks the next chapter and a true representation of what the quartet’s sound is meant to be.
“This new EP was to showcase our new lineup with our newest songs that are truly representative of our musical style, a style that we proudly call ‘Aggro-Metal.’ Very aggressive metal songs that have relatable themes that anyone can listen to and understand. This EP is our audio shotgun blast to the world to pay attention to and to mosh intensively during our live sets.”adds guitarist Cristian S.
CHÜZO‘s new lineup features the ensnaring vocals of Taiwanese Brazilian transplant Mischa M joining local first-generation Chilean Canadian and mastermind Cristian S. along with Carlos G from Venezuela and Alex S from Russia who all have found Montreal, Canada to be their home-to-breed their blender of grindcore, Swedish death metal, thrash, and hardcore punk to transform a sub-genre dubbed ‘Aggro Metal’.
The EP’s lyrics are driven by self-reflection and daily struggles. The inspiration for writing comes from life experiences and trying to live past them, especially the traumatic ones. Using all bad energy from bad experiences to create something positive for yourself and the world. This EP speaksof vengeance and the bad side of dedicating your life to achieving your desired revenge despite your own life and sanity. Brutal Social Justice.
For fans of Sepultura (Cavalera Bros era 84-96), At the Gates, Napalm Death, Slipknot, and Fuck the Facts, M.T.M.D (Maximum Threshold, Minimum Decay) was released on November 15, 2024.
TOUR DATES March 7 – Piranha Bar (Wacken Metal Battle) – Montréal, QC – info March 14 – The Atria – Oshawa, ON – info March 15 – Duffy’s Tavern – Toronto, ON – info March 16 – Doors Pub – Hamilton, ON – info
The debut album from Chicago based blackened-death entity MARROWOMB is now available for download and streaming.
Over five years in the making, Phisenomie is the brain spawn of multi-instrumentalist Frank Lato and features drums by renowned session drummer Kevin Paradis (ex-Benighted).
Featuring eight meticulously crafted tracks, Phisenomie delivers an unrelenting experience that blurs the boundaries between extreme and experimental. Each song provides a labyrinth of ferocious riffs and punishing rhythms, showcasing Lato’s visionary approach to composition. Phisenomie immerses listeners in a soundscape that is both savage and cerebral. This debut offering is more than just an album; it is a journey through the depths of the human psyche, where chaos and catharsis converge.
The artwork for Phisenomie was done by Penny Slinger (pennyslinger.com/) with layout by Frank Lato. Photography by the legendary Peter Beste.
Tracklisting: 1) Phantasia Kataleptike 2) Sickness Unto Life 3) Vicarious Visage 4) Inner Ring 5) Black Gossamer 6) Veil of Cold 7) The Mirror 8) Despairloom
Photo Credit: Peter Beste
MARROWOMB is a blackened death metal project formed from the ashes of former Chicago-based bands Polyptych and Endmember in 2020. Spearheaded by mastermind Frank Lato, the artistry of MARROWOMB knows no bounds and takes an uncompromising approach to songwriting. The project takes its influences from various sources; however, the prominent focus is centered on internal conflict and struggle.
MARROWOMB opts for a simplistic approach to its lyrical content and concepts; however, this is not a surface-level entity. For those who choose to venture beyond the surface, there are rewards to seeking out additional truths, messages, and meanings within the music.
MARROWOMB is: Frank Lato: guitars, bass, vocals, synths/programming Kevin Paradis: drums
Guest appearances: Greg Livas: solo on “The Mirror” Curtis Vamarassi: solo on “Black Gossamer” Shane Hill: solo on “Despairloom” All guitar solos recorded by Greg Livas at Ohmstead Studios
Stream SCOUR’s “Coin,” featuring a guest solo by Gary Holt (Slayer, Exodus), HERE.
Gold, the long-awaited debut full-length from SCOUR, is out today on Housecore Records in North America and Nuclear Blast in Europe!
SCOUR is the extreme metal collective boasting the all-star lineup of Philip H. Anselmo (Pantera, Down), Derek Engemann (Philip H. Anselmo & The Illegals), John Jarvis (Nest, Agoraphobic Nosebleed), Mark Kloeppel (Misery Index), and Adam Jarvis (Pig Destroyer, Misery Index, Lock Up).
Deepening the experience set forth on their previously released EP trilogy, SCOUR’s Gold pulls the listener through a blistering vortex of speed, aggression, and, above all, absolute horror. Drawing from a deep framework of literary horror masterworks, Gold guides the listener beyond the realm of death and through the metaphysical anomalies of a disheveled and decaying mind.
Metal Injection lauds, “An absolute black metal masterpiece…,” Rock Hard Germany notes, “Anselmo has a rage in his belly that you really believe,” while Antihero Magazine raves, “With Gold, SCOUR refines their sound into an absolute juggernaut of an album. It’s not just a triumph for black metal but for extreme metal as a whole, blending relentless aggression with a modern approach to songwriting and production. This album is a must-buy for fans of extreme metal.”
Stream SCOUR’s “Coin,” featuring a guest solo by Gary Holt (Slayer, Exodus), HERE.
Comments Kloeppel, “I don’t normally step aside for SCOUR solos, but, when I do, it’s for guys like Gary Holt from Slayer and Exodus. Bonded By Blood!”
Watch SCOUR’s previously released video for “Infusorium” HERE, “Blades” HERE, and a “History Of…” mini documentary HERE.
Gold is available on CD, LP, limited edition cassette (US only), and digital formats.
Order yours today at the Housecore Records webshop HERE, Bandcamp HERE, and Nuclear Blast HERE.
SCOUR will perform at this year’s edition of Milwaukee Metalfest alongside Gwar, Arch Enemy, The Dillinger Escape Plan, and more!
SCOUR Live:
5/18/2025 Milwaukee Metalfest @ The Rave/Eagles Club – Milwaukee, WI [info]
Forged in 2015, SCOUR quickly made their mark with the blistering debut single “Dispatched.” Their first release, The Grey EP (2016), came via Anselmo’s own Housecore Records, followed by The Red EP in 2017. In 2020, SCOUR unleashed their most aggressive effort yet, The Black EP, released under Housecore and Nuclear Blast Records and featuring guest appearances from notable figures like Erik Rutan, Pat O’Brien, and actor Jason Momoa.
SCOUR elevates their intensity with Gold, which includes a guest solo by Gary Holt (Slayer, Exodus). Recording for Gold began in February 2023 at Nodferatu’s Lair, Philip Anselmo’s personal studio and rehearsal space, which saw the band highly engaged in a concentrated effort toward a truly diabolical composition, with Anselmo leading the charge at every turn. One would often find the entire band in the control room in ecstatic debate, meticulously mulling over every blast beat and divebomb. The album was intermittently refined, and lyrical concepts finalized, over the course of 2023 as touring schedules would allow.
Anselmo began vocal recordings in the Fall of 2023 at The Lair. Backup vocal recordings were then executed by the rest of the band in arena backstage rooms over the course of Pantera’s February 2024 tour, where the full band would also thoroughly review the instrumentation mixes. Once the tracks were finalized by SCOUR and mixing engineer Dennis Israel, they were then passed to Fascination Street Studio in Örebro, Sweden for mastering by Jens Bogren.
“Weathered Axe” is the savage new single from London, England, black metal punks FINAL DOSE. The song, now streaming exclusively at Black Metal Daily, is the latest single preceding the band’s blistering new LP, “Under the Eternal Shadow“.
With an inception heading back to the year 2020, UK’s FINAL DOSE have built a reputation from its feral blend of black metal’s icy malevolence and the raw, uncompromising power of punk through the release of a demo, an EP and a full-length album in 2023.
With the experience of touring across the US and Europe granted by the excellent reception of aforementioned “Void Inside”, FINAL DOSE return with a vengeance, a bone-crushing slab of savagery and frostbitten fury entitled Under the Eternal Shadow.
Merging Black Metal and Punk is not in any way a novelty, however few acts have managed to imply the solid edge of both approaches in a such a vehemently organic fashion as the UK horde. From the very first seconds of opener “Eternal Winter”, a clear, powerful, in-your-face production compels the razor-sharp virulent riffs to gleam and cut through the ether like an electrical storm, whereas pounding fast beats function as a taser for the body, a remarkably pulsing mania which serves as a marching order for the wild raging vocals, a performance which renders gist to each word yelled in anguish.
But, beware. Under the Eternal Shadows’ ornamentation is yet provided by various elements such as Dungeon Synth and Folk, details that supply the record with more than a Black Metal/Punk substance. The brilliant slower moments offer an extra dose of bleakness and despair to the filthy fury, together with the lugubrious clean chords, filled with disheartening melody. These traits blazingly give shape to the lyrical concept of the album, the pain and gloom of mental decline, the misery of the societal ravishingly decay. This layer of mournfulness genuinely confers momentum to FINAL DOSE’s art, a sense of impending doom which sticks to the brain and captures the heart, making Under the Eternal Shadow much more than a musical record, but a tome of inspiration through the ashes of the world’s turmoil and dismay.
Wolves of Hades is proud to be releasing on April 11th these hymns of total blackened debauchery on LP / CD / MC and Digitally.
Track-list:
1. Eternal Winter 2. Weathered Axe 3. Rite of Spring 4. Servant 5. Dark Paradise 6. Wretched 7. Funeral March 8. Locked in the Black Dungeon 9. Revenge 10. Drag the Light Down
Credits:
Music written by Final Dose. Recorded and Mixed by Stanley Gravett at Holy Mountain Studios. Mastered by Bread Boatright at Audiosiege. Artwork by B. Fusco.
A day before official release, Norwegian black metal stalwarts SARKOM present the full album stream of their forthcoming record,Exceed In2 Chaos. Stream the album HERE.
Exceed In2 Chaos is due out on February 21st 2025 via Dusktone.
A furious masterpiece, Exceed In2 Chaos stands as a seamless follow-up to their 2016 release, Anti-Cosmic Art. While many bands adhere strictly to their roots and traditions, SARKOM boldly pushes boundaries, thriving on innovation. The result? A truly unique and intricate album from start to finish.
Photo by Ksenia Astera Hinderson
Building on their legacy, Exceed In2 Chaos masterfully blends the glorious traditions of Norwegian black metal with bold new elements. The album explores dissonances, piercing grooves, varied rhythmic structures, and unexpected twists, delivering a rich and dynamic tracklist. Always forward-thinking, SARKOM redefines their sound with this release, proving that their innovative spirit remains as fierce as ever. Each track reflects the band’s commitment to artistic growth, ensuring a listening experience that is both intense and refreshing. Prepare for chaos… Prepare for SARKOM!
Photo by Ksenia Astera Hinderson
Tracklist:
1. Exceed In2 Chaos 2. Enter As Fool, Exit As Beast 3. Prime Time Suicide 4. Spectral Prophet In A Demonized Dream 5. Be[lie]ve 6. Bottomfeeders 7. Chasing Ghosts 8. Commit To Total Genocide (LP exclusive) 9. Nemesis
Finnish melodic death/folk metal band Warfarer have released the instrumental version of their debut concept album A Tale Beyond the Pale, which was released at the end of 2024 via Inverse Records.
“We’ve always been fans of instrumental releases and knew we wanted todo the same with our debut album. Some aficionados prefer music without vocals, while others might want to create their own karaoke versions.
Back when our singer Kalle was learning to sing, he struggled to find quality instrumental metal tracks to practice with. It was frustrating how rare they were. We wanted to change that. By releasing this instrumental edition, we hope to give aspiring vocalists the chance to sing along with their favorite tracks. We also encourage other bands to do the same and make it easier for the next generation of metal singers.
Meanwhile, pre-production for our next EP is nearing completion. This new release will delve deeper into the events and experiences that have shaped our Northern stories. Rousing choruses guaranteed!”
Born from the frost of Northern Finland in 2013, Warfarer weaves chilling tales of small people’s great struggles amidst ancient myths. Their ferocious blend of melodic death metal and symphonic elements bites like the freezing wind and grips you like the flu.
After releasing an EP in 2017 and undergoing a complete reincarnation with new singles in 2018 and 2020, the band is more alive than ever, preparing for war with brutal new songs and sharpened axes. Their concept album, ‘A Tale Beyond the Pale’, released in November 2024, delves into the Finnish myth of the Brotherslayer, taking listeners on a journey through jealousy, scheming, Viking raids, duels under the Northern Lights, and an eventual descent into guilt and madness.
Warfarer – A Tale Beyond the Pale (Album 2024) Cover art by Sofia Sinivuori
Track list:
Heir Uncrowned [instrumental]
As the Portents Foretold [instrumental]
Brotherslayer [instrumental]
Bereaver [instrumental]
Betrayer [instrumental]
In the Gravelight [instrumental]
March Through the Endless Snow [instrumental]
The Gates to Realms Beyond [instrumental]
Line-up: Kalle Puutio – Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitars Seppo Kolehmainen – Lead Guitars, Backing Vocals Klaus Telenius – Bass, Backing Vocals Tuomas Rahikainen – Keyboards, Backing Vocals Julius Lehtonen – Drums
LEAD SINGLE ‘AMPUTATE’ SET FOR RELEASE ON MARCH 14th WITH NEW VIDEO
For over 35 years UK death metal legends Cancer have been delivering some of the most brutal and uncompromising music in the genre. Now, they return with Inverted World, their highly anticipated follow-up to 2018’s Shadow Gripped. Set for release on April 25th via Peaceville Records, the album promises a return to their signature blend of serrated riffing, guttural vocals, and relentless aggression. Expect a dark and visceral journey into dystopia, corruption, and existential horror.
Speaking on the upcoming release, founding member and vocalist John Walker shared “I started writing the new material shortly after the Covid lockdowns. I nearly always usually start the writing process by basically fooling around on the guitar, then after a while riffs start to turn into musical ideas. The lyrics, I tend to spend some time thinking about a concept and then I pick the vocabulary appropriate to the idea. Inspiration comes from what’s happening and what has happened in the world and curious tales that interest me. This album is the bands seventh full length release and I feel very fortunate at my age to still be able to do it, mixed by V. Santura I’m super happy with how it’s turned out.”
Death metal titans Cancer burst onto the UK extreme metal scene over thirty-five years ago and quickly established a strong global following over the early part of their careers, primarily due to the release of the legendary debut To the Gory End, swiftly followed by the equally revered Death Shall Rise album, which notably also featured death metal maestro James Murphy on lead guitars. The band’s trajectory increased further with follow-up opus The Sins of Mankind, leading to a stint with major label EastWest under Warner Music.
2018 saw the band return after a long period of inactivity for comeback release and Peaceville debut Shadow Gripped, which reunited the original core trio for the first time since 1995 for a stellar nod to the glory days of old; savage, thrash-tinged deathly odes to the macabre, gaining the approval of old fans and a new generation of death metal maniacs alike.
In a year which also marks the 35th anniversary of the genre-classic debut, To the Gory End, founding member and vocalist/guitarist/songwriter John Walker leads a now-revamped quartet for Cancer’s seventh full-length album in the form of Inverted World. A relentless attack of masterful song-writing and brutal hooks, Inverted World explores the dark and murky world of manipulation and barbarity both past and present, with themes relating to shadowy entities and cult mentalities, including the brainwashing of people into compliance and the weaponizing of religion. And as an extra treat for the band’s fanbase in particular, the track ‘Corrosive’ also resurrects the old and familiar tale of the acid bath murderer.
Inverted World was recorded at The Empty Hall Studio with Simón Da Silva, and mixed by V. Santura (Triptykon, Obscura, Pestilence, Dark Fortress etc) at Woodshed Studio.
‘Amputate’ Single Artwork
THE ALBUM’S FIRST SINGLE ‘AMPUTATE’ WILL BE RELEASED ON 14TH MARCH WITH A BRAND-NEW VIDEO
Cancer’s new album Inverted World will be released on 25th April 2025 on purple vinyl LP, black vinyl LP, CD and digitally. Pre-order here.
Italian crust / grindcore squad HORRID HUMAN CONDITION will release their debut album Perpetual Imbalance on April 18th 2025 via Time To Kill Records.
The first single, “Abused by Life”, is now streaming HERE.
The band commented:
“‘Abused by Life’ was the first track composed by the band, shortly after the formation in the summer of 2022. Musically, it is a synthesis of the influences found throughout the album, ranging from neocrust to more traditionally crust punk sounds, with some black metal elements. The song deals with the theme of human exploitation in the workplace. In an increasingly fast-paced and cynical society, the ones who suffer the consequences are the workers, forced to give up their rights just to survive, spending a part of their existence in a state of alienation.”
“The lyrics are inspired by two major films: ‘Metropolis’ by Fritz Lang and ‘The Working Class Goes to Heaven’ by Elio Petri.”
Track-list:
01 – Prelude to Failure 02 – Man is Overrated 03 – Heavy Burden 04 – The Great Decay 05 – Endless Nightmare 06 – Scorn 07 – A New Famine 08 – Price to Pay 09 – Nowhere to Hide 10 – Abused by Life 11 – Disguise 12 – Total Indifference 13 – The Last Era 14 – Black Lungs
Band Bio: Horrid Human Condition was formed in the summer of 2022 when Alessandro (vocals), Claudio (guitar) and Marino (bass) met Carlo (drums). Drawing from parallel experiences with other projects (laCasta, Nigredo), the first sessions came out very productive: in a few months the band wrote 14 songs, played live for the first time in March 2023 and recorded in December of the same year.
The band’s name is a sign of the social and existential dread of mankind. It’s the disillusion that comes forth when one realizes that the system in which all of us live thrives not for the good of the people, but for the good of the rich and powerful, in the expense of the far majority of us who are less fortunate.
It’s the disillusion that comes forth when one realizes that money, religion, morals, politics and so on are just tools used by power to maintain itself.
Musically, Crust Punk and Grindcore can convey this dread very well, with their extreme and fast-paced rhythms. A sharp and high-pitched guitar, a sludgy, acid, monolithic bass and machine-gun-like drums support screamed-out and barked vocals, in a Triumph of desperate energy, where the band actively seeks out contact with the public.
For fans of: Doom – Skitsystem – Wolfbrigade – Disfear – Disrupt – Dropdead – Dystopia – Tragedy – Fall of Efrafa – Ekkaia – Napalm Death – Extreme Noise Terror – Nails
February 18, 2025, LOS ANGELES – Melvins 1983, the raw and unfiltered incarnation of the legendary band featuring Buzz Osborne and original Melvins drummer, Mike Dillard, return with Thunderball – their first full-length album in four years, out April 18 via Ipecac Recordings.
“Thunderball is the third Melvins 1983 record we’ve made together, and I wanted it to be bombastic – I think we achieved that,” says Osborne. “I also wanted to do something with electronic artists Void Manes and Ni Maîtres for a long time. Both of them are exceptional talents. Their out-of-the-box use of electronics pushed Thunderball beyond my expectations.”
A preview of the five-song, 34-minute album is out now, with today’s release of “Victory of the Pyramids.” Driven by Dillard’s unrelenting cadence, the song opens with an almost deceptively poppy feel before spiraling into the crushing, sludgy depths that have long defined the Melvins’ sound. As Dillard said, it’s “a lovely blend of beautiful noise and gut-busting grooves.” The album was recorded by Toshi Kasai at Sound of Sirens Studios.
Album pre-orders are available now (https://themelvins.lnk.to/Thunderball), with Thunderball available on trio of vinyl variants including an indie exclusive “Smoke Is A Color” variant and an Ipecac webstore-only “Special Mustard Gas.” The collection is also available on CD and all digital formats.
After a short run of California dates in March (“The Spring Break Tour”), the band will embark on a massive nine-week, nationwide co-headlining trek with Napalm Death. The Napalm Death/Melvins outing is the follow-up to the legendary bands’ 2016 joint outing, dubbed the “Savage Imperial Death March” tour. Both “The Spring Break Tour” and the co-headlining shows with Napalm Death will feature Osborne, Dale Crover, Steven McDonald and Coady Willis. Tickets are available now via Ipecac.com/tours.
Head Cases! We’re excited to reveal that our long-awaited eleventh studio album, UNATØNED, drops April 25th, 2025 via Nuclear BlastXImperium Recordings.
UNATØNED is a testament to momentum, an album honed to its sharpest edge, forged on creative discipline and the hunger to push forward. It drips with melancholy melodies, and yet hammers with bludgeoning riffs, soars with anthemic sing-a-longs of love-lost and sadness, to bellowing power and undeniable confidence. Eleven albums deep, Machine Head remain as fierce, relevant, and unstoppable as ever.
UNATØNED – TRACKLIST:
LANDSCAPE ØF THØRNS ATØMIC REVELATIØNS UNBØUND ØUTSIDER NØT LØNG FØR THIS WØRLD THESE SCARS WØN’T DEFINE US DUSTMAKER BØNESCRAPER ADDICTED TØ PAIN BLEEDING ME DRY SHARDS ØF SHATTERED DREAMS SCØRN
Top – L-R – John Cook – Guitars, John Ferris – Vocals, Robbie Grossheim – Guitars Bottom – L-R – Kenny Thomas – Bass, Kenny Starnes – Drums
State of Mind, the Texas-based heavy metal outfit known for its powerful blend of classic metal and raw emotion, has recently released its second EP “Sanity of Madness”on February 7, 2025, via Self-Made Records with distribution from Earache Records. The six-track collection arrives as a testament to the band’s evolution since their formation in 1994, showcasing their signature combination of thunderous anthems and introspective songwriting. They comment on their expectation for the reception of the album:
“We think it will be received well. It’s got a raw human unpolished sound to it that you don’t get anymore. We decided not to put too much polish on it and leave it raw and authentic. We wanted that human, dirty sound. Like the good ole days of hella concerts. It’s like all of our influences came together and showed us the path we needed to take. There are so many storylines in this EP; it’s epic how they all fit together”
Sanity of Madness builds on the momentum of their 2022 singles “Shattered” and “Fall Away,” and their self-titled 2019 debut. The new release includes standout tracks like “The Masters Coming”, a groove-heavy odyssey that tells the tale of Renefield’s supernatural struggles, and “Dead”, a hard-driving anthem that captures the universal feeling of modern-day alienation. “Wizard”, inspired by a mystical poster that once adorned their practice space, demonstrates the band’s ability to transform visual art into crushing metal compositions.
State of Mind continues to deliver what they call “New Classic Metal” combining the timeless appeal of traditional heavy metal with contemporary themes and production. The EP weaves together tales of mythical beings, personal demons, and spiritual warfare, all delivered with the intensity that State of Mind fans have come to expect. It is recommended for fans of Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, and Dio.
Track Listing: 1. The Masters Coming (3:00) 2. Dead (3:50) 3. Mourning Star (4:59) 4. Shine (3:34) 5. Wizard (2:39) 6. Sail Across The Ocean (3:52) EP Length: 21:51
Sanity of Madness is available at the following links:
We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Cascadian black metal rejuvenators RETURNING have joined Bindrune Recordings with their breathtaking new album, Numinous. More info to follow soon….
A statement from the band:
“We are elated to announce our signing with Bindrune Recordings for the vinyl release of this album, as well as a vinyl release of Severance. Release dates will be announced in the coming months. Bindrune has been consistently releasing compelling earthen metal and folk music for over two decades, and we are honored to be now included in this catalogue.”
Out now! Serpentyne unleashes their highly anticipated new album Tales From The Dark, a bold evolution of their symphonic metal sound. The album refines its signature fusion of orchestral grandeur and modern metal intensity, weaving together fast-paced, cinematic compositions with powerful vocal harmonies. Fans of Nightwish, Within Temptation, and Eluveitie will find themselves immersed in a dynamic and evocative listening experience.
The road to Tales From The Dark has been paved with an electrifying single that introduced listeners to the album’s rich sonic universe. The first glimpse came with “Prophetess of Dreams”, a hard-hitting and fast-paced track that set the stage with machine-gun guitar riffs and an ominous tale of fate and destiny. Now, the album release is accompanied by the focus track “Run For Your Life”, a relentless and high-energy anthem that captures urgency and fear through a powerful mix of 8-string guitar work, soaring vocals, and layered orchestration. This song encapsulates the cinematic intensity of Serpentyne’s evolved sound, pulling listeners into a desperate chase for survival.
With Tales From The Dark, Serpentyne solidifies its place at the forefront of the symphonic metal scene, delivering an album that is heavier, darker, and more dynamic than ever before.
Tales From The Dark is available now as of February 14, 2025, on all major streaming platforms and in physical format at the following links:
Track Listing: 1. Prophetess of Dreams 2. Into The Night 3. Dangerous Mind 4. Ghosts of Times Past 5. Run for Your Life 6. Evil From Within 7. Dreamer 8. Seance 9. March of Death 10. Promised Land
Album Credits: Maggiebeth Sand – Lead Vocals Nigel Middleton – Bass and Vocals Lee Willmer – Guitars John Haithwaite – Keyboards Marco – Drums
Recorded by Maggiebeth Sand, Lee Willmer and John Haithwaite. Produced and arranged by Serpentyne. Mixed and Mastered by Justin Hill. Digipack & booklet design by Maggiebeth Sand.
The Finnish metal band Pohjoisen Soturit, formed in 2004, released the first single “Kuiskaus” (whisper in English) from their forthcoming third studio album N which is set to be released on May 2nd 2025 via Inverse Records.
The band comments: “It will go, go for it!” “Despite its title, the Pohjoisen Soturit single Kuiskaus is a brisk cadence and a well-shouted story about an unhappy family man who, as his last trick, burns down his house, family and himself. There’s such a nice groove vibe here.”
The fourth studio album of Finnish melodic metal highflyers ARION, “The Light That Burns The Sky,” will finally hit the shelves on February 28, 2025 through RPM (Finland: Ranka Kustannus; Japan: Avalon Label / Marquee Inc.). Following the enormously warm welcome of their hard-hitting yet powerfully melodic single “Like The Phoenix I Will Rise,” the band have now released the ultimate teaser for the record. ARION’s latest track, intriguingly titled “Blasphemous Paradise,” masterfully fuses two contrasting musical worlds. On one side, it’s driven by classic metal riffs and powerful, dynamic drumming, while on the other, Lassi Vääränen’s vocals take the spotlight, infusing the song with an unexpectedly pop-like feel.
“Being one of the more simple tracks on the album, Blasphemous Paradise is a hard rocking song mocking the nature of a pathological liar and the endgame of ‘catching’ them for their lies. While I composed it in just a day at the very early stages of writing this album, I intentionally kept it simple, but it took a lot of time to find the final lyrics. Once I found this ‘catching a criminal’ or ‘trial’ kind of theme, it sort of came together smoothly and I felt really happy about it!”comments songwriter/guitarist Iivo Kaipainen.
Pre-order The Light That Burns The Sky in your preferred format: [digipak-CD, coloured vinyl, digital] or pre-save the album on your favourite digital streaming provider (DSP): https://arion.rpm.link/tltbtsPR
In addition, “Blasphemous Paradise” arrives just in time for the start of ARION’s personal 2025 touring year: kicking off with five dates alongside STRATOVARIUS and SONATA ARCTICA in their home country, the group will embark on an 8-date “The Plague That Burns The Sky” co-headline tour with label mates BRAINSTORM with support coming from Italian progressive power metal outfit STRANGER VISION later this month. ARION’s current itinerary and ticket info can be found below!
The Light That Burns The Sky is a collaborative production, featuring songs written by Iivo Kaipainen, production and mixing by Matias Kupiainen of STRATOVARIUS with renowned sound engineers Jacob Hansen and Dan Lancaster collaborating on the song ‘Wings Of Twilight [feat. Melissa Bonny of AD INFINITUM].’ The mastering was handled by Ermin Hamidovic of Systematic Productions (ARCHITECTS, PERIPHERY, DEVIN TOWNSEND etc.), and the album boasts vibrant artwork by Giannis Nakos (Remedy Art Design; DYNAZTY, INNERWISH etc.).
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!
Metal Odyssey's Rock, Hard Rock and Heavy Metal Hall of Fame! These Are The Rock And METAL Legends Wrongfully Ignored By "The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame"
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