One simply couldn’t find better words to describe what 2025 has in store for HELLOWEEN. While the German metal legends are finishing the highly anticipated follow-up to their self-titled no. 1 album, they have launched yet another snippet of their prestigious live album Live At Budokan. The classic “Future World” from their genre-defining album Keeper Of The Seven Keys, Pt. 2 successfully keeps up the memories of this remarkable night the pumpkins experienced at Tokyo’s Budokan Arena in September 2023.
Singer Michael Kiske comments: “I love the positive message of this song. Our future will be bright, but it won’t fall into our laps. We all have to find our own way to future world. Musically, it’s one of the highlights and guarantees a great atmosphere every night.”
Live At Budokan has been released worldwide as 2CD set, limited 3LP “deluxe edition” (trifold first pressing), Blu-ray, DVD, but is also available on all major streaming platforms. Purchase/listen: https://helloween.rpm.link/liveatbudokanPR
Seattle (WA) – Powerhouse Action-Metal band, Hyperstrike, is back with an explosive new single, “Savage Sword,” on all digital platforms!
Serving as the ultimate rallying cry for those who know we live in a simulation, this track challenges listeners to confront the fabric of reality itself. “Savage Sword” tells the story of a world trapped in an artificial construct controlled by an evil deity broadcasting illusions from Saturn. Hyperstrike asks the provocative question: what if everything you see is a lie? The song’s protagonist wields the savage sword, a symbol of truth and rebellion, to sever the deceptive veil and spark a revolt against this cosmic oppressor.
“Savage Sword” follows close behind debut single, “Warning Shot.” Both cuts will appear on the band’s long-awaited debut album, High Risk, a ten-track thrill ride that drops this spring, delivering an unrelenting assault of melody, power, and precision.
Each of the album’s songs plunges listeners into a high-stakes narrative, from the devastating chaos of “Meltdown (Stop the Reactor)” to the primal defiance of “Steel Heart” and the warrior’s anthem “King of the Slain.” The album captures the sound of rebellion with blistering guitar solos, thunderous rhythms, and vocals that alternate between soaring and savage. Recorded in the heart of Seattle’s legendary metal scene, High Risk cements Hyperstrike’s reputation as a band that dares to push boundaries while delivering unforgettable hooks. Brace yourselves for the countdown to the most electrifying release of 2025 is on!
“Savage Sword” is available at the following links:
Lyrics and music by Hyperstrike. Mixed and mastered by Joe Cincotta at Full Force Studios. Drums recorded at One Shot Studios – Engineered by Josh Richins. Produced by Ben Bennett. Artwork by Ilya (Siberian Claw) Ignatov. Logo by Dipayandas Arts.
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
“The Plague That Burns The Sky” BRAINSTORM + ARION Co-Headline Tour 2025 w/ STRANGER VISION Presented by Rock Hard, musix, metal.de, powermetal.de, Decibel-Touring & RPM
27.02.2025 DE Aschaffenburg – Colos-Saal 28.02.2025 CH Solothurn – Kulturfabrik Kofmehl 01.03.2025 DE Essen – Turock 02.03.2025 DE Mannheim – 7er Club 03.03.2025 DE Munich – Backstage (Halle) 04.03.2025 DE Hamburg – Bahnhof Pauli 05.03.2025 DE Hanover – MusikZentrum 06.03.2025 DE Stuttgart – Im Wizemann
08.03.2025 NL Harderwijk – Estrado 09.03.2025 NL Gouda – StudioGonz 05. – 08.06.2025 DE Oettingen i. Bay. – Camping Battleground Festival 24.08.2025 PL Pindelo dos Milagres – Milagre Metaleiro Open Air
About BRAINSTORM:
BRAINSTORM boasts an unparalleled career: since their 1997 debut, Hungry, the band has continued to evolve and solidify their position in the international metal scene with standout albums like Metus Mortis (2001), Soul Temptation (2003), Liquid Monster (2005), and more recent releases such as Midnight Ghost (2018) and Wall of Skulls (2021). Having toured worldwide and achieved impressive chart positions in recent years, BRAINSTORM remains as determined as ever to set new milestones instead of resting on their laurels.
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.
HELLOWEEN are turning up the heat as they gear up for their monumental 40th anniversary world tour in 2025/2026 and tease a brand-new studio album! But before diving into the next chapter, the metal legends are giving their fans one last epic thrill from their chart-topping self-titled album with the release of Live At Budokan on December 13, 2024 (RPM).
Today, they’ve unleashed a blistering live version of “Save Us,” a track that catapults us back to their groundbreaking Keeper Of The Seven Keys era – a defining moment in their storied career. This electrifying single forges a powerful bridge between their glorious past and their unstoppable present. Get ready, Pumpkins United fans – this is just the beginning!
Bassist Markus Grosskopf notes: “‘Save Us’ is unfortunately still relevant or more relevant than ever before. The natural disasters, our own ignorance, hardly any possibilities to escape from all threats – the song is a desperate plea for rescue…a heavy, but thought-provoking piece with crushing reality.”
Pre-order Live At Budokan in your preferred physical format [digipak-2CD, 3LP (limited “deluxe edition” first press in trifold), Blu-ray, DVD], pre-save it on your favourite digital service provider (DSP), or pre-order the album digitally to receive “Save Us (live),” “Eagle Fly Free (live)” and “Best Time (live)” instantly: https://helloween.rpm.link/liveatbudokanPR
🎃 Get ready, pumpkinheads! Helloween’s “40 YEARS ANNIVERSARY TOUR” kicks off October 2025 with special guests Beast In Black. Don’t miss this epic power metal extravaganza celebrating four decades of pumpkin madness! The upcoming tour will be bigger, better and more impressive than ever!
Oct. 17 🇱🇺 Luxembourg, Rockhal Oct. 18 🇳🇱 Tilburg, 013 Oct. 20 🇬🇧 London, Eventim Apollo Oct. 22 🇫🇷 Paris, Le Zénith Oct. 24 🇨🇿 Prague, O2 Arena Oct. 25 🇸🇰 Zvolen, Tiposbet Arena Oct. 26 🇭🇺 Budapest, Papp Laszlo Arena Oct. 28 🇵🇱 Katowice, Spodek Oct. 31 🇩🇪 Bochum, Ruhrcongress Nov. 01 🇩🇪 Hamburg, Barclays Arena Nov. 03 🇳🇴 Oslo, Sentrum Scene Nov. 04 🇳🇴 Oslo, Sentrum Scene Nov. 06 🇫🇮 Helsinki, Ice Hall Nov. 08 🇸🇪 Gothenburg, Partille Arena Nov. 13 🇵🇹 Lissabon, Campo Pequeno Nov. 15. 🇪🇸 Madrid, La Cubierta des Leganés Nov. 19 🇮🇹 Mailand, Forum Nov. 20 🇨🇭Zürich, The Hall Nov. 22 🇩🇪 Stuttgart, Schleyerhalle
Exciting things are underway: as they record the follow-up to their highly acclaimed 2021 self-titled album with producer Charlie Bauerfeind, metal legends HELLOWEEN treat fans to another preview from their upcoming Live At Budokan release. This high-octane rendition of their timeless classic, “Eagle Fly Free”, captures the unmistakable chemistry between the band and the spirited Japanese audience at Tokyo’s Budokan, elevating the track to an entirely new level.
“A song that is just as wonderful and popular today as it was when it was first released. It comes with an effective overture, has a great upbeat and a brilliant, fast-paced ending. “Eagle Fly Free” has the ultimate vibe and encourages you to sing along. It has everything you would expect from an ‘evergreen,’ I love playing it,” states guitarist/vocalist Kai Hansen.
Pre-order Live At Budokan in your preferred physical format [digipak-2CD, 3LP (limited first edition in trifold), Blu-ray, DVD], pre-save it on your favourite digital service provider (DSP), or pre-order the album digitally to receive “Eagle Fly Free (live)” and “Best Time (live)” instantly: https://helloween.rpm.link/liveatbudokanPR
Get ready to dive headfirst into the electrifying world of HELLOWEEN with their new live album Live At Budokan, a colossal release that immortalises their iconic performance at Tokyo’s legendary Nippon Budokan! Dropping on December 13, 2024 through Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM), this release will be available in a plethora of formats: 2CD-digipak, 3LP vinyl in trifold, Blu-ray, DVD and digital.
Each version is meticulously crafted to suit the metal community’s diverse tastes, ensuring every fan can relive the raw, unfiltered energy of HELLOWEEN. Pre-order/pre-save the album here: https://helloween.rpm.link/liveatbudokanPR
To tide fans over until Live At Budokanarrives, the band have launched the first single “Best Time (live)”. This electrifying live version of the hit single and most streamed track (more than 11 million streams on Spotify) from HELLOWEEN‘s self-titled reunion album [2021] can be watched here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XT1ITfb76-0
Guitarist Sascha Gerstner comments: ‘“Best Time'” captures the energy and the moment when everything fits together perfectly and you leave everything negative behind. For me, this track is an anthem for all those nights when you’re heading towards the future. That’s why it conveys exactly this mood in concert as if you were living in a single great moment that lasts forever.”
This release celebrates the grand finale of HELLOWEEN‘s epic world tour from 2022 to 2023. Spanning over 30 countries on three continents, the tour was nothing short of a triumph, drawing massive crowds and showcasing the band’s undying appeal, the sold-out concert inTokyo is the crowning glory of the cycle.
Known for their explosive stage presence and high-voltage performances, HELLOWEEN‘s shows are fueled by the unique chemistry among the band members. Triple lead-guitar attacks from Michael Weikath, Kai Hansen, and Sascha Gerstner alternate with goosebump inducing duets from vocalists Michael Kiske and Andi Deris, occasionally supported by Kai Hansen, the band’s original singer and third voice. He also takes the spectators on a journey back in time with a medley from the band’s early days, returning to the origins of their sound – HELLOWEEN, the godfathers of melodic speed metal.
Choosing the Nippon Budokan for this live recording was no coincidence. A venue rich in musical history, it has hosted countless legendary concerts and is an accolade for every music group that has played there. HELLOWEEN are the first German band ever to record a live album in the Nippon Budokan, and for the members it was a dream come true.
Lead vocalist Michael Kiske described the show as “surreal, with the electrifying fan energy creating a magical atmosphere.” Bassist Markus Grosskopf spoke of the venue’s profound personal and historical significance, expressing how humbling and inspiring it was to perform in a place that shaped their own musical journeys.
The live recording’s technical brilliance is another highlight. With 29 cameras capturing every nuance, the production team ensured that each moment of the concert is preserved in stunning detail. This attention to detail means the Blu-ray and DVD versions offer an immersive viewing experience, making fans feel like they are right there in the front row.
The setlist of this live album is a treasure trove of surprises, contains the entire 2-hour+ show and offers a fresh experience compared to previous releases like United Alive [2019]. This thoughtful song selection honors both the die-hard fans craving something new and the band’s rich musical legacy, showcasing their evolution and expansive repertoire.
This live album is more than just a concert recording; it’s a celebration of HELLOWEEN‘s enduring impact on the metal scene. It promises to bring the magic of an unforgettable performance straight into fans’ homes, offering a piece of music history that embodies the spirit and energy of a legendary band at their peak.
HELLOWEEN are: Michael Kiske – vocals Andi Deris – vocals Kai Hansen – guitars, vocals Michael Weikath – guitars Sascha Gerstner – guitars Markus Grosskopf – bass Daniel Löble – drums
PRIMAL FEAR & Reigning Phoenix Music announce the new studio album Domination; welcome new members & unveil initial 2025 tour dates!
Spanning more than 25 years of pure heavy and power metal, PRIMAL FEAR have face numerous challenges since their formation in 1997. Despite these obstacles, the band have repeatedly risen from their lowest points, like a phoenix from the ashes. After a recent line-up change, which saw Thalìa Bellezecca join on guitar and André Hilgers on drums, the group are now in the final stages of completing their upcoming 15th studio album, Domination, which is currently being recorded.
“We’ve entered the studio and we can choose from a pool of about 25 songs! We’re absolutely happy!” smiles founding member Mat Sinner (bass, vocals). Produced by Sinner and co-produced by Ralf Scheepers and Magnus Karlsson, the new offering will be mixed and mastered by the group’s confident partner Jacob Hansen at his Hansen Studios in Ribe, Denmark by the end of this year.
Long-time guitarist Magnus Karlsson, who has recently returned to the PRIMAL FEAR live touring crew, is once again a vital part of the creative process as well. He adds: “I can’t wait to hit the stage with PRIMAL FEAR again! It’s going to be an incredible ride! We’re going to create something truly special together, both live and in the studio, and I’m so grateful to share this journey with all you metalheads! Metal is forever!”
The metal titans are determined to outdo themselves once again and to surpass the success of their recent album Code Red, which achieved the highest chart notations in the band’s history. Their efforts are progressing exceptionally well. Vocalist Ralf Scheepers states about the current process: “I haven’t felt as great in a long time as I did singing some of the new songs!”
But that’s not all: behind the scenes, preparations are in full swing, and PRIMAL FEAR fans should mark September 5, 2025 on their calendars. This date not only marks the release of Domination but also the launch of a European tour, starting in Hamburg, Germany, and spanning eight countries to celebrate the album’s debut. The tour will be preceded by several festival appearances (more details to be announced soon, so stay tuned!), with their first performance featuring the highly energized new line-up set for Rock in Rautheim next May. Contact: ITM.
In celebration of their 10th band anniversary, German power metal act SERIOUS BLACK will unleash their forthcoming, sixth studio album, entitled Rise Of Akhenatonon September 27, 2024 via AFM Records. A video clip for their latest single, “Take Your Life” is now premiering below!
Band mastermind Mario Lochert comments: “For me personally, this song is something special, not just because my daughter Emilia sang in the 3-part children’s choir. The song also describes my path in the music industry, when people laughed and said you’re crazy and won’t be able to do it. But at the end of the battle the dead are counted – these are the times when the heroes colide.”
Stream “Take Your Life” – out now on all digital services at:
TRACKLISTING: 01. Open Your Eyes 02. We Are the Storm 03. Silent Angel 04. Take Your Life 05. Shields of Glory 06. When I´m Gone 07. United 08. Rise of Akhenaton 09. Virtual Reality 10. I Will Remember 11. Metalized
SERIOUS BLACK: Nikola Mijic (Vocals) Dominik Sebastian (Guitar) Bob Katsionis (Guitar) Mario Lochert (Bass) Rami Ali (Drums)
We’re excited to announce our second guitarist. From now on the Italian/Cuban guitar sensation Thalia Bellazecca of Angus McSix will join PRIMAL FEAR as a full member and guitar partner of Magnus Karlsson!
Comments Thalia: “I’m stoked and excited to have the opportunity to play with these giants of the heavy and power metal scene. I feel so honored to share the stage with these amazing musicians and to start a new journey also with this incredible and historical band! Can’t wait to start working with all of you!”
Comments Ralf Scheepers: “After my last show in Italy, I got to know Thalia personally and I realized what a wonderful person she is… Anyone who knows me knows that personal contact and sympathy is very important to me. So I read up on her musical projects and skills and was blown away by her incredible talent! I can’t wait to work with her in the studio and of course live soon!“
Welcome Thalia and we’re super happy to have you in the Metal Commando!
Ten years SERIOUS BLACK, ten years of melodic power metal, with the license to create anthems! Since their founding in 2014 the band enthuses their fans not only with five studio albums to date (while their last offering, “Vengeance Is Mine”, charted at a phenomenal #16 in Germany), but also at frenetically acclaimed concerts and festival appearances around the globe.
To celebrate their decadal birthday in glorious style, SERIOUS BLACK have announced the release of a brand new album, entitled “Rise Of Akhenaton”, to arrive on September 27, 2024 via AFM Records! The album pre-sale has just started at https://seriousblack.bfan.link/rise-of-akhenaton
At the same time, the band will be on tour throughout Europe, with Sonata Arctica and Firewind. To shorten your wait, SERIOUS BLACK will unleash three singles, including video clips, starting today with the uptempo track “Metalized”. With its powerful guitar riffing, the dynamic of drum and bass and the hymn like catchy tunes this song unites all the band’s excellences!
Band mastermind Mario Lochert comments: “10 years of Serious Black! 10 years was the intro of Akhenaton the first track which blasted like a rolling thunder through the loudspeakers at over 200 concerts worldwide . Now it’s time to bring Akhenaton and his army to life “Rise of Akhenaton” the album. So what would be better to start the journey into the album with a song, that reflects the lifestyle, heart and love to the music of every heavy metal fan – aren’t we all a little “Metalized”?”
Anniversary Live Album & Blu-Ray! 2024 marks twenty years of BLOODBOUND. Twenty years in which the Swedish power metal export has left a lasting impression on fans and the worldwide metal scene. The band can call ten studio albums their own, as well as numerous frenetically-acclaimed festival appearances and tours. Last year alone, the band played a major gig at Masters of Rock Festival, which is featured on their upcoming anniversary live album and Blu-Ray, entitled “The Tales of Nosferatu – Two Decades of Blood (2004 – 2024)”!
With songs like “Nosferatu”, “The Warlock’s Trail”, “Battle in the Sky”, or new songs of the band’s discography like “Drink with the Gods”, BLOODBOUND – who were formed in 2004 by keyboard player Fredrik Bergh and guitarist Tomas Olsson – have quickly established their sound in the world of heavy music. Not only because of their immense talent, but also because of their own affiliation to the metal scene, a dedication that comes with it and the skills to write incredibly good power metal songs.
“What a ride it has been! 10 studio albums, shows in over 25 countries and chart entries from all over the world. When I look back at the last 20 years, I can only say how proud I am of what we have created!”Fredrik Bergh comments. “We’re super excited to celebrate 20 years of Bloodbound with this release – together with YOU – our fans! Without you we’re nothing!”
In support, BLOODBOUND are now premiering a single taken off “The Tales of Nosferatu – Two Decades of Blood”. The anniversary live version of the band’s classic “The Warlock’s Trail” is out now on all digital services and is now streaming HERE.
Their first studio album, “Nosferatu”, was released in 2005, followed by nine more offerings such as “Creatures of the Dark Realm”, “Rise of the Dragon Empire” or “Tales from the North”. Since two decades, the BLOODBOUND bandwagon is unstoppable! To celebrate their special birthday in 2024, and while BLOODBOUND have also made a name for themselves as a great, highly entertaining live act, “The Tales of Nosferatu – Two Decades of Blood” will be the perfect proof to that.
This live album and Blu-Ray perfectly reflect the highlights of their career and high-voltage stage energy. In addition to the entire Masters of Rock show, the Blu-Ray also includes excerpts from a past Japan performance and all of BLOODBOUND‘s music videos released to date.
As a special and unique gift to their dedicated fanbase, the upcoming BLOODBOUND release will also include a comic, which was created by long-time companion and designer Péter Sallai. It tells the story of how the band’s mascot Nossen came to be; tastefully illustrated and with a story tailored to the band and their songs, this work is an absolute must-have piece of art!
BLOODBOUNDLine-Up: Patrik J. Selleby (Vocals) Tomas Olsson (Guitars) Henrik Olsson (Guitars) Anders Broman (Bass) Fredrik Bergh (Keyboards) Daniel Sjögren (Drums)
Live Album Tracklist: 01 – Bloodtale 02 – Tales from the North 03 – Slayer of Kings 04 – In the Name of Metal 05 – When Fate is Calling 06 – A New Era Begins 07 – Battle in the Sky 08 – Drink with the Gods 09 – The Warlock’s Trail 10 – Moria 11 – Creatures of the Dark Realm 12 – Rise of the Dragon Empire 13 – Nosferatu
Blu-Ray: BR 01 – Bloodtale BR 02 – Tales from the North BR 03 – Slayer of Kings BR 04 – In the Name of Metal BR 05 – When Fate is Calling BR 06 – A New Era Begins BR 07 – Battle in the Sky BR 08 – Drink with the Gods BR 09 – The Warlock’s Trail BR 10 – Moria BR 11 – Creatures of the Dark Realm BR 12 – Rise of the Dragon Empire BR 13 – Nosferatu BR 14 – Made of Steel BR 15 – Bloodtale BR 16 – Battle in the Sky BR 17 – Dragons are Forever BR 18 – Rise of the Dragon Empire BR 19 – Tales from the North BR 20 – Drink with the Gods BR 21 – Creatures Of The Dark Realm BR 22 – Rise Of The Dragon Empire BR 23 – Battle In The Sky BR 24 – Stormborn BR 25 – In The Name Of Metal
We are thrilled to announce that we have signed a new record deal with Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM) for our upcoming studio album!
RPM proudly comments on the signing: “It is a true milestone for Reigning Phoenix Music to welcome HELLOWEEN to our family of artists. HELLOWEEN is not just a band, they epitomize the energy and passion of power metal. Their music has inspired generations, and we are proud to collaborate in order to reach new heights.”
As for us, we are equally enthusiastic about the new partnership: “Sven Bogner and his team have convinced us with their ideas and enthusiasm. They live and love metal, and this is what connects us – we look forward to be working with them!” explains Andi Deris.
Specifically, we will start working on new material from the summer and are planning to release a new studio album in 2025. Stay tuned, pumpkinheads!
Following the release of their latest, much acclaimed studio album Firestar, German power metal force IRON SAVIOR has unleashed a furious, new single entitled “Raising Hell”! Firestar was released in October 2023 via AFM Records, and is available at THIS LOCATION!
“Those were the days When Metal came out ways Making me stronger Day by day We’ve been the warriors To rule the gleaming city lights Metal on our minds We’re raising hell”
Sings IRON SAVIOR frontman, Piet Sielck, but give ear and listen to “Raising Hell”, now premiering and available on all digital services at: https://iron-savior.bfan.link/raising-hell
Order the album, a must-have record that belongs into every well-sorted power metal collection, at https://bfan.link/firestar
German power metal titans MASTERPLAN, who will not only embark on an extensive European tour with FIREWIND kicking off this February, return with a brand new song, entitled Rise Again! An official lyric video is now premiering below.
Following the band’s colossal anniversary edition, a reissue of their memorable debut re-released in 2023 via AFM Records, today, MASTERPLAN are sharing their new single Rise Again – an epic, powerful and hopefully first harbinger of a new album to follow in the not so distant future!
Founding member and guitarist, Roland Grapow, reveals:
“After almost 10-11 years of silence, we are ready to burst onto the heavy metal scene again. We missed the audience and new emotions. This song is about how we felt during the last period. Everything in the world changes so quickly that sometimes it is very difficult to understand where you belong. And it seems that you are talented and worthy of success, but you begin to doubt yourself. And this is a big mistake.
As usual and in the Masterplan style, we try to be positive and this is the main goal of our creativity. We want to inspire our fans to find the strength to overcome life’s challenges. Rise Again is the song about hope, life and better things to come, it’s like a phoenix rising from the ashes.“
Finnish melodic metal titans SONATA ARCTICA deliver the perfect soundtrack for the cold season with their stormy new opus Clear Cold Beyond, set for release on March 8th, 2024 through Atomic Fire. In advance of the release, the quintet is pleased to unveil epic new single, “A Monster Only You Can’t See;” a song about friendship and never leaving anyone behind.
Frontman Tony Kakko elaborates, “We all may have, in our group of friends, that one person who seems to be a magnet for all kinds of problems, many of which they may not even see themselves. Maybe you’re that one? You might be an asshole, but you’re our asshole and we can see through all that, see the real you, and help. And when children arrive to the scene, they all fit under that same umbrella. Don’t worry. We’ll kick your butt up that hill.”
Watch SONATA ARCTICA’s lyric video for “A Monster Only You Can’t See” HERE. Stream/purchase the track HERE.
Stream previously released single “First In Line” at THIS LOCATION.
Clear Cold Beyond will be available on digipak CD, jewel case CD (US), 2XLP on multiple color variants, and digitally.
Preorder the album in the physical format of your choice, presave it on your favorite DSP, or preorder it digitally to receive “A Monster Only You Can’t See” and “First In Line” instantly at sonataarctica.afr.link/clearcoldbeyondPR.
Subscribe to Atomic Fire Records on YouTube HERE and listen to “A Monster Only You Can’t See” as well as other new tracks in the AFR New Releases playlist on Spotify HERE.
SONATA ARCTICA: Tony Kakko – vocals Elias Viljanen – guitars Pasi Kauppinen – bass Henrik “Henkka” Klingenberg – keyboards Tommy Portimo – drums
Following their trip through various acoustic landscapes during the pandemic, Clear Cold Beyond contains ten tracks reviving SONATA ARCTICA’s penchant for power metal-esque songwriting. From high-speed anthems such as “First In Line” and “California” to emotion-laden tracks like “The Best Things” and the closing title track, the record offers something for each and every SONATA ARCTICA fan. The album’s artwork, reminiscent of the art adorning early releases, was created by Niko Anttila. Additionally, the band returned to mixing engineer Mikko Karmila (1999’s Ecliptica, 2012’s Stones Grow Her Name). Final mastering was handled by Svante Forsbäck (Rammstein, Korpiklaani, Delain, The 69 Eyes, Deathstars) who has also been part of other SONATA ARCTICA productions.
Hard rock power metal titans FIREWIND, who just recently announced their brand new studio offering, entitled Stand United, for a release on March 1, 2024 via AFM Records, have not only revealed a brand new single, but a US headlining tour kicking off in the Spring of 2024! Find all upcoming FIREWIND live dates listed below. Tickets are on sale now! More US dates TBA.
Following “Salvation Day”, the previously-released, first track taken off the band’s forthcoming offering, now, FIREWIND have shared a lyric video for their new, powerful singe “Come Undone”. Their new album,Stand United will be available as CD, LP Vinyl, digital formats and highly collectable bundles including an autographed card, a FIREWINDcat patch plus a ticket for the band’s upcoming European tour with MASTERPLAN. For every ticket bundle purchase, fans will also get the chance to win a Meet & Greet. The album pre-sale is available at: https://firewind.bfan.link/stand-united
The video clip for the new FIREWINDsingle, “Come Undone”, is now streaming HERE
Since more than twenty years, FIREWIND enthrall heavy music fans with their exciting blend of hard rock and power metal. Razor-sharp riffs by guitar legend Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne, Arch Enemy, Dream Evil), big hooks and solos meet the incredible vocal skills of charismatic singer Herbie Langhans (Avantasia, Radiant, Seventh Avenue, amongst others), who joined the band in 2019.
Stand United, features nine brand new songs produced with Dennis Ward (Magnum, Unisonic), as well as a cover of the 80s pop rock classic ‘Talking in Your Sleep’, originally recorded by The Romantics but giving it a metal twist in the style of FIREWIND. Their forthcoming, tenth studio album also bears testament to the band’s sheer enthusiasm and lyrical topics that could not be more relevant.
FIREWIND: Gus G. (guitars) Herbie Langhans (vocals) Petros Christo (bass) Jo Nunez (drums)
“I wouldn’t exactly call ‘Stand United’ a classic concept album, but the album title indicates what we’re about thematically,” explains Gus G, who has also contributed with more lyric ideas on this one than any album before. “This world seems to be getting more and more out of balance, what with environmental disasters, the pandemic, the wars currently raging all over the globe. In such times, it’s more important than ever for mankind to stand close together instead of fighting each other. That’s what ‘Stand United’ is about!”
In support of Stand United and among a European tour with MASTERPLAN early next year, FIREWIND have announced to tour the US in the Spring of 2024.
Says Gus G: “We’re proud and excited to bring our new album “Stand United” World Tour to America! In 2022 we made our comeback tour after a 9 year absence from American shores. We vowed to return as soon as possible. With a new album release ahead of us, we’re gonna do a full headline set for our American fans which will feature new songs and a best of setlist from our whole catalogue that’s been long overdue! We’re also very happy to have Edge of Paradise and Immortal Guardian with us. This is gonna be a Power Metal night to remember. We hope to see you all there!
FIREWIND – STAND UNITED IN AMERICA 2024 – Special guests: EDGE OF PARADISE and IMMORTAL GUARDIAN
04.12 MANCHESTER, NH – ANGERL CITY MUSIC HALL 04.13 READING, PA – REVERB 04.14 PITTSBURGH, PA – CRAFTHOUSE 04.16 WESTLAND, MI – TOKEN LOUNGE 04.17 HOBART, IN – HOBART ART THEATER 04.20 PEORIA, IL – REVIVAL MUSIC HALL 04.21 JOLIET, IL – THE FORGE 04.23 DENVER, CO – HQ 04.25 SAN DIEGO, CA – BRICK BY BRICK 04.26 ANAHEIM, CA – THE PARISH @ HOUSE OF BLUES 04.27 W. HOLLYWOOD – WHISKY A GO GO 04.28 SAN FRANCISCO – DNA LOUNGE 05.01 AUSTIN, TX – COME AND TAKE IT LIVE 05.02 DALLAS, TX – GRANADA THEATER (SUNDOWN ROOM) 05.03 SAN ANTONIO, TX – ROLLING OAKS EVENT CENTER 05.06 HOUSTON, TX – WAREHOUSE LIVE
MASTERS OF FIRE TOUR 2024 || FIREWIND & MASTERPLAN LIVE Tickets on sale at: https://bnds.us/663bll
29.02 🇩🇪 – Frankfurt, Das Bett 01.03 🇩🇪 – Bochum, Matrix 02.03 🇳🇱 – Uden, De Pul 03.03 🇫🇷 – Savigny Le Temple, L’Empreinte 06.03 🇪🇸 – Barcelona, Sala Wolf 07.03 🇪🇸– Madrid, Shoko 08.03 🇪🇸 – Pamplona, Totem 11.03 🇩🇪 – Munich, Backstage Halle 12.03 🇦🇹 – Wien, Szene 13.03 🇸🇰 – Bratislava, Randal Club 14.03 🇨🇿 – Zlin, Masters of Rock Cafe 15.03 🇵🇱 – Lublin, Studio im. Budki Suflera 16.03 🇵🇱 – Zabrze – CK Wiatrak 17.03 🇩🇪 – Leipzig – Hellraiser 20.03 🇳🇴 – Oslo, John Dee 21.03 🇸🇪 – Malmö, Plan B 22.03 🇸🇪 – Gothenburg, Surr Arena 23.03 🇸🇪 – Gävle, Gasklockorna 24.03 🇸🇪 – Stockholm, Biblioteket Live
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