North America, we’re coming for you, too! We will headline a North American tour of epic proportions, beginningAugust 28 in Orlando, FL and hitting a month of dates before ending in Silver Spring, MD on September 27.
Each night will feature very special guests Visions of Atlantis as direct support, with Frozen Crown opening each show.
LEAVES’ EYES open a new chapter in 2026 with the release of their upcoming EP Song Of Darkness! The band now unveils the title track and EP opener together with an epic new video, offering the first full glimpse into this next creative cycle.
Recorded at Mastersound Studio under the production of band mastermind Alexander Krull, the EP expands the group’s trademark fusion of orchestral depth and metallic intensity. It captures LEAVES’ EYES at a moment of artistic strength, balancing sweeping symphonic arrangements with an earthy, human pulse.
Lyrically, Song Of Darkness travels along the shifting borders between myth, magic, and history. The title track itself draws inspiration from the medieval Icelandic saga of Gisli the Outlaw, leading listeners into a world of murder, intrigue, guilt-ridden dreams, and the hope for redemption.
The LEAVES’ EYES vocalists share about the new single: “Our Song of Darkness transports you to a world of dark dreams and inner turmoil, where mystical spirits from ancient times guide your destiny,” says Alexander Krull, and adds it’s: “A tragic love story, but no happy ending.”
Elina Siirala comments: “Song of Darkness is like a play with contrasts…it combines the mysterious and dark with light and angelic. In the midst of a dark story, there’s a feeling of hopefulness! The opposing elements create once again a perfect canvas and drama for a Leaves’ Eyes song!”
Each track on Song Of Darkness unfolds like a chapter in a saga, cinematic in scale yet personal in emotion. Elina Siirala’s commanding performance brings the stories to life, illuminating the storm of sound around her, while Krull’s growls ground the music with raw force.
Towering choirs and strings rise beside crushing riffs, with folk-inspired melodies weaving through the dark. From the orchestral grandeur of its opening moments to the final echo of its closing refrain, the EP builds an atmosphere defined by tension, release, and the timeless pull of legend.
With its mix of mythic storytelling, emotional depth, and powerful symphonic metal, Song Of Darkness showcases LEAVES’ EYES at full strength. The EP arrives March 6, 2026 via Reigning Phoenix Music. In support of Song Of Darkness, the band will be playing a series of European and UK dates with special guests CATALYST CRIME, and many more dates to follow. Find all upcoming shows listed below!
In addition to their previously announced support dates with SYMPHONY X, the legendary Finnish power metal band SONATA ARCTICA are pleased to announce five headlining dates on their upcoming North American Tour. Joining the band as openers on all dates will be the American instrumental band POWERGLOVE.
The band comments: “It’s been awhile since we last toured the US & Canada so it’s gonna be really awesome to come back and kick some ass once again. With our new album we made a return to Power Metal so you can expect to hear some favourites from the past that we haven’t played in years as well as some new stuff. See you all soon! “
All dates are in support of their critically acclaimed album Clear Cold Beyond, which was released in 2024.
CLEAR COLD BEYOND NORTH AMERICAN HEADLINE DATES:
🇨🇦 Sep 29 – Toronto, ON – The Mod Club 🇨🇦 Sep 30 – Montreal, QC – Théâtre Beanfield 🇺🇸 Oct 1 – New York, NY – Gramercy Theatre 🇺🇸 Oct 2 – Boston, MA – Royale 🇺🇸 Oct 4 – Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Soundstage
NORTH AMERICAN DATES IN SUPPORT OF SYMPHONY X: Sep. 04 – Stroudsburg, PA @ Sherman Theater Sep. 08 – Dallas, TX @ Granada Theater Sep. 10 – Mesa, AZ @ The Nile Sep. 11 – San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick Sep. 12 – Pomona, CA @ The Glass House Sep. 13 – Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey Theatre Sep. 14 – San Francisco, CA @ August Hall Sep. 16 – Portland, OR @ Dante’s Sep. 17 – Seattle, WA @ Neptune Sep. 18 – Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw Theatre Sep. 20 – Calgary, AB @ The Palace Theatre Sep. 21 – Edmonton, AB @ Starlite Room Sep. 23 – Winnipeg, MB @ Park Theatre Sep. 24 – Minneapolis, MN @ Fine Line Sep. 25 – Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave II Sep. 26 – Joliet, IL @ The Forge Sep. 27 – Cleveland, OH @ Globe Iron Sep. 29 – Red Bank, NJ @ The Vogel
Wake Up The Wicked Tour 2026 w/ very special guest HammerFall & special guest Wind Rose:
19.02.26 DK – Copenhagen / K.B. Hallen 20.02.26 NO – Oslo / Unity Arena 21.02.26 SE – Stockholm / Hovet 23.02.26 FI – Helsinki / Ice Hall 25.02.26 SE – Gothenburg / Scandinavium 27.02.26 DE – Bremen / ÖVB Arena 28.02.26 DE – Düsseldorf / PSD Bank Dome 01.03.26 DE – Nürnberg / Arena Nürnberger Versicherung 03.03.26 DE – Leipzig / Quarterback Immobilien Arena 04.03.26 DE – Ulm / Ratiopharm Arena 05.03.26 DE – Mannheim / SAP Arena 07.03.26 UK – London / OVO Wembley Arena
Critically acclaimed symphonic metal artist EXILED HOPE has unleashed a lyric video for her stunning track “Forbidden Majesties“. The song is taken from her album Apocrypha which released digitally on April 11th, 2025.
Sofia Frasz, the mastermind behind the project, commented, “I rerecorded the guitar parts for this song multiple times before I was finally happy with them. This was the first time I experimented with a more rhythmic playing style, and while it took some getting used to, it finally feels natural. “Forbidden Majesties” is both atmospheric and intense, and briefly dips into a soft cinematic style reminiscent of “Deathslayer” during the bridge. It ties together all the different threads, from heavier styles to lighter styles, that I’ve woven throughout the album and feels like a natural conclusion, leaving the door open for further stylistic exploration.”
Right on time for another exciting live adventure, rising symphonic/power metallers INDUCTION have officially released their latest single through Reigning Phoenix Music today. The track titled ‘Beyond Horizons,’ which already celebrated its live premiere during the band’s most recent European tour, will be a part of their forthcoming record, and is their first sonic sign after regrouping themselves in late 2024, resulting in the addition of singer Gabriele Gozzi, guitarist Justus Sahlman and drummer Markus “Maks” Felber.
Also accompanied by a new music video, “Beyond Horizons” impressively shows the wide range of elements INDUCTION’s creative work is driven by: Forcing triplet drumming and riffing, backed by epically flourishing synths and choirs, build the ground of a track that is both profound and jubilant. Empowering melodies and rhythms make “Beyond Horizons” not only an anthem of the warm season and a perfect soundtrack to everyone’s next concert or festival trip. All aboard the INDUCTION train, metalheads, we’re just getting started!
Guitarist Tim Kanoa Hansen comments: “With ‘Beyond Horizons,’ we ring the bell for our long-awaited third album. And I believe it’s a mighty peek for what is to come: a story of love in twisted worlds and destiny. ‘Beyond Horizons’ is the perfect kick-off to show you what we’ve been up to and what to expect. Dive in and enjoy: I’m sure this song will be stuck in your head for quite some time.”
Crafted at Hamburg, Germany’s Chameleon Studios and Boogie Park Studios, the song was produced by Hansen and mixed and mastered by Eike Freese in collaboration with him. The design of the single artwork was a team effort by TheArchangel and Marius Rietze.
Beyond Horizons” will once again be presented live to massive crowds during INDUCTION’s five shows supporting the mighty SAVATAGE this June. Followed by the band’s first Wacken Open Air appearance, the quintet has been confirmed as the supporting act of VISIONS OF ATLANTIS and WARKING’s 2026 Pirates & Kings Over Europe tour, taking them to 20+ cities across the continent in February/March. INDUCTION’s current itinerary can be found below!
“We always knew that no words or short recap videos could truly capture what we experienced together during the “Wolfsnächte 2024” tour. Every night was its own kind of magic – still, we wanted to find a way to hold on to those memories and share them in the most powerful way possible. That’s why we decided to record the full, massive, sold-out show at the Olympiahalle in Munich – to preserve just a piece of what we all felt on this tour.”
“Wildlive (Live at Olympiahalle) will be released on March 6, 2026 on DVD/Blu-ray, in various beautiful audio formats and digitally. This is more than a live release. It’s a tribute and manifestation to the moments we created together.”
French symphonic power metal band Fairyland are pleased to share their new single and official video “Karma”, taken from their new studio album The Story Remains, scheduled for June 13th, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Bassist Willdric Lievin described the new single: “Karma is a song about the type of people who like using others. It’s a song about a selfish, egoistic, self-centered individual who only wants to please himself, without any consideration for other people. His hallmark: empty words, broken promises, words that are not followed by actions. He doesn’t know that by living like this, he hurts people around him. He doesn’t know that “what goes around comes around”. Musically it’s one of the most beautiful gems that Phil Giordana ever made. The majestic, epic, rich orchestrations make this song unique”.
Talking about the new record, Lievin stated: “After the passing of the Fairyland’s founder and mastermind Phil Giordana, we faced the challenge to finish the fifth album. Phil left plenty of material, but it required a lot of further work. It wasn’t easy but in the face of adversity we excelled and managed to complete the album. This, along with a new lineup, starts a new chapter in the history of Fairyland. It continues the symphonic, power metal quality that Fairyland is known for, but we decided to add some new elements to this musical landscape”.
“The Story Remains is richer and more versatile than previous albums, and we are exploring new musical and lyrical territory for the band. We are happy and proud of this new album, and we hope that listening to it will give you a lot of delight. Welcome back to Fairyland”, he continued.
The Story Remains perfectly incarnates the band’s trademark sound, and songs like “A New Dawn” or “Karma” are a perfect example of the amazing album that will make every symphonic metal freak’s heart beat with excitement!
The Story Remains – Track-list: 1. Downfall 2. To Stars And Beyond 3. Karma 4. A New Dawn 5. We Shall Hunt The Sun 6. Hopeless Still 7. Samsara 8. Unity 9. Council Of The Gods 10. The Chosen Ones 11. Unbreakable 12. Postscript 13. Suffering Ages (Feat. Elisa C. Martin)
Line Up: Archie Caine – Vocals Willdric Lievin – Guitars, bass, backing vocals Gideon Ricardo – Keyboards Brieuc De Groof – Guitars JB Pol – Drums
Rockshots Records and Secret Rule are thrilled to announce the release of the band’s brand new single called “Just A Sacrifice” available on all digital platforms starting today, May 2nd, 2025, and accompanied by a music video. The track offers the first glimpse into the band’s highly anticipated tenth studio album, due for release later this year.
“Just A Sacrifice” is a powerful anthem about the cost of staying true to oneself in a world that demands conformity. Blending heavy guitars, intense vocals, and a bold, wide-open chorus, the song captures both the emotional toll and the inner strength that come with resisting societal pressure.
“This song is about the price we pay for thinking freely, speaking our truth, and refusing to follow the crowd,” the band comments. “It’s deeply personal but also a quiet political statement.”
In recent weeks, Secret Rule completed an intense 15-date European tour alongside Temperance and Induction, showcasing their renewed energy and connection with audiences across the continent. The band is now preparing to take part in prestigious summer festivals including Masters of Rock (Czech Republic), Rock Imperium Festival (Spain), and Laurus Nobilis (Portugal).
Entering 2025 with a refreshed lineup and a renewed artistic vision, Secret Rule is ready to push their sound even further. The upcoming album promises a dynamic and immersive experience fusing the cinematic edge of Within Temptation’s recent work with the raw energy of Falling In Reverse.
“Just A Sacrifice” marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Secret Rule, one built on resilience, individuality and a sound more powerful than ever.
SECRET RULE:
ANGELA DI VINCENZO: Vocals ANDY ‘MENARIO’ MENARINI: Guitar SOFIA BASILI: Bass ANDREA MIAZZETTO: Drums
SUMMER FESTIVALS: 27.06.25 ES – Imperium Rock Festival 10-13.07.25 CZ – Masters of Rock 20.07.25 PT – Laurus Nobilis
POWERWOLF 2025 North American Tour Dates w/ DRAGONFORCE:
Wednesday, September 17 – Toronto, ON @ Rebel Thursday, September 18 – Detroit, MI @ Masonic Cathedral Friday, September 19 – Louisville, KY @ Louder Than Life Saturday, September 20 – St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant Monday, September 22 – Grand Rapids, MI @ GLC Live Tuesday, September 23 – Milwaukee, WI @ The Eagles Ballroom Wednesday, September 24 – St Paul, MN @ Myth Live Friday, September 26 – Edmonton, AB @ Edmonton Convention Centre Saturday, September 27 – Calgary, AB @ Grey Eagle Monday, September 29 – Vancouver, BC @ Queen Elizabeth Theatre Tuesday, September 30 – Seattle, WA @ Paramount Theatre Wednesday, October 1 – Portland, OR @ The Keller Auditorium Saturday, October 4 – Sacramento, CA @ Aftershock Festival
Coinciding with their ongoing “Myths Of Fate” European tour, symphonic Viking horde LEAVES’ EYES are pleased to announce that their ship has landed at the shores of Reigning Phoenix Music. Making a pact with the subversive metal label, the leading German metallers have found a welcoming new home for their future musical endeavours.
LEAVES’ EYES founder/vocalist Alex Krull states: “We’re really happy to share such fantastic news: LEAVES’ EYES have signed a long-term record deal with Reigning Phoenix Music! Being united with many companions and friends makes working with RPM very special to me! We’re looking forward to entering the next level with Sven, Jochen, Gerardo and the whole RPM family, we couldn’t be more excited! The Southern German metal empire strikes back!”
“I’m enormously pleased to welcome Viking metal pioneers LEAVES’ EYES at RPM. The musical roots of Alex and me go back to Ludwigsburg’s Rockfabrik, a place where many bands and rock/metal projects kick-started their careers. Collaborating with friends is always special, and that’s definitely the case here,”comments label owner Sven Bogner.
RPM managing director Jochen Richert adds: “I’ve known Alex for almost 40 years since we’ve already been meeting regularly at local youth centres back in the day. Our work relationship also lasts for about 35 years now. That’s why I’m very happy that LEAVES’ EYES and Reigning Phoenix Music are walking a common path now. It’s a classic example of ‘What belongs together, comes together’!”
After their foundation in 2003, LEAVES’ EYES took the scene by storm: the group undeniably hit a nerve of the metal world with their refreshing mixture of symphonic metal and historic Norse elements. Over the course of nine studio albums, the band extended their ever-growing fan base, performed on five continents, played many own headline tours and entered the stages of some of the most prestigious metal festivals around the globe.
But there’s more: To bridge the gaps between their studio albums, LEAVES’ EYES mostly continue writing material and thereby released multiple EP’s with some of them showing rare musical sides, for example acoustic recordings, of the sextet. And the current time is now exception: following their current success album Myths Of Fate, which hit no. 17 of the official German well as no. 66 of the official Swiss album chart among others, they’re preparing a brand new EP, which is set for release later this year via Reigning Phoenix Music. What it contains shall remain a secret for now, but you can be sure that LEAVES’ EYES next output will be nothing but another exciting addition to their musical journey through the Nordic saga world. Pre-save it here: https://leaveseyes.rpm.link/ep2025PR
LEAVES’ EYES are: Elina Siirala | vocals Alexander Krull | vocals Florian Ewert | guitars Luc Gebhardt | guitars Dominik Prykiel | bass Nils Kreul | drums
As mentioned, the group have kicked off their 2025 European tour in Aalborg, Denmark, to gather symphonic and Viking fanatics once again. Also performing under the “Myths Of Fate” banner are promising support acts: NYTT LAND (Mar 6-21), ATER (Mar 6-21), PROJECT RENEGADE (Mar 6-13), VERDERBNIS (Mar 6-13) and HALLS OF OBLIVION (Mar 14-21). The second part of the run (Stuttgart, DE + 6 Iberian dates) will see local bands taking the stage to warm-up the crowds for LEAVES’ EYES.
“Myths Of Fate Tour 2025” Presented by The Flaming Arts Agency w/ NYTT LAND, ATER, PROJECT RENEGADE, VERDERBNIS 07.03.2025 NL Arnhem – Willemeen 08.03.2025 DE Weinheim – Café Central 09.03.2025 BE Ghent – Chinastraat 10.03.2025 DE Dortmund – JunkYard 11.03.2025 CH Aarburg – Musigburg 12.03.2025 IT Milan – Legend Club 13.03.2025 AT Vienna – Viper Room w/ NYTT LAND, ATER, HALLS OF OBLIVION 14.03.2025 RS Belgrade – Dom omladine 15.03.2025 RO Cluj-Napoca – FORM Space 16.03.2025 RO Bucharest – Quantic 17.03.2025 BG Sofia – Joy Station 18.03.2025 HU Budapest – Barba Negra 19.03.2025 PL Krakow – Hype Park 20.03.2025 PL Gdansk – Drizzly Grizzly 21.03.2025 PL Warsaw – Hydrozagadka w/ local supports 29.03.2025 DE Stuttgart – Im Wizemann (Club) 01.04.2025 ES Barcelona – Sala Upload 02.04.2025 ES Portugalete – Estudios Groove 03.04.2025 PT Porto – Hard Club 04.04.2025 PT Lisbon – RCA Club 05.04.2025 ES A Coruña – Sala Maladiva 06.04.2025 ES Madrid – Sala Nazca
24.05.2025 DE Nordhorn – North Metal Night 25. – 27.06.2025 CZ Spálené Poříčí – Basinfirefest 28.06.2025 DE Oschersleben – Rock & Metal Day’z 05.07.2025 DE Mülheim an der Ruhr – Castle Rock 18.07.2025 DE Greifenstein – Celtic Rock
MOONLIGHT HAZE will release the new record Beyond on May 23th 2025 through Scarlet Records.
Lead by sensational frontwoman Chiara Tricarico (currently one of the live vocalists of Avantasia and special guest on the Highlights From The Revenge Of Odysseus (2022 ManowarEP), MOONLIGHT HAZE has joined forces with extraordinary producer Sascha Paeth for their upcoming fourth studio album.
Beyond is a perfect mixture of heavy, melodic and super catchy songs recorded in the old fashioned way with little to no edits. MOONLIGHT HAZE went ʻorganicʼ this time, with a little help from Sascha Paeth, who was able to make some of the classic features of the band emerge and shine even more.
The Italian unit keeps delivering its trademark killer refrains while exploring new musical territory, further experimenting throughout ten tracks highlighted by yet another stellar vocal performance courtesy of Chiara Tricarico.
MOONLIGHT HAZE’s fourth record is a journey through time and space, galactic landscapes and earthly elements; a never-ending quest for a deeper reality and a purest inner truth. Soul searching symphonic power metal, if you please.
Produced by MOONLIGHT HAZE at Bridge Produzioni Audio and Studio & Sascha Paeth at Pathway Studio, and illustrated by the talented Beatrice Demori, Beyond will be released in the following formats:
CD digipack LP in vinile: 350 blu trasparente; 150 trasparenti (esclusiva mailorder) Digitale
01. Beyond 02. Tame The Storm 03. Crystallized 04. Chase The Light 05. Would You Dare? 06. L’Eco Del Silenzio 07. D.N.A. (Do Not Apologize) 08. Untold 09. Time To Go 10. Awakening 11. A Brand New Sky (bonus track CD) 12. Alive Again (bonus track vinile)
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).
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.
From the eerie mists of the Blue Mountains, Australia, CARMERIA combine the haunting sounds of dark symphonic metal with the lovelorn energy of gothic rock. Today marks the release of their highly anticipated sophomore LP, Tragédie D’amour, and to celebrate, CARMERIA unveil the stunning new video for their latest single, “A Thousand Winter Rains”.
This atmospheric and intense track delves into themes of longing and sorrow, perfectly complemented by the evocative visuals in the video, showcasing the band’s dedication to exploring the more melancholic aspects of the human experience. Watch the video HERE.
Singer/songwriter Jordan von Grae shares: “The past 3 years have been a monumental journey through the peaks of love, and the valleys of loss, and reflecting on these experiences in the writing and production process for this album was both haunting and beautiful. As a writer, Tragédie D’amour took me out of my comfort zone, and the result was a series of wonderful lessons in songcrafting and production, and a newfound appreciation for the vast range of emotions and experiences held in the dichotomy of love and grief. It is my hope that those who listen to our record find solace in the fact that they are not alone in their experiences – the good, and the bad.”
Members: Jordan von Grae – Vocals | Principal Lyricist & Songwriter | Producer Jerry Zahija – Guitars Mishka Bobrov – Keys | Additional Backing Vocals Emma Louise Nagy – Bass | Secondary Vocals | Acoustic Guitars Lachlan Blackwood – Drums | Producer
Track Listing:
Call Forth My Sorrow
A Thousand Winter Rains
Thorns
Leading the Lyre
Whispers of Forgiveness
Shadow’s Throne
Immortal
Burning Ships
The Hoping Heart
A Vision in Passing
Since reforming with a new line-up in 2018, the band has been on a momentous warpath through the Australian music scene. CARMERIA’s debut album Advenae (2021) saw the 5-piece garner international acclaim. In the summer of 2021/2022, the group embarked on their first nation-wide tour, culminating in a sold out show in their hometown capital, Sydney.
The following years saw the ensemble write and record music for their 2nd opus, titled Tragédie D’amour, whichconsists of 10 new songs and sees the band’s sound taking on a more energetic gothic rock approach than its predecessor.
Credits: All lyrics and music written and performed by CARMERIA Produced by Jordan von Grae Co-Produced by Lachlan Blackwood Vocal Production and Mixing by Voya at Morava Audio Mastered by Miro Mastering Artwork by Digital Art – Mr_Anas1
Challenge The WindDue Out This May On AFM Records!
May 31, 2024 will see symphonic melodic metal overlords Rhapsody Of Fire release their hotly-anticipated, new studio epos ‘Challenge The Wind’ via AFM Records. A new music video for their latest colossal single, “Diamond Claws” (now available on https://rhapsodyoffire.bfan.link/diamond-claws), is premiering today! Watch the band’s new clip below, and pre-order your album copy now athttps://rhapsodyoffire.bfan.link/challenge-the-wind
For more than thirty years, Rhapsody Of Fire have been able to rely on one thing: there’s nothing half-hearted about this band. The Italian masters of their craft can look back at an impressive catalogue of 14 studio albums, three EPs and two live recordings to date, all marked by lots of heart and soul, passion and a virtually inexhaustible wealth of ideas. Since 1993, mastermind and founder Alex Staropoli has been hailed as the creator of the film score metal genre and his band as one of the most charismatic acts worldwide.
In addition, Staropoli has enlisted a highly creative first-rate guitarist in Roby De Micheli, who joined the fold in 2011, contributing lots of gritty metal riffs and virtuoso solos to contrast the band’s symphonic orchestral style.
Challenge The Wind will mark Rhapsody Of Fire‘s most fast-paced rager to date, as the composer and keybordist Staropoli recently revealed: “Compared to all previous Rhapsody Of Fire releases, the current album consists exclusively of up-tempo numbers, not a single ballad in sight. None of our other records have featured as much pure, unadulterated metal as ‘Challenge The Wind’!”
In support of their forthcoming album, the band is gearing up for a busy touring schedule in 2024, with many more shows to follow soon. Find all upcoming Rhapsody Of Fire dates listed below!
Challenge The Wind was produced by Alex Staropoli and mixed by Seeb Levermann (Orden Ogan), who is responsible for the homogeneous sound of the ten songs’ elaborate arrangements. As all of the band’s first single releases prove, one can be sure: Rhapsody Of Fire’s fast-paced adventure is set to continue with undiminished intensity! Pre-order Challenge The WindHERE!
Challenge The Wind track-list:
Challenge the Wind
Whispers of Doom
The Bloody Pariah
Vanquished by Shadows
Kreel’s Magic Staff
Diamond Claws
Black Wizard
A Brave New Hope
Holy Downfall
Mastered by the Dark
Rhapsody Of Fire: Giacomo Voli (vocals) Alex Staropoli (keyboards) Roby De Micheli (guitars) Alessandro Sala (bass) Paolo Marchesich (drums)
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Rhapsody Of Fire Live: 05.05.2024 (MX) EL CONDE, Foro 360 07.05.2024 (CO) BOGOTA, Astor Plaza 09.05.2024 (BR) SAO PAULO, Caricoa Club 10.05.2024 (CL) SANTIAGO, Blondie 11.05.2024 (AR) COMUNA 1, El Teatrito 18.05.2024 (IT) TREZZO SULL’ ADDA MI, Live Club 29.06.2024 (FR) CLISSON, Hellfest 13.07.2024 (BG) MOGILOVO, Midalidare Rock in the Wine Valley 2024 19.07.2024 (FI) PERUNKA, John Smith Rock Festival 07.11.2024 (SE) MALMOE, Plan B 08.11.2024 (SE) GOTHENBURG, Surr Arena 09.11.2024 (SE) STOCKHOLM, Fryshuset Klubben 10.11.2024 (SE) GAVLE, Centralteatern
Following ‘Kreel’s Magic Staff’, a first single and album harbinger released in 2023, Rhapsody Of Fire have revealed full details about their brand new studio offering, entitled ‘Challenge The Wind’, due out this May! In support, the band has announced a busy touring schedule, with many more shows to follow soon. Find all upcoming Rhapsody Of Fire dates listed below!
Their upcoming studio album, ‘Challenge The Wind’, is slated for a release on May 31, 2024 via AFM Records, the pre-sale has started today at:
For more than thirty years, fans of symphonic melodic metal act Rhapsody Of Fire have been able to rely on one thing: there’s nothing half-hearted about this band. The Italian masters of their craft can look back at an impressive catalogue of 14 studio albums, three EPs and two live recordings to date, all marked by lots of heart and soul, passion and a virtually inexhaustible wealth of ideas. Since 1993, mastermind and founder Alex Staropoli has been hailed as the creator of the film score metal genre and his band as one of the most charismatic acts worldwide. In addition, Staropoli has enlisted a highly creative first-rate guitarist in Roby De Micheli, who joined the fold in 2011, contributing lots of gritty metal riffs and virtuoso solos to contrast the band’s symphonic orchestral style.
The song is out now on all digital streaming services via:
Rhapsody Of Fire: Giacomo Voli (vocals) Alex Staropoli (keyboards) Roby De Micheli (guitars) Alessandro Sala (bass) Paolo Marchesich (drums)
The album will mark Rhapsody Of Fire‘s most fast-paced rager to date. “Compared to all previous Rhapsody Of Fire releases, the current album consists exclusively of up-tempo numbers, not a single ballad in sight,”reveals composer and keyboardistAlexStaropoli. None of our other records have featured as much pure, unadulterated metal as ‘Challenge The Wind’!” Give ear, today, Rhapsody Of Fire are premiering a music video for their new single, the album title track!
Staropoli adds: “The new Rhapsody Of Fire single “Challenge The Wind” is another strong musical statement from the band. Speed, energy, orchestrations, shredding guitars, amazing vocals and choirs; truly epic and divine music. Expect to be blown away, the entire album will shake you to your core!”
Challenge The Wind’ was produced by Alex Staropoli and mixed by Seeb Levermann (Orden Ogan), who is responsible for the homogeneous sound of the ten songs’ elaborate arrangements. As the first single releases prove, one can be sure: Rhapsody Of Fire’s fast-paced adventure is set to continue with undiminished intensity!
‘Challenge The Wind’ tracklist:
Challenge the Wind
Whispers of Doom
The Bloody Pariah
Vanquished by Shadows
Kreel’s Magic Staff
Diamond Claws
Black Wizard
A Brave New Hope
Holy Downfall
Mastered by the Dark
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LEAVES’ EYES Released Gripping Music Video For New Single “Realm of Dark Waves”
Symphonic metal vikings, LEAVES’ EYES, have revealed new details about their much-awaited, new album “Myths Of Fate“! Slated for a release on March 22, 2024 via AFM Records, the album pre-sale has just started at https://leaveseyes.bfan.link/Myths-of-Fate! Perfect in time to celebrate their new album live, LEAVES’ EYES have also announced an extensive touring schedule kicking off in March, find all live dates listed below!
Four years after bringing “The Last Viking” to Valhalla with their previous opus, LEAVES’ EYES resurrect with “Myths Of Fate” to celebrate their 20th year of existence. With their ninth studio album under their belt, the Germany-based act consolidates their leading position in the symphonic metal universe. Powerful, epic and impressive – LEAVES’ EYES once again merge traditional metal genres by fusing elements of folk, gothic, and classical music into a captivating sonic masterpiece.
With “Myths Of Fate”, the band once again set sails for new winds that definitely blow from the harsh shallows of the symphonic metal genre. The fantastic world of legends from Norse and Eastern European mythology is the setting for monumental entertainment. “The early Middle Ages were a fascinating time of change. Some of these innovations have left their mark around the globe and continue to impact our modern world”, tells band mastermind and singerAlex Krull.
In support of LEAVES’ EYES’ forthcoming opus, the band produced a total of five music videos with Mastersound Entertainment. Filmed on impressive locations in Iceland, Germany and Poland, they bring the myths captivatingly to the screen. Magic creatures, great battles and enchanting warrior queens come to live! The music video for “Realm Of Dark Waves” is now premiering HERE.
Once again, LEAVES’ EYES have created an entire universe of their own imagination that showcases their talent as storytellers and music perfectionists. No doubt, the band will leave an everlasting footprint in their own genre with this album. “Myths Of Fate” provides a dynamic soundtrack for a vivid escape into a magical world of mythology!
LEAVES’ EYES TOUR DATES with special guests METALITE on selected dates + CATALYST CRIME: 14.03.2024 UK Birmingham / Asylum 15.03.2024 UK Glasgow / Slay 16.03.2024 UK London / The Dome 17.03.2024 UK Manchester / Academy 3 19.03.2024 DE Nürnberg / Hirsch 20.03.2024 CZ Solothurn / Kofmehl 21.03.2024 DE Bochum / Matrix 23.03.2024 DE Osnabrück / Bastard Club 24.03.2024 DE Leipzig / Hellraiser 26.03.2024 DE Darmstadt / Centralstation 27.03.2024 DE München / Backstage 29.03.2024 ES Madrid / Moby Dick 30.03.2024 PT Porto / Hard Club 01.04.2024 ES Barcelona / La Nau 02.04.2024 IT Milano / Legend Club 03.04.2024 AT Vienna / Szene 04.04.2024 HU Budapest / Analog Music Club 05.04.2024 BG Sofia / Joy Station Club 06.04.2024 RO Bucharest / Fabrica 07.04.2024 RO Cluj Napoca / Form Space 08.04.2024 PL Krakau / Kamienna 12 09.04.2024 PL Warsaw / Hydrozagadka 10.04.2024 PL Gdansk / Drizzly Grizzly 11.04.2024 DE Hamburg / Headcrash 13.04.2024 DE Berlin / Orwohaus
ALTERIUM, the new Italian power metal quintet led by Nicoletta Rosellini (ex. Kalidia, Walk in Darkness), has revealed new details about their hotly-anticipated, first full-length studio album! “Of War And Flames” will be out on March 8, 2024 via AFM Records, the pre-sale is now available via: https://alterium.bfan.link/of-war-and-flames
Following previously-released, first album appetizers, “Siren’s Call”, “Drag Me To Hell” and the epic cover version of Sabaton‘s “Bismarck”, ALTERIUM have unleashed their powerful title track “Of War And Flames”!
Born in late 2022, ALTERIUM consists of vocalist Nicoletta and former bandmates Paolo Campitelli (guitars) and Dario Gozzi (drums) from Kalidia, soon joined by Alessandro Mammola (guitars, also in Draconicon) and Luca Scalabrin (bass, also in Altair).
After Kalidia parted ways, Nicoletta decided to take a different approach and finally unleashes her whole potential as both a singer and a songwriter. Produced by Lars Rettkowitz (Freedom Call), and featuring 9 original classy power metal tracks including the cover of “Bismarck”, “Of War and Flames” turns out to be a triumph of catchy choruses, terrific vocal lines, powerful sounds, strong guitar riffs, explosive drums, majestic choirs and captivating grooves, all skillfully mastered by Achim Koehler. Pre-order your album copy now, and get ready for new power metal hope ALTERIUM, when theywill take the metal scene by storm!
If you’re a band or musician and would like your music reviewed or be interviewed by Stone, please click the link under the “ALBUM REVIEWS ARCHIVES” section below!
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