Archive for Thrash Metal

OVERKILL Taking Over – Revisiting A Thrash Metal Classic From 1987

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news, nu metal with tags , , , , , , , on March 2, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

My first taste of the invincible OVERKILL was their second studio album Taking Over. Released back in 1987, this masterpiece of thrash metal has stood the test of Metal time, for me. Taking Over should be filed under mandatory old-school Metal, if one is to create such a list.

I purchased this album first on vinyl at a regional record store chain called Strawberries Records & Tapes, while living in Connecticut. This retail chain no longer exists, closing its doors in 2006. Years later I bought Taking Over on CD. I never owned this gem on cassette.

My favorite song on Taking Over is the powerful thrash hym: In Union We Stand. To this very day, this song galvanizes my Metal soul and creates positive chills through my body. Electro-Violence encapsulates everything that a thrash song should be; speed, aggression, explosive and short guitar solos with a blistering rhythm section that induces moshing and head-banging madness.

Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth is still my favorite thrash vocalist of all-time. I always felt that his vocals are so unique that no other vocalist remotely sounds like him. This OVERKILL lineup, with Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth were truly pioneering and legendary, with drummer Rat Skates, bassist D. D. Verni and guitarist Bobby Gustafson.

• Taking Over is the last OVERKILL studio album that drummer Rat Skates would perform on.

Taking Over – Track List:

01. Deny The Cross

02. Wrecking Crew

03. Fear His Name

04. Use Your Head

05. Fatal If Swallowed

06. Powersurge

07. In Union We Stand

08. Electro-Violence

09. Overkill II (The Nightmare Continues)

DEATH ANGEL – Act III U.S. Tour 2026 | Dates, Cities & Venues Listed | With Guests VIO-LENCE & INCITE

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on February 24, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

ACT III U.S. Tour 2026 ~ Performing the album ACT III in its entirety:

5/1/26 – Phoenix, AZ – Marquee Theater
5/3/26 – Oklahoma City, OK – Diamond Ballroom
5/5/26 – New Orleans, LA – House of Blues
5/7/26 – Daytona, FL – Welcome to Rockville
5/10/26 – Charlotte, NC – The Underground
5/11/26 – Asheville, NC – Orange Peel
5/12/26 – Hobart, IN – Hobart Theater
5/14/26 – Detroit, MI – St Andrews Hall
5/15/26 – Sayreville, NJ – Starland Ballroom
5/16/26 – Norwalk, CT – District Music Hall
5/19/26 – Wilmington, DE – The Queen
5/20/26 – New York, NY – Gramercy Theater
5/21/26 – Buffalo, NY – Electric City
5/22/26 – Allentown, PA – Archer Music Hall
5/24/26 – Baltimore, MD – Maryland Deathfest
5/27/26 – Atlanta, GA – Masquerade Hell
5/28/26 – Orlando, FL – The Abbey
5/29/26 – Ft Lauderdale, FL – Culture Room
5/30/26 – Tampa, FL – Orpheum
6/2/26 – Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl
6/3/26 – Louisville, KY – Mercury Ballroom
6/5/26 – Milwaukee, WI – MKE Metal Fest
6/6/26 – St Louis, MO – Red Flag
6/8/26 – Wichita, KS – Wave
6/9/26 – Greeley, CO – Moxi Theater
6/10/26 – Colorado Springs, CO – Black Sheep
6/11/26 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
6/12/26 – Boise, ID – Shrine Ballroom
6/14/26 – Seattle, WA – Showbox
6/16/26 – Portland, OR – Hawthorne Theater
6/17/26 – Sacramento, CA – Ace of Spades
6/18/26 – San Luis Obispo, CA – Fremont Theater
6/19/26 – Santa Ana, CA – The Observatory
6/20/26 – Ventura, CA – Ventura Music Hall
6/21/26 – Santa Cruz, CA – The Catalys

More DEATH ANGEL info: https://www.deathangel.us/

On This Day In OVERKILL History ~ February 24th

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on February 24, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

February 24, 1995OVERKILL performed at Alrosa Villa in Columbus, Ohio. Their 15th studio album, W.F.O., was released in 1994.

February 24, 2006OVERKILL shared the stage with PRONG at Harpos Concert Theatre in Detroit, Michigan. The bands’ 13th studio album, RELIXIV, was released a year earlier in 2005.

February 24, 2009OVERKILL performed at Markthalle in Hamburg, Germany. Exodus, Gama Bomb and Torture Squad were also on the bill. OVERKILL were touring in-between studio albums, with 2007’s Immortalis being their most recent at the time.

February 24, 2010OVERKILL performed at Wulfrun Hall in Wolverhampton, England, UK. Opening bands were: Suicidal Angels, Savage Messiah and Cripper. OVERKILL were touring in support of their 15th studio album: Ironbound.

February 24, 2013OVERKILL performed at Wooly’s in Des Moines, Iowa. The band were continuing to support their 2012 album release: The Electric Age.

February 24, 2017OVERKILL performed at Slim’s in San Francisco, California. They were touring to support their 18th studio album: The Grinding Wheel.

More OVERKILL info: https://wreckingcrew.com/Ironbound/

Melbourne’s BATTLEGRAVE to Return With Enslavement ~ New Song Now Streaming

Posted in Death Metal, death thrash, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on February 22, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Australian death/thrash duo BATTLEGRAVE are set to return with their third and most devastating full-length release to date.

Enslavement delivers 10 tracks of unbridled and vitriolic, death-laden thrash metal. This relentless barrage of calculated venom, intense riffing, and punishing rhythmic precision further cements the band’s reputation for uncompromising extremity.

Lyrically tied to themes of violence and aggression, Enslavement weaves an interlocking narrative of a subterranean demon harvesting human souls to satiate its unending hunger. This conceptual core adds a sinister layer beneath the album’s sonic brutality.

Fans can experience a sample of what’s to come with the album’s first single, “Bonesaw.”

The band comments on the song: “Bonesaw’ delivers an aural assault on the listener, with all the power of a screwdriver plunged into the eardrum. Delving into the world of dismemberment, the track lyrically focuses on the evolution of medical tools in forensic pathology and features razor sharp riffage, a chaotic drum performance, two skin ripping solos and a vocal attack aimed directly for the jugular. Prepare to be taken apart piece by piece with the bonesaw.”

Watch the official music video for “Bonesaw” here.

Stream the song on SpotifyApple Music and Amazon Music.

Enslavement is due out on April 10. Pre-order the album at: battlegrave.bandcamp.com/album/enslavement

The album was recorded by Clint Patzel of BATTLEGRAVE, mixed by Tim Shearman and mastered by Logan Mader. Session drums by Robin Stone.

Track-listing:
1) Soul Chasm

2) There Is Only Death

3) Bonesaw

4) Eyes Of Enslavement

5) Venom

6) The Grand Machine Of Despair

7) Asylum

8) Marked By Evil

9) Under The Banner We March

10) US Outpost 31

Line-up:

Rohan Buntine – Vocals, Lyrics

Clint Patzel – All Strings

BAND BIO:

BATTLEGRAVE are a two-piece death/thrash project from Melbourne, Australia, formed in 2017 following the release of their debut demo track, “Mortar Fire,” which quickly generated strong underground buzz.

The duo followed with the EP To Hell with War (2017) and full-length albums Relics of a Dead Earth (2018) and Cavernous Depths (2022, via Bitter Loss Records), establishing a reputation for blending savage thrash intensity with punishing death metal weight. Their releases have received consistent acclaim across the global metal press and airplay on international radio platforms.

While primarily a studio-driven force, BATTLEGRAVE have also brought their music to the stage, recruiting respected musicians from Melbourne’s metal scene to deliver their blistering sound in a live setting.

Throughout their discography, the project has collaborated with world-class drummers including Kevin Talley, 66Samus, and most recently Robin Stone, further reinforcing the precision and power behind the band’s extreme sonic identity.

facebook.com/Battlegrave

instagram.com/battlegrave

battlegrave.bandcamp.com
YouTube

Source: ClawHammer PR

Australian Thrashers IN MALICE’S WAKE Announce New Album – The Profound Darkness

Posted in Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on February 19, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Aussie thrash stalwarts IN MALICE’S WAKE have announced the impending release of their long-awaited fifth studio album, The Profound Darkness.

Where previous albums have all progressively stepped downward into darker and more brutal territory over the years, The Profound Darkness conjures a demonic presence that feels closer than ever before. This album is an exploration of the darkness that awaits us all beyond the grave, a journey through the various forms that the great unknown may take, told through a collection of 9 carefully crafted stories.  

An infernal blend of Death and Blackened Thrash metal, IN MALICE’S WAKE continue to prioritize crafting songs that stand the test of time, songs that speak with a haunting, iconic and truly recognizable voice. 

IN MALICE’S WAKE calls the album a tribute to all the incredible people who have supported the band globally over the previous quarter of a century. 

Stream IN MALICE’S WAKE on Spotify and Apple Music.

The Profound Darkness is due out on May 1.

Track-listing
1) The Profound Darkness      

2) Beyond Death      

3) By Tongues of Demons      

4) The Last Song      

5) Numb to Paradise      

6) Upon My Flesh      

7) The Great Purifier      

8) Away from the Light      

9) The Darkness Below Us 

The Profound Darkness was mixed by Chris Themelco at Monolith Studio in Melbourne, Australia and mastered by Plec Johansson at Panic Room Mastering. Artwork by Shaun Farrugia of IN MALICE’S WAKE.

Line-up:

Mark Farrugia – Drums
Shaun Farrugia – Vocals, Guitars
Karl Watterson – Bass
Leigh Bartley – Guitars

BIO:

IN MALICE’S WAKE are the unholy crossing of Death Metal, Thrash Metal and total darkness. Over two decades of savagery across countless stages and five studio albums have honed the band into the force it is today. Combining timeless songwriting with an infamously violent live show, IN MALICE’S WAKE have left a true impression throughout Australia and overseas. 

IN MALICE’S WAKE have supported many of the greats, including TRIUMPH OF DEATH (CHE), POSSESSED (USA), BLOODBATH (SWE), DESTRUCTION (GER) and countless others. The haunting melodies and iconic songwriting are most present in the latest demonic opus – The Profound Darkness

With release of this album, IN MALICE’S WAKE now extend their shadow to reach to an even greater audience, while celebrating this latest release with their incredible long-term supporter base.  

More info:

facebook.com/inmaliceswake

instagram.com/inmaliceswake

inmaliceswake.bandcamp.com

YouTube

Source: ClawHammer PR

EXTINCTION A.D. Signs With M-Theory Audio | New Single “Dead Men Running” Debuts Online

Posted in Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on February 18, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Independent label powerhouse M-Theory Audio is thrilled to announce the signing of Long Island metal force EXTINCTION A.D. To kick off this new chapter, the band will release their fierce new single “Dead Men Running on all streaming/download platforms setting the stage for an explosive year ahead.

Or watch the lyric video HERE: https://youtu.be/qfkWVuRte2c?si=cNz_HsnZaxZJNdHx

“The band is excited to be working with M-Theory Audio because we have a very specific outline for the entirety of 2026 and how we want to attack the entire year. Finding the right group to be in the foxhole with us for this marathon was extremely important,” reveals singer/guitarist Rick Jimenez.

“Dead Men Running is all about diving headfirst into what you know is right for you despite all opposition from the outside world as well as internal conflict. The journey towards self-actualization is insanely difficult but there is no greater goal to seek.

Fans should expect a blistering sonic attack and a message of resilience at the core of the track’s explosive energy.

Since forming in 2013 in Medford, Long Island from the ashes of This Is Hell, EXTINCTION A.D. has forged a reputation for relentless crossover thrash infused with hardcore urgency and socially charged themes. Over the past decade the band has grown from raw underground roots to sharing stages with respected acts and carving out a distinct voice in the modern metal landscape.

Critics and metal media have taken note of the band’s evolving ferocity and musical identity. Their 2018 single “Age of Revenge” was celebrated by MetalSucks as a “tornado track” with a chorus “menacing, anthemic, and catchier than a bear trap,” suggesting that “thrash’s future looks bright” with a band like EXTINCTION A.D. at the helm.

Earlier releases, on labels like Good Fight and Unique Leader, further showcased the band’s capability to merge fierce riff work with emotional and thematic depth. Their output has drawn comparisons to powerful East Coast thrash and hardcore hybrids, with critics praising their raw energy and ability to keep the classic thrash ethos alive while pushing it forward.

Thrashing just as hard as their predecessors, the band also break their surroundings down and deliver some heavy as hell riotous mosh; hitting that all-important sweet spot mixture of ‘80s thrash, ‘90s extreme metal and New York hardcore, all encompassed into one. Never afraid to speak their minds amidst a divisive world, EXTINCTION A.D. brings a decisive power to match their frenetic energy. The endgame is not just rebellion but revolution.

UPCOMING LIVE:
4/12 – OCNY Vets Center – New Windsor, NY
6/20 – Empire Underground – Albany, NY
6/27 – NJ Metalfest – Debonair Music Hall – Teaneck, NJ

EXTINCTION A.D. are:
Rick Jimenez – vocals and guitar
Ian Cimaglia – lead guitar and vocals
Tom Wood – bass
Mike Sciulara – drums

For more information:
www.facebook.com/ExtinctionAD

www.instagram.com/ExtinctionAD

ExtinctionAD.bandcamp.com

On This Day In MEGADETH History – February 16th

Posted in Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on February 16, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

February 16, 1993MEGADETH released their single “Sweating Bullets” from their 1992 studio album Countdown To Extinction.

February 16, 2000 – From their 8th studio album, Risk, released in 1999, MEGADETH sees their single “Breadline” released in Japan.

Thank you for visiting Metal Odyssey and reading this post! Have an amazing week ahead! Metal be thy name – Stone.

More MEGADETH: https://www.megadeth.com/

LONG LIVE MEGADETH.

Legendary Belgian Thrashers CYCLONE Release Comeback EP Known Unto God | New Video “Nothing Is Real” Online Now

Posted in Metal, metal albums, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on February 9, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

CYCLONE are an underrated cult favorite amongst metal fans having released two solid thrash albums in 1986 and 1990. The Belgian band has now added a new 5-song EP, Known Unto God, to their arsenal. Available online or in stores Known Unto God showcases immediately intense and infectious intensity throughout, sure to please fans of thrash, hardcore and traditional speed metal. Check out their new lyric video for Nothing Is Real for more proof. 

Known Unto God is available as a limited (200) silver bullet colored vinyl (with download code) or as Digipak CD via M-Theory Audio. Order now at: www.m-theoryaudio.com

The 5 new songs were all written by core members singer Guido Gevels and guitarist Stefaan Daamen and recorded by Guido backed by a younger and invigorated lineup with vocal and drum production, along with mix and mastering handled by Martin Furia (Destruction, Nervosa, Evil Invaders). The artwork of Known Unto God is courtesy of Ivan S. Bragin (October Tide, The Gathering). 

The first chapter of CYCLONE history dates back to 1980 when 5 teenagers obsessed with NWOBHM decided to start a band. Experience they have not, but enthusiasm aplenty. A few years later, and after a series of shows with then established Acid, the quintet release their In The Grip of Evil demo – a cornerstone of European extreme metal.

The demo is supported by opening slots for Anthrax, Overkill, Agent Steel, Kreator and Destruction which leads to label interest with the band choosing to sign with Roadrunner Records. The monstrous Brutal Destruction is released followed by tours supporting Metallica and Slayer.

Times change, people change and hard choices have to be made, resulting in Guido and Stefaan working with three new players on 1990’s ‘Inferior To None.’ A European tour with Blessed Death is made to support the album, followed by another continental run with Sadus, The Obsessed and The Accused but by 1993 CYCLONE decide to call it quits. Now with a new lease on life and today’s release CYCLONE continue to write their story.

CYCLONE:

Guido Gevels – vocals

VIncent Heyman – bass

Gabriel Deschamps – drums

Max Deschamps – lead guitar 

Jesse Vandenbosshe – rhythm guitar

For more info:

FACEBOOK 

INSTAGRAM 

YOUTUBE

BANDCAMP

www.m-theoryaudio.com 

METAL CHURCH – New Studio Album, Dead To Rights, Releasing on April 10th

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, music videos, news with tags , , , , , , , on February 7, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Metal Church return with their 13th studio album, Dead to Rights, scheduled for release on April 10, 2026 via Rat Pak Records (America), Reaper (Europe/UK) and Rubicon (Japan).

The album marks the first release from the band’s latest lineup, featuring founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof alongside longtime guitarist Rick Van Zandt, joined by bass icon David Ellefson, powerhouse drummer Ken Mary, and dynamic new vocalist Brian Allen.

From the aggressive opening assault of “Brainwash Game” to the riff-driven finale “My Wrath,” Metal Church prove they still possess the same relentless drive that has earned them fans for over four decades. Tracks such as “Deep Cover Shakedown,” “The Show,” and “Wasted Time” deliver the signature sound the band has long been known for.

The album’s first single,“F.A.F.O.”, was released last November, with its accompanying video surpassing 400,000 views to date. Dead To Rights was produced by Kurdt Vanderhoof and mixed and mastered by Zeuss at Planet Z.

“This new album is very special to me for one reason: the band was over, and I honestly didn’t see it being resurrected. But somehow, it brought itself back to life – again!” exclaims Kurdt Vanderhoof. “I’m incredibly proud of these new songs; they hit hard. Brian Allen brings the classic Metal Church sound to the vocals, and adding a rhythm section with musicians of the caliber of Dave Ellefson and Ken Mary makes this a force to be reckoned with. If you enjoy classic Metal Church, you’re going to love this record.”

Pre-order Metal Church Dead to Rights here: https://lnk.to/Metal-Church  

Source: Rat Pak Records

KREATOR – UK And Europe 2026 | Special Guests: CARCASS, EXODUS & NAILS | Dates, Cities & Venues Listed

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal books, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , , , , on February 7, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

From KREATOR Facebook:

“Hordes! Don’t forget that we’re bringing this INCREDIBLE line-up to the UK and Europe, this March…

Kreator, Carcass, Exodus & Nails! You don’t want to miss this! Get your tickets and VIP upgrades now!”

KREATOR ticket info: https://www.kreator-terrorzone.de/

3/20 – Lisbon, Portugal MEO Arena
3/22 – Madrid, Spain Palacio Vistalegre
3/24 – Paris, France Zenith Paris
3/25 – Brussels, Belgium Ancienne Belgique
3/27 – London, UK O2 Academy Brixton
3/28 – Manchester, UK O2 Apollo Manchester
3/29 – Glasgow, UK O2 Academy Glasgow
3/31 – Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg Rockhal
4/1 – Zürich, Switzerland Halle 622
4/3 – Den Bosch, Netherlands Mainstage Brabanthallen
4/4 – Essen, Germany Grugahalle
4/5 – Frankfurt, Germany Jahrhunderthalle
4/7 – Milan, Italy Alcatraz
4/8 – Ljubljana, Slovenia Media Center
4/9 – Vienna, Austria Gasometer
4/10 – Ludwigsburg, Germany MHP Arena
4/11 – Munich, Germany Zenith
4/12 – Karlín, Czechia Forum Karlín
4/13 – Budapest, Hungary Barba Negra
4/15 – Warsaw, Poland COS Torwar
4/17 – Hamburg, Germany Inselparkhalle
4/18 – Berlin, Germany Uber Eats Music Hall
4/20 – Riga, Latvia Palladium Riga
4/21 – Helsinki, Finland Black Box Finland Oy
4/23 – Stockholm, Sweden Annexet
4/24 – Oslo, Norway Sentrum Scene
4/25 – Copenhagen, Denmark Poolen

TESTAMENT – European Festival Summer 2026 Tour | Dates, Cities & Festivals Listed

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , , , on February 4, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

The tremendous Testament begins their European Festival Summer 2026 Tour on June 29th in Antwerp, Belgium, at Middenvijver Park. Death Angel, Metal Church, Armored Saint and Hellripper join as guests on select dates!

06/29 – Antwerp, BEL @ Middenvijver
07/01 – Viveiro SPA @ Resurrection Fest
07/03 – Villaava, SPA @ Sala Totem Aretoa (feat. Hellripper)
07/04 – Barcelona, SPA @ Rock Fest
07/05 – Cartagena, SPA @ Rock Imperium Festival
07/07 – Zaragoza, SPA @ Teatro de las Esquinas (feat. Hellripper)
07/08 – Toulouse, FRA @ Le Bikini (feat. Hellripper)
07/29 – Bergen, NET @ Beyond The Gates Festival
07/31 – Rejmyre, SWE @ Skogsrojet Festival
08/01 – Gothenburg, SWE @ Pustervik (feat. Metal Church & Armored Saint)
08/02 – Lund, SWE @ Mejeriet (feat. Metal Church & Armored Saint)
08/04 – Kiel, GER @ Die Pumpe (feat. Metal Church)
08/05 – Leer, GER @ Zollhausverein (feat. Death Angel)
08/06 – Schlotheim, GER @ Party San
08/07 – Cologne, GER @ Essigfabrik (feat. Death Angel & Metal Church)
08/08 – Kortrijk, BEL @ Alcatraz Festival
08/09 – Derbyshire, UK @ Bloodstock Open Air
08/11 – Karlsruhe, GER @ Substage (feat. Death Angel & Metal Church)
08/12 – Obertraubling, GER @ Airport-Eventhall (feat. Death Angel & Metal Church)
08/13 – Krakow, POL @ Klub Studio (feat. Metal Church & Armored Saint)
08/14 – Moravsky Krumlov, CZE @ Rock Castle
08/15 – Dinkelsbuehl, GER @ Summer Breeze
08/16 – Eindhoven, NET @ Dynamo Metalfest

TESTAMENT:

Chuck Billy – vocals
Eric Peterson – guitar
Alex Skolnick – guitar
Steve DiGiorgio – bass
Chris Dovas – drums

More on Testament: https://www.testamentlegions.com/site/

MEGADETH – New Studio Album Debuts at #1 On the BILLBOARD TOP 200!

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal albums, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on February 1, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Congratulations MEGADETH!

From MEGADETH Facebook:

“We made history! Thank you to everyone who was a part of this album, especially our incredible fans!”

Listen/download purchase here: https://ffm.to/megadeth

(Above: back cover / track-list)

DESTRUCTION – East Asia Thrash Attack CHINA 2025 | Dates, Cities, Venues & Info

Posted in Metal, metal bands, Metal Church, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on January 18, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

From Destruction Facebook:

ASIA TOUR UDATE!

We have fantastic news for our Chinese fans in Beijing: we will be back for our third time on February 8th.
The permit for the concert took a little time, that is why the announcement comes in so late but YES the rumors were true.

Tickets are on sale now, Bejing: https://wap.showstart.com/pages/activity/list/list?type=1&tag=45491&ssfrom=user-2604886

The Asian shows will start in Yokohama Japan on January 30th (3 shows in Nippon via Thailand to China)!

We are VERY EXCITED – see you soon!!

FORBIDDEN – Thrash Legends Sign With BLKIIBLK Records

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on January 17, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

BLKIIBLK NEW SIGNING ALERT: FORBIDDEN

Bay Area thrash legends FORBIDDEN have officially joined forces with BLKIIBLK!

Melding classic thrash metal with melodic and progressive leanings, FORBIDDEN’s recent return to both the stage and studio is a rebirth for the Bay Area legends.

Joining founding guitarist Craig Locicero and bassist Matt Camacho are drummer Chris Kontos (formerly of Machine Head and Attitude Adjustment), guitarist Jeremy Von Epp and vocalist Norman Skinner (ex-Imagika and Niviane).

States the band: “When Forbidden was ‘reborn’ in 2023, we knew we were going to write new music. That excited us. We also knew that we were in no rush to be signed or obligated to anything that didn’t feel ideal. Well… that situation has finally revealed itself. We are elated to announce that Forbidden has joined forces with BLKIIBLK as one of their inaugural signings.”

Stay tuned for new music coming soon.

Source: BLKIIBLK Facebook

EXHORDER To Kick Off Unforeseen Circumstances US Headlining Tour This Month | Tickets On Sale Now + Live Video Playing

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news, norwegian black metal with tags , , , , , , , on January 15, 2026 by Metal Odyssey

Photo by Erik Hernandez/EHP Photography

Watch EXHORDER’s live performance of “The Tale Of Unsound Minds” HERE: https://youtu.be/8GIb7vl5ph4

New Orleans thrash metal legends EXHORDER will kick off their US headlining tour later this month. The Unforeseen Circumstances Tour 2026 Winter run will commence on January 29th in Lafayette, Louisiana and close on February 22nd in Hobart, Indiana. Support will be provided by Luicidal, Ringworm, Phobia, and Slowhole on select dates.

Vocalist Kyle Thomas comments, “It’s about that time, y’all! 2026 is here, and we are back to work. Joining us will be the legends that are Luicidal, Ringworm, and Phobia! Up and comers Slowhole will also be on this tour for the entire run, and you do not want to miss them. Luicidal and Ringworm will be on select dates, so consider accordingly when you obtain your tickets. As always, we will be performing a little something from all four albums, so come on out and say hello! You know by now we don’t bite – that costs extra! We are excited to hit some markets that we have not yet performed in, so let’s have a great time together!”

Tickets are on sale now! See all confirmed dates below.

EXHORDER Unforeseen Circumstances Tour 2026 w/ Luicidal, Ringworm, Phobia, Slowhole:

1/29/2026 Freetown Boom Boom Room – Lafayette, LA *
1/30/2026 Cine El Rey – McAllen, TX **
1/31/2026 The Lost Well – Austin, TX **
2/01/2026 Trees – Dallas, TX **
2/02/2026 RockHouse – El Paso, TX **
2/03/2026 The Rock – Tucson, AZ
2/04/2026 The Observatory – Santa Ana, CA
2/05/2026 The Dive Bar – Las Vegas, NV
2/06/2026 VMH – Ventura, CA
2/07/2026 Soda Bar – San Diego, CA
2/09/2026 Whisky A Go Go – Hollywood, CA
2/10/2026 DNA Lounge – San Francisco, CA
2/11/2026 Dante’s – Portland, OR
2/12/2026 Tony V’s – Everett, WA
2/13/2026 Airport Tavern – Tacoma, WA
2/14/2026 The Shredder – Boise, ID
2/15/2026 Aces High – Salt Lake City, UT
2/16/2026 HQ – Denver, CO
2/18/2026 The Regency – Springfield, MO **
2/19/2026 WCSC – Lombard, IL ***

2/20/2026 Annex – Madison, WI ***
2/21/2026 Madison Live – Covington, KY ***
2/22/2026 Hobart Art Theater – Hobart, IN ***
*No Luicidal or Phobia
**No Luicidal
***Ringworm, Phobia, Slowhole

Watch the band’s fiery live performance of “The Tale Of Unsound Minds” from their Defectum Omnium full-length captured by Mike Holderbeast at the Fillmore in New Orleans, Louisiana last April at THIS LOCATION.

Preview/purchase EXHORDER’s Defectum Omnium HERE.

Forged in 1986, EXHORDER’s journey has proven exciting, yet tumultuous. After a twenty-seven-year absence following their final Roadrunner Records release in 1992, EXHORDER re-entered the game with an album considered by many to be a contender for the “Best Comeback Album” category. The band released Mourn The Southern Skies in October of 2019 through Nuclear Blast Records.

Fraught with euphoric peaks and crippling valleys throughout its existence, lineup changes, and the 2020-2021 pandemic, EXHORDER clawed back through the muck to release Defectum Omnium, the Latin phrase for “The Failure of All,” in 2024. “The world is a dumpster fire, and we are all complicit,” noted singer Kyle Thomas when elaborating on the title.

https://www.exhorder.com/

https://www.facebook.com/exhorderofficial

https://www.instagram.com/exhorderofficial

https://www.youtube.com/@ExhorderOfficial

Source: EARSPLIT PR

NECRONOMICON EX MORTIS – Drop New Single “Hungry For Brains,” Teasing the Mayhem of Zombie Blood Nightmare Out February 20, 2026

Posted in Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on December 27, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

NECRONOMICON EX MORTIS erupt with ferocious precision on their latest single, “Hungry For Brains,” taken from the forthcoming EP Zombie Blood Nightmare, arriving February 20, 2026.

A thrashy, smashy, in-your-face assault, “Hungry For Brains” showcases the band at their most unapologetically feral. Built entirely upon the half/whole diminished scale, the track spirals through symmetrical chaos and delivers a sound as unhinged and ravenous as its subject matter.

Watch “Hungry For Brains HERE: https://youtu.be/3VYo0dMheW0

Fans of technical metal will find plenty to chew on, especially when the track erupts into a blistering guitar solo performed by James Norton, former college roommate of guitarist Mike. His shredding adds an extra layer of necrotic flair.

Lyrically, the song dives headfirst into zombie carnage and grotesque undead imagery, continuing the band’s love for cinematic horror and high-energy gore. “Hungry For Brains” embraces the spirit of classic zombie mayhem and sets the tone for the terror-laced chaos awaiting listeners on Zombie Blood Nightmare.

Zombie Blood Nightmare – Track Listing: 

  1. Left To Die (4:39)
  2. No More Room In Hell (5:19)
  3. Chopped Up and Burned (7:00)
  4. Lumbering, Blood Sucking Freaks (3:42)
  5. Hungry For Brains (4:41)
  6. Démoni (3:15)

Produced, recorded, and mixed by Charlie Waymire at Ultimate Studios and mastered by Ernesto HomeyerZombie Blood Nightmare features six tracks of shred-heavy, horror-drenched chaos. Zombie Blood Nightmare arrives February 20, 2026.

Source: C Squared Music

MEGADETH Behind The Mask – Hits The Big Screen Worldwide On January 22nd

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on December 23, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

From MEGADETH Facebook:

Be the first to watch Megadeth’s upcoming final album on the big screen in Megadeth: Behind the Mask.

Exclusively in cinemas worldwide January 22nd for a limited time only.

Get tickets at http://www.megadethfilm.com

LOST SOCIETY – Tour Is A State Of Mind | UK & Europe March 2026, Dates, Cities & Venues Listed

Posted in groove metal, Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal blade records, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , on December 23, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗦𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗟𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗦𝗢𝗖𝗜𝗘𝗧𝗬

UK & EUROPE – be among the first to hear songs from our brand new album live in March 2026!

Tickets on sale now: https://lostsociety.fi/

07.03.26 DE Cologne – Gebäude 9
09.03.26 UK Bristol – Exchange
10.03.26 UK Manchester – The Star & Garter
11.03.26 UK London – Underworld
13.03.26 NL Hoofdoorp – Cpunt
15.03.26 CH Aarau – Kiff
16.03.26 DE Wiesbaden – Schlachthof
17.03.26 DE Munich – Backstage
18.03.26 DE Berlin – Cassiopeia
19.03.26 DE Hamburg – Betty
20.03.26 DK Copenhagen – Vega
21.03.26 NO Oslo – Sub Scene
22.03.26 SE Gothenburg – Monument
23.03.26 SE Stockholm – Debaser Nova

From Lost Society Facebook

LEAD INJECTOR – Release “EVIL EXECUTIONER” First Single & Lyric Video | Debut Album Out February 20th, 2026

Posted in Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , , on December 21, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

Dresden-based black/thrash newcomers LEAD INJECTOR present their debut album Witching Attack – an uncompromising homage to classic extreme metal, recorded over seven intensive days in August 2025 at Stereoid Studios in Schönfels, Saxony. “It was a really awesome time, we experimented a lot, racked our brains and learned a great deal,” recalls vocalist/bassist Leo about the sessions.

Watch “Evil Executioner” (Lyric Video) HERE

Founded in 2022, the trio is the first serious band for all three members after experiences in solo projects and school ensembles, and they quickly found their place in the local scene with their 2024 demo From the Crypts… of Hell. Witching Attack now combines re-recorded demo tracks with fresh material written in the meantime.

The songwriting process usually follows a proven pattern: guitarist Jason develops riffs and collects lyrical ideas which Leo further elaborates, with all three arranging together.

From the beginning, Lead Injector have demonstrated a knack for catchy song structures that sets them apart from average acts in this style. “We make sure that each of our songs is individual and unique, no two sound alike,” Leo emphasizes. This approach creates variety and memorability, qualities not taken for granted in the genre. The striking album artwork comes from SepulchralOwl.

The artist, who has accompanied the band since its early days, creates everything by hand from merchandise to flyers to stage banners, giving Lead Injector an unmistakable visual identity.

The band is deeply rooted in Dresden’s metal scene and maintains close connections with fellow groups like Sintage, Acid Blade and Mortuary Nightmare. The continuous exchange and mutual inspiration shape not only the music but also the sense of community at concerts, where familiar faces are always encountered.

LINE-UP:
Justus – Drums
Leo – Bass / Vocals
Jason – Guitars

TRACK LISTING:
01 Siege Upon Heaven
02 Sacrifice This Bitch
03 Evil Executioner
04 Witching Attack
05 Chains
06 Angel Destructor
07 Pest Thrash
08 M.C.C.I.
09 Infinite Force
10 Nuclear Antichrist

ON-LINE:
https://www.instagram.com/lead_injector

https://leadinjector.bandcamp.com/album/witching-attack

https://www.hrrecords.de/LEAD-INJECTOR

Source: High Roller Records

KREATOR – Krushers Of The USA | Dates, Cities & Venues Listed

Posted in Heavy Metal, Metal, metal bands, metal music, Music, music news, news with tags , , , , , , , on December 20, 2025 by Metal Odyssey

From KREATOR Facebook:

KRUSHERS OF THE USA 🇺🇸

Hordes! Kreator RETURN to the US next year to celebrate our brand new record ‘Krushers Of The World’

We’ll be bringing the mighty Carcass and Cold Steel for a run of headline shows, as well as making a few festival appearances.

Tickets on sale now: https://www.kreator-terrorzone.de

KREATOR 2026 USA Tour Dates:

May 07 – Fort Lauderdale, FL – Revolution Live*
May 08 – Daytona Beach, FL – Welcome to Rockville
May 10 – Atlanta, GA – The Masquerade
May 11 – Knoxville, TN – The Mill & Mine
May 12 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz
May 14 – Worcester, MA – Palladium
May 15 – McKees Rocks, PA – Roxian Theatre
May 16 – Columbus, OH – Sonic Temple*
May 18 – Davenport, IA – Capitol Theatre
May 19 – Minneapolis, MN – First Avenue
May 20 – Chicago, IL – Romova Theatre
May 22 – Baltimore, MD – Maryland Deathfest*
May 23 – Huntington, NY – Paramount

  • Festival

LONG LIVE KREATOR.