4 festivals & 3 headline shows: Japanese band coldrain is bound for “SUMMER in GERMANY 2025”!

March 29, 2025

There has been no slowing down for coldrain. After announcing their signing with Century Media Records on March 18, the Japanese band released their latest single, "INCOMPLETE," which was met with great excitement. Fans and new listeners alike won’t need to wait too long until they can experience the new music live: The quintet just announced their full festival and concert lineup for “SUMMER IN GERMANY 2025.”

In August, the band will be electrifying four festival stages alongside three additional headline shows in Düsseldorf, Jena, and Aschaffenburg. Audiences can expect a show and energy not to be missed.

“INCOMPLETE,” which is the band’s first release for this year, also now boasts its own official music video. Innovative, powerful, and brimming with the band’s signature edge, the quintet infuses "INCOMPLETE" with an energetic narrative, bringing the song to life through its captivating visuals.

Watch the Video for "INCOMPLETE"

About coldrain:

Formed in 2007 in Nagoya, Japan, and with a total of seven studio albums under their belt, coldrain is certainly not a new name in the scene. While releasing music in English, the quintet is known for blending melodic singing with heavy instrumentals and screaming, finding the perfect balance between genres. Through touring with international names such as Bullet for My Valentine and Papa Roach, coldrain has built an international audience over the years.

coldrain are:

Masato – Vocals

Y.K.C - Guitar

Sugi - Guitar

RxYxO - Bass Guitar

Katsuma - Drums

Caliban Release "Dear Suffering" (Featuring Joe Bad of Fit For An Autopsy)

March 25, 2025

As the very last single before their upcoming album, Back From Hell, which drops on April 25, CALIBAN are unleashing the heaviest track on the album — "Dear Suffering" (Feat. Joe Bad of Fit For An Autopsy).

Watch the video below and prepare to get crushed.

With "Dear Suffering," Caliban continue their descent into raw emotional depths — this track is an anti-anthem, drenched in despair and defiance, exploring themes of existential pain, inner torment, and the brutal acceptance of suffering as an eternal companion.

Together with feature guest Joe Bad (Fit For An Autopsy), "Dear Suffering" solidifies the upcoming record Back From Hell as one of Caliban's most intense records to date, fusing unfiltered aggression with an atmosphere of crushing melancholy. The interplay between Andreas Dörner and Joe Bad elevates the song's intensity, turning it into a violent, yet deeply cathartic experience. With "Dear Suffering," Caliban extend a hand to those who've walked through their own personal hell. Musically, it's one of Caliban’s darkest and heaviest offerings yet.

The band says, "'Dear Suffering' is our way of facing pain head-on, rather than running from it. It's about embracing the darkness, acknowledging the struggles that shape us, and turning that suffering into strength. Having Joe on this track adds another layer of intensity — we knew his voice would bring the raw aggression this song needed, and he absolutely delivered."

For over two decades, Caliban have stood as one of the defining forces in metalcore. With their upcoming album Back From Hell, the German band continues to evolve its sound while staying true to the intensity and emotion that have defined their career. Led by founding members, the aforementioned Dörner (vocals), and Marc Görtz (guitar), the band's current lineup includes new vocalist and bassist Iain Duncan, whose clean vocals, songwriting skills, and diverse perspective and experience bring a fresh dimension to their already powerful dynamic. Complemented by longtime drummer Patrick Grün and guitarist Denis Schmidt, Caliban's formidable lineup is poised to deliver a relentless and emotionally charged experience that reaffirms their status as metalcore pioneers.

Caliban are set to release their most ambitious work yet. Back From Hell explores themes of inner struggle, resilience, and catharsis, blending their signature crushing riffs and guttural vocals with atmospheric melodies and modern production.

The album is available for pre-order here.

Catch them on their upcoming headlining tour.

More info below and here.

CALIBAN ARE
Iain Duncan — Bass + Vocals
Patrick Grün — Drums
Andreas Dörner — Vocals
Marc Görtz — Guitar
Denis Schmidt — Guitar

THE HAUNTED Announces New Full-Length, Launches Video for New Single, "Warhead"

March 24, 2025

Swedish deadly thrash metal purveyors THE HAUNTED are back with a bang! Following eight long years since the release of 2017's much acclaimed studio album, 'Strength in Numbers,' THE HAUNTED is now pleased to announce its 10th studio album, 'Songs of Last Resort,' which will be released worldwide on May 30, 2025 via longtime partners Century Media Records.

To celebrate the release, the band is now unleashing the pummeling first single, "Warhead," along with a video, which was directed by Patric Ullaeus (In Flames, Arch Enemy, Dimmu Borgir, etc.). The clip can be found below.

Vocalist Marco Aro comments on the song, “This is the first single of our new album, 'Songs of Last Resort.' The song is called 'Warhead' and it’s an aggressive statement about the absolute horrors of the world we now have to live in!"

Guitarist Jensen adds, “When writing this song, I knew that we were on to writing a good album. The main riff came to me at work, and I had to take the afternoon off that day to immediately get it recorded and worked on while the inspiration from this one riff was still creating goosebumps. Lyrics are about various people in charge being 'warheads,' thriving in one way or another off of waging war. The intro sound FX were created together with Örjan Örnkloo (ex-Misery Loves Company, who also performs on ‘To Bleed Out’ and the title track ‘Letters of Last Resort’). I think it’s not a stretch to say that this song stand a real chance of becoming a fixture of our live set for many years to come…”

With music recorded by Oscar Nilsson at Studio Bohus, main vocals recorded by Björn Strid at The Cellar Studio, 'Songs of Last Resort' was then mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios (Kreator, Arch Enemy, Sepultura, etc). Artwork was once again provided by longtime visual collaborator Andreas “Diaz” Pettersson. Pre-orders are now live HERE.

Lineup:

Ola Englund – rhythm & lead guitar

Jonas Björler – bass, backing vocals

Marco Aro – lead vocals

Adrian Erlandsson – drums

Jensen – rhythm guitar

Cover Artwork: Andreas “Diaz” Pettersson

Music recorded by Oscar Nilsson at Studio Bohus

Main vocals recorded by Björn Strid at The Cellar Studio

Mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios

'Songs of Last Resort' will be available as Ltd. CD Mediabook & Poster (Incl. the bonus track “Feeding the Furnace” (02:32)), as Standard CD Jewelcase, as Digital Album and as 180g. LP & Poster in the following variants:

- Black LP & Poster (Unlimited)

- Ltd. transp. red LP & Poster (500x copies, available from www.cmdistro.de & various other retailers)

- Ltd. transp. petrol green LP & Poster (300x copies, available from various retailers in Europe)

Follow/Stream:

Japanese Quintet coldrain Sign to Century Media Records

March 23, 2025

Freshly signed to Century Media Records, Japanese band coldrain are unleashing their newest work by the name “INCOMPLETE” - a song that captures the essence of feeling lost in a chaotic word. With this powerful and hopeful anthem, the quintet from Japan provides the perfect balance between heaviness and big rock sounds which will excite fans and new listeners alike. “INCOMPLETE” is coldrain’s first release since signing to Century Media Records.

About the single, coldrain shares:

“When we draw closer to perfection, we lose something deeply human. Perhaps it is our incompleteness and the longing to be perfect that makes us truly human. We must never forget what it means to be human. We must never forget that we are not alone. We must never forget to care for one another. This is an anthem for the imperfect, the incomplete, the beautifully human.”.

About coldrain:

coldrain are:

Masato – Vocals

Y.K.C - Guitar

Sugi - Guitar

RxYxO - Bass Guitar

Katsuma - Drums

SWALLOW THE SUN Release “MelancHoly (Holy Edit)” Out Now + Visualizer

March 20, 2025

Today, Finnish doom metal legends SWALLOW THE SUN are back with a twist on their fan-favorite anthem, unveiling a growl-free version of “MelancHoly (Holy Edit)” from their highly anticipated digital deluxe edition album, 'Shining Dark Deluxe.' This special edition invites fans into a deeper, more atmospheric experience, showcasing unique interpretations of select studio tracks that capture the band’s signature melancholy and live energy.

Watch the Visualizer for "MelancHoly (Holy Edit)" Below:

SWALLOW THE SUN Claims Finnish Grammy Glory!

In a groundbreaking achievement, SWALLOW THE SUN has won their first-ever Finnish Grammy (Emma Gala Award) for Best Metal Album (2024) with their latest release, 'SHINING.' After two previous nominations, this well-deserved win marks a monumental milestone for the band, solidifying 'SHINING' as the Metal Album of the Year.

The band expresses their gratitude:

“A huge thank you to Backbone Management, Century Media Records, Dan Lancaster, Pasi, Aleksi, Markus, Jaani, and Juha Ruusunen for helping us reach this milestone. We’re also incredibly grateful to all of you who have supported us and listened to our music along the way, this means the world to us!”

More than two decades of despair, beauty, and heartache have not only shaped but fueled Finnish melancholy torchbearers, the chart-topping and Finnish Grammy winner SWALLOW THE SUN.

Formed in Jyväskylä in 2000, the quintet has enjoyed numerous fan-lauded music videos (10+ million YouTube views) and streaming dominance (50+ million Spotify plays), while also embarking on a four-continent, 900-show run over the course of their 25-year career.

Their new music, however, is the group’s first step on the new path to the unknown.

SWALLOW THE SUN are:

Juha Raivio - Guitar, Keys

Juho Räihä - Guitar

Mikko Kotamäki - Vocals

Matti Honkonen - Bass

Juuso Raatikainen - Drums

BEWITCHER Shares New Digital Single, "The Warrior Trail," Kicks Off U.S. Tour on Friday

March 12, 2025

All the best tunes belong to the Devil, and Portland’s bastard sons BEWITCHER take back rock n’ roll in Baphomet’s name. The speed metal demons have unleashed a new digital single, "The Warrior Trail," which was previously only available via the Decibel Magazine flexi series. The song can now be streamed HERE.

The band is now joining forces with DEATHCHANT to co-headline a U.S. tour in celebration of their latest offering, 'Spell Shock,' along with support from PERSEKUTOR. In conjunction with BEWITCHER's appearance at Hell's Heroes Festival on March 30, the speed metal demons will wreak havoc across the country starting this Friday, March 14, in San Francisco, CA until the final stop back in their hometown of Portland on April 5! The full itinerary can be found below while tickets can be found HERE.

In addition, BEWITCHER will be conquering Europe and the UK this spring!

Joining Von Bewitcher, bassist A. Magus, and drummer A. Hunter in the studio this time was none other longtime BEWITCHER fan Lars Frederiksen. Most of the world knows Frederiksen as a force in his own right, playing in the likes of Bay Area punk heroes Rancid, as well as his own Old Firm Casuals. While to some, it may have been an unlikely pairing with Frederiksen taking the producer’s seat, for everyone in the studio the connection was immediate.

As Frederiksen previously commented on 'Spell Shock': "It’s the best record I’ve ever produced for one of the best bands in the world."

Magus explains about their experience with Frederiksen: “[Lars’] knowledge of heavy metal, black metal and thrash – as well as punk, is vast and extreme. It was definitely a match made in hell.'

'Spell Shock' is out now Century Media Records and can be found HERE.

Since their formation in 2013, Bewitcher has seen their signature “Black Magick Metal” sound go from humble beginnings to new heights of creativity and wild anthemic fervor. A small collection of long out-of-print demo tapes kicked off what has proven to be an enduring line of ripping studio albums, singles and EPs. They have earned a reputation as one of the hardest working touring acts around, bringing their volcanic, high energy live shows to every corner of North America and parts abroad.

From its eye-grabbing-and-gouging artwork by Italian horror maestro Solo Macello, to songs like the haunting “We Die in Dust,” to the epic closing track “Ride of the Iron Fox” (“That’s BEWITCHER’s Dokken song!” laughs A. Hunter.) Spell Shock is BEWITCHER at their most evolved and most devastatingly primal. “We wanted it to be an album experience,” says drummer A. Hunter. “Imagine King Diamond’s Abigail in terms of atmosphere merged with the energy of AC/DC’s High Voltage.”

Line-Up:

Mateo von Bewitcher – vox + guitars

A. Hunter – drums + percussion

A. Magus – bass guitar + backing vox

Artwork: Solo Macello

Producer: Lars Frederiksen

Follow:

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

Pre-order: https://bewitcher.lnk.to/SpellShock

Formats:

Gatefold black LP

Ltd. Gatefold lilac LP (300x) available through cmdistro.de and various other retailers

Ltd. Gatefold translucent orange crush LP (US version, 300x) available only from BEWITCHER

Standard Jewelcase CD

Digital Album

BEWITCHER U.S. Tour Dates (w/ PERSEKUTOR + DEATHCHANT):

03/14: San Francisco, CA @ Bottom of the Hill

03/15: Sacramento, CA @ Cafe Colonial

03/16: San Diego, CA @ Brick by Brick

03/17: Los Angeles, CA @ Lodge Room

03/18: Phoenix, AZ @ Nile Underground

03/20: Houston, TX @ Hell's Heroes^*

03/21: Dallas, TX @ TX Tea Room

03/22: Austin, TX @ The Ballroom

03/23: Oklahoma City, OK @ 89th Street

03/25: Kansas City, MO @ Record Bar

03/26: Chicago, IL @ Reggie's

03/27: Milwaukee, WI @ X-Ray Arcade

03/28: St. Paul, MN @ Turf Club

03/29: Fargo, ND @ Aquarium

03/31: Denver, CO @ Hi-Dive

04/02: Richland, WA @ Ray's Golden Lion*

04/03: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon*

4/05: Portland, OR @ Twilight Cafe & Bar*

05/17: Vancouver, BC @ Modified Ghost Fest^*

^ No Deathchant

* No Persekutor

Dutch Futuristic Metallers CRYPTOSIS Share New Album 'Celestial Death' Out NOW via Century Media Records

March 9, 2025

Dutch futuristic metallers CRYPTOSIS are proud to release their mighty, awe-inspiring sophomore album entitled 'Celestial Death', out now via Century Media Records.

To celebrate the album release and further demonstrate the powerful and versatile material available on 'Celestial Death', the focus track entitled “Ascending” is being made available today across digital platforms and can also be checked out in a new video produced by the film production company F/53 HERE.

CRYPTOSIS had the following comment about the track and album release:

"We’re thrilled to unveil 'Ascending', the fourth and final single from our new album ‘Celestial Death’! The full album is available as of TODAY! This track dives into a future where humanity uploads its consciousness to a vast digital cloud, blurring the lines between reality and virtual existence. 'Ascending' captures both the allure and the unsettling consequences of this technological leap. It reflects on the haunting permanence of a life disconnected from the physical world. Musically, it blends ethereal melodies with steady old school rhythms, building toward an epic climax at the end of the song. This song marks a powerful conclusion to the journey leading up to ‘Celestial Death’. An album that’s darker, heavier, and more atmospheric than anything we've done before!”

Watch the New Video for "Ascending"

'Celestial Death' was recorded by Olaf Skoreng at Tom Meier and Studio Moon Musicbetween April and August 2024, mixed by Fredrik Folkare at Chrome Studios (Unleashed, Necrophobic, Hellbutcher) in Sweden and finally mastered by Tony Lindgren at Fascination Studios (Arch Enemy, Borknagar, Amorphis) in Sweden too. The album is the follow-up to CRYPTOSIS’ acclaimed 'Bionic Swarm' debut album (2021) and the EP 'The Silent Call'(2023), it once more comes with artwork by Eliran Kantor (Kreator, Testament, My Dying Bride) and also showcases the group on a darker, heavier, more melodic and extremely cinematic journey across its 11 tracks / 42 minutes of playing time.

Order 'Celestial Death' HERE

CRYPTOSIS are:

Laurens Houvast - Vocals, Guitars

Marco Prij - Drums

Frank te Riet - Bass, Mellotron, Synths, Backing vocals

Estonian Metalcore Quartet PRIDIAN Announce Debut Album 'Venetian Dark' Out May 16th via Century Media Records

March 9, 2025

It has been in the making: Estonia’s metalcore force PRIDIAN are unveiling details for their upcoming album 'Venetian Dark' alongside their newest single “DINY”. Their record, which will mark the band’s debut album, is set to be released May 16th, 2025, via Century Media Records and follows PRIDIAN’s 2023 debut EP 'Cybergnosis'. With the release of 'Venetian Dark', PRIDIAN show not just their own potential in the international metalcore scene but also why Estonia’s growing metal scene deserves more light in the future.

The band shares the backstory about “DINY”:

"I drove fast. Faster than I should have really. The night pressed in on me, cold and endless, the road disappearing into the blackness ahead. The air outside was freezing, but it couldn’t match the cold that had settled inside me. My thoughts circled around her, over and over. Every streetlight I passed threw her silhouette onto the road, and for a moment, I thought I saw her standing there, waiting for me. My foot pressed harder on the gas, wondering what it would feel like to just keep going— to let everything go. The emptiness inside was worse than the road ahead, and I wasn’t sure if I was trying to outrun it or dive straight into it. She was gone, but not gone enough. And no matter how fast I went, I knew I’d never escape her."

Watch the Lyric Video for "DINY"

Vocalist Laur Lindmäe shares about the inspiration for 'Venetian Dark':

"Looking at it on a larger scale, I believe that humanity has lost its connection with nature, the planet, and even itself. We relentlessly exploit every last resource, driven by profit and greed. Our ideologies have grown superficial, and we are becoming less and less empathetic. Even if we end up destroying the Earth, we seem to have this cockroach-like ability to survive. We'll likely figure out how to launch ourselves into space, discover another planet to inhabit, and start the cycle all over again.”

Pre-Order 'Venetian Dark' HERE

About PRIDIAN

Founded 2018 in Tartu, Estonia, metalcore quartet PRIDIAN channels the intensity of their experiences and emotions into a distinctive sound defined by dark, heavy grooves, commanding vocals, and cinematic melodies enhanced with electronic elements. Their first album, 'The Rotten Unknown' (released in 2021 under the name ÆØNS), earned a nomination for “Metal Album of the Year” at the Estonian Music Awards. Building on this success, PRIDIAN released the EP 'Cybergnosis' in 2023, and signed with label Century Media Records in September 2024. Now, with the release of 'Venetian Dark' as their first full length record as PRIDIAN, the quintet prove their place in the international metalcore scene but also why Estonia’s growing metal scene deserves more light in the future.

PRIDIAN are:

Laur Lindmäe - vocals

Jörg-Erik Hanikat - guitar

Martin Randalu - guitar

Robert Leht - drums

TRIBULATION Announces North American Headlining Tour, Co-headlining w/ UNTO OTHERS for First Leg

February 20, 2025

STREAM // ORDER // DOWNLOAD

Swedish gothic metal maestros TRIBULATION will be casting their spell on North America this spring! The band will embark on a full tour of the continent this May, for which they will first co-headline from May 1 through May 12 with UNTO OTHERS. Then, TRIBULATION will headline the second leg from May 14 until the final stop on May 25, in which they will be joined by EARLY MOODS as support.FINAL GASP + UNREQVITED will support the entire run.

The full itinerary can be found below! Tickets will be made available on February 21 @ 10:00 A.M. local time at THIS LOCATION.

ICYMI: TRIBULATION recently unveiled a cinematic music video for the haunting single, "Murder in Red," which pays homage to vintage Italian horror cinema. The video was created by Brandon McGowan with additional footage from Damón Zurawski and can be found below.

The track is taken from TRIBULATION's latest full-length, 'Sub Rosa in Æternum,' which was released on November 1, 2024 via Century Media Records, which was named among the best records of 2024 by Decibel Magazine (#5), A&P Reacts (#4), Invisible Oranges (#3), Heavy Music HQ (#23) + more!

The offering follows up the band's award-winning 2021 album, 'Where the Gloom Becomes Sound.' On 'Sub Rosa in Æternum,' Tribulation conjure new beast: Part psychological horror of Italian cinema, part gaunt British goth, and part Art Deco opulence, 'Sub Rosa In Æternum' is a blazing torch upon a cloudy, skeleton sky. Orders can be found HERE.

GET TICKETS HERE

TRIBULATION North American Tour Dates:

Co-headlining with UNTO OTHERS, with support from FINAL GASP + UNREQVITED):

05/01: Chicago, IL @ Reggies

05/02: Kansas City, MO @ Record Bar

05/03: Denver, CO @ Bluebird

05/04: Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge

05/06: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon

05/07: Portland, OR @ Star Theater

05/09: San Francisco, CA @ DNA Lounge

05/10: Los Angeles, CA @ The Regent

05/11: San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick

05/12: Phoenix, AZ @ The Rebel Lounge

---

Headlining w/ direct support from EARLY MODS + FINAL GASP, support from UNREQVITED)

05/14: Austin, TX @ Come and Take It Live

05/15: Ft. Worth, TX @ The Rail^

05/16: New Orleans, LA @ Southport Hall^

05/17: Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade (Hell)^

05/18: Raleigh, NC @ Chapel of Bones^

05/20: Gastonia, NC @ The Rooster^

05/21: Baltimore, MD @ Maryland Deathfest

05/22: Pittsburgh, PA @ Preserving

05/23: Brooklyn, NY @ Meadows

05/24: Montreal, QC @ Foufounes

05/25: Toronto, ON @ Lees Palace

LOVE IS NOISE Release Debut Album “To live in a different way” via Century Media Records

February 15, 2025

LOVE IS NOISE release their debut album “To live in a different way” on the heralded metal label Century Media. Already receiving incredible reviews across the board, with Metal Hammer claiming the album is “the first truly great debut of 2025” and scoring it 9/10, and Kerrang! also praising the record.

After an incredibly busy and successful 2024, this year is set to be another massive one for LOVE IS NOISE. February 14th sees the release of their highly anticipated debut album, ‘To live in a different way.’ With influences from Portishead, Radiohead, My Bloody Valentine, Oasis, Bowery Electric, Boards of Canada, and Deftones, the band set about to create a record that makes you feel every emotion possible.

Speaking of the album, Cam says:

“‘To live in a different way’ is the story of a kid from Bolton trying to understand the world he lives in. It's 11 tracks full of love, heartache and dream-soaked melody, I believe we’ve created something special.”

He continues,

“What Tom and I have created is the debut album WE wanted to make without any compromise. No matter how well it does, 'To live in a different way' is an honest representation of what a band can do when they push the boundaries. LOVE IS NOISEdoesn’t exist without the listener, and this album brings a form of comfort to your busy everyday lives.”

To celebrate the album's release, the band has shared a new video for the single, "It hurts to know you're there" - see below.

Watch the Music Video for "It hurts to know you're there" below:

Be sure to catch LOVE IS NOISE live in London at their record release show

“A Night In The Capital” which will take place at The Lower Third on February 22nd.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AND GOING FAST!

Order 'To live in a different way' HERE

LOVE IS NOISE is an exercise in empathy, both lyrically and musically. The band’s Century Media debut, ‘To live in a different way’, straddles the roughshod riffing and volume of their DIY origins while embracing shoegaze-facing melodiousness, hints of Brit-pop, and a beating (and bleeding) heart erupting from Cam Humphrey’s plaintive vocals. Co-produced by the band with engineer Kel Pinchin and mixed by John Markson (Drug Church, Drain, The Story So Far), ‘To live in a different way’ is a startling debut album. From the opening track, “Devotion,” where Humphrey’s voice invokes passion and positivity, to the second track, “Soft Glow,” the album’s first single where he croons, “You are the one that shines on me,”before launching into a throat-shredding exaltation of emotion amidst a crushing battery of slashing guitars and battering drums, it’s clear from the onset that LOVE IS NOISE’s heartbeat is a thunderous one.

“We made a conscious decision to make the record feel like a live band, mistakes included!”says Cam. “In an era where perfection is heavily favoured, we wanted to do the complete opposite and dive headfirst into creating something our idols would’ve set out to create.”

LOVE IS NOISE began its journey in 2021 as a collaboration between Humphrey and former guitarist Tom Mellon (who recently left the band to explore other musical endeavours) balancing the ethereal and intense. While sonic signposts include modern-day shoegaze as well as the likes of Glassjaw and Deftones, the band’s 2022 EP, 'Euphoria, Where Were You?' (released on FEVER 333 frontman Jason Aalon Butler’s 333 WRECKORDS CREW) pointed towards a soul-crushing sonic heartache all their own.

A string of singles led to the band inking with Century Media and beginning work on their debut album. LOVE IS NOISE released the first taste of new music with the acclaimed singles “Soft Glow” and “Jawbreaker” which appeared on numerous playlists across the streaming platforms and were featured on BBC Radio One (Daniel P Carter, Alyx Holcombe and Nels Hylton all showing their support).

LOVE IS NOISE is:

Cameron Humphrey – Vocals, Guitar

Arch Enemy Share Video For New Single "Paper Tiger"

February 10, 2025

Before Swedish extreme metal titans Arch Enemy unleash their 12th studio album Blood Dynasty at the end of March the band reveals the ultimate single and video "Paper Tiger." The full album is slated for release on March 28 via Century Media Records.

Stream "Paper Tiger" here and watch the video below.

"Paper Tiger" follows the title track release "Blood Dynasty," which the band revealed in early December of last year.

Stream the previously released singles here:

"Dream Stealer"
"Liars & Thieves"
"Blood Dynasty"

"With Blood Dynasty almost here, we thought we'd sneak in another single for you," says founder and guitarist Michael Amott. "'Paper Tiger' is a personal favorite — these riffs are so much fun to play. The accompanying video was shot on a German airfield last summer with our visionary friend Mumpi. Turn it up and let it roar!"

Blood Dynasty delivers 11 brand-new tracks brimming with the band's signature crushing guitar riffs and intense guttural energy.

Pre-order Blood Dynasty here.

Next to the limited deluxe editions that feature two exclusive bonus tracks, fans can direct their attention to the Ltd. Liquid Blood Vinyl that is exclusively available in the band stores and limited to 666 copies.

In support of the new album, Arch Enemy has announced the European "Blood Dynasty" 2025 Tour, commencing on October 10, 2025, in Stuttgart, Germany, and concluding on November 15, 2025, in Düsseldorf, Germany. The tour will feature special guests Amorphis, Eluveitie, and Gatecreeper.

For more information and tickets, visit here.

ARCH ENEMY ON TOUR:
WITH FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY, BAEST, + THROWN INTO EXILE:
4/14 — San Diego, CA — The Observatory North Park
4/15 — Los Angeles, CA — The Wiltern
4/16 — San Francisco, CA — The Regency Ballroom
4/18 — Portland, OR — Roseland Theater
4/19 — Seattle, WA — Showbox SoDo
4/20 — Vancouver, BC — The Pearl
4/22 — Edmonton, AB — Union Hall
4/23 — Calgary, AB — MacEwan Hall
4/25 — Salt Lake City, UT — The Complex
4/26 — Denver, CO — Summit
4/28 — Minneapolis, MN — The Fillmore Minneapolis
4/29 — Chicago, IL — The Vic Theatre
4/30 — Detroit, MI — The Majestic Theatre
5/2 — New York, NY — Palladium Times Square
5/3 — Worcester, MA — The Palladium
5/5 — Philadelphia, PA — Theatre of The Living Arts
5/6 — Silver Spring, MD — The Fillmore Silver Spring
5/8 — Montreal, QC — L'Olympia*
5/9 — Toronto, ON — Queen Elizabeth Theatre
5/10 — Stroudsburg, PA — The Sherman Theater
5/11 — Columbus, OH — Sonic Temple**
5/13 — Charlotte, NC — The Underground***
5/15 — Daytona Beach, FL — Welcome To Rockville**
5/16 — Atlanta, GA — The Masquerade***
5/18 — Milwaukee, WI – Milwaukee Metal Fest**
*No FFAA But Featuring Martyr
**Festval Appearance
***No BAEST

ARCH ENEMY ARE:
Alissa White-Gluz — Vocals
Michael Amott — Guitars
Joey Concepcion — Guitars
Sharlee D'Angelo — Bass
Daniel Erlandsson — Drums

Futuristic Dutch Metallers CRYPTOSIS Launch New Single “Static Horizon” + Video

February 4, 2025

Dutch futuristic metallers CRYPTOSIS have announced their return with a mighty, awe-inspiring sophomore album entitled 'Celestial Death', set for worldwide release on March 7th, 2025 via Century Media Records.

To further demonstrate the powerful and versatile material available on 'Celestial Death', a third single entitled “Static Horizon” is being made available today across digital platforms and can also be checked out in a video clip produced by the film production company F/53HERE.

CRYPTOSIS checked in with the following comment about the track:

"’Static Horizon’ is the 3rd single from our upcoming album 'Celestial Death', out March 7ththrough Century Media Records. The song combines black metal atmospheres and symphonic elements with fast prog metal guitar picking and melodic doomy grooves. The title represents a feeling of being trapped in a static, unchanging reality, where progress and hope seem distant. With its haunting melodies and intense riffing, the track delivers a powerful mix of raw energy and deep emotion."

Watch the New Video for "Static Horizon" Below:

About 'Celestial Death,' CRYPTOSIS shared the following:

“We’re excited to announce our new album! A sonic journey that pushes all boundaries of everything we created before. This album represents our evolution - an exploration of darkness that’s both vast and cinematic. 'Celestial Death' pulls you into a haunting atmosphere with relentless heaviness. Each track digs deeper into the enigma of existence, decay and fragile hope. 'Celestial Death' is our darkest vision yet - a soundtrack to the chaotic world we live in. It’s heavier, bolder, and still very much CRYPTOSIS. We can’t wait for you to experience it, and join us in this new chapter. Prepare to ascend. The 'Celestial Death' awaits!".

Pre-Order 'Celestial Death' HERE

CRYPTOSIS are:

Laurens Houvast - Vocals, Guitars

Marco Prij - Drums

Frank te Riet - Bass, Mellotron, Synths, Backing vocals

BEWITCHER Announces U.S. March Tour

January 22, 2025

All the best tunes belong to the Devil, and Portland’s bastard sons BEWITCHER have returned to take back rock n’ roll in Baphomet’s name. The band is now joining forces with DEATHCHANT to co-headline a U.S. tour in celebration of their latest offering, 'Spell Shock,' along with support from PERSEKUTOR. In conjunction with BEWITCHER's appearance at Hell's Heroes Festival on March 30, the speed metal demons will wreak havoc across the country from March 14 in San Francisco, CA until the final stop back in their hometown of Portland on April 5! The full itinerary can be found below while tickets can be found HERE.

Bassist A. Magus comments, “Few bands are as aligned with us in their love of all things Motörhead and Sabbath than DEATHCHANT. When the opportunity came to join forces for a spring run to Hells Heroes and back, we couldn’t say no. To make this tour even more killer, Romania’s snow obsessed riff-lords PERSEKUTOR will be tagging along. Expect nothing short of ice-cold beer soaked heavy tunes and hellish good times. PARTY ON!”

As Frederiksen previously commented on 'Spell Shock': "It’s the best record I’ve ever produced for one of the best bands in the world."

'Spell Shock' is out now Century Media Records and can be found HERE.

BEWITCHER U.S. Tour Dates (w/ PERSEKUTOR + DEATHCHANT):

03/14: San Francisco, CA @ Bottom of the Hill

03/15: Sacramento, CA @ Cafe Colonial

03/16: San Diego, CA @ Brick by Brick

03/17: Los Angeles, CA @ Lodge Room

03/18: Phoenix, AZ @ Nile Underground

03/20: Houston, TX @ Hell's Heroes^*

03/21: Dallas, TX @ TX Tea Room

03/22: Austin, TX @ The Ballroom

03/23: Oklahoma City, OK @ 89th Street

03/25: Kansas City, MO @ Record Bar

03/26: Chicago, IL @ Reggie's

03/27: Milwaukee, WI @ X-Ray Arcade

03/28: St. Paul, MN @ Turf Club

03/29: Fargo, ND @ Aquarium

03/31: Denver, CO @ Hi-Dive

03/02: Richland, WA @ Ray's Golden Lion*

03/03: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon*

03/05: Portland, OR @ Twilight Cafe & Bar*

05/17: Vancouver, BC @ Modified Ghost Fest^*

^ No Deathchant

* No Persekutor

Line-Up:

Mateo von Bewitcher – vox + guitars

A. Hunter – drums + percussion

A. Magus – bass guitar + backing vox

Artwork: Solo Macello

Producer: Lars Frederiksen

Follow:

Official Website

Facebook

Instagram

Pre-order: https://bewitcher.lnk.to/SpellShock

Formats: Gatefold black LP

Ltd. Gatefold lilac LP (300x) available through cmdistro.de and various other retailers

Ltd. Gatefold translucent orange crush LP (US version, 300x) available only from BEWITCHER

Standard Jewelcase CD

Digital Album

Estonian Metalcore Quartet PRIDIAN Share Third Single “Out For Blood”

January 21, 2025

It might be their biggest year yet: After announcing their signing to label Century Media Records last September and releasing two hard-hitting singles, PRIDIAN isn't slowing down anytime soon. The band from Estonia is delivering their third single with “Out For Blood” while continuously teasing their upcoming album, which is set for a spring release this year.

Listen to "Out For Blood" HERE

“Out For Blood” is almost a battle cry with its raw, hard-hitting lyrics, which encapsulate a relentless pursuit of justice while overcoming influences and perceptions from the outside world. Musically, the track captivates with a chaotic nature through its energetic riffs paired with EDM-style synths. Atmospheric elements, such as the almost robotic voices, create an addicting dynamic and relentless energy that makes one want to see this song come alive live.

Watch the Music Video for "Out For Blood" below.

“Out For Blood” showcases that PRIDIAN is not afraid to get a bit more experimental with their sound. With “Near Dark” and “idoldust” released prior, fans of the genre can keep their anticipation for this record high.

Stream "Out For Blood" HERE

About PRIDIAN

Initially formed in 2018 by guitarists Jörg-Erik Hanikat and Martin Randalu, drummer Robert Leht, and completed by singer Laur Lindmäe, who joined in 2021, Estonian band PRIDIANquickly evolved their very own style and take on modern metal. Having released an album called 'The Rotten Unknown' under their name ÆØNS in 2021, the band was nominated for the “Metal Album of The Year” at the Estonian Music Awards and built the foundation of what’s to come under their new name.

Rebranded as PRIDIAN, the band released their debut EP 'Cybergnosis' in the fall of 2023 and constantly elaborated their unique sound. Their modern take on industrial soundscapes, metalcore, and catchy hooks made them known in the rising Estonian metal scene and beyond. Just one week before opening Sunday’s mainstage at the infamous Euroblast Festival in Cologne – their first-ever performance in Germany – the band announced their signing with German metal label Century Media Records to release their brand new single “Near Dark”, embarking on a new chapter of the band’s history.

PRIDIAN are:

Laur Lindmäe - vocals

Jörg-Erik Hanikat - guitar

Martin Randalu - guitar

Robert Leht - drums

DARK FORTRESS Releases Live Video for “The Silver Gate," Live Album 'Anthems From Beyond The Grave - Live In Europe 2023' Is Out Now”

January 18, 2025

In 2023, after an illustrious cult career spanning more than 20 years, German melodic black metallers DARK FORTRESS came to an end. Now, the band is making one final offering to its fans; 'Anthems From Beyond The Grave - Live In Europe 2023' was recording during the band's final European run, 'The Cosmic End Tour,' in 2023. To celebrate today's release, the band is now sharing the official live video for the song, "The Silver Gate," which can be found below.

“I never thought DARK FORTRESS would have a live album,” says V. Santura (guitars). “The technical situation–we had multi-track recordings of two shows [Rotterdam and Bochum]–allowed for ‘Anthems from Beyond the Grave’ to happen. I didn’t even listen to the recordings for months after the tour. When I finally did, I thought, ‘Holy shit!’ We sounded incredible, and I'm hardly ever happy with our shows. All of our hard work had finally fallen into place on that tour. When Century Media heard it, they said, ‘We’ve gotta release it–it’s too good not to!' If this is our end and it definitely is, then it’s a fitting end to DARK FORTRESS.”

'Anthems From Beyond The Grave - Live In Europe 2023' is out now via Century Media Records and can be ordered HERE.

DARK FORTRESS' march to the grave was inevitable. The journey from signing with American independent Red Stream Records in 2001 to The Cosmic End Tour (with The Spirit and Asphagor) in 2023 was circuitous, full of highs and lows and rife with raw potential. Ultimately, DARK FORTRESS ended life after releasing their lauded final album, 'Spectres from the Old World,' in 2020. By all metrics, self-imposed death is better than zombie-lurching into oblivion.

Many fans didn't see DARK FORTRESS writing their "early’" epitaph, however. From “Eidolon”'s (2008) acclaimed film noir aesthetic of “Edge of Night” and the breakaway success of “Ylem”’s (2010) video/title track to publications Deaf Forever and Decibel awarding 'Spectres from the Old World' (2020) near-perfect scores, the Bavarians appeared invincible. Yet, DARK FORTRESS uncoiled on their terms, leaving their only live album, 'Anthems from Beyond the Grave,' as their final offering to the ancient and unspeakable forces of darkness and evil.

DARK FORTRESS 2023 Lineup:

Morean - Lead Vocals

V. Santura - Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals

Asvargr - Guitar

Hannes Grossmann - Drums

Michael Zech - Bass

Linus Klausenitzer - Keyboards

Formats: Ltd. CD Digipak

Gatefold black 2LP & LP-Booklet

Digital album

Links:

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

SARCATOR Shares New Single, "The Deep Ends," New Album 'Swarming Angels and Flies' out TODAY

January 17, 2025

2025 is already a premier year for blackened thrash metal: Swedish rising force SARCATOR is now releasing its third full-length, 'Swarming Angels & Flies,' via Century Media Records! Stream the album HERE.

Upon announcing the signing to the label back in July, the young band released three striking, powerful, and raw singles that kept the anticipation for this record high. Now, 'Swarming Angels & Flies' is available in its full length. Across eight, grotesque and utterly venomous tracks, the band have deftly blended the wide-eyed extremity of their debut album with the inspirational musicality of their second work 'Alkahest,' while playing everything with more intensity than ever before. It is a record that surely raises the bar for face-flaying extreme metal. Both deliriously melodic and mercilessly brutal - 'Swarming Angels & Flies' is the most dangerously potent record the Swedens have made to date.

To celebrate, the band is now sharing a visualizer for the single "The Deep Ends," which can be found below.

Singer and guitarist Mateo Tervonen comments on the album, “If anyone has ever wondered how our intensity playing live would sound captured on a record, this is the one. There is no question that it’s our most intense, brutal and rawest creation yet, so those who enjoy those elements of our sound will not be disappointed! We worked a lot on the dynamics, so we are sure that this album will have something for everyone. It's not really a genre album and we like to keep it that way.”

With the tracks "Swarming Angels & Flies," “Comet of End Times” and “Where the Void Begins” released prior to the album launch, “The Deep Ends” holds a special place on this record, showcasing Sarcator’s skill in terms of songwriting with the track sounding both raw and yet defined by each second while combining both worlds of rock and extreme metal.

Regarding the track, the band explains,

"'The Deep Ends' stands as a strong representative of the traditional rock essence of our sound that we incorporated with our previous album ('Alkahest' 2022). It's all about the groove and rhythm in this one, hand in hand with epic-driven arrangements. Everything with our own blackened edge to it that has been the common ground for every SARCATOR song so far. With this one we wanted to push everything forward in combining traditional rock music with extreme metal vocals and expression and of course trying to make it sound organically together.”

Sarcator’s “Swarming Angels & Flies” sets the bar high for the upcoming album in terms of speed, heaviness and pure desire to see the song unfold live. Starting off like an explosion, the song delivers a sonic blast hurling the audience straight into a fire pit with raw, untamed energy. The album is now available for pre-order in various formats HERE.

At a juvenile age of 14-20, Sarcator released their first demo tape, “Visions of Purgatory”, via the American label Redefining Darkness Records in 2019. Just two years later the quadrumvirate got nominated for best rock/metal album for the Swedish music award P3 Guld with their 2020’s self-titled debut release for the same label. After releasing their 2nd album, “Alkahest”, via Black Lion Records in 2022, Sarcator finally got a proper chance to play live, captivating crowds with their intense, blackened live shows.

With their current line-up fully committed to the band despite their young age (all members are between 19 and 25) it was time for them to record their third album, which still features previous guitarist Emil Eriksson. Shortly after signing a new worldwide deal with Century Media Records and heading out on a debut European tour supporting Hellripper and Cloak, Sarcator will be releasing 'Swarming Angels & Flies' on January 17, 2025.

This album marks the most intense, brutal and rawest creation yet for the band. It is a remarkably mature and sophisticated piece of work, from mercurial musicians who are only in their early 20’s, and still at the beginning of their creative journey. Across eight, grotesque and utterly venomous tracks, Sarcator have deftly blended the wide-eyed extremity of their debut album with the inspirational musicality of their second record “Alkahest”, while playing everything with more intensity than ever before. Both deliriously melodic and mercilessly brutal: “Swarming Angels & Flies” is the most dangerously potent record the Swedens have made to date.

Sarcator explains about the record and its creation process, “We wanted to highlight the most aggressive and extreme parts of us, but we still wanted to work with dynamics, so you still have elements of classic rock and post-punk, which we started experimenting with on the last record. There is no question that it’s our most intense, brutal, and rawest creation yet - It's not really a genre album and we like to keep it that way."

With plenty of live activity in support of the upcoming album, Sarcator are already at the forefront of an emergent, highly determined new generation of Scandinavian extreme metal bands and ready to take the rest of the world by storm soon too.

Lineup:

Mateo Tervonen – Vocals, Guitar

Felix Lindkvist – Bass

Leo Buchalle – Guitar

Jesper Rosén – Drums

Formats:

CD Jewelcase (in O-Card) w/ 11 tracks

Ltd. Purple LP (300x copies!) w/ 8 tracks & 2-page LP insert

Black LP w/ 8 tracks & 2-page LP insert

CD Jewelcase (US Version) w/ 8 tracks

Links:

Dutch Futuristic Metallers CRYPTOSIS Launch New Single “Reign Of Infinite” + Video

January 14, 2025

Dutch futuristic metallers CRYPTOSIS have announced their return with a mighty, awe-inspiring sophomore album entitled 'Celestial Death,' set for worldwide release on March 7, 2025, via Century Media Records.

To further demonstrate the powerful and versatile material available on 'Celestial Death,' a second single entitled “Reign Of Infinite” is being made available today across digital platforms and can also be checked out in a video clip produced by the film production company F/53 HERE.

CRYPTOSIS checked in with the following comment about the track:

“We’re really excited to share our newest single, 'Reign of Infinite,' with all of you. This track is a dystopian anthem that dives deep into the rise of a new god, blending relentless Overkill-style double bass drums with an epic and dark atmosphere. It’s not your typical CRYPTOSISsound—most of the song rides on the same beat and pulse, creating a hypnotic energy, while Laurens’ vocals bring an atmospheric edge. As the second single from our sophomore album, 'Celestial Death,' 'Reign of Infinite' offers a glimpse into the vast and intense album we've created—one that’s darker, heavier, and more unrelenting than ever before. Stay tuned for the full album release, and let us know what you think!"

Watch the New Video for "Reign of Infinite" Below.

About 'Celestial Death,' CRYPTOSIS shared the following:

Recorded by Olaf Skoreng at Tom Meier and Studio Moon Music between April and August 2024, mixed by Fredrik Folkare at Chrome Studios (Unleashed, Necrophobic, Hellbutcher) in Sweden and finally mastered by Tony Lindgren at Fascination Studios (Arch Enemy, Borknagar, Amorphis) in Sweden too, 'Celestial Death' once more comes with artwork by Eliran Kantor (Kreator, Testament, My Dying Bride) and showcases the group on a darker, heavier, more melodic and extremely cinematic journey across its 11 tracks / 42 minutes of playing time.

Pre-Order 'Celestial Death' HERE

CRYPTOSIS are:

Laurens Houvast - Vocals, Guitars

Marco Prij - Drums

Frank te Riet - Bass, Mellotron, Synths, Backing vocals

Arch Enemy Announce Spring 2025 Headline Tour

December 18, 2024

Swedish extreme metal pioneers ARCH ENEMY will unleash their forthcoming twelfth studio album, Blood Dynasty on March 28 via Century Media Records. Pre-order Blood Dynasty here. Listen to the single "Blood Dynasty" here and watch the official music video below.

Additionally, the band has announced its Spring 2025 North American tour plans.

The massive tour kicks off on April 14 in San Diego and runs through May 16 in Atlanta, including several stops in Canada. All dates are below, along with key spring festival appearances, such as Sonic Temple and Welcome to Rockville. Get tickets here.

Expect a night of maximum headbanging that you will NOT want to miss!

"We can't wait to reconnect with our amazing North American fans this spring," says guitarist Michael Amott. "We're bringing Fit For An Autopsy, Baest, and Thrown Into Exile along for the ride — prepare for an unforgettable night of pure metal mayhem. See you soon!"

Blood Dynasty marks Arch Enemy's 12th studio album. The record features 11 new tracks full of the band's signature powerful guitar riff and guttural force.

Pre-order Arch Enemy's new album Blood Dynasty here.

For more information and tickets visit here.

ARCH ENEMY ARE:
Alissa White-Gluz — Vocals
Michael Amott — Guitars
Joey Concepcion — Guitars
Sharlee D'Angelo — Bass
Daniel Erlandsson — Drums

Dutch Futuristic Metallers CRYPTOSIS Announce New Album 'Celestial Death' Out March 7th via Century Media Records

December 13, 2024

Following their acclaimed 'Bionic Swarm' debut album (2021) and the EP 'The Silent Call' (2023), Dutch futuristic metallers CRYPTOSIS return with a mighty, awe-inspiring sophomore album entitled 'Celestial Death', set for worldwide release on March 7th, 2025 via Century Media Records.

As the first example of the intense material available on 'Celestial Death' a first single entitled “Faceless Matter” has been made available today across digital platforms and is also accompanied by a video produced by the film production company F/53, available to view below.

CRYPTOSIS comments about the track:

“With 'Faceless Matter', we’re opening the new album 'Celestial Death'. The song dives into a future where individuality fades, and people become part of one collective mind, haunted by the loss of self. This track brings a darker, heavier, and more symphonic sound. Welcome to the new era of CRYPTOSIS.”

Watch the Video for "Faceless Matter"

CRYPTOSIS checked in with the following comment about 'Celestial Death':

Pre-Order 'Celestial Death' HERE

In other news, CRYPTOSIS has recently been announced as part of a European tour with British Thrashers Onslaught, who are celebrating the 40th Anniversary of their classic 'Power From Hell' album. Check all already confirmed upcoming CRYPTOSIS dates - including an album release show in Enschede, The Netherlands on March 29th.

CRYPTOSIS are:

Laurens Houvast - Vocals, Guitars

Marco Prij - Drums

Frank te Riet - Bass, Mellotron, Synths, Backing vocals

Emerging Swedish Thrashers SARCATOR Unleashes Vicious New Single, "Where the Void Begins"

December 12, 2024

Before the festive season starts, Sweden’s blackened thrash metal band SARCATOR offers an early present for its fans with their newest single “Where the Void Begins.” The third track from the band’s upcoming album delivers a haunting exploration of despair and existential reflection. With vivid imagery, the lyrics delve into themes of isolation, loss, and the allure of the unknown. Dark and poetic, the song paints a picture of surrender to the infinite unknown - terrifying but liberating. “Where the Void Begins” will be the last single before Sarcator’s third full length album, 'Swarming Angels & Flies,' will be fully unleashed January 17th, 2025, via Century Media Records.

Listen below.

The band comments, "'Where the Void Begins' is the brother song of 'The Long Lost,' off our 2022 album 'Alkahest' - not in an obvious way but it felt like continuing on a story that wasn't complete. It's the heavy one on this album and ends up in a total rock n roll frenzy.

Additionally, it is the first one we wrote that ended up on this album, so it still carries the spirit of the previous album in a way.”