SANCTUARY Officially Signs to BLKIIBLK

Legendary American heavy metal band SANCTUARY is proud to announce their official signing to BLKIIBLK. To celebrate, the band returns with a powerful new chapter in their storied career: the brand-new single “Not Of The Living.” A new lyric video comes along with the track and is available to view below.

On the signing to BLKIIBLK, SANCTUARY founder Lenny Rutledge comments:

"SANCTUARY is really excited to sign with BLKIIBLK. We are looking forward to working with our new team to bring future SANCTUARY music to metal fans all over the world!"

"Not Of The Living" marks SANCTUARY’s first new material since the passing of original vocalist Warrel Dane and stands as a bold statement of rebirth as they celebrate 40 years of uncompromising heavy metal.

Mike Gitter, Global Head of A&R for Frontiers Label Group and BLKIIBLK Label Head, exclaims:

“We’re excited to be working with SANCTUARY. Already a legendary band, in 2026, they’re building upon that legend and taking it one step further. When [European head of A&R] Aldo Lonobile and I heard the songs, they had begun recording for their first full-length since their last full-length ‘The Year The Sun Died’ [2014], it was clear, SANCTUARY were back making some of the most vital music of their career.

"Vocalist Joseph Michael (Witherfall) has stepped in for the late Warrell Dane (Nevermore) and carried the ball magnificently. Lenny Rutledge (SANCTUARY founding guitarist) is not only taking SANCTUARY’s legacy forward, but it already feels like he’s intent on exceeding it."

Produced and mixed by acclaimed producer Zeuss (Queensrÿche, Metal Church, Rob Zombie, and Witherfall), “Not Of The Living” captures SANCTUARY’s classic blend of dramatic songwriting, soaring melodies, and crushing riffs while delivering a modern sonic impact. The track also features a blistering guest guitar solo by Jake Dreyer (Witherfall, Demons & Wizards, Iced Earth).

Joseph Michael, vocalist for SANCTUARY, shares:

“The band and I are very happy to announce our partnership with heavy metal's PREEMINENT record label BLKIIBLK! We hope you enjoy this new chapter in the history of SANCTUARY. We look forward to bringing you new music while also honoring the past.”

Watch the Lyric Video for "Not Of The Living" Below:

Now, with more new music on the horizon, SANCTUARY are preparing to embark on a wide-ranging 40th Anniversary World Tour, celebrating four decades of metal history.

For the tour, SANCTUARY has recruited guitarist Will Wallner (Neon Dragon, Ex-White Wizzard) on 2nd lead guitar. The tour will span North America, South America, and Europe, featuring special sets highlighting the band’s classic albums ‘Refuge Denied’ and ‘Into the Mirror Black,’ alongside fan favorites and new material, including “Not Of The Living.”

Festival appearances confirmed for the tour include some of the most respected gatherings in the global metal community, including Keep It True, Hyperspace Metal Fest, and Hell’s Heroes. A full list of dates is below.

SANCTUARY Live:

4/18 - Vancouver, Canada @ The Rickshaw/Hyperspace Metal Festival

4/22 - Athens, GR @ Piraeus Club Academy

4/24 - Geiselwind, DE @ Tauberfrankenhalle/Keep It True

4/25 - Drachten, NL @ Iduna

4/26 - Hamburg, DE @ Logo

4/28 - London, UK @ The Underworld

4/29 - Kortrijk, BE @ Dvg Club

5/01 - Zoetermeer, NLS @ Boerderij

5/02 - Andernach Rheinland-Pfalz, DE @ Juz Live Club/Andernach Metal Days

8/16 - Washington, USA @ Substation/Soldiers Of Steel

8/22 - Mexico City @ TBD

8/23 - Mexico City @ TBD

8/25 - Lima, Peru @ TBD

8/27 - Chile @ Concepcion

8/28 - Santiago, Chile

8.29 - Buenos Aires, Argentina

8.30 - São Paulo, Brazil

9.18 - Wisconsin, USA @ Crucible-Blades Of Steel

With a new single, a worldwide anniversary tour, and a renewed creative drive, SANCTUARYcontinue to honor their past while forging ahead into the future.

Drummer Dave Budbill exclaims:

"Very stoked to be signing with such a kick ass Metal Label. SANCTUARY is Back!"

BANK ARCADE DROP VIDEO FOR COMEBACK SINGLE "SEVERANCE"

Arising Empire have never been ones to play it safe—but with their newest signing, they've doubled down on something far more volatile. Enter Banks Arcade and their ferocious new single "Severance": A track that doesn't just blur genre lines — it tears them apart and leaves the pieces smoldering. Watch the video Below:

Built on a collision of punishing metalcore, glitchy electronic textures, and the swagger of modern hip-hop, "Severance" feels less like a song and more like a system overload. It's aggressive, cinematic, and calculated chaos—exactly the kind of statement you'd expect from a band that has never acknowledged the idea of staying in one lane.

And Banks Arcade didn't arrive here by accident. What started as a project between two best friends—shaped by wildly different worlds spanning jazz academia and professional MMA—has evolved into one of the most unpredictable forces in modern heavy music. Their sound reflects that tension: Precision meets violence, control meets collapse.

Over the past few years, the band has carved a path from Southern Hemisphere outsiders to global contenders. They've sold out headline runs across Australia and New Zealand, while stepping onto some of the biggest stages in heavy music, including Download Festival, and touring alongside genre leaders like Northlane, Thornhill, and The Plot in You. Each tour tightened their grip on an international audience that thrives on exactly this kind of forward-thinking aggression.

"Severance" captures that momentum at full speed. There's a maximalist intensity running through the track—industrial electronics colliding with downtuned riffs, hooks that feel like they've been dragged through a rave at 3 am, and a sense that everything could fall apart at any second, but never does. It's controlled destruction.

What makes Banks Arcade hit differently, though, is the intent behind it all. Born out of constant relocation, reinvention, and the kind of struggle that either breaks you or rebuilds you into something sharper, the band operates with a clear purpose: redefine what "heavy" even means in 2026.

With Arising Empire now backing the project, "Severance" isn't just a new single—it's a warning shot. Banks Arcade aren't here to join the scene. They're here to rewire it.

Graphic Nature Announce Century Media Signing And Release New Single "Faceless" And Official Music Video

London quartet Graphic Nature have returned with new single, "Faceless", a feral slab of nu-metalcore, digging into identity, pressure and the urge to strip everything back. It leans into that raw, cathartic side of the band while keeping things direct and grounded. The release, the band’s first for new label home Century Media, lands just ahead of their one-off London headline show on April 30th. "Faceless" is a track to sit with when things feel a bit too real, or simply just to play loud and get out of your head for a minute.

“'Faceless' is the beginning of the new era of Graphic Nature,” states frontman Harvey Freeman. “We spent a lot of time working on what we wanted to get out of the new sound, our collective influences helped pave the way for what we've created. We are pleased to announce this single will be released via our new record label Century Media.”

Graphic Nature are fast becoming one of the most uncompromising voices in modern heavy music, fusing the grit of nu-metal with the weight and precision of contemporary metalcore. Since emerging with their debut album ‘A Mind Waiting To Die’ (2023) and its follow-up, ‘Who Are You When No One Is Watching?’ a year later, the band have built a reputation for crafting visceral, groove-driven tracks that channel frustration, identity and the pressure of modern life into something raw and immediate.

With a growing live presence and a string of increasingly confident releases behind them, Graphic Nature are stepping into their next chapter with purpose. Leaning further into heavier textures and sharper conceptual ideas, the band continue to refine a sound that feels both familiar and forward-thinking, positioning themselves as one of the UK’s most vital and confrontational new heavy acts. Stream "Faceless" here and watch the official music video below.

GRAPHIC NATURE is:

Harvey Freeman (vocal)

Pete Woolven (guitar)

Matas Michailovskis (guitar)

Jack Bowdery (drums)

FLESHCRAWL Sign to Distortion Music Group (DMG) - Powered by Reigning Phoenix Music, Unveil New Single "Blood Dominion"

The long-established German death metal ensemble FLESHCRAWL has signed a worldwide deal with Distortion Music Group (DMG) - Powered by Reigning Phoenix Music. The signing marks a new chapter as the band prepares to unveil their tenth studio album, Epitome of Carnage on June 12, 2026. FLESHCRAWL's obliterating new single "Blood Dominion" marks the first release under this collaboration, following a series of prior releases that saw select DMG roster artists issued via Reigning Phoenix Music.

On the single release, FLESHCRAWL comments: "Choosing 'Blood Dominion' as our first single is a statement. It is the ultimate teaser for what this album delivers: no mercy. It captures the very essence of FLESHCRAWL - fast, raw, and straight to the point. An uncompromising and pure reflection of what that band is about." The band continue, "We didn't want any long-winded intros or other stuff - we wanted to hit the ground running and go straight all in. From the second you put this on, you know exactly what’s coming: pure, rough chaos. That was always the plan."

"Blood Dominion" is unforgiving in its brutal nature. Striking ferociously with untamable rhythms, thunderous percussion and bloodthirsty vocals, "Blood Dominion" offers a thrilling display of unrestrained intensity that makes a clear statement. 

The long-awaited Epitome of Carnage is constructed on the foundation of an expansive career. FLESHCRAWL remain devoted to the death metal genre despite having encountered loss and change along the way. As the tenth full-length release, the new album stands as testament to FLESHCRAWL's unwavering creativity and drive. Arriving seven years after 2019's Into the Catacombs of Flesh, Epitome of Carnage reveals a renewed vigor and power that bleeds through the track list. 

Contained within Epitome of Carnage are twelve vicious onslaughts that showcase FLESHCRAWL's unimpeded speed and power. Materializing alongside demonstrations of inescapable heaviness, explosive riffs, and melodic touches amongst the shadows, they leave behind no survivors. 

Epitome of Carnage is set for release on June 12, 2026. Pre-order Epitome of Carnage here: https://fleshcrawl.rpm.link/epitomePR

FLESHCRAWL is: 
Bastian Herzog - Drums, Vocals
Manu Markowski - Bass
Apu Justin Reisch - Guitars
Christian Kalbrecht - Guitars
Borisz Sarafutgyinov - Vocals

FLESHCRAWL Online:
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Instagram
YouTube
Spotify 
Apple Music

Frontiers Music Srl Announces Signing of NELSON

Today, Frontiers Music Srl is pleased to announce the signing of legendary melodic rock duo NELSON to the label’s roster. The band, led by master songwriting twin brothers Matthew and Gunnar Nelson, will also appear at the upcoming Frontiers Rock Festival on Sunday, May 3, 2026, further strengthening their renewed partnership with the label.

The band comments:

“We’re honored to re-join the Frontiers family. NELSON’s now classic 'Lightning Strikes Twice' was the first release for Frontiers in America when the label opened up their US office years ago- and as such, we’ve always felt like a valued part of the team. NELSON is and has always been truly unique - and our family at Frontiers has always valued that, as well as our exhaustive process to write, record, and produce world-class albums that endure the test of time.”

“We’re honored to reconnect with a roster that celebrates melodic rock music with such passion. We can’t wait to share what we’ve been working on and to deepen our connection with our fans around the world. Be warned: the new NELSON record is amazing,” they add.

Mario de Riso, A&R and Business Affairs VP at Frontiers, shares:

“It is an absolute thrill to have NELSON back to the Frontiers roster. Matthew and Gunnarhave a very special place in the history of melodic rock, and their talent, identity, and consistency as artists continue to shine. Their music represents the kind of quality, emotion, and craftsmanship we deeply believe in. We look forward to sharing this new music with their loyal fans and with a new generation of listeners.”

Matthew and Gunnar Nelson have built a career that truly stands the test of time. Rising to global prominence in the early 1990s with NELSON’s multi-platinum debut 'After The Rain,' the twins topped the Billboard Hot 100 with “(Can’t Live Without Your) Love And Affection,” earning a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. With seven Top 40 singles, five #1 MTV videos, and over 6.5 million albums sold worldwide, NELSON became a defining force of their time.

Deeply rooted in one of America’s most storied entertainment families, Matthew and Gunnarbring a rare perspective to longevity in music. Their grandparents, Ozzie and Harriet, made television history with “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet,” while Ozzie also pioneered early music-video concepts long before MTV. Their father, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Ricky Nelson, sold over 200 million records and helped found the country rock genre. Carrying this legacy forward, the twins have consistently evolved and continue to connect with audiences across generations through authenticity, craftsmanship, and heart.

Beyond music, Matthew and Gunnar Nelson have also become best-selling authors with their book “What Happened To Your Hair?”, adding another dimension to their creative journey.

Today, Matthew and Gunnar Nelson continue to explore fresh creative territory, carrying forward their unmistakable melodic sensibility and soaring sibling harmonies. With a career defined by reinvention and longevity, NELSON remains a vital presence on the rock scene.

📸: Kristin Barlow

The Artery Foundation Signs SAGE + Bands Shares "Deep End" Video

THE ARTERY FOUNDATION is proud to welcome SAGE to its global roster.

To celebrate the partnership, the band has shared the video for new single "DEEP END." Watch it below.

SAGE, who hail from the fertile musical grounds of New Jersey, were founded in 2023. Comprised of vocalist Mike Rafter, vocalist and guitarist James Benedetto, guitarist Chris Coletti, and drummer Nick Perrone, the members connected over a shared passion for timeless rock with a more modern energy and quickly forged a sound that feels both nostalgic and new.

That connection is evidenced in "Deep End."

"'Deep End' is really about breaking free from someone who keeps trying to pull you back into their chaos," says Benedetto. "It's about setting boundaries, standing your ground, and reclaiming your power after being hurt. It uses that 'deep end' metaphor to represent consequences. At some point, you have to let people face the tide on their own in order to learn. We actually flew out to L.A. to work with producer Hiram Hernandez, and that experience took the band's sound to a whole different level. He helped bring so many ideas to life and really pushed us to be our best selves when writing. We're pumped on what we created together."

In 2024, SAGE released their debut EP, Heartwired, marking a major milestone in the band's journey. The EP showed off the band's natural talent in songwriting, helping to expand their audience and build momentum throughout the scene. It also introduced listeners to their unique blend of heavy riffs, melodic hooks, and heartfelt lyrics, proving that they are a band to look out for.
Looking to spread positivity and good vibes through their music, SAGE aim to remind the world of the healing power of music and the importance of self expression. With high energy live performances and a genuine connection to their fans, the band continues to grow, evolve, and make their mark.

Holding Absence Announce Sumerian Records Signing "Whisper Of A Dream" Single And Music Video Out Now

South Wales trio Holding Absence today release "Whisper Of A Dream", their first new music since 2023’s ‘The Noble Art Of Self-Destruction’ and their first for new label Sumerian Records. 

This track captures what it means to be human when hope feels out of reach. Holding Absence explore the tension between numbness and healing, tapping into a state so dark it feels almost inhuman. It is a search for something better, while watching it slip further away. Sitting between emotional hardcore and alternative, Holding Absence lean into deep vulnerability, pulling listeners into a world shaped by their lyrics and striking visual identity. The single also marks the introduction of a character that will unfold across the album campaign. 

Speaking of "Whisper Of A Dream", frontman Lucas Woodland shares:

“'Whisper Of A Dream' is our first song back in what feels like forever. After releasing our third record, 'The Noble Art Of Self-Destruction', it felt essential to step away for a while - to take stock and rediscover who we are as a band. "Whisper" felt like the perfect song to return with. In many ways, it represents everything Holding Absence has always been, while introducing new elements to our sound and opening the door to what comes next. 

Lyrically and conceptually, the song draws heavily from cyberpunk media. Contemplation, sentience and dreaming in an ever-evolving world. The music video also introduces our robot mascot “Y4-BB0”, a character you’ll be seeing more of in the coming years." 

By signing off ‘The Noble Art of Self-Destruction’ with a stark “3/3”, Holding Absence made a promise - to set fire to everything they, and their fans, thought they knew about the band. After nearly a decade of carving out a home in their post hardcore terrain, 'TNAOSD'was a final, defiant love letter to themselves - a wild, muddy exorcism of all they had been, and all that fans had grown to love about them… But the end of that campaign posed some cold, hard questions: What do we lose? And what do we keep? What does it mean - and has it meant - to the thousands of fans across the world adorned with the moth tattoo? And how do we carry out this metamorphosis without losing that? 

Holding Absence is emotion. It is vulnerability and honesty. It’s the raindrops that trickle down your face on a cold walk home... The wind that blows across your cheeks as the sky splits open at sunrise. If you can feel it - raw and human - it is Holding Absence. Stream "Whisper Of A Dream" here, and watch the official music video below.

North American fans will also have their chance to see the band beginning next month at Welcome To Rockville on Thursday, May 7and at Sonic Temple the following week on Thursday, May 14. Holding Absence will also be bringing the heat to Louder Than Life on Friday, September 18 and Aftershock on Thursday, October 1 this fall. Click the link here for ticket information, and stay tuned for more Holding Absence news coming soon.

Roadrunner Welcomes TheBoyShadow to Roster + Band Shares "Give Me a Seam & I'll Show You the Meaning" Video

ROADRUNNER RECORDS is pleased to welcome THEBOYSHADOW to the roster.

Today, the band, featuring former Loathe guitarist Connor Sweeney, has shared the video for the sonically ultraviolent new single "GIVE ME A SEAM & I'LL SHOW YOU THE MEANING."

It's two minutes of raw fury — like steel gnashing against steel, punctuated by moody dynamics mid-song.

Watch it below.

THEBOYSHADOW has been a work in progress for the past four years, where the artist turned introspection into fuel for his art. He processed his demons and was able to funnel them into the songs, surrounded by fellow artists who feel like family.

TheBoyShadow also announced its first-ever live performance. It is set for Camden Assembly in London on April 6.

Introducing Torn Open — NJ Extreme Deathcore Band Signs Announces EP, Shares "The Way Things Should End" Video

New Jersey's Torn Open will make the baby fine hairs on your neck stand upright. They hold nothing back in their brutal, deathcore music or their sanguine imagery. Solidifying their lineup in 2025, the quintet has shared stages with legends like Mortician, as well as Torture and more. They released TORN THE FUCK OPEN, VOL. 1. in 2025 and followed with the single "None So Vile."

Along the way, the band caught the attention of Blue Grape Music, which is pleased to announce it has added the band to its global roster.

Torn Open will continue to tear into the metal scene with full ferocity and fangs bared moving forward.

Today, the band announces the TORN THE FUCK OPEN, VOL. 2 EP, which will arrive on May 1. Pre-save it here.

Torn Open also shared the gloriously gory (and NSFW) video for the primal new single "The Way Things Should End." Watch the video, which unfolds like a fabulously feral, four-minute horror movie, below. 

It's vicious and visceral, grabs you by the throat, and doesn't let go. You won't make it out unscathed. 

"The Way Things Should End" is intended to be a hard-hitting introduction to a new era, and not just musically. The single checks all the boxes — creative riffing, a groove that makes you want to punch the guy next to you, and meaningful lyrics that address about how political power needs to be directly combatted with violence. Working in tandem with the imagery from the music video, the song creates an astoundingly strong statement, calling out and denouncing the malice inflicted upon many as a product of greed. It aims to point out that there are little to no distinguishing factors between businessmen and politicians anymore, and we are running out of peaceful options when it comes to stopping tyranny.

Below are the forthcoming Torn Open live dates. The band will also perform at the Milwaukee Metal Fest Pre-Party, sponsored by Blue Grape, on June 4.

TORN OPEN LIVE:
4/3 — New York, NY — The Woodshop
4/9 — Montclair, NJ — The Meatlocker
5/1 — Burlington, VT — Oddfellows
5/2 — Biddeford, ME — Rumors
5/3 — Cambridge, MA — Cambridge Community Center
5/4 — Meriden, CT — Grace’s Place
5/5 — Queens, NY — Bunker Del Diablo
5/22 — Detroit, MI — The Sanctuary
5/23 — Cleveland, OH — No Class
5/24 — PA — CCMH
5/25 — MA — O’Brien’s Pub
5/26 — Torrington, CT — Howard’s Bookstore
5/27 — Montclair, NJ — The Meatlocker
5/29 — Persephone Rises Fest
7/9 — Rutherford, NJ — Williams Center
7/17 — Hamden, CT — The Cellar
7/18 — Rochester, NY — Photo City Music Hall

PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Mis

TORN OPEN ARE:
Sofia DeMasi – Vocals
Margot Bogosian – Guitar
Marcelo Crespo – Guitar
Canaan Sharon – Bass
Michael Karnage – Drums

Plume Release "!REAL SPIRIT!" Video

PLUME don’t ease into a release — they make an entrance you can't ignore.

With "!REAL SPIRIT! Caught On Tape," the emo/alternative force push things further into their own lane — raw, unfiltered, and wired with a kind of restless energy that refuses to sit still. It's chaotic in the right places, intentional where it needs to be, and carried by a pulse that feels more like a moment than just a song.

Following the impact of their previous release "Digital Waterboarding," the band double down on everything that made people pay attention in the first place — but sharper, louder, and more defined.

Freshly signed to Arising Empire, PLUME aren't here to follow what's already happening around them. There's a new wave forming — rougher around the edges, more expressive, less predictable — and "!REAL SPIRIT! Caught On Tape" sits right at the center of it. Not by calculation, but by instinct.

Blending emo sensibilities with alternative grit and a visual identity shaped by distortion, nostalgia and digital overload, the band create something that feels immediate and alive. It’s not polished for comfort — it's built to leave a mark.

PLUME are stepping in at full speed.

And this is only the first signal.

Code:Words Drop New Single "All Consuming" Video

CODE:WORDS, who recently joined The Artery Foundation roster, have just shared their new single "ALL CONSUMING."

It's a masterful slice of electro pop metalcore that will take up real estate in your brain for weeks at a time. It also looks at the kill or be killed stance one often has to take in relationships.

Listen Below.

"'All Consuming' is about struggling with the realization that you can't save someone who doesn't want to save themselves," offers singer John Dillon. "That, over time, you can break yourself down in service of others and not realize the effects it had on you. At some point, you're faced with an uncomfortable choice: Them or me. I think this is a moment a lot of people can relate to. We all have someone in our lives that we'd do anything to protect from the cold realities of the world, but eventually you have to tell them 'I won't set myself on fire to keep you warm anymore.'" 

The band's sound was shaped alongside producer Hiram Hernandez (Blessthefall, Honey Revenge). The approach is deliberate. Clear, and concise with one objective; Give you everything until, you feel it all

.ABOUT CODE:WORDS:

When CODE:WORDS formed in Los Angeles in 2023, they did not arrive quietly. The band showed up with urgency and a sound that already felt lived in — like it had a past behind it, like they'd been a touring act for years before anyone was paying attention.

They first gained attention with "Wash the Blood," a self-released debut that spread without a rollout or a manufactured moment. In this short time, the band has now amassed over two million streams worldwide, not on hype, but on repeat listens and slow-built loyalty. Early 2026 marked another breakout moment for CODE:WORDS as they announced their signing to longtime industry powerhouse The Artery Foundation and released their most dynamic single to date with "Limerence." The song quickly took the industry by storm, debuting on Sirius XM's Octane Test Drive, earning a spot in rotation, and on Kerrang Radio's Unleashed in the UK.

Fronted by John Dillon, with Garrett Lowery and Max Codoceo, CODE:WORDS write from uncomfortable places: Obsession. Shame. Control. Emotional exhaustion. Nothing is exaggerated. Nothing is softened. The music is meant to make you feel something raw, and it leaves you uneasy in the best way.

Evil Island Sign to Blowed Out Records & Announce Release Date For Debut Single "Tiger Baby"

Evil Island have announced their signing to Blowed Out Records today along with the news that their debut single, "Tiger Baby," will be officially released on DSPs with a full music video on April 15th and also as a limited edition 7” vinyl pressing of 300 copies, all hand signed by the band, that will feature a second single only available physically for now. Pre-orders for the “Tiger Baby” 7” vinyl are available now from evilisland.lnk.to/tigerbaby Fans can check out a 15s teaser clip of "Tiger Baby" below.

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Evil Island brings together Johnny Whitney (vocals), Cody Votolato (guitar/vocals), and Mark Gajadhar (drums) of Seattle post-hardcore band The Blood Brothers alongside bassist Autry Fulbright of OFF! and ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead. Four musicians converging around new material, recorded with producer Ross Robinson over five months to create an album that surpassed all their expectations. 

Providing further context on how the project came together, Cody Votolato shares

"Ross Robinson came to my surprise birthday party last May 2025. I mentioned Evil Island and he instantly said 'Fuck yes, let's make a record.' By October we were in the studio and signed to Blowed Out Records. Now on April 15th, 2026 we are releasing our first single Tiger Baby with a limited press of 300 copies on 7". It will include our second single that you can only hear early on the 7" at first. We are super proud of it and it's now available for preorder!"

That Robinson - the producer behind Korn's debut, Slipknot's Iowa, At The Drive-In's Relationship of Command, and The Blood Brothers' own Burn Piano Island, Burn - heard two demos at a birthday party and cleared five months of his calendar says everything that needs to be said about what Evil Island brought into that room.

Adding further context to the Evil Island origin story, Ross Robinson shares

"This is a record I've wanted to make for way too long, ever since signing and producing The Blood Brothers 'Burn Piano Island, Burn' .. I feel Evil Island is the coolest fucking band on earth and dare anyone to step up to the unleashing fire these guys throw down- they're the king of kings .. I can't believe we got to make this thing, it's an artistic/emotionally violent dream come true for me!"

“Tiger Baby” is just the beginning. More coming from Evil Island very soon.

About Evil Island

Evil Island is Johnny Whitney (vocals), Cody Votolato (guitar/vocals), and Mark Gajadhar (drums) - three fifths of Seattle post-hardcore band The Blood Brothers - alongside bassist Autry Fulbright, a veteran of OFF! and ...And You Will Know Us by the Trail of Dead.

Their debut single "Tiger Baby" is the first taste of five months in the studio with legendary producer Ross Robinson. What came out of that room is funky, catchy, chaotic, and completely unhinged in the best possible way. It sounds like nothing these four people have made before but also like it could only be made by them.

Pre-orders for "Tiger Baby" are available now on limited edition 7-inch vinyl, pressed to 300 copies, each hand signed by the band with an exclusive B-side that will only be available on the 7 inch, at least for now. The single and music video arrive on streaming platforms April 15th via Blowed Out Records.

Without A Face Announce Papercut Recordings Signing With New Double Single “Needful Things” & "Resurfacing (feat. Jacob Mathes of Orphan)"

Toronto musician and producer Kevin Rolly today introduces the next chapter of his unbridled deathcore powerhouse Without A Face with the release of “Needful Things,” a new double single out now alongside the official announcement of the project’s signing to Papercut Recordings. Listen to the double single HERE and find the YouTube visualizer BELOW.

The double single release features tracks "Needful Things" and "Resurfacing" (featuing Jacob Mathes of Orphan). Written and performed by Rolly, Without A Face channels unbridled aggression, pressure, frustration and catharsis into something visceral. The goal is simple, the music should provoke a reaction. Whether that response is discomfort, rage or recognition, indifference has no place in the equation.

The project first began gaining attention with the release of the EP Rat Poison, a short, apoplectic and explosive introduction that quickly found an audience within the modern deathcore community. The release earned strong support from platforms including Slam Worldwide and The Brutality Podcast, whose listeners helped amplify the project and ultimately recognized Rat Poison in the outlet’s year-end awards with a nomination for 'New Deathcore Band of the Year'.

That early momentum helped push Without A Face past 930,000 Spotify streams, 125,000 Apple Music streams and more than 340,000 YouTube views, establishing the project as one of the most promising new names emerging from the underground extreme music space.

“Needful Things” now serves as the first release of a new era for Without A Face and the first under the Papercut banner.

Without A Face emerged after years of Rolly working professionally in music through production, engineering and underground rap. Although the work built experience and connections, he eventually felt pulled back toward the kind of heavy music that first shaped him. Records that felt volatile, visceral and impossible to ignore. Without A Face became the vehicle for returning to that space with intent.

The aggression that defines the music is grounded in real stakes. A neck injury in recent years, combined with ongoing hearing issues, left Rolly needing an outlet for his rage and frustration. Those searing emotions sit at the core of Without A Face, fueling the project’s unflinching intensity.

With “Needful Things” now released and the partnership with Papercut Recordings in place, Without A Face enters its next phase with momentum already building and more music expected to follow.

ABOUT WITHOUT A FACE

Without A Face is the solo project of Toronto musician and producer Kevin Rolly, created as an outlet for heavy music that carries real emotional weight. After years working professionally in music through production, engineering and underground rap, he returned to the extreme music that first shaped him, creating a project built on catharsis, urgency and impact.

Written and performed by Rolly, Without A Face turns lived experience, frustration and creative pressure into music designed to provoke a real emotional response.

Since launching the project, Without A Face has amassed over 1 million cross platform streams, and more than 340,000 views on YouTube, with early support from platforms including Slam Worldwide and The Brutality Podcast helping introduce the project to a rapidly growing heavy music audience.

Without A Face announced their signing to Papercut Recordings in March of 2026 with the release of double single "Needful Things" and the threat of more new music on the horizon.

Lost In Separation Sign to SBG Records; Release New Single "Can't Forget"

Rising Texas metalcore outfit Lost In Separation have officially signed with SBG Records and are celebrating the announcement with the release of their new single, “Can’t Forget.” 

 

“'Can’t Forget' is about coping with the unexpected loss of a loved one and learning how to pick up the pieces and move forward. The song was written and produced with Austin Coupe (The Devil Wears Prada, Thousand Below, Papa Roach), and marks an exciting new chapter with the signing to SBG Records,"  shares the band. 

 

Lost In Separation is a Metalcore Band from Dallas, Tx. Cathartically combining aggression, melody, and emotional storytelling to find silver linings in a world that seems to be falling apart more and more each day.

 

More new music and announcements are expected soon.

 

STREAM "Can't Forget"

https://stem.ffm.to/cantforget

 

WATCH the Lyric Video for "Can't Forget" Below:

For More Information Please Visit:

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TodoMal Sign to Season of Mist

Anglo-Spanish atmospheric doom metal collective TodoMal have signed to Season of Mist. Formed in 2020 by Christopher B. Wildman and Javier Fernández Milla, the project emerged from a meeting of two seasoned figures of the Spanish underground, united by a shared affinity for solemn doom, expansive rock and cinematic atmosphere.

TodoMal’s debut, Ultracrepidarian (2021), introduced a melancholic and immersive sound rooted in the desolate landscapes of northern Alcarria and Matarraña. Its successor, A Greater Good (2023), deepened that vision with what the band described as “dark songs,” earning placements in several end-of-year lists and prompting a second physical pressing following strong demand.

Spanish publication Mondo Sonoro placed the album among its Top 10 of 2023, while international outlets including No Clean Singing, The Sleeping Shaman and Zware Metalen praised the band’s balance of weight, atmosphere and cinematic scope.

Building on this momentum, TodoMal expanded into a five-piece live ensemble, incorporating musicians active in acts such as Teitanblood, Graveyard and Maud the Moth. The expanded line-up has already brought the project to stages including Be Prog! My Friend, Under The Doom Fest and Frantic Fest, sharing bills with artists such as Candlemass, My Dying Bride and Dødheimsgard.

Photo by © TodoMal

Official Biography:

TodoMal came to life in what could be described as the year zero of our era — 2020 — conceived by Anglo-Spanish musician / composer Christopher B. Wildman and musician / composer and producer Javier Fernández; two veteran multi-instrumentalists of the Spanish underground scene whose extensive careers span a myriad of projects across a wide range of musical styles.

A product of pure serendipity, TodoMal represents a deeply personal fusion of the solemnity of traditional doom metal and the expansiveness of space rock, interwoven with nuances of ecclesiastical music, classic hard rock, and cinematic soundscapes.

Their debut album, Ultracrepidarian (2021), unfolds a journey through hypnotic compositions, The record evokes the placid yet desolate moorlands of their headquartes in northern Alcarria and the región of Matarraña (Teruel) — two emblematic landscapes of Spain’s so-called “emptied lands”.

With A Greater Good (2023), the duo crafted a collection of what they describe as “dark songs”, building upon the seeds planted in Ultracrepidarian and evolving into a complex, dense and unclassifiable album. The record appeared in several “best of the year” lists and received outstanding reviews from publications and webzines including Mondo Sonoro, No Clean Singing, Zwaren Metalen and Metal Revolution, among others. Following high demand, the physical edition sold out, leading to a second pressing.

Fueled by this momentum, and with a growing audience eager to experience the band live, the duo entered the studio during 2024–2025 to begin recording their next chapter. At the same time, they expanded into a five-piece live ensemble, joined by Javier Félez (guitar, Teitanblood, Graveyard, Balmog), Javier “Bud” Martínez (drums, Dejadeath, Jade, Ktulu) and Cecilia Tallo (keyboards / vocals, Maud the Moth), creating an immersive audio-visual show. This development sparked the enthusiasm of promoters, leading the band to perform at renowned festivals such as Be Prog! My Friend (2024, Barcelona), Under The Doom Fest (2025, Lisbon), Frantic Fest (2025, Abruzzo, Italy) and Okkult Sessions (2025, Barcelona), sharing the stage with artists such as Candlemass, My Dying Bride and Dødheimsgard, among many others.

With their sights now firmly set on 2026 and their forthcoming release — and with new festival appearances across Europe, among which “Resurrection Fest” already confirmed — TodoMal prepare to embark on the next chapter of their journey.

Core Lineup:

Wildman - Guitars & Vocals

Mile - Bass & Vocals

Live Lineup:

Wildman - Guitars & Vocals

Mile - Bass & Vocals

Javi - Guitars

Bud - Drums

Cecilia - Synths & Vocals

Follow TodoMal:

Bandcamp: https://todomalband.bandcamp.com

Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/artist/146831572/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/todomalofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/todo_mal_band/

SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/todomal

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2grCvuOH8MibDqryxpW6jR

ARISING EMPIRE WELCOMES PLUME NEW SINGLE "DIGITAL WATERBOARDING" OUT NOW

Arising Empire proudly welcomes one of Germany's most exciting new acts to the roster: PLUME. The band marks the beginning of this new chapter with the release of their striking new single "Digital Waterboarding" — a bold statement that immediately places them at the forefront of a new wave of alternative music.

PLUME are what happens when pop stops being afraid of dirt, when glitter doesn't have to be soft anymore and nostalgia grows a futuristic backbone. Their sound exists in constant transformation: distorted textures collide with shimmering synths, fractured rhythms and an uncompromising urge to surprise. At the core lies pop — but never predictable. Electronic, yet raw in expression. Catchy, yet never comfortable.

Fronted by vocalist Pascal Pashaee, alongside guitarist David Riederer, keyboardist Luka Lorch, and drummer Richard Kilian, the German quartet arrives with a vision that feels both chaotic and meticulously crafted. Their single "Digital Waterboarding" is a sonically and visually overwhelming experience that captures the unsettling reality of modern digital life.

Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Manuel Renner at überlärm Studios — known for his work with artists such as Electric Callboy, Avralize and Our Promise — the track pushes the boundaries of modern heavy music. PLUME fearlessly weave infectious pop sensibilities into an avant-garde landscape of aggression and electronic experimentation.
 
Early reactions already underline the band’s uniqueness. Paranoyd Magazine describes their work as "an atmospheric experience that gets under your skin," while MoreCore highlights PLUME’s ability to define a style entirely their own.
By blending high-fashion aesthetics with a sound that gives digital anxiety a physical form, PLUME are not reviving rock music as an echo of the past — they are dragging it straight into the present.

With "Digital Waterboarding," PLUME make one thing clear: This is only the beginning.

Season of Mist Signs The Ghoulstars

Despite their ghostly appearance, The Ghoulstars are a collection of real talent. Axeman Markus “Daddy Ghoul” Laakso and goose-bumping drummer Toni “Ghoulio” Ronkainen shared a past life together in the Top Ten charting Finnish death-doom band Kuolemanlaakso. Bassist Markus “Hella Ghoul” Makkonen formerly haunted the low end for Season of Mist labelmates Hooded Menace while moonhowler Arthur “LL Ghoul A” Thure croons for the stoner rockers Thermate.

Over the last four years, The Ghoulstars have captivated press and tantalized crowds in their native haunt of Finland without releasing a single bloody track.  Until now! The skeletal supergroup of horror punks are about to raise the curtain from their monstrously catchy debut album, which mashes together everything that blew their minds as kids: surf beats, headbanging metal riffs, shout-along punk rock choruses and B-movie horror.

“We can’t wait to unleash our delightful horrors upon the world with Season of Mist, a revered label with a sharp eye for unique talent”, Laakso says. “Our upcoming debut album is a love letter to ‘80s aesthetics, B-movies, huge riffs, big choruses, punk rock, metal, surprising curveballs and the sheer joy of all the pieces falling into the right places. As my long-time collaborator and the album’s mixing engineer V. Santura of the mighty Triptykon told me: ‘The record is unique, catchy and a really fun listen’. Move over, Rover, and let the Ghouls take over!”

Watch the teaser for the fun and freaky ode to ‘80s coming-of-age campus comedies “Too Ghoul for School”.

Photo by Marc Sabat

METALITE Sign Worldwide Deal With PERCEPTION And Unleash Brand-New Single “Our Time Has Come”!

Swedish modern power metal force METALITE have officially signed a worldwide contract with PERCEPTION - A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music, marking a major new milestone in the band’s rapidly ascending career! Following the signing, the band have unleashed their brand-new single, “Our Time Has Come”, a high-energy anthem that showcases everything fans have come to expect from METALITE: massive melodies, driving riffs, and a futuristic edge wrapped in razor-sharp production.

Guitarist, producer, songwriter and founder Edwin Premberg comments: “We’re beyond excited to finally share our new single Our Time Has Come with you. This song kicks off a powerful new chapter for METALITE and marks the beginning of our upcoming concept album 'Discovery' where the story continues on a new planet and humanity begins a new life. It’s a classic METALITE track - full of high energy, soaring melodies, and that unmistakable METALITE sound. This is only the beginning, and we can’t wait to take this journey together with you”.

With its soaring vocal lines, pounding rhythm section, and cinematic synth layers, “Our Time Has Come” captures METALITE at full throttle. The track blends melodic precision with modern production punch, delivering an arenaready chorus that’s impossible to ignore.

Listen to “Our Time Has Come” below:

ABOUT METALITE

Formed in 2015 by guitarist Edwin Premberg and vocalist Emma Bensing, the band quickly gained recognition for its fresh and modern take on melodic metal and their 2017 debut album Heroes in Time set the stage for METALITE’s rise.

In 2019, the band entered a new era with Biomechanicals, marking the debut of vocalist Erica Ohlsson. With an even more refined sound, the album embraced electronic elements and pulsating rhythms, elevating METALITE’s futuristic vision, further solidifying the band’s reputation as innovators in the genre.

Their evolution continued with A Virtual World in 2021, an album that expanded on their sci-fi themes while delivering massive soundscapes and powerful melodies.

With Expedition One (2024), METALITE embarked on their most ambitious project to date. A visionary concept album set in the year 2055, it tells the story of a renegade team searching for a new world, exploring themes of human evolution, technology, and survival.

In 2024, the band welcomed drummer Erik Junttila to the lineup, bringing new energy and power to their sound. His premiere gig with the band took place in Linköping at the beginning of 2025, marking an exciting new chapter in METALITE’s journey. Since then, they completed several tours with bands like Pain, Leaves’ Eyes and the Night Flight Orchestra and played at several festivals, including Sweden Rock and Masters of Rock.

With millions of streams and a growing global fanbase, METALITE continues to redefine the future of melodic metal. Their fusion of cutting-edge sound design, anthemic choruses, and sci-fi-inspired storytelling has set them apart, proving that their journey is far from over. Stay tuned - a new discovery awaits!

NEVERMORE Announce Signing To Reigning Phoenix Music & Forthcoming Show With New Line-Up

Legendary heavy metal powerhouse NEVERMORE have signed with Reigning Phoenix Music. The band also welcomes to the line-up Jack Cattoi on guitar, Semir Özerkan on bass, and new vocalist Berzan Önen. To showcase the new lineup, NEVERMORE's first live appearance will take place on April 1st, 2026, in Istanbul, Turkey.

On this new chapter, guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams share: "We are thrilled to announce that Nevermore has officially signed with Reigning Phoenix Music! It was obvious from the start that they were the perfect partner for the new era of Nevermore. Their passion for metal music combined with the extensive industry pedigree of their team made the choice easy. We can't wait to get back on stage in front of our fans in Istanbul on April 1st, and we are just as excited to finish writing and putting together the new Nevermore album!"

Reigning Phoenix Music Co-Founder Gerado Martinez comments on NEVERMORE joining the RPM roster: "There are no words to describe how proud and excited RPM is at the prospect of being part of Nevermore's next chapter. Having been a fan since 1995 when I saw them on tour with Death, I've followed them on their entire musical journey and cannot wait for what is yet to come."

Directed and produced by Ola Englund, NEVERMORE have released a documentary film showcasing their rehearsals in January of this year at Swans Neck Soundworks in Väderstad, Sweden. Featuring powerful, raw performances of their tracks including "The River Dragon Has Come", "Engines of Hate" and "The Heart Collector", it offers an thrilling insight into the band's new era. 

The film also sees guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams discuss their decision to bring NEVERMORE back, introduce the new members, and reveal their thoughts throughout the audition process. Additionally, Loomis and Williams share news of forthcoming festival appearances across 2026, and future plans for NEVERMORE. Watch below:

Purchase tickets for the show HERE: https://www.bubilet.com.tr/istanbul/etkinlik/nevermore

About NEVERMORE:

NEVERMORE enters 2026 with purpose, fire, and a clear sense of who they are. Forged in the aftermath of Sanctuary, the band carved out a sound defined by precision musicianship, fearless songwriting, and emotional intensity. From their self-titled debut in 1995 through landmark releases such as Dead Heart in a Dead World and This Godless Endeavor, NEVERMORE built a global following and a reputation as one of modern metal’s most distinctive voices.

Now that legacy moves forward under the leadership of guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams, joined by guitarist Jack Cattoi, bassist Semir Özerkan , and vocalist Berzan Önen. After years apart, the spark that first ignited the band has returned with renewed focus. For Van, the timing feels natural. “It’s been brewing for quite a while and has just started to manifest itself into the now. So what better time is there to kick things off than now?”

New music is already taking shape. Van smiles at the early results. “If the new music had to be described by one word, that would have to be delicious. Because it’s so good it’s gonna leave you hungry for more.” The writing process is unfolding alongside preparations for the stage, with the band focused equally on honoring the catalog and building what comes next.

The addition of Berzan signaled a powerful evolution. Jeff remembers the first time he saw Berzan’s audition video. “He really stood out strong in so many ways upon a first listen. I could really feel the emotion and passion when I heard him sing for the first time. He wasn’t just going through the motions.” The connection was immediate. “I could tell right away that he was a fan of Warrel’s singing just by the way he delivered and said certain words. I was really blown away at first watch.”

The history of NEVERMORE includes an extraordinary lineage of musicians who shaped its evolution. Guitarists Pat O'Brien, Tim Calvert, Steve Smyth, and Chris Broderick each left a distinct imprint on the band’s catalog and live presence. Bassist Jim Sheppard played a central role in shaping the band’s identity during its defining years.

Following the band’s disbandment, Jeff Loomis released the acclaimed solo albums Zero Order Phase and Plains of Oblivion, co founded CONQUERING DYSTOPIA, and spent nearly a decade as a member of ARCH ENEMY, contributing to releases including Will to Power and Deceivers. Van Williams remained active through projects such as ASHES OF ARES and GHOST SHIP OCTAVIUS. Warrel Dane continued creating until his passing in 2017, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide.

As NEVERMORE steps into 2026, the mission is grounded in honesty and intensity. Jeff captures the heart of it. “Van and I are super passionate about the band. What we deliver and bring back to the audience is us wanting to hear those old tracks again just as much as the fans. We obviously want our old fans there every step of the way, but also look forward to meeting a new generation of fans as well.”

Older. Wiser. Still loud.

Fearless Signs Rock Band Archers + Band Shares Video for "The Dirt"

FEARLESS RECORDS is thrilled to welcome Wisconsin-based rock bandARCHERS — Nathanael Pulley [vocals], Ben Koehler [guitar] and Grayson Mesarosh [drums] —to the label's global roster.

The band, which has forged a deeply intense connection with its fans, shares the video for "THE DIRT," its debut single for the label.

Watch it below.

"'The Dirt' is about struggling with imposter syndrome," the band explains. "It strips back the pretense and asks the uncomfortable questions: 'How far have I really come?' and 'Do I belong here?'"

The song is an unforgettable rager, spinning a seasick groove laced into skittering synths and relatable lyrics. It basically begs to be played loudly — and on repeat.

Regarding their new label partnership, the band says, "We're so excited to be a part of the Fearless family. We can't wait to show you what the next chapter of ARCHERS looks like. Let's crush 2026."

ARCHERS will spend the winter touring with Nothing More, Catch Your Breath, and Doobie. All dates are below. Get tickets here.

ARCHERS ON TOUR:
WITH NOTHING MORE, CATCH YOUR BREATH, + DOOBIE:
1/30 — Las Vegas, NV — Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas 
1/31 — Phoenix, AZ — The Van Buren 
2/2 — Albuquerque, NM — Revel
2/3 — Oklahoma City, OK — The Criterion
2/5 — Kansas City, MO — VooDoo Lounge 
2/6 — Nashville, TN — Marathon Music Works 
2/7 — Indianapolis, IN — Murat Egyptian Room at Old National Centre
2/19 — Montclair, NJ — The Wellmont Theater
2/20 — Boston, MA — Citizens House of Blues
2/21 — Bethlehem, PA — Wind Creek Event Center
2/23 — Montreal, QC — L'Olympia 
2/24 — Toronto, ON — History 
2/25 — Detroit, MI — The Fillmore Detroit 
2/27 — Grand Rapids, MI — GLC Live at 20 Monroe 
2/28 — Chicago, IL — Riviera Theatre 
3/1 — Madison, WI — The Sylvee 
3/3 — Minneapolis, MN — The Fillmore Minneapolis 
3/4 — Winnipeg, MB — Burton Cummings Theatre 
3/6 — Edmonton, AB — Midway 
3/7 — Calgary, AB — Grey Eagle Event Centre 
3/9 — Vancouver, BC — Commodore Ballroom 
3/10 — Seattle, WA — Moore Theatre 
3/11 — Portland, OR — McMenamins Crystal Ballroom 
3/13 — Salt Lake City, UT — The Union Event Center 
3/14 — Denver, CO — Fillmore Auditorium 
3/16 — St. Louis, MO — The Pageant 
3/17 — Fayetteville, AR — JJ's Live 
5/7 — Daytona Beach, FL — Welcome to Rockville*
*Festival Date

ARCHERS have emerged out of forgotten corners of the country, resonating with fans worldwide through sheer determination and unapologetic honesty. The Wisconsin-bred trio has quietly carved a path of its own, fueled by a hybrid of high-octane, pit-splitting metalcore and melodies spiked with pop precision. For their first half-decade together, the band fought to be heard, independently dropping 2015's Cuts & Bruises and tracks like "The Hills." They picked up momentum with "Bleed For This" and "Close To Me," as well as a plethora of shows. Stuck at home throughout 2020, "blackmarketmonkeymagic" cracked 1 million Spotify streams and powered the New Normal EP. Despite the distance, the band made a lasting connection by livestreaming on social media at least once per week, pulling back the curtain on rehearsals, answering fan questions, hosting merch drops, and even simply hanging out. This engagement gave rise to what has become known as the "ARCHERS Assemble Super Soft Posting Group," representing over 2,500-strong of their faithful. 2024's All That I Have Left EP spawned the likes of "Drag Me Out," "Stay This Sober," and "Bitter" —which eclipsed 10 million-plus streams. Beyond hitting the road with Asking Alexandria, From Ashes to New, and Magnolia Park, they packed houses on both sides of the pond as a headliner. Following 2025's Temporary High EP, the band decamped to Los Angeles with producer Erik Ron and jumped into the next sonic era. Now, ARCHERS take flight with a series of 2026 singles and their forthcoming debut for Fearless Records.