Rising Rock Trio THE GEMS Reveal Single "Happy Water" Video

March 11, 2026

SOPHOMORE ALBUM, YEAR OF THE SNAKE, OUT THIS FRIDAY, MARCH 13 VIA NAPALM RECORDS — PRE-ORDER

Ready to unleash their highly anticipated sophomore album Year Of The Snake this Friday, March 13, THE GEMS strike with another new single!

"Happy Water" is the album's closer — and is one of the most explosive songs on it. The Swedish trio kicks the party off by serving pure rock 'n' roll energy so addictive it’ll make you forget the musicians' Thundermother past.

THE GEMS made their status as a strong player in modern hard rock clear from the very beginning: The band hit #2 on the German Rock Radio Airplay Charts with their first-ever single and impressed fans and critics alike with the 2024 debut album Phoenix (2024). Now, Year Of The Snake continues to prove the band's standing in the scene, with beyond others hitting #1 on the German Rock Airplay charts with the title track "Year Of The Snake."

Don't miss out on pre-ordering your copy of the new album now (first editions are already sold out!) and make sure to check the official reel for "Happy Water".

THE GEMS on "Happy Water":

"The song is a Motörhead-inspired banger about Vietnamese moonshine, a snake-infused liquor called 'Happy Water.' It’s a party song about just letting go, not knowing where the night will take you. Sometimes you just need to play with fire."

THE GEMS return with their second album Year Of The Snake, out on March 13. The Swedish trio solidifies their position as a strong player in modern hard rock. Their very first single, "Like A Phoenix," instantly hit #2 on the German Rock Radio Airplay Charts and they impressed both fans and critics with their debut record Phoenix (2024). With one album under their belt, and numerous electrifying live shows, THE GEMS quickly established what Year Of The Snake now effortlessly proves: this is the future of rock!

THE GEMS on Year Of The Snake:
"Year Of The Snake is about facing previous hardships in your life, letting go and moving forward to a brighter chapter. It's packed with strong and empowering themes, just like a snake shedding its skin and now standing strong in its own power! Year Of The Snake is a homage to our fans at our live shows. We wrote the songs envisioning an excited festival crowd; from our loyal diamonds in the front row, knowing all lyrics by heart to the crazy headbangers in the back. The album is packed with Van Halen and Europe-inspired hard hitting grooves and riffs that will take you back to the 80s. Yet, the production is modern and fresh. In an increasingly artificial world, we want to stay true to our roots - solid musicianship and songwriting from the heart. Our aim is to always create a great sounding album with the live show in mind. The future is live and heavy glam rock is here to stay!"

Pre-Order Year Of The Snake NOW

THE GEMS LIVE 2026:
Following their formation in 2023, THE GEMS quickly showed the exceptional live energy of the new band, with highlight performances including Sweden Rock Festival 2024. After the release of the upcoming full-length, THE GEMS will hit the road on their "Slithering Through Europe" tour.

THE GEMS ARE:
Guernica Mancini —Vocals
Emlee Johansson — Drums
Mona "Demona" Lindgren — Guitar, Bass

Evergrey Announce New Album "Architects Of A New Weave" + Share Animated Video For "Architects Of The New Weave"

March 8, 2026

Shortly after announcing their fifteenth (!!!) studio album, Architects Of A New Weave, set for release on June 5, 2026 via Napalm Records, EVERGREY unveil their new single and manifest of beautiful darkness, "Architects Of The New Weave", alongside a visually-striking animated video. Once again, Gothenburg’s finest export proves its unmatched ability to craft timeless melodies, powerful riffs, and gripping lyrics, while continuing to surprise their devoted fans with an innovative approach, even after more than 30 years of existence.

EVERGREY ’s new full-length, Architects Of A New Weave, will be released just days before the band takes the stage as special guest to the undisputed kings of heavy metal, Iron Maiden, for two shows on their "Run For Your Lives" World Tour. This is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed: A plunge into thinning air, burning worlds, and lingering guilt—only to break free with fierce momentum. The album refuses to wallow. It ascends—fast, heavy, and cinematic. But it refuses to hide in the dark. It rises: Quick, fierce, and utterly transformative.

Tom Englund about the new single "Architects Of The New Weave":
"'Architects Of The New Weave' – It’s a blistering first single from our 15th studio album, Architects Of A New Weave, (or the second ferocious strike if you're counting our standalone powerhouse "OXYGEN!" as its own beast)! I am not afraid to claim this is a no-brainer, sing-along friendly, straight-up great metal song! It came ignited from Rikard Zander's killer keyboard riff, which we hammered into a short, but massive headbanger! When crafting that chorus keyboard line, 'Rainbow In The Dark' was blasting in my head – pure epic inspiration, giving it that timeless, fist-pumping edge. There are dual guitar solos, trading fire in classic old-school style, melodic and memorable. We can't wait to let this rip live! I'm torn on music videos sometimes – I adore them as an art form, but too often the visuals steal focus from the music itself."

Watch the animation video for "Architects Of The New Weave" Below:

Tom Englund about the animation video:
"We went bold: a stunning, immersive introduction to Mattias Norén's absolute magnum opus of album artwork. Every tiny, intricate detail comes alive on screen, with the track thundering as the perfect dark soundtrack.
- It's hypnotic, lets the art breathe, and pulls you deeper into our world -
We could've chosen any track from the album as the lead, but this one's the perfect explosive opener to our new era of beautiful darkness. I've never been more fired up. Crank it loud, join the weave, and let's build something unstoppable together."

Pre-Order Architects Of A New Weave — NOW!

Dive into Architects Of A New Weave’s standout tracks like "The World is on Fire", "Leaving The Emptiness", "Heaven", and "The Prophecy", and the breathtaking title anthem "Architects Of The New Weave". Their choruses break through like sunlight piercing storm clouds: enormous, cinematic melodies that pull you upward, riffs with genuine weight and bite, and vocals dripping with raw, unflinching truth. In one breath, you’re shouldering buried longing; in the next, you’re weightless, fearless, endless. Scars transform into badges of survival, fractures fuel reinvention. In the second half of the album, fellow Gothenburg icon Mikael Stanne (Dark Tranquillity, The Halo Effect, Grand Cadaver, Cemetery Skyline) joins Tom S. Englund in vocal duties for "A Burning Flame", the voices of the two scene legends intertwined compellingly. Architects Of A New Weave was produced by Tom S. Englund and Vikram Shankar, with a stellar mix by Adam "Nolly" Getgood.

Among other exclusive formats, Architects Of A New Weave comes with a bonus album, containing bonus tracks "Heights" and "One Heart", as well as an album mix of the previously released standalone single "OXYGEN!" (2025). Additionally, it features a demo version of "Longing", instrumental tracks of
"Leaving The Emptiness", both new songs, as well as a live version of "Falling From The Sun", the hit single off the previous record, Theories of Emptiness (2024) and continuation of “Ominous” off of A Heartless Portrait (The Orphean Testament) (2022).

Freedom World Crusade – Special Guest for HammerFall

9/13 — Leesburg, VA
9/15 — New York, NY
9/16 — Worcester, MA
9/18 — Derry, NH
9/19 — Ottawa, ON
9/20 — Montreal, QC
9/22 — Toronto, ON
9/23 — Lakewood, OH
9/24 — Columbus, OH
9/25 — St. Charles, IL
9/26 — Hobart, IN
9/27 — Green Bay, WI
9/29 — Denver, CO
10/1 — Pomona, CA
10/2 — Los Angeles, CA
10/3 — San Juan Capistrano, CA
10/6 — Portland, OR
10/7 — Vancouver, BC
10/8 — Seattle, WA

More dates to be announced soon.

ANGUS McSIX Share New Single & Video "Dig Down" Featuring Van Canto

March 6, 2026

ANGUS McSIX teams up with Van Canto for the new single, "Dig Down", an out-of-the-box harbinger from their sophomore album, Angus McSix and the All-Seeing Astral Eye, out March 13, 2026 via Napalm Records. Mixing their epicness with the German acappella troupe's signature style, the power metal supergroup crafts an undeniably entertaining and inciting hymn. Led by their new hero, Adam McSix, the band is ready to face the perils of the universe on the follow-up to their chart-storming debut, Angus McSix and the Sword of Power, which reached #10 in Germany, #16 in Switzerland, and #26 in Austria, and with its lead single amassing over three million Spotify streams. Angus McSix and the All-Seeing Astral Eye is an exciting passing of the torch, and "Dig Down" invites you to pick up a sword!

ANGUS McSIX on "Dig Down" (feat. Van Canto):
"Our three heroes Adam McSix, Orz Zero, and The Dwarf are taking a break in a cave in the mountain "Ironpick Peak" when Adam suddenly notices that The Dwarf might have set her eyes on the Orc. At least, that's what he assumes. Throughout the song, he makes fun of The Dwarf. Finally, she’s had enough and quickly orders barbarians from "Only Heroes" to teach Adam a lesson. Unfortunately, she misspells the order and the bards of Van Canto arrive. They initially reprimand Adam for bullying, which is not appropriate for a prince, but then quickly realize that the song is "really catchy" and end up joining in..."

Watch the Official Music Video for "Dig Down"(feat. Van Canto) Below:

ANGUS MCSIX rise from the aftermath of previous historic battles with Angus McSix and the All-Seeing Astral Eye, out March 13, 2026 via Napalm Records. Following the chart-storming debut (Angus McSix and the Sword of Powerinstantly rose to the top 10 of the German Album charts in 2023), Angus’ brother, Adam McSix (Sam Nyman, Manimal), now steps forth as the main character and lead singer. Also adding the brute force of new guitarist, The Dwarf (Jasmin Pabst) besides guitar Amazon Thalestris (Thalia Belazecca, Primal Fear), the power metal supergroup is thrilled for new adventures, one being to save the legendary hero Angus from his cruel fate of being frozen in an ice block prison in which his nemesis, the Archdemon Seebulon (Sebastian "Seeb" Levermann, Orden Ogan), trapped him. ANGUS McSIX embark on their absurd journey wielding the power of metal and a tongue-in-cheek attitude as their mighty weapons!

Pre-Order Angus McSix and the All-Seeing Astral Eye — NOW!

The eleven tracks of Angus McSix and the All-Seeing Astral Eye feature the band’s one-of-a-kind storytelling, proving even more epic, absurd, and magnificent than ever. Previously released "6666" still features their now-imprisoned frontman Angus McSix (Thomas Winkler) on vocals, passing the torch to Adam McSix and placing nothing less than the fate of the universe on his shoulders. "The Fire Of Yore" bridges the gap between Manowar, Modern Talking, and Electric Callboy and fully opens up the new chapter – Angus, after all, possesses no memory of his previous adventures, leaving all the more room for more lore to be introduced through Adam! ANGUS McSIX gain further help on their quest from a cappella group Van Canto on "Dig Down" and Finnish Turmion Kätilöt on "Techno Men". "Ork Zero", referencing their monstrous drummer (Gerit Lamm, ex-Xandria), and "Starlight Stronghold" are electrifying disco bangers, while "Let The Search Begin" – following instrumental break "Aetheriyja" – is another true metal hymn. "The Power Of Metal" adds Freedom Call to the party before the mighty heroes take their final stand in "Into Battle".

Charmingly quizzical and undeniably entertaining, Angus McSix and the All-Seeing Astral Eye crafts one catchy anthem after another. With rich storytelling and over-the-top pathos, ANGUS McSIX invite you to pick up a sword and fight side by side with them against ancient powers to fulfill Adam’s destiny!

ANGUS McSIX are:
Adam McSix (Samuel Nyman) – Vocals
The Dwarf (Jasmin Pabst) – Guitars
Thalestris (Thalia Bellazecca) – Guitars
Archdemon Seebulon (Sebastian "Seeb" Levermann / Rafael Dobbs Roa) – Guitars
Ork Zero (Gerit Lamm) – Drums

Self Deception Release Video For New Single "THE WEDDING"

March 4, 2026

Sweden's modern metal frontrunners SELF DECEPTION unveil the new single "THE WEDDING" ahead of the upcoming Napalm Records debut album One Of Us, out on May 15. This energetic modern rock anthem features a particularly dark and twisted storyline, delivered through the powerful mix of clean vocals and aggressive screams, accompanied by the heavy combination of dynamic, groovy beats and crushing riffs. The band continues to raise the bar for contemporary rock with their seventh studio album!

"THE WEDDING" came into life while the band spent two weeks in Spain for writing sessions, and in the middle of it, drummer Erik Ingels Graham got married. "All of our families came along, and it turned into this beautiful mix of celebration and creativity. On the very night of the wedding, we ended up writing 'THE WEDDING' — but instead of capturing that fantastic day, we twisted it into a dark, dystopian story about a couple who secretly want to kill each other," comments SELF DECEPTION vocalist Andreas Clark.

Watch the official music video for "THE WEDDING" Below:

Known for their fiery fusion of anthemic modern metal and powerful melodic rock, SELF DECEPTION have shared stages with the likes of Electric Callboy, Danko Jones, and Adept since their 2009 debut, while racking up millions of streams and video views – including their viral 2022 hit "Fight Fire With Gasoline," with tens of millions of streams. Written on the road during the heaviest touring of SELF DECEPTION's career so far, One Of Us is a cohesive album full of character, made for the stage — and the pit!

SELF DECEPTION about One Of Us:

"One Of Us is our new album, inspired by life on the road and the energy of the live stage. Touring so much has put us in a kind of 'live bubble,' and that feeling runs through the songwriting. The album revolves around outsidership and the desire to belong. On tour, we meet many lost and lonely people, all seeking a few hours of escape where they can disappear into a rock show. With One Of Us, we want everyone to feel part of something bigger, to feel like one of us."

Get your copy of One Of Us — NOW!

From massive pit churners to creative storylines and choruses full of hit potential, the energy on One Of Us is unmatched. The band has a busy festival summer following the album's release, so fans will get the first chance to experience these new tracks live at several major European rock and metal festivals. With One Of Us, SELF DECEPTION is ready to push contemporary rock to the next level! The album will be available digitally and in several physical formats, with cover artwork created by Alex Tillbrook, who is well known for his work on the hit Netflix series "Stranger Things," as well as for collaborations with artists such as Metallica, Blink-182, and Sleep Token.

Bone-crushing album-opener and title track "ONE OF US" takes no prisoners, unleashing the heavy modern metal side of the Swedish powerhouse: Fusing relentless hardcore energy, in-your-face lyrics, and high-voltage attitude, the track hits with unstoppable force. Following track "TIME'S UP" features an absolute hit chorus, fresh hooks and high-energy instrumentals, while emotional "DON'T B E L O N G" addresses the difficult themes of addiction and mental health battles — the combination of hauntingly beautiful melodies, multifaceted vocal performance and heavy rhythm section carry this sentimental track. Further highlights on SELF DECEPTION's new 11-track offering include "THE WEDDING" and "BREAK!." with its heavy-hitting drums, electronic influences and yet another irresistible sing-along chorus. "ENTERTAINED" delivers one of the heaviest breakdowns on the album, before "GODDAMN ME" brings the record to a powerful close.

SELF DECEPTION ARE:
Erik Ingels Graham – Drums
Andreas Clark – Vocals
Ronny Westphal – Guitar
Patrik Carlberg Hallgren – Bass

FRAYLE Reveal Music Video for "Souvenirs Of Your Betrayal" — WATCH // USA Tour With Dogma Begins 3/15!

March 4, 2026

Cleveland based gothic doom unit FRAYLE released their latest album, Heretics & Lullabies, last fall via Napalm Records to noted acclaim, and are about to kick off their upcoming tour supporting Dogma in the USA! In anticipation of the tour, the band has revealed a brand new music video for album track "Souvenirs Of Your Betrayal," which can be witnessed today.

Catch more of FRAYLE's seductively dark sound on tour this month, and see below for all confirmed tour dates.

FRAYLE says about "Souvenirs Of Your Betrayal":

"We wrote 'Souvenirs of Your Betrayal' from a very real place of hurt and clarity. It's about facing deception head on and turning that experience into something honest, heavy and powerful."

Watch the music video for "Souvenirs Of Your Betrayal" Below:

FRAYLE ON TOUR:
WITH DOGMA:
3/15 — Seattle, WA — Substation
3/17 — San Francisco, CA — The Independent
3/18 — Los Angeles, CA — 1720
3/19 — Reno, NV — The Alpine
3/20 — Anaheim, CA — House of Blues
3/21 — San Diego, CA — House of Blues
3/24 — San Antonio, TX — Vibes Studio
3/25 — Dallas, TX — Trees
3/27 — Madison, WI — The Annex at The Red Zone
3/28 — Joliet, IL — The Forge
3/29 — Chesterfield, MI — Diesel Concert Lounge
3/31 — New York, NY — The Gramercy Theater
4/1 — Washington, DC — Black Cat
4/2 — Bethlehem, PA — Fowler Blast Furnace Room
4/3 — Philadelphia, PA — Kung Fu Necktie

FRAYLE have been lauded as one of the fastest-rising, most haunting currently active modern doom metal outfits of late, infusing their sound with eclectic elements and now reinventing their trademark spectral sonic profile. Merging the heaviness of occult-driven doom and blackgaze with frontwoman Gwyn Strang's distinctively eerie vocal stylings and the crushing guitars of Sean Bilovecky, the band has fully realized their "lullabies of chaos" musical vision with Heretics & Lullabies. Recorded by FRAYLE and produced, mixed and mastered by Aaron Chaparian at Iron Audio (Bleeding Through, Harms Way), Heretics & Lullabies is a must-listen for any fan of doom, post-metal or atmosphere-heavy alt-rock, but also a pristinely phantomic journey for any heavy music fan as it maintains its accessible edge throughout.

Order Heretics & Lullabies — HERE

FRAYLE is:
Gwyn Strang — Vocals
Sean Bilovecky — Guitar

SWEDISH POWER METAL WARRIORS BLOODBOUND RELEASE VIDEO FOR "THE NINE CRUSADES" FEATURING BRITTNEY SLAYES OF UNLEASH THE ARCHERS

March 2, 2026

Having ridden into their latest battle with their eleventh epic full-length Field Of Swords, Swedish power metal warriors BLOODBOUND have released another video single from the album. "The Nine Crusades" is another historically-themed anthem, retelling the titular events in typical BLOODBOUND style: A sweeping blend of melodic and heavy power metal. Joining their conquest is powerhouse vocalist Brittney Slayes of Canadian band UNLEASH THE ARCHERS, dueting with Patrik J. Selleby in a glorious mid-tempo anthem. Not only is "The Nine Crusades" the perfect album closer, but also a powerful herald of what's to come.

BLOODBOUND are currently getting ready to share their new songs live. Starting March 12 in Hamburg, they will be on tour supporting labelmates ANGUS MCSIX, with additional support from Brainstorm. Their run will take them to eleven cities, ending in Eindhoven on March 22. Following, BLOODBOUND will play European festivals, including mountainous Full Metal Mayrhofen, organized by Wacken Open Air, and Alcatraz Festival in Belgium.

Fredrik Bergh about "The Nine Crusades":
"The major part of this song was actually written by myself and Tomas back in 2018, and it was written especially for the band Sabaton! Joakim Brodén from Sabaton liked the rough demo and wanted to work further on this song together with us, but the collaboration never materialized. I have always felt it was a very strong track, so we decided to record the song ourselves for the new album instead. I am super proud of this song. I feel it’s one of the best songs I’ve ever been involved in writing! The song features the great Brittney Slayes from UNLEASH THE ARCHERS, who sings the song as a duet together with Patrik."

Tomas Olsson about "The Nine Crusades":
"This song is a summation of the Crusader era, 1096–1291. During this period nine crusades took place. It is estimated that over 2 million people died."

Brittney Slayes about "The Nine Crusades":
"It is such an honour to be featured on this BLOODBOUND track; I have been a fan of the band for well over a decade so when they approached me about doing some guest vocals of course the answer was a resounding yes! This song is quite different from what we do in UNLEASH THE ARCHERS, and is not at all like my own writing style, so I was excited to be able sing something new and to put my own spin on it. The whole collaboration had been a blast, and I’m glad I was able to make it into the music video as well; it was very nice of them to include me. Hopefully the fans enjoy this song and feel I added something worthwhile to this already amazing band!"

Watch the Lyric Video for "The Nine Crusades" Below:

BLOODBOUND's latest triumphant march impressively illustrates the importance of purpose and perseverance with heroic tales in shining heavy metal armor. Valiant, vigorous, and ultimately victorious: Field Of Swords has come to expand BLOODBOUND’s domination of the scene!

Fredrik Bergh on Field Of Swords: "Field Of Swords is a concept album, a continuation from our last album Tales From The North (2023) which touched upon the subject of the Viking era. On Field Of Swords, we have moved on in history and entered the Middle Ages (after 1066). The concept, in short, is the following: When the Viking Age ended in the year of our Lord 1066, came the long and grim Medieval times. We are extremely excited about the new album and to release it with the backing of the mighty Napalm Records. Music-wise, the new album has a slightly more modern sound, but we canguarantee it includes all the elements BLOODBOUND is known for! It's a diverse record with aggressive songs, epic tracks, and it also contains some of the fastest parts we have written. And on the other hand, we have some slower, majestic songs as well, like, 'The Nine Crusades' where UNLEASH THE ARCHERS' Brittney Slayes duets with Patrik. Field Of Swords has everything you can ask for!"

Get Your Copy of Field Of Swords NOW!

BLOODBOUND's first release with Napalm Records adds another 11 captivating battle hymns to their repertoire. A diverse record with aggressive songs and epic tracks alike, their eleventh album also contains some of the band’s fastest material ever written. The opening title track, "Field Of Swords", immediately storms into BLOODBOUND’s signature sound, braiding stories of glory with a sweeping blend of melodic and heavy power metal. The dominant "As Empires Fall" follows the crusaders east and powerfully depicts said glory in epic battle in contrast with sacrifices made on the way. "Defenders Of Jerusalem" cleverly expands on the topic of loss, leaving listeners to wonder which side is holding their heads up high in the face of imminent defeat. Catchy flutes have the heroes take heart in "The Code Of Warriors" to guide them into the "Land Of The Brave" and Field Of Swordsto new heights at the same time. "Light In The Sky" further illustrates BLOODBOUND’s battle scars turned electrifying sound, while the mature "Teutonic Knights" opens up the bleak reality of the tragedy that undoubtedly accompanies this battle-torn era of history. Yet, "Forged In Iron", "Pain and Glory", and "Born to be King" hold their ground as equally unforgettable tunes, all leading up to the brilliant finale: Brittney Slayes of powerhouse Canadian band UNLEASH THE ARCHERS joins "The Nine Crusades" as another valuable fighter to lead Field Of Swords to greatness.

Field Of Swords is available in the following formats:
Deluxe Box 350g Cardboard Box, incl. 1CD Digipak, Flag, Patch, Live Album in Slipcase, Autographed Card – Napalm Records Mailorder exclusive (strictly limited to 300 copies worldwide)

1LP Vinyl Gatefold Marbled Oxblood Red, incl. 12-page booklet – Napalm Records Mailorder exclusive (strictly limited to 300 copies worldwide)

1LP Vinyl Gatefold Black
1CD Digipak
Digital Album

BLOODBOUND are:
Patrik J. Selleby – Vocals
Tomas Olsson – Lead and Rhythm Guitars
Fredrik Bergh – Keyboards
Henrik Olsson – Guitars
Anders Broman – Bass
Daniel Hansfeldt – Drums

WEDNESDAY 13 Puts the "Fun" in Funeral with Music Video for New Album Track "Rotting Away"

July 21, 2025

WEDNESDAY 13 PUTS THE "FUN" IN FUNERAL WITH MUSIC VIDEO FOR NEW ALBUM TRACK "ROTTING AWAY"

10th Studio Album, Mid Death Crisis, Out Now via Napalm Records — Order HERE

Touring the UK & Europe Right Now + North American Tour with Lord Of The Lost Announced for Early 2026

Amid his current Summer Blood Storm UK/European tour, WEDNESDAY 13 has just dropped a delightfully deathly music video for Mid Death Crisis track "Rotting Away." The Duke of Spook goes on a date with the dead, picnicking with a petrified soul! Watch the new music video below — out now!

WEDNESDAY 13 comments about "Rotting Away":
"I’m putting the Fun back in Funeral with our new video for 'Rotting Away.' I had such a great time filming this and wanted to do something fun, campy, and different from the other band performance videos. Inspired by the original Night Of The Living Dead film, Tom Petty’s video 'Last dance with Mary Jane' along with a little Weekend at Bernie’s thrown into this."

Watch the "Rotting Away" music video below.

WEDNESDAY 13 is currently touring the UK and Europe with support from Fearless Vampire Killers and The Nocturnal Affair, with more performances to slay in cities like Birmingham, Prauge, Vienna, and beyond. The tour also features festival stops at Wacken Open Air and Poland Rock Festival. Then, later this fall, Wednesday will return to the UK and Europe for his Mid Death Crisis tour, starting October 17 in Oslo, Norway!

Between these tours, WEDNESDAY 13 will perform at a special event honoring the late Joey Jordison on Friday, October 3. The event, presented by the Joey Jordison Charitable Fund, is headlined by Vimic and will take place at the Teragram Ballroom in Los Angeles, CA. Visit the Teragram Ballroom site for tickets and more information.

Lastly but certainly not least, WEDNESDAY 13's upcoming North American tour with headliners and label mates Lord of the Lost, featuring fellow support artists The Birthday Massacre, will take over venues in January/February 2026.

DARK WINTER TOUR USA/CANADA 2026 WITH HEADLINERS LORD OF THE LOST:
+ The Birthday Massacre
1/19 — Baltimore, MD — Baltimore Soundstage
1/20 — Philadelphia, PA —Theatre of Living Arts
1/21 — New Haven, CT — Toad's Place
1/23 — New York, NY — Webster Hall
1/24 — Worcester, MA — The Palladium
1/25 — Montreal, QC — Beanfield Theatre
1/26 — Toronto, ON — Phoenix Concert Theatre
1/28 — Cleveland, OH — House of Blues
1/29 — Cincinnati, OH — Bogart’s
1/30 — Detroit, MI — St. Andrews Hall
1/31 — Chicago, IL — Concord Music Hall
2/2 — Minneapolis, MN — First Avenue
2/4 — Denver, CO — Summit Music Hall
2/5 — Salt Lake City, UT — The Complex
2/7 — Los Angeles, CA — The Fonda
2/8 — Berkeley, CA — UC Theatre

WEDNESDAY 13 IS:
Wednesday 13 — Lead Vocals + Guitar
Jack Tankersley — Guitar
Troy Doebbler — Bass
Mike Dupke — Drums
Ashes — Lead Guitar

ALIEN WEAPONRY & Lamb of God's Randy Blythe Fight the System in New Music Video for "Taniwha"

June 5, 2025

New Zealand's ALIEN WEAPONRY recently released their head-turning third album, Te Rā, via Napalm Records! Today, swiftly following the announcement of their upcoming USA tour supporting Avatar with fellow openers SpiritWorld, the band has dropped a brand new music video for album single “Taniwha”, featuring an intense guest appearance from metal icon Randy Blythe (Lamb Of God).

In the video, the modern groove metal trio find themselves face to face with puppet masters of corporate greed and overconsumption, providing a thought-provoking backdrop to one of the album's most aggressive, death-metal leaning offerings.

Watch the video below, and make sure to check out the band's upcoming USA tour dates, starting November 5, 2025 in Phoenix, AZ!

ALIEN WEAPONRY says about the “Taniwha” video:

"We are super excited to share something we have been working on for a while.

We felt honored to have the opportunity to collaborate with the mighty Randy Blythe on our song 'Taniwha' off of our latest album, so it only made sense to have him be a part of the music video too!

We wanted to create something special for this one, and we are stoked with how it turned out!"

Watch the new music video for "Taniwha” below:

Order Te Rā HERE:

ALIEN WEAPONRY have solidified themselves as one of the greatest young metal bands of their generation with renewed musical tenacity and crucial messaging. Since releasing their acclaimed debut Tū(2018), the band have been lauded for their kinetic presence and sound, as well as their vital blend of culturally profound lyricism in both English and te reo Māori, the indigenous language of New Zealand.

With their third full-length album, ALIEN WEAPONRY expand on their hallmark messages of cultural, societal and environmental resilience while delivering their most massive-sounding, focused musical output ever. In the hands of veteran producer/mixer Josh Wilbur (Lamb Of God, Gojira, Megadeth), Te Rā’s gnashing blend of groove, nu, math and thrash metal shines with anthemic choruses and refreshed technical skill. Te Rā is a bold, unwavering cry for a future in which we can all take part in the legacy of peoples like the Māori and others all around us – people who, if they aren’t seen, most certainly need to be heard! Taken as a whole, Te Rā grapples with what it’s like to be caught in the pull of divergent cultures – not just for the descendants of colonized people, but for all of us.

ALIEN WEAPONRY USA 2025 Tour Dates:

Supporting Avatar w/ SpiritWorld

11/5 Phoenix, AZ @ The Van Buren

11/6 San Diego, CA @ The Observatory - North Park

11/7 Riverside, CA @ Riverside Municipal Auditorium

11/8 Las Vegas, NV @ Brooklyn Bowl

11/10 Seattle, WA @ Moore Theater

11/11 Portland, OR @ Roseland Theatre

11/12 Garden City, ID @ Revolution Concert House

11/14 Salt Lake City, UT @ The Union Event Center

11/15 Denver, CO @ Fillmore Auditorium

11/17 Minneapolis, MN @ Fillmore

11/18 Madison, WI @ The Sylvee

11/20 Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore Detroit

11/21 Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

11/22 Columbus, OH @ KEMBA Live!

11/23 Silver Spring, MD @ The Fillmore Silver Spring

11/25 Huntington, NY @ Paramount

11/26 Boston, MA @ House of Blues

11/28 Allentown, PA @ Archer Music Hall

11/29 Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore Charlotte

11/30 Louisville, KY @ Old Forester's Paristown Hall

12/2 Chicago, IL @ Riviera Theater

12/4 Nashville, TN @ Marathon Music Works

12/6 Tulsa, OK @ Tulsa Theater

12/7 Dallas, TX @ House of Blues

CRADLE OF FILTH Reveal Music Video for New Album Track "Demagoguery" + UK/EU Tour Begins This Week!

June 3, 2025

Following the release of their brand new 14th studio album The Screaming Of The Valkyries (Napalm Records) — which made stellar debuts at #2 on both the US and Canadian Hard Music Albums charts, #4 on the US Current Rock Albums chart, and more — GRAMMY Award-nominated extreme metal institution CRADLE OF FILTH have unveiled another surprise! A brand new music video for driving album track "Demagoguery" is out now, providing an eerily disturbing backdrop to the song, which blends dark beauty, blast beats, and slaytanic groove as only Cradle can combine.

The video comes just in time for the band to kick off their UK/European headline tour, featuring support from labelmates Nervosa, later this week! See below for a full listing of current tour dates.

"Demagoguery" music video director Shaun Hodson says about the video's concept: "Subject Eleven, a marionette puppet, is controlled by the media, government, and television, her every move dictated by their unseen strings. As a charismatic world leader rises, cloaked in promises of peace, the truth behind her manipulation becomes clear: she is part of a dark orchestration guiding the world toward the rise of the Antichrist."

Watch the music video for "Demagoguery" below:

On The Screaming Of The Valkyries, Dani Filth's recognizable scream and equally identifiable growl stand mightily alongside twin guitar attacks, symphonic flourishes, and explosive rhythm section, implemented by drummer Martin "Marthus" Skaroupka, bassist Daniel Firth, guitarists Marek "Ashok" Smerda and Donny Burbage, and keyboardist/vocalist Zoe Federoff.

Produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by Scott Atkins at Grindstone Studios in Suffolk, England, The Screaming of the Valkyries beckons the brave into a new era of CRADLE OF FILTH misadventure, celebrating massive melancholic melody, blackened thrash, and apocalyptic existential dread with a grinning smattering of unbridled revelry. The Screaming of the Valkyries is a bloody dark love letter to the longtime legion of CRADLE OF FILTH faithful and a stunning entryway for fresh lambs to the sonic slaughter.

Menacing album opener "To Live Deliciously" hits immediately with rhythmic urgency, built around a Libertine lyrical hook that twists and writhes with aggression, atmosphere, and melody. Across the album’s blunt and unforgiving yet inviting expanse, Cradle summons the succulent flavors of classic albums like Dusk And Her Embrace and Cruelty And The Beast with the galloping (but no less fierce) thunder of recent entries Hammer Of The Witches and Existence Is Futile. Flashes of early metal influences coalesce with carnivorous glee into unapologetic death ‘n’ roll. Anchored by arguably the most mournful melody in their catalog, "Non Omnis Moriar" ("I shall not wholly die") could be a cousin to Paradise Lost or Anathema, inverted through Cradle’s thorny prism. "You Are My Nautilus" is the darkest song Iron Maiden never wrote, spinning an epic tale with dueling guitars, while "Ex Sanguine Draculae" conjures Dusk-era atmosphere with imaginative new colors.

Order The Screaming of the Valkyries here.

CRADLE OF FILTH IS:
Dani Filth — Vocals
Marek "Ashok" Smerda — Guitars
Martin "Marthus" Skaroupka — Drums
Daniel Firth — Bass
Donny Burbage — Guitars
Zoe Federoff — Vocals, Keys

CANDLEMASS Cover Black Sabbath's "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath"

May 12, 2025

To celebrate 40 years of doom metal mastery and the release of their brand new four track EP, Black Star, Swedish epic doom metal pioneers Candlemass have unveiled a cover of Black Sabbath's legendary hymn "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath." Originally cut from the classic 1973 Sabbath album, Candlemass present their own version alongside an official music video.

With solemn intensity and seismic presence, Candlemass transform the track into a funeral march worthy of doom's highest pantheon. A majestic tribute that honors the past while shaking the crypt walls of the present.

Candlemass mastermind Leif Edling comments, "'Sabbath Bloody Sabbath' needs no introduction, one of the best songs ever recorded if you ask me. Maybe not the obvious choice, but it's been a dream for me to do it one day and here it is! Our rendition of 'S.B.S.' (Mass Bloody Mass?)"

Watch the official music video for "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath" below:

Swedish godfathers of epic doom Candlemass present their four-track EP, Black Star. Packed with cavernous riffs, the genre-defying band unveils two brand-new songs alongside two cover versions of timeless classics.

Following the title track, the second original song, "Corridors Of Chaos," marks a true old school instrumental containing both classic metal riffing and stunning guitar playing by Lars Johansson, showcasing the band’s mastery of dynamics. Adding to this tribute, Candlemass deliver their rendition of Pentagram's classic "Forever My Queen," further cementing the bands remarkable contribution to shaping the genre into what it is today.

CANDLEMASS ARE:
Johan Länquist — Vocals
Lars Johansson — Lead Guitar
Mappe Björkman — Rhythm Guitar
Leif Edling — Bass
Janne Lind — Drums

WEDNESDAY 13 Teams Up With Faster Pussycat's Taime Downe for Hard Rocker "No Apologies"

April 27, 2025

Slaying audiences across North America on his "There's No Such Thing As Monsters" tour celebrating 20 years of Transylvania 90210, WEDNESDAY 13 has just unleashed the biggest surprise in his bag of tricks — his brand-new single "No Apologies," featuring Faster Pussycat's Taime Downe! The track appears on the band's upcoming full-length album, Mid Death Crisis, out April 25 via Napalm Records.

"No Apologies" wastes no time ripping into a heavy rock rager, laced with fiery guitar leads and even more searing lyrics. The fast-romping anthem is an unapologetic exorcism of toxic demons and even more toxic people, and arrives alongside a new music video, also featuring Downe.

WEDNESDAY 13 comments, "This is the most rock n' roll song I've written in years. I wanted to go back to my roots, and my roots are '80s glam. The name at the top of that list was Faster Pussycat, so it made total sense to have Taime Downe guest on this track. Having one of my rock 'n' roll idols alongside me in the studio was an honor. We whipped up a nasty little middle finger salute to ourselves on this one, and the result is 'No Apologies.'"

Watch the "No Apologies" music video below.

After returning in 2022 with his widely-acclaimed full-length album Horrifier (#8 US Top New Artist Albums), as well as several major tours supporting his solo work and celebrated Murderdolls reunion shows, the Duke of Spook is back with Mid Death Crisis! WEDNESDAY 13 dubs the album as a fun, campy, "leave-your-brain-at-the-door" rager and a true return to his hard-rocking roots! Produced by guitarist Alex Kane (Life, Sex & Death, Enuff Z'Nuff, Antiproduct) and mixed by Steve Evetts (The Dillinger Escape Plan, Prong, DevilDriver) the album oozes infectious '80s sleaze metal energy.

Eerie introductory track "There's No Such Thing As Monsters" vibrates with electricity before industrial-tinged "Decease and Desist" kicks in full blast. WEDNESDAY 13’s trademark crooning wastes no time entering the fold as he careens through the high-octane horror anthem. First single "When the Devil Commands" instantly proves itself as a stunner with an unforgettable hook, charging arena rock-laden drum production and chugging guitars, before tracks like "Rotting Away" and "Blood Storm" ensnare with metallic goth-punk energy that will have crowds moving wall to wall. Featuring Faster Pussycat’s Taime Downe on guest vocals, standout heavy rocker "No Apologies" is a fast-romping exorcism of toxic demons, while the triumphant mini-murder ballad "Decapitation" riles up listeners with a catchy lead riff before making a hard left into a theatrical bridge straight out of a sinister '60s sock hop! Ragers like "In Misery," "Xanaxtasy," and "Sick and Violent" explore various genres of metal, injecting the album with elements of gripping heaviness for any listener, while downtempo stunners "I Hurt You" and "My Funeral" approach a more pensive territory.

Although its title, Mid Death Crisis, may suggest otherwise, WEDNESDAY 13shows zero signs of stopping on this refreshingly powerful and multi-faceted entry into the band's hall of horrific history!

Pre-Order Mid Death Crisis here.

The North American "There's No Such Thing As Monsters" tour is happening now - celebrating 20 years of Transylvania 90210 and including a "best of" Murderdolls set! See below for all tour dates, including the following UK/EU "Summer Blood Storm" headline run.

REMAINING "THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS MONSTERS" NORTH AMERICAN HEADLINE TOUR
WITH STITCHED UP HEART, DEAD RABBITS, I YA TOYAH:
4/27 — Cadillac, MI — Venue Event Center
4/29 — Joliet, IL — The Forge
4/30 — Madison, WI — The Annex
5/2 — Denver, CO — Oriental Theater
5/3 — Colorado Springs, CO — Black Sheep

WEDNESDAY 13 IS:
Wednesday 13 — Lead Vocals + Guitar
Jack Tankersley — Guitar
Troy Doebbler — Bass
Mike Dupke — Drums
Ashes — Lead Guitar

WEDNESDAY 13 Drops Ghoulish Music Video for New Single "In Misery"

April 2, 2025

Currently hitting venues across North America on his "There's No Such Thing As Monsters" tour celebrating 20 years of Transylvania 90210, world-renowned fearsome frontman WEDNESDAY 13 returns with the second single cut from his new full-length album, Mid Death Crisis, set to drop on April 25 via Napalm Records.

Following acclaimed, ultra-catchy latest single "When The Devil Commands," brand new second single "In Misery" is a spooky rager, scratching the itch of both goth-punk and sleaze metal while deftly ebbing and flowing amid heavy genre influences and an earworm hook!

WEDNESDAY 13 comments about "In Misery":

"There are too many love songs out there about people confessing their love to one another. I wanted to do the exact opposite, and confess the misery of being in a bad relationship. Hopelessly, madly in misery with someone. I see it every day, people miserable together. I see it almost as much as I see people happily together. Some people enjoy misery, and this song is about enjoying that misery as much as someone in love."

Watch the "In Misery" Music Video

After returning in 2022 with his widely-acclaimed full-length album Horrifier (#8 US Top New Artist Albums), as well as several major tours supporting his solo work and celebrated Murderdolls reunion shows, the Duke of Spook is back with Mid Death Crisis! WEDNESDAY 13 dubs the album as a fun, campy, "leave-your-brain-at-the-door" rager and a true return to his hard-rocking roots! Produced by guitarist Alex Kane (Life, Sex & Death, Enuff Z'Nuff, Antiproduct) and mixed by Steve Evetts (The Dillinger Escape Plan, Prong, DevilDriver) the album oozes infectious 80s sleaze metal energy.

Eerie introductory track "There's No Such Thing As Monsters" vibrates with electricity before industrial-tinged "Decease and Desist" kicks in full blast.WEDNESDAY 13's trademark crooning wastes no time entering the fold as he careens through the high-octane horror anthem, before tracks like "Rotting Away" and "Blood Storm" ensnare with metallic goth-punk energy that will have crowds moving wall to wall. Featuring Faster Pussycat's Taime Downe on guest vocals, standout heavy rocker "No Apologies" is a fast-romping exorcism of toxic demons, while the triumphant mini-murder ballad "Decapitation" riles up listeners with a catchy lead riff before making a hard left into a theatrical bridge straight out of a sinister '60s sock hop! Ragers like "In Misery," "Xanaxtasy" and "Sick and Violent" explore various genres of metal, injecting the album with elements of gripping heaviness for any listener, while downtempo stunners "I Hurt You" and "My Funeral" approach a more pensive territory.

Although its title, Mid Death Crisis, may suggest otherwise, the Duke of Spook shows zero signs of stopping on this refreshingly powerful and multi-faceted entry into the WEDNESDAY 13 hall of horrific history!

Pre-Order Mid Death Crisis here.

The North American "There's No Such Thing As Monsters" tour kicks off Friday, March 14 in Las Vegas, NV. The tour celebrates 20 years of Transylvania 90210and will include a "best of" Murderdolls set!

See below for all tour dates, including the following UK/EU "Summer Blood Storm" headline run.

WEDNESDAY 13 ON TOUR:
WITH STITCHED UP HEART, DEAD RABBITS, + I YA TOYAH:
3/28—San Antonio, TX—Paper Tiger
3/29—Dallas, TX—Trees
3/30—Houston, TX—Warehouse Live
4/01—Birmingham, AL—Saturn
4/02—Knoxville, TN—Open Chord
4/04—Atlanta, GA—The Loft—Centerstage
4/05—Raleigh, NC—Chapel Of Bones
4/06—Greenville, SC—Radio Room
4/08—Baltimore, MD—Zen West
4/09—Leesburg, VA—Tally Ho
4/10—Sayreville, NJ—Starland Ballroom
4/12—Hampton Beach, NH—Wallys
4/13—Montreal, QC—Foufounes Electrique
4/15—Toronto, ON—Lee's Palace
4/16—Buffalo, NY—Rec Room
4/18—New York, NY—The Gramercy
4/19—Stroudsburg, PA—Sherman Theater
4/20—Lititz, PA—Mickey's Black Box
4/22—Pittsburgh, PA—Crafthouse
4/23—Cleveland, OH—Mercury
4/25—Columbus, OH—The Kings Of Clubs
4/26—Flint, MI—Machine Shop
4/27—Cadillac, MI—Venue Event Center
4/29—Joliet, IL—The Forge
4/30—Madison, WI—The Annex
5/2—Denver, CO—Oriental Theater
5/3—Colorado Springs, CO—Black Sheep

WEDNESDAY 13 IS:
Wednesday 13 — Lead Vocals + Guitar
Jack Tankersley — Guitar
Troy Doebbler — Bass
Mike Dupke — Drums
Ashes — Lead Guitar

Doom Legends CANDLEMASS Reveal Heavy Title Track From New EP "Black Star"

April 1, 2025

Grammy-nominated doom pioneers CANDLEMASS have unveiled the title track of their upcoming EP, Black Star, out May 9 via Napalm Records! The EP impressively marks the 40th anniversary of the legendary band.

"Black Star" seamlessly merges haunting melodies with deeply introspective lyrics, brought to life by the inimitable voice of Johan Längqvist. Written by genre-defying mastermind Leif Edling, it delves into themes of existential struggle, temptation, and the allure of darkness — an intense atmosphere imbued with Candlemass' signature sound. The single arrives with a dark, atmospheric music video.

Place your pre-orders on the new EP now and check out the video below!

Candlemass comments, "'Black Star' is the big heavy track. Contains a bit of everything, Melodic verse, monolithic riff, up-tempo Sabbathy mid part, grand ending a la Rainbow!."

Watch the official music video for "Black Star".

Swedish godfathers of epic doom Candlemass honor their 40th anniversary of pioneering the genre with a four-track EP, Black Star. Packed with canyon-deep riffs, the genre-defying band unveils two brand-new songs alongside two cover versions of timeless classics.

Following the title track, the second original song, "Corridors Of Chaos," marks a true old school instrumental containing both classic metal riffing and stunning guitar playing by Lars Johansson, showcasing the band's mastery of dynamics. Adding to this tribute, Candlemass delivers a cover of Black Sabbath's iconic "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath," taking listeners back to 1973. This is followed by their rendition of Pentagram's classic "Forever My Queen," further cementing Candlemass' remarkable contribution to shaping the genre into what it is today.

Black Star will be available in the following formats:
*1LP Gatefold BLACK ORANGE SPLATTER (incl. vinyl booklet (12pp), A3 poster, tote bag) – Napalm Records Mailorder exclusive, strictly limited to 400 copies
*1LP Gatefold BLACK
*1CD Digisleeve
*Digital Album

More info about Candlemass on tour in Europe here.

CANDLEMASS ARE:
Johan Länquist — Vocals
Lars Johansson — Lead Guitar
Mappe Björkman — Rhythm Guitar
Leif Edling — Bass
Janne Lind — Drums

ALIEN WEAPONRY Joined by Lamb of God's Randy Blythe on New Anthem "Taniwha"; New Album Out This Friday, March 28, 2025 via Napalm Records

March 27, 2025

This Friday, March 28, New Zealand modern groove metal trio ALIEN WEAPONRY will release heaviest, most powerful and mature offering to date, Te Rā, via Napalm Records! Today, in celebration of this week's release, the band has unleashed one of the album's most aggressive, death-metal leaning offerings, “Taniwha”, featuring a raw, heavy-hitting contribution from longtime supporter and metal icon Randy Blythe of Lamb Of God.

Take a listen to the new track now – a special bonus listen two days in advance of the album's drop – and see below for insight into the track's inspirations! The new anthem follows acclaimed latest singles “Mau Moko” ("...top-notch technical thrash metal..." - Heavy Consequence) and "1000 Friends" ("a driving, riff forward affair that makes it super easy to bang your head to" - MetalSucks).

ALIEN WEAPONRY says about “Taniwha”:

“Lamb of God played a significant role in making Alien Weaponry what it is today and this collaboration with Randy Blythe feels like one of those ‘pinch yourself’ moments that our teenage selves would never believe possible. Randy’s lyricism and vocal expertise was an amazing addition to this song and we are beyond stoked to share this song/milestone with the world.”

Listen to "Taniwha” HERE:

Pre-Order Te Rā HERE:

On Te Rā, listeners can hear the band doubling-down on the aggression in the verses before applying temperance, especially in the case of “Taniwha”, a death metal-leaning banger featuring the particularly raw aforementioned guest vocal from Randy Blythe. Lyrically, there’s a noticeable tilt towards despondency, hopelessness, and frustration on Te Rā. While bassist Tūranga Porowini Morgan-Edmonds' lyrics in Māori on songs like “Tama-nui-te-rā” and “Ponaturi” draw from the themes of history, battle lore and mysticism that made the first two albums so rich, frontman/guitarist Lewis Raharuhi de Jong's English-language lyrics illustrate the impact when culture collides with disenfranchisement day to day. “Crown” and “Hanging by a Thread” take us into the headspace where struggle pushes people to the brink of desperation, while on “Blackened Sky” and “1000 Friends”, Lewis addresses universal woes like the looming threat of World War III and the damaging effects of social media. On album closer “Te Kore”, Tūranga dives into primordial nothingness at the root of the Māori origin story, while on “Mau Moko”, he finds the middle ground between these perspectives. As the lyrics honor the traditional Māori practice of face tattooing, they also delve into the social costs of maintaining customs that are at-odds with dominant cultural norms.

ALIEN WEAPONRY is:

Henry Te Reiwhati de Jong - Drums, Backing vocals

Lewis Raharuhi de Jong - Guitars, Lead vocals

Tūranga Porowini Morgan-Edmonds - Bass, Backing vocals

ALIEN WEAPONRY online:

Doom Force KATLA Release Third Single "Grim Jesus" + Official Music Video

March 18, 2025

Sin, salvation, blasphemy — dive into the darkly provocative world of Danish doom force KATLA with their new single "Grim Jesus."

The song is the third single to premiere from the three-headed Danish metal monster's unmissable debut album, Scandinavian Pain, out this Friday via Napalm Records!

After years of honing its colossal sound and live energy, the band delivers an unrelenting blend of raw emotion, gritty riffs, and subterranean sonic battery. Scandinavian Pain not only marks a new chapter for the band, but also reflects its rise to acclaim – from humble beginnings at Copenhell Festival to becoming a standout act in Denmark's heavy music underground.

"Grim Jesus" challenges faith and confronts inner demons, inviting listeners to reflect on their worth and dive deep into themes of overcoming inner darkness and rejecting oppressive systems, showcasing lyrics that resonate with the resilience of the human spirit.

Hallelujah!

Watch the official music video for "Grim Jesus" below.

KATLA on "Grim Jesus":

"As the album was progressing and the lyrical and musical thematics were taking shape, 'Grim Jesus' was created. It actually started off as a song about feeling worthless and was also the working title for a long time: 'Worthless.' On the lyrical side, we tried to keep it in the mental awareness/health realm, and therefore examined what is causing this feeling of being a no-one. KATLA's critique of the Christian church is no secret, and 'Grim Jesus' was discovered in the process of its creation to have a link to the inherent heavy weight from the Christian church to its followers, whether it be socially or culturally. In Denmark, we are pretty much born into Christianity, as we are a Christian nation, and with that feeling of guilt, shame and not fitting in if you don't submit to the Lord, it subconsciously makes you doubt yourself and your doings. Ironically, the church preaches that we should step in line, that we're all sinners and we have to obey and serve the priest and God, while they abuse children and have kept women oppressed for centuries. Asshole hypocrites."

Scandinavian Pain is a cathartic exploration of personal struggles, mental health, and societal critique. "Castle of Purity" is a searing anthem that calls out the abuse and hypocrisy in organized religion — a powerful statement about pushing back against injustice and finding strength in individuality. Produced by Lasse Ballade (known for his work with Solbrud, Alkymist, and Halshug), the record combines visceral sonic landscapes with a deeply personal narrative. Prepare to experience the raw power and unfiltered honesty of KATLA on Scandinavian Pain.

Scandinavian Pain also marks the debut of new KATLA bassist and vocalist Theis Thorgersen. His addition not only breathes renewed energy into the band itself, but imbues an evolved sound that is heavier, darker, and sharper than ever before. KATLA's meaningful yet uninhibited sound and high-energy live performances have positioned them as a force to be reckoned with.

KATLA says about the album: "Scandinavian Pain is an album about the shame of feeling depressed in a country that in many ways seems to be out of any misery or control of others. The inherent feeling of guilt, the despondent thoughts. The weight of cultural Christianity and being part of a system that is destroying both ours and other lives. It’s about watching the newest season of whatever decadent TV show is on while children are being murdered daily. All the songs are different, yet similar. This time, there’s an affirmation for you, who might need it, a story telling, a short grindy track, something with a blast beat, but of course also heavy sludgy doom. Welcome to the house of pain."

Pre-order your copy of Scandinavian Pain NOW.

KATLA IS:
Rasmus Bang — Drums + Vocals
Marc Lennart Christensen — Guitar
Theis Stenberg Thorgersen — Bass + Vocals

CRADLE OF FILTH Drop Devilish Third Single "White Hellebore" + New Music Video

March 16, 2025

Following their acclaimed recent single, "To Live Deliciously," and its exquisitely twisted music video, GRAMMY Award-nominated extreme metal institution CRADLE OF FILTH are back to give fans more of the sinful sounds they crave with "White Hellebore," another bewitching new single and music video.

Featured on the band's highly-anticipated upcoming 14th studio album, The Screaming Of The Valkyries (March 21, 2025 via Napalm Records), "White Hellebore" is devilishly direct, juxtaposing traditional heavy metal with blasts of thrashing fury, then spinning back to operatic goth while remaining cohesive. The track's must-see new music video was directed by Shaun Hodson.

CRADLE OF FILTH mastermind Dani Filth says about the song and video:

"The wintertime flower of the title reminds us scintillatingly of our own mortality, flourishing in seasons of dying light and cold, frozen earth.

Blossoming in the shadows, this Hellebore’s flowers draw us deeply into the stygian darkness with her.

In context of this song, the White Hellebore of the title is an alluring woman not too distant in danger from the predatory black widow, fostering both hope and despair.

A poison and an elixir, she is stunning to behold but ever deadly to taste.

This video — reeking of Lovecraftian gothic horror — presents the White Hellebore as a movie starlet who survives the grave through her dalliances with dark occult forces, a necromantic mystic tryst that an overzealous morgue attendant encounters with terrifying results, complimenting the song's unholy matrimony of melody and mayhem."

Watch the Music Video for "White Hellebore" Below:

Following the release of 2021's Existence Is Futile (#20 Billboard 200 with Hard Rock Genre), CRADLE OF FILTH emerge again with a legacy-cementing opus. On The Screaming Of The Valkyries, Dani Filth's recognizable scream and equally identifiable growl stand mightily alongside twin guitar attacks, symphonic flourishes and explosive rhythm section, implemented by drummer Martin "Marthus" Skaroupka, bassist Daniel Firth, guitarists Marek "Ashok" Smerda and Donny Burbage, and keyboardist/vocalist Zoe Federoff.

Menacing album opener "To Live Deliciously" hits immediately, second track "Demagoguery" blends dark beauty, blast beats and slaytanic groove as only Cradle can combine. Across the album's blunt and unforgiving yet inviting expanse, Cradle summons the succulent flavors of classic albums like Dusk And Her Embrace and Cruelty And The Beast with the galloping (but no less fierce) thunder of recent entries Hammer Of The Witches and Existence Is Futile. Flashes of early metal influences coalesce with carnivorous glee into unapologetic death 'n' roll. "White Hellebore" is CRADLE OF FILTH at its most devilishly straightforward, juxtaposing traditional heavy metal with blasts of thrashing fury, spinning back to operatic goth without sounding disjointed. Anchored by arguably the most mournful melody in their catalog, "Non Omnis Moriar" ("I shall not wholly die") could be a cousin to Paradise Lost or Anathema, inverted through Cradle's thorny prism. "You Are My Nautilus" is the darkest song Iron Maiden never wrote, spinning an epic tale with dueling guitars, while "Ex Sanguine Draculae" conjures Dusk-era atmosphere with imaginative new colors.

Produced, recorded, mixed and mastered by Scott Atkins at Grindstone Studios in Suffolk, England, The Screaming of the Valkyries beckons the brave into a new era of CRADLE OF FILTH misadventure, celebrating massive melancholic melody, blackened thrash, and apocalyptic existential dread with a grinning smattering of unbridled revelry. The Screaming of the Valkyries is a bloody dark love letter to the longtime legion of CRADLE OF FILTH faithful and a stunning entryway for fresh lambs to the sonic slaughter.

Pre-Order The Screaming of the Valkyries HERE.

CRADLE OF FILTH will co-headline the 2025 edition of the North American Chaos & Carnage tour, featuring fellow co-headliners Dying Fetus, as well as Fleshgod Apocalypse, Ne Obliviscaris, Undeath, Vomit Forth and Corpse Pile. See below for all confirmed performance dates.

CHAOS & CARNAGE TOUR DATES:
4/17 — Berkeley, CA — UC Theatre
4/19 — Los Angeles, CA — The Wiltern
4/20 — Phoenix, AZ — The Van Buren
4/22 — Albuquerque, NM — El Rey Theater
4/24 — Dallas, TX — Granada Theater
4/26 — San Antonio, TX — Vibes Event Center
4/27 — Houston, TX — House of Blues
4/29 — Nashville, TN — Brooklyn Bowl
5/1 — New York, NY — Palladium Times Square
5/2 — Richmond, VA — The National
5/3 — Reading, PA — Reverb
5/4 — Worcester, MA — The Palladium
5/6 — Montreal, QC, CAN — L'Olympia
5/7 — Toronto, ON, CAN — Rebel
5/8 — Pontiac, MI — The Crofoot
5/9 — Chicago, IL — Radius
5/10 — Des Moines, IA — Val Air Ballroom
5/12 — Wichita, KS — TempleLive
5/14 — Denver, CO — Fillmore Auditorium

CRADLE OF FILTH IS:
Dani Filth — Vocals
Marek "Ashok" Smerda — Guitars
Martin "Marthus" Skaroupka — Drums
Daniel Firth — Bass
Donny Burbage — Guitars
Zoe Federoff — Vocals, Keys

CANDLEMASS Celebrates 40th Anniversary With New EP "Black Star," Out 5/9

March 16, 2025

Swedish godfathers of epic doom CANDLEMASS celebrate their 40th anniversary of pioneering the genre with a four-track EP, Black Star. Packed with craterous riffs, this celebration of doom metal mastery is set for release on May 9 via Napalm Records.

With Black Star, the genre-defying band unveils two brand-new songs alongside two cover versions of timeless classics. The EP will be available in various formats, including a strictly limited vinyl edition featuring a 12-page vinyl booklet, an A3 poster, and a tote bag.

CANDLEMASS mastermind Leif Edling comments:

"Not all bands get to see their 40th birthday and it certainly hasn't been an easy ride. But many ups and downs later, we stand here as survivors, veterans even… a bit scarred perhaps? Still ready though to unleash another piece of doom-laden metal upon an unsuspecting world. You have to do something when you turn 40, right? Anyway, as always, it's been fun recording some new stuff as well as covering a couple of old favorites."

Get your copy of Black Star here.

WATCH THE ANNIVERSARY TRAILER BELOW:

Title track, "Black Star," blends haunting melodies with deeply introspective lyrics, brought to life by the dark, romantic voice of vocalist Johan Länquist. Songwriter Leif Edling's lyrics delve into themes of existential struggle, temptation, and the allure of darkness — creating an intense atmosphere imbued with CANDLEMASS' signature sound. The second new track, "Corridors Of Chaos," marks a true old school instrumental containing both classic metal riffing and stunning guitar playing by Lars Johansson, showcasing the band's mastery of dynamics. Adding to this tribute, CANDLEMASS delivers a cover of Black Sabbath's iconic "Sabbath Bloody Sabbath," taking listeners back to 1973. This is followed by their rendition of Pentagram’s classic "Forever My Queen," further cementing CANDLEMASS' remarkable contribution to shaping the genre into what it is today.

CANDLEMASS ARE:
Johan Länquist — Vocals
Lars Johansson — Lead Guitar
Mappe Björkman — Rhythm Guitar
Leif Edling — Bass
Janne Lind — Drums

WARBRINGER Unveil Ghoulish Third Single "Through A Glass, Darkly" | New Album "Wrath And Ruin" Out This Friday, 3/14

March 12, 2025

Modern thrash titans WARBRINGER are preparing to unleash their highly anticipated new album Wrath And Ruin, out this Friday, March 14 via Napalm Records. Today, they unlock the tomb containing their ghoulish third single "Through A Glass, Darkly," emerging alongside a shell-shocked official music video.

The mini epic "Through A Glass, Darkly," was inspired by a poem from WWII general George Patton, insisting that he was the reincarnation of an eternal warrior spirit who has fought and died on countless battlefields throughout history. Conjuring the undead with gothic guitar stylings, and mid-paced, brooding tension, WARBRINGER crafts an atmosphere so tangible, you'll be coughing from the dust off the crypt.

About the single, frontman John Kevill says, "Here's the third single from Wrath and Ruin, the epic 'Through a Glass, Darkly.' We chose this one as a single to showcase the range and breadth of this album, offering something totally different from the first two singles here. This one has an epic and dark, mystical quality to it, as well as a real fist-raising energy. The song is about an eternally reincarnating warrior, who recounts his struggles and pains across the battlefields of time. This is based on a poem by the WW2 general George Patton, and apparently the man truly believed himself to be the reincarnation of this eternal warrior."

He continues, "To me, this idea had a lot of power and resonance, and works as a powerful metaphor for the ongoing human struggle we all face. I also thought his poem had some really great lines, some of which are incorporated here. The track, penned by Carlos Cruz, was an attempt to get the epic feel we had on songs like 'Defiance of Fate’ and ‘When the Guns Fell Silent’ into a shorter runtime package, a 'pocket epic,' if you will. I particularly love the soulful solo by Adam Carroll here, and I think the end passage is one of the finest vocal moments on the record. Here's a song to look at the sky to and stoically contemplate time and legacy... we hope you all enjoy 'Through a Glass, Darkly' and the rest of Wrath and Ruin.”

Check Out the Official Video for "Through A Glass, Darkly" below:

Wrath And Ruin's destructive opening duo of "The Sword And The Cross" and "A Better World" quickly kick the gates of cataclysm open with broodingly dark guitar work and virtuosic precision. Frontman John Kevill's passionate proclamations are as potent as ever, mocking those who scoffed at clear harbingers of societal collapse with their misguided optimism. "Neuromancer" rides low and steady with blast master Carlos Cruz putting some serious stank on an irresistible battle vest fist pumper. "The Jackhammer" sees the band explode into a frenzy with chaotic riffage and ear splitting pinch dives. "Through A Glass, Darkly" indulges in deliciously gothic chord work and melodic leads embellishing Kevill’s already hellish vocal fry. "Strike From The Sky" is trademark thrash excellence quickly followed by the atmospheric, true cult epic "Cage Of Air," with its tensely ornate dueling guitars on full display. Album closer "The Last Of My Kind" continues this dark gothic path with syncopated octave runs dancing around tightly dueling melodeath riffage.Wrath And Ruin sees WARBRINGER indulging in the darker elements of their sound, for an uncompromising and unflinching exploration of life’s most bitter pills.

WARBRINGER also recently announced a North American co-headline tour with death metal stalwarts Allegaeon, as well as a European Tour supporting Decapitated and Cryptopsy, in addition to select festival appearances and German dates supporting Kreator.

WARBRINGER ON TOUR:
North American Co-headline w/ Allegaeon
The Vortex of Violence
3/18 — San Diego, CA — Brick by Brick
3/19 — Phoenix, AZ — Last Exit Live
3/20 — Albuquerque, NM — Launchpad
3/21 — Oklahoma City, OK — 89th Street Collective
3/22 — Haltom City, TX — Haltom Theater
3/23 — Austin, TX — Come and Take it Live
3/24 — Corpus Christi, TX — House of Rock
3/26 — Orlando, FL — Conduit
3/27 — Jacksonville, NC — Hooligan's
3/28 — Bensalem, PA — Broken Goblet
3/29 — Brooklyn, NY — Woodshop
3/30 — Montreal, QC — Foufounes Electriques
3/31 — Toronto, ON — The Garrison
4/1 — Detroit, MI — The Sanctuary
4/2 — Chicago, IL — Reggies
4/3 — Lawrence, KS — The Bottleneck
4/4 — Lincoln, NE — Bourbon Theater
4/5 — Denver, CO — HQ
4/6 — Salt Lake City, UT — Metro Music Hall
4/8 — Seattle, WA — El Corazon
4/9 — Vancouver, BC — Rickshaw Theatre
4/10 — Portland, OR — Hawthorne Theater
4/11 — San Francisco, CA — DNA Lounge
4/12 — Los Angeles, CA — Teragram Ballroom

WARBRINGER IS:
John Kevill — Vocals
Adam Carroll — Guitar
Carlos Cruz — Drums
Chase Becker — Guitar
Chase Bryant — Bass

Doom Force KATLA Releases Second Single “Dead Lover” + Official Music Video Released

February 27, 2025

Doom hellhounds KATLA travel into the depths of heartache and resilience with their newly released track, "Dead Lover." The song is the second single to premiere from the three-headed Danish metal monster’s unmissable debut album, Scandinavian Pain, out March 21, 2025 via Napalm Records.

After years of honing their colossal sound and live energy, the band delivers an unrelenting blend of raw emotion, gritty riffs, and subterranean sonic battery. Scandinavian Pain not only marks a new chapter for the band, but also reflects their rise to acclaim – from humble beginnings at Copenhell Festival, to becoming a standout act in Denmark's heavy music underground.

"Dead Lover" delivers relentless energy and powerful imagery, encouraging listeners to embrace their struggles and emerge stronger. Battling inner demons and cosmic horrors, the track pulses with raw emotion.

KATLA on "Dead Lover":

"This song was the first song to actually go on the album, as our first single 'Taurus' was kind of a standalone single by then. 'Dead Lover' was basically made in one day, as it was the perfect fit to that no-bullshit approach we wanted to make with the album. The lyrics were almost made as the song was being created in the rehearsal room, and pretty much hit the spot straight away. On a personal level, the 'Dead Lover' lyrics wrote themselves at the time, since Rasmus was also dealing with some very depressive and dark thoughts at the time. It is meant as more of an ‘uplifting’ song, as it also explores the subjects of getting through rough patches and coming out on the other side."

Watch the official music video for "Dead Lover"

Scandinavian Pain is a cathartic exploration of personal struggles, mental health, and societal critique. Songs like "Dead Lover" and "Grim Jesus" dive deep into themes of overcoming inner darkness and rejecting oppressive systems, showcasing lyrics that resonate with the resilience of the human spirit. "Castle of Purity" is a searing anthem that calls out the abuse and hypocrisy in organized religion — a powerful statement about pushing back against injustice and finding strength in individuality. Produced by Lasse Ballade (known for his work with Solbrud, Alkymist, and Halshug), the record combines visceral sonic landscapes with a deeply personal narrative. Prepare to experience the raw power and unfiltered honesty of KATLA on Scandinavian Pain.

KATLA says about the album:

"Scandinavian Pain is an album about the shame of feeling depressed in a country that in many ways seems to be out of any misery or control of others. The inherent feeling of guilt, the despondent thoughts. The weight of cultural Christianity and being part of a system that is destroying both ours and other lives. It’s about watching the newest season of whatever decadent TV show is on while children are being murdered daily. All the songs are different, yet similar. This time, there’s an affirmation for you, who might need it, a story telling, a short grindy track, something with a blast beat, but of course also heavy sludgy doom. Welcome to the house of pain."

Pre-order your copy of Scandinavian Pain NOW.

KATLA IS:
Rasmus Bang — Drums + Vocals
Marc Lennart Christensen — Guitar
Theis Stenberg Thorgersen — Bass + Vocals

WEDNESDAY 13 Announces 10th Studio Album "Mid Death Crisis" + Drops Scandalous New Music Video

February 19, 2025

After returning in 2022 with his widely-acclaimed full-length album Horrifier (#8 US Top New Artist Albums), as well as several major tours supporting his solo work and celebrated Murderdolls reunion shows, world-renowned fearsome frontman WEDNESDAY 13 is back with another slew of harbingers of horror to slay the masses.

His new full-length album, Mid Death Crisis, is set to drop on April 25 via Napalm Records.

Watch the "When The Devil Commands" Music Video here.

The Duke of Spook himself dubs the album as a fun, campy, "leave-your-brain-at-the-door" rager and a true return to his hard-rocking roots! Produced by guitarist Alex Kane (Life, Sex & Death, Enuff Z'Nuff, Antiproduct) and mixed by Steve Evetts (The Dillinger Escape Plan, Prong, DevilDriver), the album oozes infectious '80s sleaze metal energy, further accented by a blitzing guest vocal from Faster Pussycat's Taime Downe.

WEDNESDAY 13 has unveiled the album's first single, the ultra-catchy "When The Devil Commands," and its equally raucous, blasphemous new music video. The track stuns with an unforgettable hook, charging arena rock-laden drum production and chugging guitars.

WEDNESDAY 13 comments, "Growing up in the '80s, I remember the satanic panic of heavy metal music and parents' concern over what their kids were listening to. My mother was constantly checking my cassettes and making sure I wasn't possessed by the devil. Most of the music that I listened to never had any of those themes, but they were just accused of it. So when writing the lyrics to this song, I wrote what I thought would terrify my mother if she had stumbled upon this music. I wanted the lyrics to be upfront and leave no question as to what they were about...The Devil. This song is done in a fun spirit, and we don't plan on burning any churches in the future."

Eerie introductory track "There's No Such Thing As Monsters" vibrates with electricity before industrial-tinged "Decease and Desist" kicks in full blast.WEDNESDAY 13's trademark crooning wastes no time entering the fold as he careens through the high-octane horror anthem, before tracks like "Rotting Away" and "Blood Storm" ensnare with metallic goth-punk energy that will have crowds moving wall to wall. Featuring Faster Pussycat's Taime Downe on guest vocals, standout heavy rocker "No Apologies" is a fast-romping exorcism of toxic demons, while the triumphant mini-murder ballad "Decapitation" riles up listeners with a catchy lead riff before making a hard left into a theatrical bridge straight out of a sinister '60s sock hop! Ragers like "In Misery," "Xanaxtasy" and "Sick and Violent" explore various genres of metal, injecting the album with elements of gripping heaviness for any listener, while downtempo stunners "I Hurt You" and "My Funeral" approach a more pensive territory.

Pre-Order Mid Death Crisis here.

See below for all tour dates, including the following UK/EU "Summer Blood Storm" headline run.

WEDNESDAY 13 ON TOUR:
WITH STITCHED UP HEART, DEAD RABBITS, + I YA TOYAH:
3/14—Las Vegas, NV—Count's Vamp'd
3/15—Los Angeles, CA—The Whisky
3/16—Berkeley, CA—Cornerstone
3/18—Portland, OR—Bossanova Ballroom
3/19—Seattle, WA—El Corazon
3/21—Roseville, CA—Goldfield Trading Post
3/22—Pomona, CA—Glass House
3/23—San Diego, CA—Brick By Brick
3/25—Mesa, AZ—The Nile Theater
3/26—Albuquerque, NM—Launch Pad
3/28—San Antonio, TX—Paper Tiger
3/29—Dallas, TX—Trees
3/30—Houston, TX—Warehouse Live
4/01—Birmingham, AL—Saturn
4/02—Knoxville, TN—Open Chord
4/04—Atlanta, GA—The Loft—Centerstage
4/05—Raleigh, NC—Chapel Of Bones
4/06—Greenville, SC—Radio Room
4/08—Baltimore, MD—Zen West
4/09—Leesburg, VA—Tally Ho
4/10—Sayreville, NJ—Starland Ballroom
4/12—Hampton Beach, NH—Wallys
4/13—Montreal, QC—Foufounes Electrique
4/15—Toronto, ON—Lee's Palace
4/16—Buffalo, NY—Rec Room
4/18—New York, NY—The Gramercy
4/19—Stroudsburg, PA—Sherman Theater
4/20—Lititz, PA—Mickey's Black Box
4/22—Pittsburgh, PA—Crafthouse
4/23—Cleveland, OH—Mercury
4/25—Columbus, OH—The Kings Of Clubs
4/26—Flint, MI—Machine Shop
4/27—Cadillac, MI—Venue Event Center
4/29—Joliet, IL—The Forge
4/30—Madison, WI—The Annex
5/2—Denver, CO—Oriental Theater
5/3—Colorado Springs, CO—Black Sheep

WEDNESDAY 13 IS:
Wednesday 13 — Lead Vocals + Guitar
Jack Tankersley — Guitar
Troy Doebbler — Bass
Mike Dupke — Drums
Ashes — Lead Guitar