AGNOSTIC FRONT (Featuring Darryl "DMC" McDaniels) Release New Single, "Matter Of Life & Death"

New York City offers a world of collisions of cultures, sounds, and attitudes; and the latest scorching offering from the city’s underground veins proves that this legacy lives on. Hardcore legends AGNOSTIC FRONT have teamed up with Darryl “DMC” McDaniels of RUN-DMC for a new single and music video, “Matter Of Life & Death” to reignite the flames of New York hardcore.

On "Matter Of Life & Death", AGNOSTIC FRONT and DMC prove that they have far more to offer than mere nostalgia. In a refreshingly modern take on genre-blending, the single charges into a snarling street fight between hardcore punk and old-school hip-hop swagger. Blasting out with razor-sharp riffs, thunderous beats, and DMC’s unmistakable cadence, the music hits harder than a Queens-bound freight train. Producer and New York Hardcore stalwart Mike Dijan keeps the sound raw and relentless, while director Blake Farber turns the video into a non-stop adrenaline reel. With mosh pits meeting boom boxes, fists in the air, and sweat flying off the walls, it's New York grit distilled into less than 3 minutes of pure energy.

In an era of overproduced and predictable genre mash-ups, “Matter of Life & Death” feels alive, dangerous, and necessary. AGNOSTIC FRONT and DMC are the perfect unlikely pairing: two giants from different musical worlds finding common ground in aggression, defiance, and their New York roots. 

And this is just the 2nd shot fired, leading into AGNOSTIC FRONT's highly-anticipated upcoming album, Echoes in Eternity, dropping November 7th. If you needed a reminder that the spirit of crossover still has teeth, this is it.

Watch the video Below.

Stream "Matter Of Life & Death" here: https://agnosticfront.rpm.link/moldPR 

Catch AGNOSTIC FRONT on tour:

EAST MEETS WEST TOUR DATES
Oct. 15 Denver, CO @ The Oriental Theater 
Oct. 16 Salt Lake City, UT @ Metro Music Hall 
Oct. 17 Boise, ID @ The Shredder  
Oct. 18 Portland, OR @ Hawthorne Theatre  
Oct. 19 Seattle, WA @ El Corazon  
Oct. 21 San Jose, CA @ The Ritz 
Oct. 22 Sacramento, CA @ Goldfield Trading Post 
Oct. 23 Berkeley, CA @ Cornerstone Berkeley
Oct. 24 Ventura, CA @ Ventura Music Hall 
Oct. 25 Pomona, CA @ The Glass House 
Oct. 26 Las Vegas, NV @ Swan Dive 
Oct. 28 Tucson, AZ @ The Rock 
Oct. 29 Mesa, AZ @ The Nile Theater 
Oct. 30 Palmdale, CA @ Transplants Brewery 
Nov. 01 San Diego, CA @ House of Blues
Nov. 02 Garden Grove, CA @ Garden Amp 

East Coast American Tour 2025
Dec. 4 Cambridge, MA @ The Middle East
Dec. 5 Atlantic City, NJ @ Anchor Rock Club
Dec. 6 NYC, NY @ Irving Plaza
Dec. 9 Richmond, VA @ The Canal Club
Dec. 10 Columbia, SC @ New Brookland Tavern
Dec. 11 Atlanta, GA @ The Masquerade (Hell)
Dec. 12 Melbourne, FL @ Pineapples (Moon Room)
Dec. 13 Miami, FL @ Gramps
Dec. 14 Tampa, FL @ The Orpheum
Dec. 15 Jacksonville, FL @ The Albatross
Dec. 16 Greenville, SC @ Radio Room
Dec. 17 Wilmington, NC @ Reggie’s 42nd Street Tavern
Dec. 18 Raleigh, NC @ The Pour House
Dec. 19 Lynchburg, VA @ Super Rad Arcade
Dec. 20 Altoona, PA @ McGarvey’s Bar & Grill
Dec. 21 Allentown, PA @ Archer Music Hall (Arrow)

About AGNOSTIC FRONT:
Founded in 1982, AGNOSTIC FRONT stand among the most esteemed pioneers of the hardcore genre. No band comes close in sonic and socio authenticity and sincerity, where the struggles of survival on the streets have quite literally given life to a sound that remains as impactful today as it was over four decades ago. AGNOSTIC FRONT‘s battering, socially critical sounds serve as the foundation of true New York hardcore and helped initiate the emergence of crossover thrash. Following a slew of pummeling offerings, the band, led by the inimitable roar of Roger Miret and Vinnie Stigma's legendary charismatic guitar playing, continue to showcase unapologetically honest lyrics and signature aggression in Echoes in Eternity. 

https://www.agnosticfront.com/ | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify 

KING ULTRAMEGA (Ft Richie Kotzen , Charlie Benante) Unveils New Single "Say Hello 2 Heaven", In Memory Of Chris Cornell

Alternative rock collective KING ULTRAMEGA, featuring members of ALICE IN CHAINS, ANTHRAX, MASTODON, and SOUNDGARDEN, have unveiled an emotional new rendition of the TEMPLE OF THE DOG classic, "Say Hello 2 Heaven", featuring Richie Kotzen on vocals and guitar. KING ULTRAMEGA crafted this single in loving memory of legendary vocalist Chris Cornell, while raising funds and awareness for MusiCares. MusiCares is the Recording Academy’s nonprofit that provides mental health, addiction recovery, and emergency services to those in the music community. 

Originally written by Chris Cornell as a tribute to MOTHER LOVE BONE vocalist Andrew Wood, KING ULTRAMEGA members Richie Kotzen, Charlie Benante, and Mark Menghi have now reinterpreted "Say Hello 2 Heaven" in memory of Chris Cornell. Richie Kotzen lends his soulful, expressive vocal delivery to the reimagined version of the song, imbuing it with deep personal meaning. Kotzen's performance puts emotional expression over technical preparation, resulting in an honest and moving take on the music.

"I lost my sister to suicide in 2022, and that kind of loss changes how you experience certain songs," Kotzen comments. "It's not something I set out to bring into the session, but it showed up. That's when it stopped feeling like just a tribute and became something more personal."

Bassist and mastermind Mark Menghi knew that "Say Hello 2 Heaven" would become an integral piece of KING ULTRAMEGA from the start, due to its lyrical message. Menghi chose to keep the song's arrangement and structure almost identical to the original, but the band took some creative liberties in lending R&B/soul-inspired stylings to the music. 

Menghi comments, "The lyrical message in 'Say Hello 2 Heaven' strikes a chord when you think back on how Chris wrote about Andrew's untimely passing, and here we are over 30 years later paying tribute to Chris with his song about his untimely passing. It's an emotional rollercoaster to say the least."

ANTHRAX Drummer Charlie Benante immediately agreed to play on "Say Hello 2 Heaven" due to his personal connection with the song. As a longtime fan of MOTHER LOVE BONE, Benante considers "Say Hello 2 Heaven" to be one of his all-time favorite songs.

About KING ULTRAMEGA:

KING ULTRAMEGA is a passion-driven musical project honoring the life, voice, and genius of Chris Cornell, one of the most gifted artists of our time. It launches in conjunction with SOUNDGARDEN’s long-overdue induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

This project did not begin with a single, dramatic moment. Instead, it grew quietly and gradually, an organic result of years of conversations, inspiration, and deep reverence for a musician whose impact remains immeasurable.

"There is not a singular moment in time that led to this project," says bassist and producer Mark Menghi, the driving force behind KING ULTRAMEGA. "It was a trail of events that led to the formation of KING ULTRAMEGA and the evolving creation to pay tribute to the voice of a generation."

It started in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, when Menghi recorded a version of "Rusty Cage" with friends. What began as a creative release soon became something larger. With every step forward, the project deepened in meaning and purpose. "I kept crossing the mental roadblock of 'you are entering uncharted waters, are you sure you wanna do this?'" Menghi reflects. "Chris is one of those dudes if you cover, you better do it justice."

The decision to continue became clear when SOUNDGARDEN guitarist Kim Thayil joined the project and re-recorded one of his own iconic tracks. "Once Kim got involved and re-recorded one of his own songs, I knew something was brewing,"Menghi says.

Thayil embraced the project wholeheartedly. "I’m super honored to record alongside all the amazing musicians appearing on the KING ULTRAMEGA project," he says. "I’m equally proud that it celebrates SOUNDGARDEN in this tribute to the songwriting of Chris. Ultra-admirably, everyone’s participation is supporting the work of the MusiCares Foundation. Thank you Mark Menghi, Charlie Benante and Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM)."

For Menghi, this project is as personal as it is musical. "I went through some very difficult times in my life. I should not be here right now, but I am," he shares. "I like to think my past trials and tribulations helped me understand Chris just a little, hence the formation of KING ULTRAMEGA."

Song selection was guided by instinct. "My mood. It's really that simple," Menghi explains. "'Rusty Cage' was recorded simply because it's one of my favorite songs featured on one of my favorite records." Other songs came to Menghi during moments of reflection and inspiration. "There is a bunch more in the can right now, all with drums fully recorded, which are currently being worked out for future releases."

The goal was never to reinvent Cornell’s work. It was about honoring it with the respect it deserves. "It really is only about honoring the legacy of Chris Cornell. Nothing more," Menghi says. Each musician brought their own voice, but always in service to the song and to Cornell’s memory.

"Each musician has their own individual musical stamp," Menghi explains. "You hear the absolute best of each one of them. You are talking about musicians who helped invent and shape musical genres and helped define their generations in popular culture, not just music, but society as a whole."

The cast of collaborators is remarkable. Kim Thayil, Charlie Benante, Joe Satriani, William DuVall, Bill Kelliher, Alissa White-Gluz, Kenny Aronoff, Menghi himself, among many others. The mix of past friendships and new connections created a unique bond among them. "I think back and go 'did I really ask Joe Satriani to do an instrumental reinterpretation of one of the greatest modern vocal songs ever recorded?' or 'what the fuck was I thinking asking the great Kim Thayil to re-record one of his own classic Soundgarden songs?'" Menghi laughs. Yet, no egos entered the room. "Each participating musician saw the vision and understood that this is about honoring the legacy of not only an inspiring musician, but an amazing husband, father and man."

For Menghi, Cornell’s music has always been a constant presence. "Chris Cornell has been one of only a very small handful of musical constants in my life," he says. "I never waivered, not once."

Certain moments in the process were surreal. Recording with Thayil was one of them. "I remember thinking back saying to myself 'holy fuck, I’m on a SOUNDGARDEN song with Kim Thayil. What planet are we on?'"

Throughout it all, Menghi served as the project’s creative director, always guided by one central question. "How would Chris like this?" Every choice, from guest musicians to mixes to artwork, was measured against that standard. "If there is even a shred of uncertainty at any point in the process, back to the drawing board we go."

The recordings were completed remotely over several years. The final tracks were mixed with care to ensure a cohesive sound that still captured the raw emotion of the performances.

Hope is the underlying theme that runs through KING ULTRAMEGA. It is an offering to longtime fans and an invitation for younger listeners to discover the timeless brilliance of Cornell’s work. "KU is just a blip in the Chris Cornell universe,"Menghi says. "We are a subtle reminder that Chris was a true musical genius."

For Menghi and his collaborators, KING ULTRAMEGA is both a deeply personal labor of love and one of the greatest honors of their musical lives. "To be here thirty-plus years later paying tribute to whom I believe was the king of those times is one of the greatest musical honors of my life."

Lineup for "Say Hello 2 Heaven":
Richie Kotzen - Guitar, Vocals
Mark Menghi - Bass
Charlie Benante - Drums

Connect with King Ultramega:

kingultramega.comApple Music | Spotify | Deezer | Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok | X

Brutal Surf-Death Metal Band STILLBIRTH Release New Single, "Throne Of Bones", Off Of Upcoming Concept Album 'Survival Protocol'

German brutal-surf-death-party metal band STILLBIRTH leave a trail of bloodshed in their wake with their latest single "Throne Of Bones", off of their upcoming concept album, Survival Protocol. STILLBIRTH will unleash Survival Protocol on October 31st via rising metal label Reigning Phoenix Music. The album is the follow-up to their critically acclaimed Homo Deus, which was released in 2023.

"Throne Of Bones" kicks off with a towering drum groove and ominous guitar riffs. Monstrously guttural vocals dominate the soundscape, calling forth a tale of apocalyptic despair. The rhythmic chorus provides some order among the chaos, but it isn't long before all hell breaks loose once again with a burst of pig squeals and punchy riffs. Though a groovy rhythm pervades the music, STILLBIRTH are determined to keep their listeners on their toes, punctuating the flow of the song with more extreme elements.

Survival Protocol is a concept album that tells the story of an unknown hero surviving a nuclear apocalypse. The narrative began on the album Annihilation of Mankind and now reaches its conclusion on Survival Protocol. It picks up where Homo Deus left off: the true creator descends from the skies, and the epic battle for planetary dominance begins. Humanity is nearly wiped out, with a handful of survivors managing to escape into space. After a long journey, they discover a habitable planet and begin to colonize it. The events of this journey are told across the tracks of Survival Protocol.

Watch the video for "Throne Of Bones" BELOW.

Pre-Order Survival Protocol HERE: https://stillbirth.rpm.link/survivalprotocol

STILLBIRTH is a slamming death metal force from Hagen, Germany, known for their chaotic live shows, unrelenting brutality, and wild blend of Death Metal, Grindcore, Deathcore, and Slam. Since 1999, the band has been obliterating venues and festivals worldwide with an extreme sound fueled by filthy grooves, blast beats, and a tongue-in-cheek attitude that’s equal parts destruction and party.
 
Founded by guitarist-turned-vocalist Lukas Swiaczny, STILLBIRTH quickly gained a cult following with their 2002 debut Happy Stillbirth Party. After a short hiatus from 2003 to 2005, the band came roaring back, contributing to international split releases and building a reputation across Europe. Their sophomore effort, Plakative Aggressionen (2009), led to their first Eastern European tour and set the tone for a relentless schedule of releases and performances.
 
By 2011, Endgame Is Near expanded their reach, earning them a spot on their first U.S. tour. STILLBIRTH's 2015 album Global Error marked a high point, with back-to-back tours across the U.S. and Europe. Their signing to Unique Leader Records saw them level up again with Annihilation of Mankind (2018), landing major festival appearances and a tour through Asia.
 
In 2019, they revisited their roots with Back to the Stoned Age, re-recording fan favorites with updated production and guest vocals. The follow-up, Revive the Throne (2020), doubled down on brutality with dual basses, massive grooves, and razor-sharp production—setting a new bar for heaviness in their discography.
 
Tragedy struck in 2021 with the passing of bassist and engineer Dominik “Pumpa” Koenig. His legacy lives on in the band’s music and spirit. After signing to Distortion Music Group in 2022, STILLBIRTH dropped Homo Deus in 2023, toured Europe with KATAKLYSM and FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE, and crushed stages at Summer Breeze, Party.San, and Tolminator.
 
Now, STILLBIRTH is poised to unleash their ninth full-length, Survival Protocol, on October 31st, a dystopian concept album promising their most refined yet devastating sound to date.
 
STILLBIRTH is a party at the edge of the apocalypse. Total madness guaranteed!

STILLBIRTH IS:

  • Lukas Swiaczny – Vocals

  • Martin Grupe – Drums

  • Lukas Kaminski – Bass

  • Leonard Thoma – Guitar

  • Szymon Skiba – Guitar

Website | Facebook | Instagram 

INNERWISH Release New Single And Lyric Video For "Defend Our Children's Hope"

INNERWISH's "Defend Our Children’s Hope" is a powerful tribute to the next generation, urging us all to take responsibility for their future and defend their right to hope and opportunity. With their signature blend of driving riffs, soaring melodies, and anthemic choruses, INNERWISH deliver both a poignant message and a timeless heavy metal hymn.

The single is accompanied by a stirring lyric video that underscores its urgency. With lines like “We fall and then we rise / It’s the battle for a new dawn / We conquer not divide / Protect, defend our children’s hope,” the song speaks directly to today’s world of division and uncertainty. At its core, it’s a call for unity, resilience, and compassion, a reminder that safeguarding a better future is a responsibility we all share.

Watch the video Below.

Reflecting on the song’s origins, INNERWISH share:

"To be or not to be in the album? That is the question! For sure a question we asked ourselves a lot because having 15 songs makes you keep some of them out of the album. And it’s not a matter of being a lesser song, especially in this case, but it’s just the way it is sometimes. No matter what, this song has all the classical INNERWISH elements, the ones that lasted all these years. Groove, melodies and hook-y chorus. We talked about children on 'Sea of Lies' and we do it here as well. Different writer, different perspective/impression. Again, for the children. They are the hope of the mankind, they are our hope, they deserve way more. After all, this world isn’t their fault but ours."

In times where global crises weigh heavily on young generations, “Defend Our Children’s Hope” stands as both a warning and a rallying cry: we must not allow today’s failures to become tomorrow’s inheritance.
 

More by INNERWISH: https://innerwish.rpm.link/videosPR

About INNERWISH:

INNERWISH stand for melodic and melancholic heavy metal, played in a powerful and dynamic way. Their story began in Athens in 1995, and in their almost 30 years of existence they didn't only manage to be one of the most important metal bands from Greece, but also to establish themselves as a much-respected band in the European metal scene.
 

INNERWISH are:

Giorgos Eikosipentakis | vocals

Manolis Tsigos | guitars

Thymios Krikos | guitars

Antonis Mazarakis| bass

George Georgiou | keyboards

Franki Samoilis | drums
 

More on INNERWISH:

innerwish.gr | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube | RPM

DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG - 'Babylon' Is Out Now

What a story! Over the past few years, a charity campaign featuring six prominent musicians for the benefit of artists affected by the coronavirus lockdown has developed into a spectacular project that will undoubtedly cause a sensation. We are talking about Dirkschneider And The Old Gang, DATOG for short, with a line-up whose majority has had a decisive influence on the history of heavy metal over the past four decades.

Udo Dirkschneider was the founder and long-time singer of Accept and, after leaving the band, also led his follow-up bands, U.D.O. and DIRKSCHNEIDER, to international fame. In DATOG he is joined by Peter Baltes (bass, vocals; ACCEPT, DIRKSCHNEIDER), Stefan Kaufmann (guitar; ACCEPT, U.D.O.) and Mathias Dieth (guitar; SiINNER, U.D.O.) as well as Udo's son Sven Dirkschneider (drums; U.D.O., DIRKSCHNEIDER), who has played for his dad for the last ten years. The sixth member of the gang is singer Manuela Bibert, who has not been let off the hook since her great performance on the recording of the U.D.O. orchestra album We Are One in the spring of 2019.

In this constellation, three DATOG singles, (‘Where The Angels Fly’, ‘Face Of A Stranger’ and ‘Every Heart Is Burning’), were created between summer 2020 and fall 2021. This got the train rolling: “The whole thing developed a momentum of its own, that we hadn't expected in this form," Kaufmann looks back somewhat surprised. “After the singles went incredibly viral, fans, record companies, and concert agencies immediately got in touch and wanted to know whether there was more to comewhat the prospects were for a full album?”

The answer is here: Babylon is out now via Reigning Phoenix Music and you should not miss it.
Order, stream or download Babylon here: https://datog.rpm.link/babylon

With a three-singer concept — Dirkschneider, Bibert, Baltes — DATOG delivers a unique mix of vocal profiles that proves to be the band’s unmistakable trademark. “Of course, we didn't even try to split the vocals equally, but carefully analyzed whose voice would fit best for each part,” explains Udo Dirkschneider. The same applies to songwriting, which followed the motto exclusively: The best songs win!

A wise decision, as the twelve songs on Babylon show! Within a clearly defined stylistic direction and alongside magnificent solo performances, especially from exceptional guitarist Mathias “Don” Dieth, the album impresses with great complexity and an enormous wealth of facets.

With Babylon, the German all-star band presents twelve brilliant metal songs which, despite their unusual vocal concept, never degenerate into a Babylonian confusion of voices. Quite the opposite: the album inspires both compositionally and vocally and convinces every sound fetishist with its transparent yet powerful production.

And this is not the end of the journey: the video story of the songs will unfold for all of the album tracks, keeping fans engaged visually and musically until the very last note, not least reminding everyone to give the record one more spin.
Though the album leans into a hard rock side, the band members’ heavy metal foundation shines through, best showcased on the focus track and new video,"Metal Sons".

"Metal Sons" is a tribute to true, original heavy metal: a powerful guitar riff that seems to have been born out of another time period, Udo's usual uncompromising vocals, plus screaming guitar solos and a chorus that will have every heavy metal fan automatically headbanging and shouting along. Thanks to its modern arrangement, the song is nevertheless (or precisely because of this) a musical treat of a very special kind.

About DATOG:
 
DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG (DATOG) was originally launched in 2020 as a one-off charity project, but quickly developed a momentum of its own and formed into a band consisting of Udo Dirkschneider (vocals; ACCEPT/U.D.O./DIRKSCHNEIDER), Peter Baltes (bass, vocals; ACCEPT/U.D.O./DIRKSCHNEIDER), Stefan Kaufmann (guitar; ACCEPT/U.D.O.), Mathias “Don” Dieth (guitar; SINNER/U.D.O.), Sven Dirkschneider (drums; U.D.O./DIRKSCHNEIDER) and Manuela “Ella” Bibert (vocals). Between 2020 and 2021 their first three singles attracted a lot of attention, whereupon the band wrote more songs and recorded their debut album. With a unique vocal concept of three voices, powerful riffs and stylistic complexity, DATOG combine classic heavy metal with a modern, powerful production.
 
 
DATOG are:
Udo Dirkschneider | lead vocals
Peter Baltes | bass, lead & backing vocals
Manuela “Ella” Bibert | lead & backing vocals, keys
Stefan Kaufmann | guitars, backing vocals
Mathias “Don” Dieth | guitars, backing vocals
Sven Dirkschneider | drums, backing vocals
 
More on DATOG:
datog.de | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | RPM

Brutal Surf-Death Metal Band STILLBIRTH Release New Single, "Throne Of Bones", Off Of Upcoming Concept Album 'Survival Protocol'

German brutal-surf-death-party metal band STILLBIRTH leave a trail of bloodshed in their wake with their latest single "Throne Of Bones", off of their upcoming concept album, Survival Protocol. STILLBIRTH will unleash Survival Protocol on October 31st via rising metal label Reigning Phoenix Music. The album is the follow-up to their critically acclaimed Homo Deus, which was released in 2023.

"Throne Of Bones" kicks off with a towering drum groove and ominous guitar riffs. Monstrously guttural vocals dominate the soundscape, calling forth a tale of apocalyptic despair. The rhythmic chorus provides some order among the chaos, but it isn't long before all hell breaks loose once again with a burst of pig squeals and punchy riffs. Though a groovy rhythm pervades the music, STILLBIRTH are determined to keep their listeners on their toes, punctuating the flow of the song with more extreme elements.

Survival Protocol is a concept album that tells the story of an unknown hero surviving a nuclear apocalypse. The narrative began on the album Annihilation of Mankind and now reaches its conclusion on Survival Protocol. It picks up where Homo Deus left off: the true creator descends from the skies, and the epic battle for planetary dominance begins. Humanity is nearly wiped out, with a handful of survivors managing to escape into space. After a long journey, they discover a habitable planet and begin to colonize it. The events of this journey are told across the tracks of Survival Protocol.

Watch the video for "Throne Of Bones" BELOW :

Pre-Order Survival Protocol HERE: https://stillbirth.rpm.link/survivalprotocol

STILLBIRTH is a slamming death metal force from Hagen, Germany, known for their chaotic live shows, unrelenting brutality, and wild blend of Death Metal, Grindcore, Deathcore, and Slam. Since 1999, the band has been obliterating venues and festivals worldwide with an extreme sound fueled by filthy grooves, blast beats, and a tongue-in-cheek attitude that’s equal parts destruction and party.
 
Founded by guitarist-turned-vocalist Lukas Swiaczny, STILLBIRTH quickly gained a cult following with their 2002 debut Happy Stillbirth Party. After a short hiatus from 2003 to 2005, the band came roaring back, contributing to international split releases and building a reputation across Europe. Their sophomore effort, Plakative Aggressionen (2009), led to their first Eastern European tour and set the tone for a relentless schedule of releases and performances.
 
By 2011, Endgame Is Near expanded their reach, earning them a spot on their first U.S. tour. STILLBIRTH's 2015 album Global Error marked a high point, with back-to-back tours across the U.S. and Europe. Their signing to Unique Leader Records saw them level up again with Annihilation of Mankind (2018), landing major festival appearances and a tour through Asia.
 
In 2019, they revisited their roots with Back to the Stoned Age, re-recording fan favorites with updated production and guest vocals. The follow-up, Revive the Throne (2020), doubled down on brutality with dual basses, massive grooves, and razor-sharp production—setting a new bar for heaviness in their discography.
 
Tragedy struck in 2021 with the passing of bassist and engineer Dominik “Pumpa” Koenig. His legacy lives on in the band’s music and spirit. After signing to Distortion Music Group in 2022, STILLBIRTH dropped Homo Deus in 2023, toured Europe with KATAKLYSM and FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE, and crushed stages at Summer Breeze, Party.San, and Tolminator.
 
Now, STILLBIRTH is poised to unleash their ninth full-length, Survival Protocol, on October 31st, a dystopian concept album promising their most refined yet devastating sound to date.
 
STILLBIRTH is a party at the edge of the apocalypse. Total madness guaranteed!

STILLBIRTH IS:

  • Lukas Swiaczny – Vocals

  • Martin Grupe – Drums

  • Lukas Kaminski – Bass

  • Leonard Thoma – Guitar

  • Szymon Skiba – Guitar

Website | Facebook | Instagram 

ORDEN OGAN Unleash New Single "Conquest", Live In Oberhausen, While Touring With WINDROSE and ANGUS MCSIX

German dark power metal force ORDEN OGAN have dropped a thunderous new live version of their fan-favorite track “Conquest”, taken from their latest full-length The Order Of Fear, released in July 2024 via Reigning Phoenix Music here.

Recorded during the band’s Tour of Fear in the sold-out Turbinenhalle in Oberhausen, Germany, this version captures the raw intensity and electric communion between the band and their audience. “Conquest” has quickly risen to become a staple in the ORDEN OGAN setlist, and this live cut shows exactly why: riffs sharp as steel, massive choruses, and a crowd roaring as one. ORDEN OGAN once again prove that true power metal lives on stage: loud, larger than life, and unforgettable!

Frontman Sebastian "Seeb" Levermann states:

“'Conquest' has become one of the absolute fan favorites within the last 12 months since the release of The Order of Fear. This recording was captured in the sold-out Turbinenhalle (Oberhausen, Germany) on ORDEN OGAN’s Tour of Fear. I think we managed to capture the energy between band and audience. Enjoy!”

Stream/Download "Conquest" here: https://ordenogan.rpm.link/conquestlive

Don’t miss the chance to experience "Conquest" and other ORDEN OGAN hymns
live on their upcoming tour with WIND ROSE and ANGUS MCSIX:

Tickets & Info: https://ordenogan.de/pages/on-tour

About ORDEN OGAN:
ORDEN OGAN are an essential part of the international metal scene with their top status leading back to their debut album Vale (2008). Their 2021-album, Final Days, even reached position 3 of the official German Album Charts, and having up to more than half a million monthly listeners on Spotify makes them one of the most successful metal acts when it comes to streaming. Epic melodies, impactful lyrics and unmistakeable passion for the genre define the band's work, and their latest studio offering The Order Of Fear only continued their musical journey by promising fans a monumental experience.

Led by Sebastian "Seeb" Levermann, the seventh album is arguably their hardest- hitting work to date. The Order Of Fear persists the ORDEN OGAN saga with a triumphant lesson in dark power metal: the album features eleven powerful tracks (including a spoken interlude) that offer a fresh perspective on the band's ever- evolving sound, resulting in an explosion of thought-provoking melodies and rhythms.

The Order Of Fear once again hit the German Album Charts at #3, followed by spectacular festival performances and their very well received Tour of Fear.

The Order Of Fear was released on July 5, 2024 through RPM as an exclusive box-set (including a CD-digipak and a unique board game for up to 32 players to make fans act as various characters of the ORDEN OGAN world), coloured 1LP vinyl (splatter, crystal clear or clear turquoise), and CD-digipak.

Visit: https://ordenogan.rpm.link/theorderoffearPR

[Photo: NatEnemedePhotography]

ORDEN OGAN are:
Sebastian "Seeb" Levermann | vocals
Niels Löffler | guitars
Patrick Sperling | guitars
Steven Wussow | bass
Dirk Meyer-Berhorn | drums

More on ORDEN OGAN:
ordenogan.de | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube
greenman-studios.de | Facebook Seeb | Instagram Seeb

COLD SLITHER Unleashes Fiery New Video For “Torched” Before October 11th Gramercy Theatre Takeover

Reigning Phoenix Music, in collaboration with Hasbro, is thrilled to announce the return of COLD SLITHER with their blistering new single “Torched.” The track arrives accompanied by a fierce animated music video once again brought to life by the acclaimed artist Costin Chioreanu, whose vision amplifies the band’s mythos with an unrelenting energy.

Frontman Zartan (aka Gus Rios) comments: “What more must be said of a Dreadnok who breathes FIRE?! ‘Torched’ is the fastest and heaviest song on this album, and with good reason! Play with fire, you will be TORCHED! Cobraaaaa!!”

The firestorm continues on October 11th, when COLD SLITHER storms into New York City for a one-night-only takeover of the Gramercy Theatre. The show takes place during the same weekend as New York Comic Con (NYCC) 2025, promising an explosive celebration of nostalgia and modern heavy metal power. Fans can secure their place in history and get tickets HERE. The first 100 people through the door will receive a limited edition Cobra NY shirt, available exclusively at this show and never to be sold again.

This announcement follows the release of the band’s self-titled debut album in June on Reigning Phoenix Music and precedes their upcoming contribution to the Decibel Flexi Series, where COLD SLITHER will unleash an exclusive new track titled “Cobra Island.”

Fronted by the enigmatic Zartan alongside his ruthless Dreadnok bandmates Torch, Ripper, and Buzzer, COLD SLITHER is a declaration of war. Their sound combines old-school heavy metal with anarchic energy, venomous vocals, punishing riffs, and an atmosphere steeped in apocalyptic chaos. With “Torched,” the myth is resurrected once more, reborn as a modern-day metal juggernaut prepared to conquer both stage and screen.

Connect with COLD SLITHER:
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Featuring 10 original tracks and a remastered version of their cult-classic single “Cold Slither,” the album plunges into dystopian metal with themes of swamp-born menace and Cobra-fueled power. TheCold Slitheralbum is available across digital and vinyl formats.

Order HERE:
https://coldslither.rpm.link/albumPR

Enter Borderland: AMORPHIS - 15th Studio Album Out Now via Reigning Phoenix Music

Borderland, the 15th studio album from Finnish metal visionaries AMORPHIS, is out now through Reigning Phoenix Music. Borderland represents a passage, a crossing into unexplored realms of sound and spirit. It’s the final call before AMORPHIS rise again on stage this autumn, a beacon for what lies ahead.

Borderland is not merely a name, but a threshold where past meets future, where myth bleeds into memory, and where music becomes both guide and guardian. With this record, AMORPHIS invite their listeners to step with them into a space at once familiar and untamed. Here, horizons shift, echoes resound, and new destinies are forged in sound.

The journey to Borderland began at Hansen Studios (Denmark) in late 2024 and early 2025, under the masterful production of Jacob Hansen (VOLBEAT, AMARANTHE, PRIMAL FEAR). The album’s striking artwork was created by renowned Dutch artist Marald Van Haasteren (METALLICA, BLACK SABBATH, KVELERTAK, ALCEST), while the ever-thoughtful lyricism of Pekka Kainulainen once again provides AMORPHIS’ music with a profound narrative depth.

Among the album’s highlights is the haunting focus track "Fog To Fog," a piece born of desolate landscapes and timeless echoes.

With Borderland, AMORPHIS cross yet another frontier in their sound, bridging myth and modernity, melody and heaviness, darkness and hope. It’s an album both monumental and intimate, inviting fans to follow them into landscapes where the only certainty is transformation.

Get your ‘passport’ to Borderland here: https://amorphis.rpm.link/borderlandPR

About AMORPHIS
With Borderland, the title of the album couldn’t have been chosen more fittingly. Throughout their career, spanning over more than three decades, AMORPHIS -- Tomi Joutsen (vocals), Esa Holopainen (guitars), Tomi Koivusaari (guitars), Olli-Pekka Laine (bass), Santeri Kallio (keyboards) & Jan Rechberger (drums & percussion) -- have been an ever-evolving act, wandering on an exciting boundary-pushing path. From their sinister death metal debut Karelian Isthmus over genre-defining mid-90s melodic death works like Tales From The Thousand Lakes and Elegy as well as the melodic 2000’s grandeur of Eclipse or Skyforger to records combining the very best of all prior eras to refreshing new soundscapes (f.e. Under The Red Cloud or Queen Of Time): Whatever this group works on promises long-range success.
 
With 2022’s Halo, the Finn’s were rewarded for their researching musical approach once again: The album marked AMORPHIS’ sixth no. 1 album in Finland, even cracked the top 3 of the official German album chart, and last but not least the sextet took home two awards from the prestigious Emma Gaala (“Band of the Year” & “Export of the Year”).
 
The impact of Halo became a driving force for what’s to come. Rather than rushing into a follow-up, the band chose to step back from live performances and focus fully on their next chapter. The result is Borderland - a meticulously crafted opus that builds on their celebrated recent era, while seamlessly weaving in new, timely elements. It’s a bold, organic continuation of their journey, shaped by experience and guided by vision.

AMORPHIS are:
Tomi Joutsen | vocals
Esa Holopainen | guitars
Tomi Koivusaari | guitars
Olli-Pekka “Oppu” Laine | bass
Santeri Kallio | keys
Jan Rechberger | drums & percussion
 

More from AMORPHIS:
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X | YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | RPM

OPETH Announce North American Tour Part 2, 2026

Swedish progressive metal titans OPETH are preparing to return across the Atlantic to bring their fearless 14th studio album to stages across North America. The critically acclaimed The Last Will And Testament (released on November 22, 2024 through Moderbolaget / Reigning Phoenix Music), saw frontman Mikael Åkerfeldt return to growling vocal territory for the first time in 16 years. The Last Will And Testament North American Tour Part 2 will begin in February 2026. 

OPETH's return to North America follows a busy 2025 schedule including their summer festival run, the second proper European leg of their The Last Will And Testament tour in Autumn, and a 9-date journey to Australia, New Zealand and Japan throughout November. 

Purchase Tickets HERE

The Last Will And Testament North American Tour Part 2, 2026
05.02.2026 US - Montclair, The Wellmont Theater
06.02.2026 US - Boston, Orpheum Theatre
07.02.2026 US - Philadelphia, The Filmore Philadelphia
10.02.2026 US - Detroit, Masonic Jack White Theatre
11.02.2026 US - Chicago, Riviera Theatre
12.02.2026 US - St-Louis, The Pageant
14.02.2026 US - Dallas, The Bomb Factory
15.02.2026 US - Houston, Bayou Music Center
16.02.2026 US - San Antonio, Majestic Theatre
18.02.2026 US - Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak Center
20.02.2026 US - Las Vegas, The Pearl
21.02.2026 US - Riverside, Riverside Municipal Auditorium
22.02.2026 US - Sacramento, Channel 24
24.02.2026 US - Seattle, Paramount Theatre
25.02.2026 CA - Vancouver, Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre

The Last Will And Testament is gripping from start to finish, jaw-dropping inside and out, representing some of OPETH’s finest material to date. Just as OPETH welcomed many into its distressed arms over the years, the Swedes again deliver on the promise that great music always tells a compelling story - this time with growls we had not heard since the 2008 Watershed.

OPETH’s 14th album was written by Åkerfeldt, with lyrics conferred with Klara Rönnqvist Fors (THE HEARD, ex-CRUCIFIED BARBARA). The Last Will And Testament was co-produced by Åkerfeldt and Stefan Boman (GHOST, THE HELLACOPTERS), engineered by Boman, Joe Jones (KILLING JOKE, ROBERT PLANT), and OPETH, with Boman, Åkerfeldt, and the rest of the band mixing at Atlantis and Hammerthorpe Studios in Stockholm. The strings on The Last Will And Testament were arranged by Åkerfeldt and Dave Stewart (EGG, KHAN) and conducted by Stewart at Angel Studios in London. Not one to miss a beat, visual artist Travis Smith returns to the fold, crafting his 11th cover, a haunting ‘photograph’ reminiscent of Stanley Kubrick's infamous Overlook Hotel photograph. Miles Showell (ABBA, QUEEN) also revisits mastering and vinyl lacquer cutting at Abbey Road Studios in London.

Order/stream The Last Will And Testament: https://opeth.rpm.link/lastwillPR
Purchase physical copies and merch HERE: https://opeth.omerch.com/

OPETH are:
Mikael Åkerfeldt | vocals, guitars
Fredrik Åkesson | guitars, backing vocals
Martín Méndez | bass
Waltteri Väyrynen | drums, percussion
Joakim Svalberg | keys, backing vocals
 
More on OPETH:
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Finnish Melodeath Titans WOLFHEART Unleash New Video For "Forefathers", From 'Draconian Darkness II' EP

Finnish melodic death metal titans WOLFHEART have unleashed a new video for "Forefathers", from their new EP, Draconian Darkness II, out now via Reigning Phoenix Music. "Forefathers" lets the dynamic nature of WOLFHEART's sound shine with a blend of stormy orchestrations, layered vocals (featuring performances by members of BEFORE THE DAWN, SUOTANA, and FULL HOUSE BREW CREW), and surprisingly delicate piano accents. With frigid and ferocious vocal deliveries and a massive chorus, the song spins a tale of revenge in a lonesome, bleak northern landscape.

Vocalist Tuomas Saukkonen comments: "'Forefathers' is a musical and lyrical combination of our mythology-themed King of the North (2022) and our latest album Draconian Darkness, which painted a bleak and apocalyptic soundscape. Vengeful and violent text meets mighty nordic riffs and melodies. A perfect partner for the 'Carnivore' single."

Watch the video Below.

This five-track release showcases every facet of WOLFHEART’s trademark sound: raw, poetic, and powerfully atmospheric. Featuring two new tracks (including orchestral and acoustic versions), plus a crushing live rendition from their latest album, Draconian Darkness II captures the band’s cold grandeur in both studio precision and on-stage intensity. Founder Tuomas Saukkonen continues to refine his vision with haunting melodies, relentless drumming, and evocative storytelling rooted in Northern landscapes. Draconian Darkness II is a journey through desolate beauty, bleak emotion, and thundering metal.

Draconian Darkness II is WOLFHEART at their best: melancholic, massive, and deeply melodic. With new songs, orchestral depth, and raw live energy, this EP is a cold flame burning bright in the dark.

WOLFHEART’s Draconian Darkness II EP is out now via Reigning Phoenix Music! Two new tracks (plus orchestral & acoustic versions) and a live cut of crushing northern metal: cold, poetic, and unforgettable.

Order HERE:  https://wolfheart.rpm.link/DD2PR

WOLFHEART – Draconian Darkness Over Europe 2025
+ Special guest: Before The Dawn
+ Supports: Suotana & FULL HOUSE B.C. (except for Spain)

About WOLFHEART:
Founded by the hardworking multi-instrumentalist Tuomas Saukkonen (known for BEFORE THE DAWN, BLACK SUN AEON, etc.), WOLFHEART represents a unique blend of sinister atmosphere and intense Northern European metal. Their music combines raw power with poetic depth, earning them significant acclaim within the global metal community.

While WOLFHEART's art is primarily inspired by their Finnish surroundings, their albums weave eclectic stories that connect nature and human emotions. With each release, they have expanded their artistic horizons, continually enriching their musical expression.

WOLFHEART are:
Tuomas Saukkonen | vocals, guitars
Vageliss Karzis | guitars, vocals
Lauri Silvonen | bass, vocals
Joonas Kauppinen | drums
 
More on WOLFHEART:
wolfheartmetal.com | Facebook | Instagram | X | YouTube | RPM

GOTTHARD Announce 'More Stereo Crush' Mini Album

GOTTHARD literally keep riding the wave of success - and their new single confirms the band’s enduring high impressively! Just days after their latest TV appearance - this time at Germany’s popular Sunday noon program, ZDF’s ‘Rock im Garten’ - the Swiss hard rock icons have released a brand new single called "Ride The Wave".
 
The track continues the way the group have taken with their 2025 milestone Stereo Crush (March 21 via Reigning Phoenix Music), and will surely sweeten the last weeks of the summer - and also above and beyond, of course!
 
Loosely yet boldly kick-started by massive guitar riffing and drums, the single brings an instant feel-good vision to the listeners minds: the sun is burning while you’re cruising through the desert or along the coast in your vintage cabriolet. With "Ride The Wave," GOTTHARD invite you to have the time of your life leaving all negativity behind and build on the life-celebrating momentum they’ve created on Stereo Crush. Turn it up!
 
“‘Ride The Wave’ went through a couple of versions and recording sessions before we finally found the right vibe for the album. It has this raw, old-school rock energy with gritty guitar riffs and a powerhouse vocal performance of Nic Maeder,” adds guitarist Freddy Scherer.
 
Watch the lyric video below.
Listen to ‘Ride The Wave’: https://gotthard.rpm.link/ridethewavePR
 
Set to make additional impact, the new song will also be part of GOTTHARD’s upcoming mini album, aptly titled More Stereo Crush. Further details as well as pre-order options will be announced later this year with even more new music paving its way. Stay tuned!

With their latest offering Stereo Crush, GOTTHARD reached the top of the official album chart for the 17th time (and for the 13th time in a row!) in their home country Switzerland. The band’s Austrian (#7) and German (#11) fan bases also gave them plenty of reason to celebrate in recent days. Get & stream Stereo Crush here: https://gotthard.rpm.link/stereocrushPR
 
Stereo Crush was produced, recorded and mixed by long-time producer Charlie Bauerfeind, who’s known for his work with the likes of HELLOWEEN and BLIND GUARDIAN, alongside co-producer and founding member Leo Leoni at Yellowhouse Studio. Mastered by Sascha “Busy” Bühren (TrueBusyness), artwork was once again provided by Thomas Ewerhard (AVANTASIA etc.).

About GOTTHARD
 
With meanwhile 17 number one albums, a Diamond Award for selling over one million units in Switzerland, and multiple platinum records, including their quadruple platinum album Homerun, GOTTHARD have an unmatched legacy of successes, rounded off by over 3.5 million units sold worldwide and more than 2,000 live performances. Their tracks like "Heaven," a platinum single, and seven top 10 singles have cemented the band in the international music scene.


GOTTHARD are:
Nic Maeder | vocals
Leo Leoni | guitars
Freddy Scherer | guitars
Marc Lynn | bass
Flavio Mezzodi | drums
 

More on GOTTHARD:
gotthard.com | Linktree | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | YouTube | Spotify | RPM

KING ULTRAMEGA Partners With Joe Satriani On New Single "Be Yourself", A Heartfelt Tribute to Chris Cornell

Alternative rock collective KING ULTRAMEGA, featuring members of ALICE IN CHAINS, ANTHRAX, MASTODON, and SOUNDGARDEN, have returned with a haunting instrumental rendition of the AUDIOSLAVE classic, "Be Yourself". This new single release once again aims to celebrate Chris Cornell’s musical genius while raising funds and awareness for MusiCares. MusiCares is the Recording Academy’s nonprofit that provides mental health, addiction recovery, and emergency services to those in the music community. 

“Be Yourself” features legendary guitarist Joe Satriani on lead guitar, echoing vocalist Chris Cornell's melodic motifs and building on the song's phrasings. Though following in Cornell's footsteps on a different instrument sounds like a tall order, Satriani rose to the challenge, proud to show his love for a fallen hero. Expertly replicating the essence of the song with crystal-clear lead tones, tasteful vibrato, and subtle pedal effects, Satriani lets his guitar sing with all the passion and tenderness that the song's lyrics originally conveyed. This loving instrumental homage proves that the message and power behind AUDIOSLAVE's composition transcends words.

Satriani comments, "[Chris Cornell] was a brilliant vocalist and communicator. He often used his voice like an instrument, shaping the tone of his voice like a guitarist would finesse riffs and phrases. I took a deep dive into his magical sensibilities and came up with a multi-tracked guitar production approach that I felt would pay proper homage to his brilliance."

The concept for an instrumental rendition of "Be Yourself" originated with the bassist, producer, and mastermind of KING ULTRAMEGA, Mark Menghi. As a producer, he envisioned a version of the song that deftly balanced the art of paying respect to the original, while also reimagining the song with a unique musical voice from Satriani. As a bassist, Menghi strove to keep the bass parts nearly identical to the original song, allowing Satriani the freedom to lend his own voice to the music. Renowned drummer Kenny Aronoff, who has been named one of the greatest drummers of all time by Rolling Stone magazine, and has toured and recorded with a who’s who of legendary artists such as THE ROLLING STONES, THE SMASHING PUMPKINS, PAUL MCCARTNEY, JOHN FOGERTY and many more, provides the laid-back, but emotionally-resonant groove of "Be Yourself", laying the foundation with Menghi for Satriani's melodies to shine.

Menghi comments, "I remember like it was yesterday, I was on a run through some crazy trail,  just zoning out and the original song came on through my headphones… as I was running, I remember hearing Chris sing 'to be yourself is all that you can do' it was like he was talking to me… then thought to myself 'I can totally hear this as an instrumental a-la Satch style'... My hope is that whomever is listening to this song hears Chris over Joe’s guitar and understands that we are paying homage to Chris with our take on this tune."

Aronoff comments, "I listened to 'Be Yourself' over and over again, absorbing the lyrics and the feel and vibe of this song, then I recorded my drums. Their recording had an emotional impact on me and that had a big effect on my performance."

KING ULTRAMEGA is a passion-driven musical project honoring the life, voice, and genius of Chris Cornell, one of the most gifted artists of our time. It launches in conjunction with SOUNDGARDEN’s long-overdue induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

This project did not begin with a single, dramatic moment. Instead, it grew quietly and gradually, an organic result of years of conversations, inspiration, and deep reverence for a musician whose impact remains immeasurable.

"There is not a singular moment in time that led to this project," says bassist and producer Mark Menghi, the driving force behind KING ULTRAMEGA. "It was a trail of events that led to the formation of KING ULTRAMEGA and the evolving creation to pay tribute to the voice of a generation."

About MusiCares

MusiCares helps the humans behind music because music gives so much to the world. Offering preventive, emergency, and recovery programs, MusiCares is a safety net supporting the health and welfare of the music community. Founded by the Recording Academy in 1989 as a U.S. based 501(c)(3) charity, MusiCares safeguards the well-being of all music people through direct financial grant programs, networks of support resources, and tailored crisis relief efforts.

For more information please visit: www.musicares.org.

COLD SLITHER Announce NYC Show

Reigning Phoenix Music, in collaboration with Hasbro, a leading games, IP and toy company, is thrilled to announce that COLD SLITHER, the reimagined heavy metal menace inspired by the infamous band from G.I. JOE: A Real American Hero, is preparing to take New York by storm. The show will take place on October 11th, the same weekend as NYC’s Comic Con, where the Gramercy Theatre will be conquered by an explosive sonic force that fuses nostalgia with a modern metal powerhouse. Get your tickets HERE.

Zartan comments on the forthcoming NYC show: 

"Well, well, it seems as though there are several potential recruits whom have a desire to join our small but elite society of Dreadnoks... This time in New York City! Our services are once again called upon by Cobra Commander and Reigning Phoenix Music to melt minds with Cold Slither! So be it, my Dreadnoks and I will see you all October 11th... Come prepared...Cobraaaaa!!" 

The show announcement follows the release of the self-titled debut album in June of this year via Reigning Phoenix Music. Also on the horizon, the G.I. Joe-stanning supergroup are set to join the Decibel Flexi Series with an exclusive new banger, “Cobra Island."

Cold Slither is a declaration of war. Fronted by the enigmatic Zartan and his ruthless Dreadnok bandmates Torch, Ripper, and Buzzer, the band fuses old-school heavy metal with anarchic energy and unrelenting force. With tracks built on punishing riffs, venomous vocals, and apocalyptic atmosphere, COLD SLITHER resurrects the myth and turns it into a modern-day metal juggernaut.

Featuring 10 original tracks and a remastered version of their cult-classic single “Cold Slither,” the album plunges into dystopian metal with themes of swamp-born menace and Cobra-fueled power. The Cold Slither album is available across digital and vinyl formats.

Order HERE:
https://coldslither.rpm.link/albumPR

Connect with COLD SLITHER:
Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | X | RPM

DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG Open the Gates to Babylon with Title Track; New Single & Music Video Out Now

DIRKSCHNEIDER & THE OLD GANG (DATOG) have unleashed Babylon, the monumental title track from their upcoming album, set for release on October 3, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM).

DATOG’s Babylon pulls you in with eastern-tinged melodies and takes you on a magic carpet ride through lands of myth and mystery.

The band describes the song so: “‘Babylon’ is an absolutely worthy title track. Featuring a pounding, ultra-hard riff, plus the vocal melodies of Udo, Peter and Manuela that transport you straight into a fairy tale from “One Thousand and One Nights.” The guitar arrangements and especially Mathias' solo guitar work support the imaginative atmosphere and drive the song to its absolute climax.”

Lyrically, Babylon invites listeners to walk the world of wonders where every tale is true - through mystic havens, desert nights, and golden treasures shining bright for the Holy Queen of Babylon. It’s a song that dares to cross the line between fantasy and heavy metal firepower, guiding fans into a place “where the holy gate’s gonna be your fate.”

Watch it below.

Stream it here: https://datog.rpm.link/babylonsinglePR

As the title track, Babylon is the perfect metaphor for the content of the album itself: behind the holy gates, treasures are unveiled. Both single and music video offer a splendid final taste of DATOG’s unparalleled artistry before the official album release - a musical journey fans will want to experience again and again. 

Set for release on October 3, 2025 by Reigning Phoenix Music, Babylon is now available for pre-order in a variety of stunning formats:

Limited Red, Gold & Black Marbled Gatefold Double Vinyl 
Limited Red Opaque & Black Marbled Gatefold Double Vinyl 
Gold Opaque Double Vinyl 
Deluxe Earbook Edition with CD and enhanced 36-page booklet 
Digipak CD featuring a 24-page booklet 
Jewelcase CD featuring a 24-page booklet 

Pre-orders are available now - secure your copy of this powerful statement from one of metal’s most iconic voices and this extraordinary band: https://datog.rpm.link/babylonPR

DATOG are:

Udo Dirkschneider | lead vocals

Peter Baltes | bass, lead & backing vocals

Manuela “Ella” Bibert | lead & backing vocals, keys

Stefan Kaufmann | guitars, backing vocals

Mathias “Don” Dieth | guitars, backing vocals

Sven Dirkschneider | drums, backing vocals

 

More on DATOG:

datog.de | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | Apple Music | YouTube | RPM

ELEINE Releases New 5-Track EP 'We Stand United'

Swedish metal band ELEINE simply can’t return to the stages unnoticed: embarking on a massive European tour as special guests to label mates PRIMAL FEAR today, they simultaneously celebrate the release of their We Stand United EP through Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM). A strong title underlining the unparalleled bond ELEINE have built with their worldwide fan legions over the years, which becomes even thicker! An unreleased song as well as live and orchestral versions of selected ELEINE classics are now available for streaming and on limited CD and vinyl editions. Get your (signed) copy & listen to We Stand United here: https://eleine.rpm.link/westandunitedPR

Vocalist Madeleine & guitarist/vocalist Rikard comment: “We wanted to give you something in between album cycles. A feel of what’s to come, where we stand right now and a closer look at our past. This is We Stand United - an EP dedicated towards our strong and loyal fans across the world including live tracks and something brand new! On this EP, w present you with live tracks on CD and vinyl for the first time ever! We enjoy the studio, but it will always be when performing LIVE that we truly thrive as a band. This is where we connect with the crowd, where we create beautiful and empowering memories together and where we get to live out the songs on stage. We Stand United is a 5-track EP carrying new heavy riffs, thundering live performances and a rawness we feel many will appreciate.”
 
Introduced by "Towards The Fields", the release’s main focus lays on its brand new title track, which highlights the group’s magic touch for vibrant songwriting while still giving space to their soaringly uplifting and symphonic trademark moments. To give the We Stand United music video the attention it deserves, ELEINE are pleased to announce that they’ll witness its unveiling together with their main driving force - their fans - on Monday, September 8 @ 6PM CEST. Subscribe here & join the watch party: https://eleine.rpm.link/youtubePR

ELEINE are:
Madeleine Liljestam | vocals
Rikard Ekberg | guitars, vocals
Victor Jonasson | guitars
 
More on ELEINE:
eleine.com | Patreon | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | X
YouTube | Spotify | Apple Music | RPM

PRIMAL FEAR Reclaim the Metal Crown With "I Am The Primal Fear" Lyric Video; New Album Domination Out Worldwide;

"I Am The Primal Fear" is the perfect track to mark the release of German metal force PRIMAL FEAR’s new album, Domination. Out today via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM), the 13-track record is a powerful statement of the band’s legacy and a showcase of their unmistakable sound.
 

Order Domination (excl. bundles, ltd. CD earbook, digipak-CD, jewel case-CD & various vinyl variants) & stream it here: https://primalfear.rpm.link/dominationPR


A future fan favourite and live anthem in the making, "I Am The Primal Fear" kicks off with a burst of solo drumming before the full PRIMAL FEAR engine roars to life, unleashing thunderous riffs and soaring melodic leads. The verses feel like an intense showdown, with vocalist Ralf Scheepers delivering a fierce performance, driven by the relentless rhythm section of bassist Mat Sinner and drummer André Hilger. Adding to the firepower is the band’s new guitar dream team, Thalìa Bellazecca and Magnus Karlsson, trading off with precision and power.

The intense call-and-response dynamic builds to a powerful, no-holds-barred chorus that sends a clear message: despite a few setbacks over the years, PRIMAL FEAR never considered calling it quits. The eagle was never gone, it was simply gathering strength, ready to soar once again and shake the metal world with an album that confidently claims its place among the top tier of heavy and power metal.

“Again, outta my way, I am the Primal Fear! No one can stop me and I'm gonna hunt you tonight, I'm your worst nightmare whenever you are trying to fool me!” states Scheepers.

Watch the new lyric video Below.

Domination was recorded at Dennis Ward’s Kangaroo Studios (HELLOWEEN, ANGRA etc.) in autumn 2024, produced by Mat Sinner and co-produced by Ralf Scheepers as well as Magnus Karlsson. Rounded off by multiple PRIMAL FEAR mixing/mastering engineer Jacob Hansen (AMORPHIS, VOLBEAT etc.) at his own studios in Denmark, the album artwork was designed by Death.Milk.Designs.

PRIMAL FEAR are:
Ralf Scheepers | vocals
Mat Sinner | bass, vocals
Magnus Karlsson | guitars
Thalìa Bellazecca | guitars
André Hilgers | drums

More on PRIMAL FEAR:
primalfear.de | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok | RPM

ELEINE - We Stand United OUT SEPT. 5th

Swedish metal outfit ELEINE reach out with a compelling offering that draws together a connection between their studio recordings and live performances. The haunting sonic soundscape of the forthcoming EP, We Stand United, features two unheard pieces: an intro called "Towards The Fields" and the title track is future live favourite. In addition, two live tracks recorded at Masters of Rock 2024 and a symphonic version of "Promise Of Apocalypse", are set to arrive in digital format, CD and vinyl on September 5, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music.

"We wanted to give you something in between album cycles. A feel of what’s to come, where we stand right now and a closer look at the past.

This is We Stand United - An EP dedicated towards our strong and loyal fans across the world including live tracks and something brand new!

On this EP ELEINE present you with live tracks on CD and vinyl for the first time ever! We enjoy the studio, but it will always be when performing LIVE we truly thrive as a band. This is where we connect with the crowd, where we create beautiful and empowering memories together and where we get to live out the songs on stage.

We Stand United is a 5 track EP carrying new heavy riffs, thundering live performances and a rawness we feel many will appreciate." 
- Madeleine & Rikard

The droning cinematic introduction is deeply eerie in its shadowy manifestation, drawing in the eager listener with intense anticipation. "We Stand United" emerges with a fury of guitar-driven riffs and a menacing marching rhythm. ELEINE's iconic atmospheric arrangement strikes intently with Madeleine Liljestam's enthralling charismatic vocals accompanied with fierce harsh growls from Rikard Ekberg. The chorus lyric hook is certain to be one fans will be singing for a long time to come. 

"Never Forget [Live at Masters of Rock 2024]" and "We Are Legion [Live at Masters of Rock 2024]" reveal the dynamicity and enticing allure of ELEINE's live performances. The proficiency of the band and love from the crowd provide a taste of the festival experience. We Stand United ends with the symphonic version of "Promise Of Apocalypse". Placing the orchestration center stage, this interpretation creates a truly spectacular cinematic display. 

About ELEINE
ELEINE is a multifaceted, intense, epically empowering metal band from Sweden, founded in 2014 and led by vocalist Madeleine Liljestam and guitarist/growler Rikard Ekberg. Their discography includes four studio albums, two electric and even an acoustic EP, which showcase an exquisite balance of darkness with a cinematic and theatrical flair, that collide with the heavy power of influences from thrash, black and death metal. While studio album number five is in the works amidst a headline tour running across 2024-5, We Stand United will be released on September 5, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music.


ELEINE are:
Madeleine Liljestam | vocals
Rikard Ekberg | guitars, vocals
Victor Jonasson | guitars

Amorphis - Borderland - Reigning Phoenix Music OUT 26 September 2025

A groundbreaking and genre-defying heavy metal band, still featuring its original lineup (with a few exceptionally talented additions) and only growing stronger with time? It might sound like a fairytale — until you glance toward Finland. There you’ll find AMORPHIS.
 
Since forming in Helsinki in 1990, the Finnish sextet has fearlessly explored musical frontiers — from raw death metal roots to melodic, progressive and folk-tinged heavy rock, and far beyond. At every turn, Amorphis has expanded musical and lyrical boundaries without compromising their artistic identity.
 
Now, after an unrelenting 35-year journey, AMORPHIS — guitarists Esa Holopainen and Tomi Koivusaari, vocalist Tomi Joutsen, keyboardist Santeri Kallio, bassist Olli-Pekka Laine, and drummer Jan Rechberger — stands on the cusp of a compelling new chapter: welcome to the captivating realm of Borderland.
 
AMORPHIS' fifteenth studio album marks both a continuation and a reinvention of the band’s legacy. With acclaimed Danish producer Jacob Hansen (VOLBEAT,  ARCH ENEMY, AMARANTHE) at the helm for the first time and a revitalized creative spark within the group, Borderland sees AMORPHIS fully embracing their melodic sensibilities while venturing into fresh, uncharted sonic landscapes.

On the opposite end, "Bones" delivers punishing riffs, eastern-tinged melodies, and hard-hitting rhythms.
 
“As a keyboardist, I wanted to prove I could write a heavy, riff-based Amorphis song,”Kallio says. “And to everyone’s surprise, "Bones" ended up being the heaviest track on the album.”
 
And the journey continues. The album’s first single, "Light and Shadow", was crafted with complete creative freedom — unrestricted from constraints or expectations."

AMORPHIS are:
Tomi Joutsen | vocals
Esa Holopainen | guitars
Tomi Koivusaari | guitars
Olli-Pekka “Oppu” Laine | bass
Santeri Kallio | keys
Jan Rechberger | drums & percussion

INDUCTION Unveil "Dark Temptation" With Music Video

Following a series of live dates in support of iconic metallers SAVATAGE, their first-ever, frenetically-acclaimed appearance at Wacken Open Air and the previously-released single "Beyond Horizons," INDUCTION strike again with their brand-new song "Dark Temptation" - a track that fuses razor-sharp riffs, symphonic fire, and high-octane hooks into a relentless storm of sound!
 
Alongside today's release and new album harbinger comes a visually stunning video, set in a high-tech sci-fi universe that mirrors the song’s futuristic energy and dark allure. It’s a bold step that brings INDUCTION’s cinematic vision to the next level - combining crushing symphonic metal power with a world that feels larger than life! "Dark Temptation" cements INDUCTION’s reputation as one of the most exciting rising forces in modern power metal: epic, heavy, and unafraid to push boundaries.
 
Guitarist Tim Kanoa Hansen states: “With ‘Dark Temptation,’ we officially open the gates to our upcoming third album, Love Kills!, set for release in February 2026. This track marks the beginning of INDUCTION’s next chapter - where seduction meets danger, and love dances on the edge of the blade. It’s heavy, it’s dark, it’s sci-fi - and this is only the beginning. Let yourself be pulled into this forbidden tale and experience the thrill of ‘Dark Temptation,’ the first taste of what’s to come. You’ll be hungry for more!”
 
Listen to "Dark Temptation": https://induction.rpm.link/temptationPR
 
Watch the stunning new video below: 

Crafted at Hamburg, Germany’s Chameleon Studios and Boogie Park Studios, the song was produced by Hansen and mixed and mastered by Eike Freese in collaboration with the guitarist. After regrouping in 2024, "Dark Temptation" marks the second track featuring singer Gabriele Gozzi, guitarist Justus Sahlman and drummer Markus “Maks” Felber in INDUCTION’s band history.
 
In support of their forthcoming studio offering, the quintet have been confirmed as supporting act of VISIONS OF ATLANTIS’ and WARKINGS’ 2026 “Pirates & Kings Over Europe” tour, taking them to 20+ cities across the continent in February/March. 

Markus “Maks” Felber (drums), Gabriele Gozzi (vocals), Justus Sahlman (guitars), Dominik Gusch (bass), Tim Kanoa Hansen (guitars)
Photo credit: Tim Rönz

About INDUCTION
 
In the heart of the power metal resurgence stand INDUCTION, a name that has quickly become synonymous with the genre’s new wave. Led by Tim Kanoa Hansen, son of metal legend Kai Hansen (HELLOWEEN, GAMMA RAY), INDUCTION are a force to be reckoned with, igniting stages and captivating audiences worldwide.
 
Their rise began with a bang as their sophomore album, Born From Fire, was released under the wings of Reigning Phoenix Music, earning widespread acclaim and solidifying their status in the genre. Notable praises include being crowned “Power Metal Rising Star of the Year” by Rock Hard in 2022 and drawing the attention of German TV channel SWR, which chronicled their ascent in a documentary.
 
Building on this momentum, INDUCTION embarked on high-profile tours alongside metal giants such as STRATOVARIUS, SONATA ARCTICA, BATTLE BEAST, GAMMA RAY, ACCEPT, and more, showcasing their polarizing live energy and winning over audiences across Europe and also Japan.
 
Though widely considered a progressive power metal band, INDUCTION refuse to be confined by a single genre. With each release, they defy expectations, seamlessly blending and evolving the boundaries of their music while staying true to their unmistakable core.
 
As they march toward the release of their eagerly awaited third album, INDUCTION remain a hungry force in the metal galaxy, fuelled by a passion for music and an unwavering commitment to their craft. With the rallying cry “We bring the heat!” echoing in every riff and chorus, they invite fans to join them on their epic journey through realms of myth, majesty, and POWER!
 
INDUCTION are:
Gabriele Gozzi | vocals
Tim Kanoa Hansen | guitars
Justus Sahlman | guitars
Dominik Gusch | bass
Markus “Maks” Felber | drums
 

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