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*MEGADETH's DAVE MUSTAINE: 'I Don't Think Peop... 33
*SEPULTURA's DERRICK GREEN On ELOY CASAGRANDE's �... 31
*JASON NEWSTED Doesn't Believe METALLICA's 'Ju... 30
*APOCALYPTICA's EICCA TOPPINEN Defends METALLICA's ... 25
*JASON NEWSTED Says METALLICA's Residency At Las Vegas&#... 24
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|||| 20 àïð 2026

FOREIGNER Releases 'Feels Like The First Time' From Upcoming Concert Film 'FOREIGNER 50: In The Eye Of The Storm'

Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame legends FOREIGNER have released "Feels Like The First Time", the first single from their forthcoming album "In The Eye Of The Storm", the official soundtrack to the band's landmark 50th-anniversary concert film captured at Ellis Island and Brooklyn's DUMBO House. April 17 is also opening night of FOREIGNER's highly anticipated new musical "Feels Like The First Time - The Foreigner Musical", at the Little Theater on Long Island University's Post campus, where it will play 11 performances.

The single marks the first release from "In The Eye Of The Storm", out July 17 via Sun Records/Virgin Records and launches a year of celebrations commemorating FOREIGNER's 50th anniversary. The accompanying video for "Feels Like The First Time" features exclusive footage from the forthcoming film.

The new recording of "Feels Like The First Time" celebrates five decades of FOREIGNER vocal excellence, featuring performances from three generations of the band's legendary frontmen — original voice Lou Gramm, twenty-year veteran vocalist Kelly Hansen and lead singer Luis Maldonado. Together, the track captures the evolution of the band's sound across fifty years while honoring the voices that define one of rock's most enduring catalogues.

Filmed on a closed set in the shadow of the Statue Of Liberty, the Ellis Island concert forms the centerpiece of the upcoming feature film, produced by Vertigo Live Productions, which will arrive in theaters worldwide in summer 2026. The historic performance almost never happened. As the band prepared to take the stage, torrential rain, thunder and lightning rolled across New York Harbor, threatening to halt the production entirely. The band pushed forward and delivered the performance, turning what nearly became a force-majeure shutdown into one of the most electrifying concert moments of their fifty-year career.

To coincide with the single release, the band will also launch special limited-edition anniversary merchandise collections, celebrating fifty years of one of rock's most iconic catalogues.

Last May, FOREIGNER lead singer Kelly Hansen announced during the band's performance on the season finale of NBC singing competition "The Voice", that he would be leaving the group at the end of the legendary rockers' summer 2025 tour. In a moving segment that aired nationally, Hansen introduced FOREIGNER guitarist Luis Maldonado as his official successor — a moment that symbolized both an end and a bold new beginning for the powerhouse group.

Before Luis joined FOREIGNER, he was best known as the guitarist for TRAIN and for his work with Lisa Marie Presley.

FOREIGNER replaced original singer Lou Gramm with Hansen in 2005. Jones, the only remaining original member of FOREIGNER, suffered from some health issues beginning in 2011, eventually resulting in heart surgery in 2012. In February 2024, Jones revealed on social media that he was battling Parkinson's disease, which explained his absence from FOREIGNER's live shows since 2022.

Known for their explosive live shows and era-defining anthems, FOREIGNER have sold over 80 million albums worldwide, cementing their place as one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Their catalogue includes timeless hits like "Hot Blooded", "Juke Box Hero", "Waiting For A Girl Like You", "Cold As Ice", "Urgent", "Feels Like The First Time" and the global No. 1 hit "I Want To Know What Love Is".

Photo credit: Krishta Abruzzini
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DARK HORSE PROPHET Release New Single And Video ‘Confessions’

Dark Horse Prophet (DHP) have released their new single “Confessions” via TLG|ZOID, distributed by Virgin Music Group.

Heavy. Atmospheric. Unrelenting. DHP occupies the space where alternative metal sharpens its edge into something undeniably modern: massive low-end, dual-guitar precision, and a vocal presence that fills arenas and club floors alike. Music built on weight, melody, and the kind of groove that locks a crowd in place and does not let go.

“Confessions” is the lead single from Dark Horse Prophet. It is an alternative metal track built around emotional weight, the things left unsaid, and the moment before you say them out loud.

The song is intended for listeners who carry something heavy. It was written to articulate what most people cannot put into words. The music video deepens that intent with visual treatment of every line.

In addition to the release, Dark Horse Prophet have been confirmed for Milwaukee Metal Fest 2026, marking the band’s largest domestic festival slot to date.

“Confessions” is available now on all major streaming platforms.


Dark Horse Prophet is a Los Angeles alternative metal force built on equal parts weight and atmosphere. Thunderous riffs, commanding vocals, and the kind of groove that does not let go. Their sound lives at the collision point of modern metal’s precision and alternative metal’s emotional depth: punishing, melodic,
and completely uncompromising.


With coast-to-coast US tours, back-to-back European runs supporting Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens, and support slots alongside Ill Nino across Mexico and the UK, DHP has proven themselves on some of the most demanding stages in heavy music. Every night is a full-commitment performance. Every release pushes the boundary further.
Dark Horse Prophet is not chasing the heavy-music conversation. They are leading it.

The band also holds seven major gear endorsements, including Dean Guitars, ddrum, Yamaha, and Line 6, further cementing their presence as a rising force in the alternative metal world.

Dark Horse Prophet:
Tom Isom – Lead Vocals
Edward Wisztreich – Guitar
Jonni Law – Guitar
Tony Smith – Bass
Brent Terry – Drums, Vocals
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IMPURE WILHELMINA Release New Single + Video ‘Blanche réalité’

With “Blanche réalité,” post-hardcore vets IMPURE WILHELMINA offer the second glimpse into Le sanglot, their upcoming new album and first entirely in French.

“Blanche réalité” (White Reality) maps a state of persistent, low-grade alienation: a person going through the motions of daily existence, disoriented at the center of a world from which all warmth has been subtracted. The song finds its biographical root in a winter hike Impure Wilhelmina vocalist and guitarist Michael Schindl took, during which he nearly lost himself in the fog. That real, physical experience of erasure sits at the core of the song’s emotional logic, grounding an otherwise interior state in something concrete and felt.

Watch the official music video for “Blanche réalité”:


The video for “Blanche réalité” extends the song’s territory rather than illustrating it. Shot entirely on location in fog-bound natural landscapes with no band performance, the video follows a solitary figure moving through mist-consumed fields and bare woodland without ever arriving anywhere. The palette is almost entirely de-saturated, with animals functioning as the visual counterpart to the lyrics: present, unreachable, moving through the fog with a purposefulness the human figure lacks. Only in the final seconds does color return, a handful of amber leaves around water, an image that offers no clear resolution.

Le Sanglot comes out May 22, 2026 on Season of Mist. Pre-order & pre-save: https://orcd.co/iwlesanglot

Tracklist:

Électricité noire (5:01)
Cent mille plaies (3:43)
Abîme (6:26)
Larmes de joie (5:02)
Dévoreur d’étoiles (6:00)
Train mort (4:03)
Frelon ivre (4:40)
Blanche réalité (5:35)
Demain J’abandonne (4:04)
À Jamais radieuse (5:52)
Full runtime: 50:287. Frelon ivre (4:40)

Born from Geneva, Switzerland’s thriving alternative music scene, IMPURE WILHELMINA has been developing a truly unique blend of sound over the years, somewhere in between metal and progressive-tinged dark rock. The band’s distinctive style is dense, melodic and deeply melancholic, brought to life by introspective lyrics both profoundly humane and chilling, infused with raw emotion.

Impure Wilhelmina was founded in 1996 and made a name for itself in the early 2000s, with a series of iconic albums – I Can’t Believe I was Born in July (2003) and L’amour, la mort, l’enfance perdue (2005) along with several European tours. Little by little, the quartet led by guitarist and vocalist Michael Schindl won over the hearts of a now loyal fan base, who appreciate how the band turns dark themes into a universe of healing sound.

Impure Wilhelmina’s story is also one of perpetual renewal. The band’s sound has evolved from its gritty beginnings to more mature, melodic productions driven by clear magnetic vocals. Black Honey (2014), Radiation (2017) and Antidote (2021), widely appraised by critics, pushed horizons further yet for the band, signed to the label Season of Mist since 2015.

Throughout the years, Impure Wilhelmina has played hundreds of shows across Europe, performing at underground venues and large festivals alike, including opening for icons such as Gojira, Baroness, Amenra, Sólstafir and Crippled Black Phoenix.

Since 2023, the band has been working on its next album to follow Antidote. The process is enriched by the arrival of new guitarist Edouard Nicod, joining Sébastien Dutruel (bass), Mario Togni (drums) and Michael Schindl (guitar and vocals). Their new album entitled Le sanglot, set to be released by Season of Mist in 2026, will showcase the band’s next radical yet organically logical transformation: lyrics entirely in French, unleashing dimensions of sound you wouldn’t expect, with renewed creative energy.

« Rescapé de l’ancien monde, touché par la grâce »

Line-up:
Michael Schindl — Vocals, Guitar
Mario Togni — Drums
Sébastien Dutruel — Bass
Edouard Nicod — Guitar

Production Credits:
Recorded at Kitchen Studio, Geneva, Switzerland.
Produced, engineered & mixed by Yvan Bing at Kitchen Studio, except for track 9, recorded by Serge Morattel at Rec Studio.
Mastered by Magnus Lindberg at Redmount Studio, Stockholm, Sweden.

Recording Line-up:
Michael Schindl
Mario Togni
Sébastien Dutruel
Edouard Nicod

Guest Musician:
Marion Leclercq (Mütterlein) on the track 6, ‘Train Mort’.
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CONSECRATION to Release New Album “Exanimis” on May 29th

CONSECRATION will release their highly anticipated fourth full-length album, “Exanimis”, on CD, LP and MC format on May 29, 2026, via Nuclear Winter Records.

Marking a decisive step forward in songwriting, composition and artistic authority, the album channels the core elements of the band’s early sound and their unwavering love for ’90s death-doom, merging them into a more resolute, heavier sonic identity. Drawing on the glorious British tradition of the genre – from early My Dying Bride and Enchantment to Decomposed – CONSECRATION reinterpret these influences with a contemporary perspective, weaving atmospheric doom, crushing riffs and occasional sharp, impact-driven death metal passages into a cohesive, striking whole.

“Exanimis” is dark, decadent and at times mercilessly biting, balancing melancholic atmospheres with raw intensity. The record demonstrates not only a reverence for the legacy of doom and death but also the band’s relentless drive to expand their own sound, asserting CONSECRATION as a commanding presence in the modern extreme metal scene and setting a new benchmark for their evolving career.


The first single “Herald of Darkness” is streaming HERE.

Tracklist:

01. Herald of Darkness
02. Configuration of Lamentation
03. Submerged in Sand
04. Domain of Despair
05. Harvester of the Forsaken
06. The Bitterness of Grief
07. Descend into Derangement
08. Cold Grey Stone

CONSECRATION are a death-doom metal band from Norwich, UK, formed in 2010. With a relentless blend of crushing doom and old-school death metal, they craft music steeped in death, darkness and despair, steadily carving a global reputation in extreme metal.

Since their debut, “Ephemerality” (2014, UKEM Records), CONSECRATION have grown continuously, reissuing the album in 2023 through Cavernous Records with new artwork and compiling early material in 2018’s “Remembrance”. Their sophomore album, “Fragilium” (2019, Solitude Productions), earned critical acclaim and drew thousands YouTube views, signaling the band’s expanding influence.

The third album, “Cinis” (2022, Redefining Darkness Records), marked a major step forward, featuring guest vocals from Dave Ingram (Benediction) and mastering by Greg Chandler (Esoteric). The album received top reviews from Metal Forces, Distorted Sound, and Blabbermouth.net. Singles such as “The Dweller in the Tumulus” reached thousands of fans online, while live appearances—including Esoteric’s 30th Anniversary and UK Deathfest 2022—solidified their stage presence.

The 2021 EP “Reanimated” was reissued in 2025 as a hand-made limited edition that sold out in two hours, demonstrating the dedication of their growing fanbase.

Their fourth album, “Exanimis”, recorded at Priory Studios, Birmingham, will be released in spring 2026, featuring Paul Jones (Enchantment) and Rich Mumford (Malediction), with in-house artwork and mixing/mastering by Greg Chandler. CONSECRATION continue to push boundaries, evolving relentlessly and establishing themselves as a rising force in international death-doom.

For fans of: Evoken, Cruciamentum, early My Dying Bride, Decomposed

Line-up:

Daniel Bollans – Vocals
Mathew Bollans – Bass
Liam Houseago – Lead & rhythm guitar
Andy Matthews – Lead, rhythm & acoustic guitar
Jorge Figueiredo – Drums and percussion
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SAOSIN Releases First Single And Music Video In Over A Decade

Rock band SAOSIN has signed to Sumerian Records, joining the label's already illustrious roster including BAD OMENS, Poppy, HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD, and more. They have also shared their first new music in over a decade, as well as their first since the band — guitarists Beau Burchell and Phil Sgrosso, bassist Chris Sorenson and drummer Alex Rodriguez — reunited with vocalist Cove Reber. Reber, who initially joined SAOSIN in 2004, sang on the band's first two albums, including certified-gold single "You're Not Alone".

New single "Starting Over Again" marks an explosive return for SAOSIN as well as the first major contribution/collaboration with Sgrosso, who has been with the group since 2016. Sgrosso, along with Burchell, handled all production and mixing for the track, giving the band full creative control from start to finish.

Watch the music video for "Starting Over Again" below.

"'Starting Over Again' is our first new music in over a decade, and it came from the fans calling for it and us realizing the timing finally felt right. The chemistry in this lineup is undeniable, and everything just clicked," SAOSIN shares. "This song is exactly what the title says. A reset, but with more clarity, more urgency, and way more fire behind it. It feels like the start of something big for us, not a throwback, but a step forward."

Fans around the world can look forward to seeing SAOSIN live this year. The band will be on tour this month in New Zealand and Australia, followed by dates in Southeast Asia and appearances at Slam Dunk Festival in the U.K. They'll also be performing at Vans Warped Tour in Mexico City and Aftershock festival in Sacramento later this year, and they'll be setting sail from Miami with the Emo's Not Dead cruise at the top of 2027.

SAOSIN have long occupied a singular space in post-hardcore that bridges melodic ambition with technical precision and an emotional intensity that has resonated across generations of fans. Formed in Orange County, California in the early 2000s, the band quickly became a defining voice of the genre, earning a devoted following through relentless touring and a string of influential releases.

Following the early success of their debut EP and the breakout momentum of their self-titled full-length, SAOSIN solidified their place in the scene with soaring vocals, intricate guitar work, and anthemic songwriting. The band's era with vocalist Cove Reber marked a commercial and creative peak, producing fan favorites including the gold-certified single "You're Not Alone". Over the years, a tight-knit lineup that includes guitarist Beau Burchell, guitarist Phil Sgrosso, bassist Chris Sorenson and drummer Alex Rodriguez has allowed the band to evolve while maintaining the core sound that first defined them.

Now, more than two decades into their career, SAOSIN enter a new chapter with renewed clarity and purpose. Reuniting with Reber and signing to Sumerian Records, the band returns with their first new music in over a decade. Their latest single, "Starting Over Again", signals not just a comeback, but a forward-looking statement that captures the chemistry of a revitalized lineup and the urgency of a band with unfinished business.

With a global touring schedule spanning Australia, Southeast Asia, the U.K. and major festival appearances, SAOSIN continue to prove that their influence hasn't faded but only grown stronger. Balancing legacy with progression, they remain a vital force in modern post-hardcore, pushing their sound forward while honoring the connection that has carried them this far.

Photo credit: Anna Lee

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SYMPHONY X Vocalist RUSSELL ALLEN Shares Emotional New Ballad 'Love Her Like I Do (Ava's Song)' In Honor Of Autism Awareness Month

Acclaimed vocalist Russell Allen, best known as the powerhouse frontman of progressive metal legends SYMPHONY X, has released a deeply personal new ballad titled "Love Her Like I Do (Ava's Song)" in recognition of Autism Awareness Month. The heartfelt track offers an intimate glimpse into Allen's experience as a father raising a daughter on the autism spectrum, delivering a moving message of empathy, acceptance, and unconditional love.

"Love Her Like I Do (Ava's Song)" reflects the emotional journey of watching his daughter grow, navigate social challenges, and find her place in the world. The song blends Allen's signature vocal intensity with a tender, vulnerable performance, resulting in one of the most personal recordings of his career.

"The song was written over several years navigating the evolution of our daughter's life on the spectrum," Allen explains. "Observing her behaviors that most would consider quirky became normal to me and my family. It became increasingly difficult for her to make friends in her life, though we tried several groups and activities for her to explore. Her social anxiety would overwhelm her senses and she would just retreat into her 'world' and stim a lot."

Allen continues, "The heartbreaking moment for me was when she came home from school and asked, 'Why are the kids playing and having fun but not with me?' The fact that she was so aware of her situation was both enlightening and difficult for us, because we knew she couldn't change who she was for acceptance of her peers. But why should she? So the song became my wish — a father's wish — for my daughter to find a world full of people who would accept her and love her the way we do."

Released during Autism Awareness Month, the track aims to shine a light on the experiences of families navigating life on the spectrum while encouraging compassion and understanding. Through "Love Her Like I Do (Ava's Song)", Allen hopes to foster greater awareness and celebrate the beauty of individuality.

"Love Her Like I Do (Ava's Song)" is available now on all major streaming platforms.

Listeners interested in learning more about autism and how to support individuals and families in their communities are encouraged to explore resources from organizations such as the Autism Society Of America and Autism Speaks. These groups provide educational materials, support networks, and guidance on advocacy, inclusion, and understanding life on the autism spectrum.

Russell Allen is an American heavy metal vocalist celebrated for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and exceptional versatility across progressive metal, power metal, and hard rock. Born on July 19, 1971, in Long Beach, California , Allen has earned international recognition as one of the most respected and influential singers in modern metal.

Allen is best known as the longtime frontman of SYMPHONY X, which he joined in 1995. With Allen at the helm, the band achieved global acclaim through landmark albums such as "The Divine Wings Of Tragedy" (1997),"V: The New Mythology Suite" (2000),"The Odyssey" (2002) and "Paradise Lost" (2007). His commanding vocal range and emotive delivery have been central to the band's signature blend of technical precision and melodic intensity.

Beyond SYMPHONY X, Allen has showcased his versatility through numerous collaborations and side projects. He formed the melodic metal supergroup ALLEN/LANDE alongside Norwegian vocalist Jørn Lande, releasing several critically acclaimed albums that highlighted his ability to balance power with melody. He also fronted the hard rock band ADRENALINE MOB, further demonstrating his adaptability across heavier and groove-oriented styles.

In addition to his work in the metal and rock scenes, Allen has captivated audiences worldwide as a vocalist with the TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA (TSO). Known for its elaborate live productions and symphonic rock sound, TSO has provided Allen with a platform to reach millions of fans through extensive arena tours, particularly during the holiday season. His performances with the orchestra showcase not only his vocal power but also his theatrical presence and emotional expressiveness.

Continuing to evolve artistically, Russell Allen is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the launch of a new rock-focused project. This venture marks a return to his hard rock roots, emphasizing powerful melodies, blues-infused vocals, and high-energy songwriting while retaining the intensity and passion that have defined his career.

Allen's vocal style is often compared to legendary singers such as Ronnie James Dio, characterized by its rich tone, emotional depth, and commanding presence. His lyrics frequently explore themes of mythology, philosophy, and personal struggle, contributing to the epic and narrative-driven nature of his music.

With a career spanning decades, Russell Allen continues to influence the metal and rock communities through his recordings and electrifying live performances. His dedication to his craft and unmistakable voice have solidified his status as one of the premier vocalists in the genre.

Press photo courtesy of Secret Service Publicity
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RICHIE FAULKNER Wants To Take ELEGANT WEAPONS As Far As He Can: 'It's Always Been In My Mind' That JUDAS PRIEST Is 'Not Gonna Be Around Forever'

On the latest episode of the Talk Louder podcast, hosted by veteran music journalist "Metal Dave" Glessner and lifelong hard rock/metal vocalist Jason McMaster, JUDAS PRIEST guitarist Richie Faulkner, who is currently promoting the upcoming second album from his ELEGANT WEAPONS side project, was asked where he sees himself "maybe in 10 years" after PRIEST has retired from touring and making studio albums. He responded (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET): "That's a great question. It's a really good question. I put ELEGANT WEAPONS together because of that, really. Because of joining a band like PRIEST on the farewell tour, it's always been in my mind that they're not gonna be around forever. I joined them 40 years in. [PRIEST guitarist] Glenn Tipton told me they're not gonna be around forever. We're all aware of where they are in their career. So it was a conscious thing for me to think, 'Well, what am I gonna do after?' And this band that I put together was part of that."

Richie continued: "I'm really fortunate that we got to the second [ELEGANT WEAPONS] album. I didn't want it to be a one-and-done COVID album. So I'm really happy that we got to the second one. And hopefully we can build up more of a personality. You know what it's like, when the band has got a sound, and you just want it to build up its own personality and its own journey. Whether it's two or three or four albums, I'll be like, stoked. But like PRIEST did, they carved their niche out of nothing, and [BLACK] SABBATH and [IRON] MAIDEN and all these bands. And just to do something similar would be great. If we could put this band together and go from one album to two album — you know what I mean? And that's kind of what I put the band together for. So, as long as I can do it, I would love to try and do it and take it as far as I can."

Faulkner added: "We all know it's tough [for bands] out there. It's expensive to tour. Costs are rising, and no one's getting paid any more money. Things are going up all the time. But I think I speak for everyone — even if everyone did this and broke even, they'd still do it because of the love for doing it. 'Cause they love to make music, and there's a drive in us that wants to make music and put it out there for people to hear. That's why we're all doing it. So, I'd love to play as long as I could, as long as my health allows, like everyone says. So we'll see if that happens."

ELEGANT WEAPONS' sophomore album, "Evolution", will be released on April 24 via Exciter Records.

The official lyric video for the LP's lead single, "Bridges Burn", can be seen below.

"Evolution" will be released digitally and on CD on April 24, with a special edition vinyl pressing to follow later in the year.

ELEGANT WEAPONS features a formidable lineup: Richie Faulkner (JUDAS PRIEST),vocalist Ronnie Romero (RAINBOW, MSG),bassist Dave Rimmer (URIAH HEEP) and drummer Christopher Williams (ACCEPT).

"Evolution" was co-produced by Faulkner alongside Andy Sneap (JUDAS PRIEST's touring guitarist, who also produced PRIEST's "Invincible Shield" and "Firepower" albums),with the recording spanning Nashville, Europe, and France — a truly global effort reflecting the band's international pedigree.

Exciter Records and its publishing affiliate Reach Music, recently acquired JUDAS PRIEST's landmark early albums "Rocka Rolla" and "Sad Wings Of Destiny", making the partnership with Richie Faulkner and ELEGANT WEAPONS a natural continuation of that legacy into a new era.

ELEGANT WEAPONS made its first two festival appearances in June 2023 at Hellfest in Clisson, France and at Graspop Metal Meeting in Dessel, Belgium.

ELEGANT WEAPONS' debut album, "Horns For A Halo", was released in May 2023 via Nuclear Blast. The LP was recorded with bassist Rex Brown (PANTERA, DOWN) and drummer Scott Travis (JUDAS PRIEST) and was helmed by Sneap.

ELEGANT WEAPONS played additional shows in Europe through July 2023. The trek included performances with PANTERA, festival appearances and headlining shows.
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BILLY CORGAN: 'I Patently Refuse To Use A.I. In My Music Creation'

In a new interview with the And The Writer Is... podcast, SMASHING PUMPKINS leader Billy Corgan spoke about how artificial intelligence (A.I.) music generators are becoming surprisingly advanced, with programs such as Suno, Udio and other generative audio systems now able to create songs that sound remarkably close to human-made music. He said in part (as transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET):  "You didn't ask me, but I'm gonna make a declaratory statement. I refuse, refuse, patently refuse to use A.I. in my music creation. Because, to me, it's a deal with the devil. Simple. Whether it's the Promethean fire myth or whatever, to me you're literally leaning into the thing that will destroy you. Period. So that's why I'm not gonna mess with it, because the pressure, the inspiration, the, the soul searching, the 'I'm not sure I got anything else to say', that's all part of the journey that a songwriter needs to go to. Now, if it was the guy in my band or somebody I met through my friend Shooter Jennings or whatever, and we're writing songs together, that's a real person with real feelings and real blood coursing through their veins. And maybe someday we're gonna argue about a publishing split. But if we're arguing, it means there's something of value that we're arguing over. If my new buddy, my new running buddy, is pick your app or app to still be made, that shit's never gonna end. I'm saying it's good that a songwriter has a doubt, it's good that a songwriter's not sure they have anything left to say, it's good that a songwriter has to think of a new chord that they haven't thought of. That's where the magic comes from, and until that is proven otherwise, I'm sticking with the game I'm in."

Billy added: "Maybe people will listen to me and continue to listen to me into my old age because they know it's coming from me. That actually might be part of the sale."

Elaborating on his previous comment that using A.I. during the songwriting process is making "a deal with the devil", Billy said: "I'm saying I'm making a bigger argument. We, us, we're flirting with the thing that will destroy us as a economy, as a business, as a movement. We're asking to be eradicated. We're giving them our information. They already have all our other information. God knows what the labels are doing. Am I gonna get a check someday for 62 cents? Is that coming? But I'm saying, on a spiritual level to lean into it is to ask to be wiped out. You're asking to be wiped out."

Regarding the long-term impact of A.I. on the music-creation process, Billy said: "I think the real fallow winter that's coming is you're gonna lose generations of songwriters.

"Over the last 20 years, we've seen the rise of the producer, the star producer, where the producer is almost more important, particularly like [pop producer] Max Martin, the producer-writer is more important than the artist, at least how the business animates itself," Corgan continued. "So now you're gonna see the rise of the guy who knows how to run the programs better than the other guy or girl. It'd be like Dr. Joe. Dr. Joe is the king of something, something, something. And he'll be branded and he'll have a sponsorship and he'll be doing commercials and 'you can be just like me. Look, I got a Benz in the driveway and I'm dah, dah, dah, dah, dah, because I'm just really good at knowing how to put this information together. I don't even know fucking music. I just know what I like.'"

"Every generation kind of does its 'Oh my God.' But let's face it, this shit's gonna wipe out a lot of people," Billy predicted. "This might be the most cataclysmic technological innovation in this town since the change from silence to talking pictures. A lot of people gonna lose their gig and there's gonna be a lot of new faces who are suddenly boy or girl wonder because they know how to press some fricking buttons."

Three years ago, Corgan told the "Zach Sang Show" that he believed A.I. would "change music forever". He explained: "Because once young artists figure out that they can use A.I. to game the system and write them a better song, they're not going to spend 10,000 hours in a basement like I did.

"Ultimately, art is about discernment," he continued. "Somebody was telling me the other day how a famous rap artist would work, they would bring in all these different people and they would pick the beat they were most attracted to. Now, let's change it to AI. 'Hey, A.I. Give me 50 beats from the 50 best rap songs of all time. Mmm, I like number 37.' That inspires me. Are they ripping it off? Not really. Because I did the same thing. I just did it analog. I listened to 10,000 songs — so what's the difference? So it will really be about those who can discern, even if it's A.I. presenting them with choices."

He also said A.I. would make it more difficult for organic artists to make themselves heard in an already oversaturated market.

"The problem with it is, if you're an organic artist like I am, it's going to be really hard to compete with a whole bunch of people who don't know how to write songs but have good discernment, can't sing but have Auto-Tune," he explained. "You think there's a lot of bad music coming out now, just wait."

Beyond founding and fronting THE SMASHING PUMPKINS, Billy stands out as a solo artist, producer, songwriter, poet, wrestling promoter, podcast host, and café owner. His solo catalog comprises "TheFutureEmbrace" (2005),"Aegea" (2014),"Ogilala" (2017) and, most recently, "Cotillions" (2019). In the studio, he has notably collaborated with everyone from Tony Iommi of BLACK SABBATH, Rick Ocasek, CHEAP TRICK, Ray Davies, NEW ORDER, Marianne Faithful, and SCORPIONS to KORN, PHANTOGRAM, THE VERONICAS and CODE ORANGE. He has also contributed music to soundtracks such as "Ransom", directed by Academy Award winner Ron Howard, "Stigmata" and "Spun", to name a few. He released his first poetry book, "Blinking With Fists", in 2004. A lifelong wrestling aficionado, he owns and serves as president of the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) — home to a dynamic roster and bombastic pay-per-view spectacles. He notably owns Madame ZuZu's Tea House in Highland Park, where he often performs intimate surprise sets. Corgan also remains a staunch animal advocate who supports no-kill shelters such as PAWS Chicago. The Chicago native is constantly writing and recording new music.
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[= ||| 20 àïð 2026

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|||| 20 àïð 2026

VISIONATICA Introduce Their New Singer Levina Scheller

The Nuremberg-based symphonic metal band VISIONATICA is back to full strength!
Levina Scheller takes over on vocals!

Levina is 22 years old and comes from Lauf an der Pegnitz. She lives for music. Since 2020, she has been writing and producing her own songs and is currently studying digital music production in Munich—with the clear goal of turning her passion into a career. She discovered her love for singing at the age of 6 and has been continuously developing her voice through vocal lessons ever since. She also loves writing her own lyrics—in German and English.

Levina herself says: “Even though I have big shoes to fill as a singer, it means a lot to me to now be part of Visionatica and to have the opportunity to take on the role of lead singer.
I want to preserve the band’s musical style while also bringing my own voice and personality to the songs—I’m looking forward to everything that’s to come.”
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|||| 20 àïð 2026

SACRIVERSUM Reveal Title Track of Upcoming Album “Before the Birth of Light”

SACRIVERSUM were formed in 1992 in Łódź (Poland), playing old school Death Metal with progressive elements and atmospheric sounds, making their complex mixture special and unique. Their debut album „The Shadow Of The Golden Fire“ was released in 1994, at a time when a lot of Death Metal bands started to push their boundaries and became more experimental. Their music was a perfect fit along with legendary bands like PESTILENCE, DEATH, GOREFEST & ATHEIST. And this counts for SACRIVERSUM and their upcoming new album „Before The Birth Of Light“ even more.

Today, SACRIVERSUM kick off their third single of the album title track “Before the Birth of Light”.

Stream the Track: https://save-it.cc/fireflash/before
Bandcamp: https://ff-sacriversum.bandcamp.com/track/before-the-birth-of-light
“For every soldier in the Viking army, the ultimate goal of battle was, as we know, to reach Valhalla, the mythical land of fallen warriors. One had to die a glorious death in battle to reach the gates of Valhalla; there was no other way to get there. But in a modern, more mythical sense, would the golden lights of Valhalla resemble the Christian paradise? Not necessarily. It is rather a symbol of a certain enlightenment, of achieving a state of awareness of what one needs to know about oneself, one’s path and its limits. The title of this song is connected to the title of the entire album through light, or enlightenment”, comments the band.

The album „Before The Birth Of Light“ will be released on May 8th and is available on CD, limited vinyl (300 copies) and digital.

Pre-Order the album: https://save-it.cc/fireflash/before-the-birth-of-light
Bandcamp: https://ff-sacriversum.bandcamp.com/album/before-the-birth-of-light

The album stands for raw Death Metal, with those incomparable Hammond organs. DEATH meets DEEP PURPLE. Their sound is a mixture of the above mentioned acts and is not too far apart from the latest BLOOD INCANTATION album. Both combine tradition with fiction. You have to hear and experience this Death Metal gem. Since 2022, SACRIVERSUM are back and continue, where they ended up with their debut album. Those nine new tracks on „Before The Birth Of Light“ are possibly the best songs SACRIVERSUM ever composed – once you got into it, they don’t let you go. It is a dark ride into another dimension, another time and another space. You are captured in their own world, in a time before the birth of light.

Also check out

First single “Let Us Ride The World”
Stream Track: https://save-it.cc/fireflash/let-us-ride-the-world
Watch Video: https://youtu.be/bVCUm0FpE_A
Second single “March Of The Giants”

Stream Track: https://save-it.cc/fireflash/march-of-the-giants
Watch Video: https://youtu.be/ubLsJjsOiqU
SACRIVERSUM is:
Remigiusz „Remo” Mielczarek – bass, vocals
Krystian „MacKozer” Kozerawski – guitar
Olaf “Olafsson” Kozerawski – guitar
Krzysztof „Baran” Baranowicz – keyboards
Jan „Trocin” Traciński – drums
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[= ||| 20 àïð 2026


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|||| 19 àïð 2026

ELECTRIC MOB Share New Live Performance Video ‘4 Letters’

Brazilian rock trio ELECTRIC MOB are proud to share the new live version of “4 letters,” taken from the upcoming digital deluxe edition of their sophomore album ‘2 Make U Cry & Dance,’ set for release on July 10th via Frontiers Music Srl. The digital deluxe edition will feature the full studio release alongside six live tracks performed at Capital Moto Week 2024.

On the live version of “4 letters,” the band shares:

“It’s a deep honest declaration of the reality of love. For someone, something or simply yourself. We often downplay or trivialize feelings like it’s nothing, and ‘4 letters’ is a wake up call to love and to mean it.”


Without hiding their classic rock influences and driven by a modern, restless vision, ELECTRIC MOB are unafraid to break away from clichés and push rock fans beyond their comfort zone.

Hailing from Curitiba, Brazil, the band burst onto the scene like a mad dog on the loose with their debut album ‘DISCHARGE’ (2020). Raw, unapologetic, and emotionally charged, the record broke through borders, surprising international audiences and carving out space on rock radio stations throughout the United States and Europe.

In January 2023, the band released their second album, ‘2 MAKE U CRY & DANCE,’ earning positive reviews across multiple countries. This was followed by a Brazilian headlining tour through 12 cities in six different states. The momentum continued as ELECTRIC MOB joined forces with Project 46 for a nationwide run that expanded into Brazil’s Northeast.

Their live streak carried into 2024 and 2025 with a strong presence at major festivals, including Summer Breeze Brasil, now known as Bangers Open Air, where Billboard Brasil cited the band as “one of the most praised performances of the event.” Additional highlights include a main stage appearance at Capital Moto Week, which resulted in the live recording ‘Live @ Capital Moto Week,’ and performances at Porão do Rock (DF), Mundial Rock (SC), SBO Rock Fest (SP), and HackTown (MG).


On the upcoming deluxe release, vocalist Renan Zonta comments:

“We’re thrilled to release this super special edition of something we’re very proud of. The DLX version of our second album ‘2 Make U Cry & Dance’ comes with kickass live and raw cuts and it’s here to reinsure the power inside this beautiful cake. Give it an extra spin while we’re cooking a new one ⚡️😈”

Guitarist Ben Hur adds:

“We’ve always considered ourselves a band forged on stage. That’s where everything truly comes to life. In this deluxe release of our second album, we’re capturing a part of that energy and sharing it with fans who haven’t yet had the chance to experience it with us in person.”

Pre-Save the ‘2 Make U Cry & Dance’ Digital Deluxe Edition HERE

‘2 Make U Cry & Dance’ Digital Deluxe Edition Track List:

1. Sun Is Falling
2. Will Shine
3. IT’S GONNA HURT
4. By The Name (nanana)
5. Soul Stealer
6. 4 letters
7. Locked n Loaded
8. Saddest Funk Ever
9. Thy Kingdom Come
10. Love Cage
11. WATCH ME (I’m Today’s News)
12. WATCH ME (I’m Today’s News) (Alternative Version)
13. Will Shine (Live at Capital Moto Week, Brasília)
14. IT’S GONNA HURT (Live at Capital Moto Week, Brasília)
15. By The Name (nanana) (Live at Capital Moto Week, Brasília)
16. 4 Letters (Live at Capital Moto Week, Brasília)
17. Sun Is Falling (Live at Capital Moto Week, Brasília)
18. Love Cage (Live at Capital Moto Week, Brasília)

ELECTRIC MOB are:
Renan Zonta – Vocals
Ben Hur Auwarter – Guitar
Mateus Cestaro – Drums
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[= ||| 19 àïð 2026

DEIMOS’ DAWN Release Cover of Depeche Mode’s ‘A Question of Time’ with Official Video

A few weeks ago, Berlin thrashers DEIMOS’ DAWN not only announced their upcoming live album (Live To The Slaughter, out May 8), but also teased a separate surprise. Now the cat is out of the bag: the band has taken on the Depeche Mode classic “A Question of Time” and turned it into a punchy thrash metal version.

Anyone who ever doubted that a 80s synth pop song can’t be a headbanger should definitely give this one a spin. Frontman Marc Grewe once again proves that he is not just Germany’s true death metal allrounder, but also has a wide vocal range, putting his own stamp on the track.

“A Question of Time” is out now on all major streaming platforms, as well as a video featuring studio recording footage on YouTube.


Next Live Date

April, Kiel “Mosh im Mai” (Live To The Slaughter Record Release)
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|||| 19 àïð 2026

OCCULT MASTER to Release Self-Titled Debut Album on 14th August, First Single ‘Island of Leper’ Out Now

Finnish Heavy Doom band Occult master are set to release their self-titled debut album on August 14th 2026 via Inverse Records. The first single ‘Island of Leper’ is unleashed today and it’s available on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/occult-master-island

The band comments:

“A contemplative, multi-part, poignantly beautiful and overwhelmingly heavy progressive metal epic takes listeners on a sombre, melancholic journey, centered around two former lovers who are struck by a devastating misfortune after contracting leprosy. The couple, beloved of youth, meet on the island of the lepers, where they reminisce about their wonderful youth. The island, their final resting place, ultimately embraces them in its leprous embrace, where they will find an ultimate fulfilment.”

–Composed & lyrics by Ari Eskola
–ISRC: FI3FC2552702
–Cover art by Kimmo Lukkari


Occult Master Track list:

Just Another Nail in the Failier’s Coffin
Island of Leper
Heavy Metal Madness
Lucifer’s Henchman
Ground of the Damned
Who Is Our Enemy
Sorry Soul
Soothing Swamp
Gnarly Geezer
–Recorded by Jussi Risto
–Mixed & mastered by Kimmo Lukkari
–Cover art by Jarno Vesa
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|||| 19 àïð 2026

BEYOND CREATION Announce 15th Anniversary Reissue of “The Aura”, Out July 17th

From the beginning, it was clear that Beyond Creation possessed a special aura. Back in 2011, the Montréal four-piece quickly proved they were the next progressive evolution in technical death metal with their very first album. Now, fifteen years later, the genre still basks in the enduring glow of The Aura.

“Laden with atmosphere, The Aura stands out from the crowded 2011 tech/death scene thanks to the prominent use of fretless bass, varying drum patterns, and experimentation with tempo”, wrote Metal Injection in a recent retrospective. “Combine that with a variety of searing vocal styles and classically-influenced, lightening-fast sweeps, The Aura is a decadent joy to the mechanically and sonically minded”.

As the Independence Music Award winners and Canadian Grammy nominees prepare to perform their landmark debut in full for the very first time on their upcoming Latin American tour, today, Beyond Creation are announcing a special anniversary reissue of The Aura. The new limited-edition colored vinyl variant is cut at 45 RPM for superior sound quality. It comes with a double-sided full color poster and an embroidered patch.

“Fifteen years ago, The Aura marked the beginning of our sonic journey”, Beyond Creation lead vocalist and guitarist Simon Girard reflects. “Our celebration of its 15th anniversary officially begins with this special limited-edition reissue. Join us in the celebration during our upcoming tour of Latin America with our special guests Fallujah, where we will perform the album in its entirety for the first time ever, as well as our new single ‘Reverence’”.


The special 15th anniversary edition of The Aura comes out July 17, 2026 on Season of Mist. Pre-order: https://redirect.season-of-mist.com/BeyondCreationAll

Tracklist

No Request for the Corrupted (4:56)
Coexistence (7:37)
Chromatic Horizon (1:54)
Omnipresent Perception (6:12)
Injustice Revealed (3:55)
Le détenteur (2:35)
The Aura (7:07)
Social Disability (5:30)
Elevation Path (1:45)
The Deported (11:09)
Total runtime: 52:09
Listen to the full album stream on the Season of Mist YouTube channel:
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[= ||| 19 àïð 2026

NUKEM Celebrate Release of New “The Grave Remains” Album with Video for ‘Policies of Hate’

California has always been fertile ground for thrash metal, leading the charge with some of the genre’s most legendary acts. San Diego’s NUKEM follows in the footsteps of thrash metal’s founding fathers, producing the kind of time-tested, neck-breaking thrash that invokes deep nostalgia while still sounding fresh and modern.

The thrashers are now pummeling fans with a performance video for the single “Policies of Hate,” which can now be found at THIS LOCATION.

The track is taken from the band’s new sophomore full-length, ‘The Grave Remains,’ which was released on April 10th, via Redefining Darkness. The album can be purchased in the U.S. HERE and the rest of the world HERE.


The artwork for ‘The Grave Remains’ was created by Megan Mushi and can be found below along with the tracklist.

Tracklist + Running Times:

The Dead Draw (01:04)
Policies of Hate (05:30) [WATCH]
Random Acts of Violence (04:37) [WATCH]
Tactics of Terror (03:49) [WATCH]
Into the Kill Zone (04:39) [WATCH]
Unconditional Surrender (06:18)
Sentenced to Die (00:59)
Curse of the Devil’s Bible (04:49)
Empress of Evil (04:55)
Torture, Murder, Mutilate! (05:34) [WATCH]
Pro Mortuis (04:39)
Don’t Believe a Word (Thin Lizzy Cover) (02:14)

Nukem is a Thrash metal force from San Diego, California, that delivers an honest, old school thrash attack. Formed in 2012, Nukem released their 2016 debut album “The Unholy Trinity,’ which was mixed & mastered by Ulrich Wild (Pantera, Static X, Dethklok, White Zombie) and was released via Sleaszy Rider Records out of Greece.

Nukem had entered the studio in 2024 once again with Ulrich Wild to work on our second album. Ten songs of pure molten metal! Some songs are full on unstoppable Bay Area style Thrash metal violence while others are more of a mid tempo power groove. Nukem has now forged a new union with Redefining Darkness for the release of their oncoming onslaught… stay tuned!

Recording Lineup:
Steve Brogden – Vocals & Guitar
Norm Leggio – Drums
Don Lauder – Bass

Live Lineup:
Steve Brogden – Vocals & Guitar
Norm Leggio – Drums
Don Lauder – Bass
Xander Gambini – Guitar

Special Guests:
Gary Holt (Exodus, Slayer) – Solo on ‘Empress of Evil’
Lee Altus (Exodus/Heathen) – Solo on ‘Don’t believe a word’
Rob Cavestany (Death Angel) – Solo on ‘Into the Kill Zone’
Russ Tippons (Satan) – Solo on ‘Random Acts of Violence’
Laura Christine (Dark Angel/Warface) – Solo on ‘Empress of Evil’

Cover Art: Megan Mushi

Produced by Steve Brogden & Nukem
Recorded at The Wilderness with Ulrich Wild & Forge Audio with Steve Brogden
Forge Audio with Steve Brogden
Mixed by Ulrich Wild
Mastered by Maor Appelbaum
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|||| 19 àïð 2026

CRYPTOPSY Release Uncensored Version of ‘Malicious Needs’ Video

30 years since they first donned metal’s crown of horns, Cryptopsy remain insatiable as ever. The Montreal legends’ latest album, An Insatiable Violence, received their second nomination for Best Metal/Hard Music Album at this year’s JUNO Awards, a category they won two years ago. Now, as they prepare to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their Decibel Hall of Fame inducted album, None So Vile, with a headlining run on this year’s Decibel Magazine Tour, Cryptopsy are proving once more why they are the most vile band in death metal.

Today, Cryptopsy are releasing the uncensored version of the music video for “Malicious Needs”, the second single and harrowing finale of An Insatiable Violence. While initially labeled too vile for unfiltered consumption on YouTube, the uncensored video fully reveals the explicit desires feeding our digital fantasies.

“‘Malicious Needs’ is the last song that we wrote for An Insatiable Violence and right away, we were all completely enamored with it”, Cryptopsy vocalist Matt McGachy says. “We are thrilled to finally unleash the fully uncensored version of the video, which brings the dystopian horror story behind our latest album writhing and screaming into the light! Come see us perform this song during our headline set on this year’s Decibel Magazine Tour, which starts this month! ”.

“Between the strength of the material on their latest release, An Insatiable Violence, and the anniversary celebration of their landmark, None So Vile, 2026 is clearly the year of Peak Cryptopsy”, Decibel Magazine’s Editor-In-Chief Albert Mudrian says. “We couldn’t be more honored to bring the band’s paramount present and potent past together to headline this year’s Decibel Magazine Tour”.


Chat with Matt McGachy ahead of Cryptopsy’s headline run on The Decibel Magazine Tour during this Saturday’s Reddit AMA.
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|||| 19 àïð 2026

Symphonic Power Metal Opera Sensations LIVA Sign with Wormholedeath

Wormholedeath is proud to announce the signing of Canada’s premier Symphonic Power Metal Opera force, LIVA, for the worldwide reissue of their masterful album, Ecce Mundus, due for release on May 29, 2026.

Ten years after their previous release, Liva returns with a new album, Ecce Mundus (“This is the world”). According to composer Pier Carlo Liva, this is his most ambitious work since Requiem (2002).

The album pushes the band’s signature blend of power metal and classical music even further. Expansive sonic exploration and detailed orchestration open up a broader instrumental scope. Liva also returns to Latin texts, drawing from medieval sources and themes rooted in Antiquity. The record explores the glory of Rome, the story of Samson and Delilah, and enduring human flaws such as greed, corruption, and hypocrisy—issues that remain unchanged from ancient times to today.


Known for its symphonic power metal opera approach, Liva is among the first Canadian acts to merge classical music and metal in this format.

The lineup on the new album features Nadine Guertin (soprano), Pier Carlo Liva (death and tenor vocals, guitars, electronics), Martin Tremblay (bass), and Claude Lacroix (drums). Following the recording, Philippe Leblanc joined the band as the new drummer.

Liva’s back catalog includes Requiem (2002), a heavy metal interpretation of the Latin requiem mass; De Insulis (2007), based on the Latin texts of 12th-century theologian Alain de Lille; and Human Abstract (2013). In March 2002, the band performed live with a 13-piece chamber orchestra for a Radio-Canada broadcast. The following year, they received the MIMI award for “artiste le plus avant-gardiste” (most avant-garde artist), recognizing their fusion of classical and metal.

Over the years, Liva has shared the stage with acts such as Voivod, Gorguts, Nightwish, Kataklysm, and Therion.

The album also features key collaborators. Christophe Pilon contributed orchestrations, while Christophe Viau created the album artwork. Long-time collaborator Patrick Bouchard, who has worked with the band since 2002, handled the graphic design.

Ecce Mundus was recorded and mixed by Pier Carlo Liva at Magic Forest Studio. Mastering was completed by Maxime Lacroix at House of Gain Studio.

Tracklist:
1-De avaritia et luxuria mundi
2-Materiae summa
3-Ecce mundus demundatur
4-Sunt 3m34s
5-Samson & Dalila I
6-Samson & Dalila II
7-Obscura
😯 Roma nobilis
9-Silence

Experience the power and grandeur of Ecce Mundus through the video for “Samson & Dalila, Pt. 1″:

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[= ||| 19 àïð 2026

BOYS FROM HEAVEN Unveil New Video Single ‘Hold Your Heart’ from Upcoming Album

Denmark’s finest AOR export, Boys From Heaven, unveil today a new single, “Hold Your Heart”, along with an official video, ahead of their upcoming third studio album, “The Wanderer”, set for release on May 22, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.

The band commented: “Every great rock album needs a grand ballad. “Hold Your Heart” is the hopeful melancholic flipside to our previous single. Where “How Long” was a tale of regret, “Hold You Heart” is the hopeful story of a hopeless romantic, the longingly naive inner monologue of a dreamer. And if the saxophone fade-out towards the end doesn’t immediately transport you to a simpler, more carefree time, then we don’t know what will!”


Pre-Order “The Wanderer” HERE

“The Wanderer” marks a significant milestone for Boys From Heaven, as their debut release for Frontiers Music. Known for their unique blend of 80s rock nostalgia and fresh, forward-thinking songwriting, the band continues to carve out their own niche – one that evokes the timeless class of Toto, the smooth sophistication of the L.A. soft rock scene, and their own Scandinavian melodic sensibility.

Produced by frontman Chris Catton together with the band, and mixed and mastered by genre heavyweight Erik Martensson (Eclipse, W.E.T.), this new chapter sees Boys From Heaven refining their sound to its purest form.

The result is an album that shines with lush, almost luxurious arrangements, velvety layers of keys and sax, pristine harmonies, and melodies that stay with you long after the music stops.

The band stated: “Recording the last record ourselves and having Erik Martensson take care of mixing and mastering was a winning combination, so we had no doubt that we wanted to do the same thing with “The Wanderer”.

“With the new album we’ve leaned even harder into that 1980’s synthesizer-driven power rock sound, and our fans can definitely look forward to an album which is high-energy right from the first chord is struck, all the way to when the last note has rung out”, they added. “We can’t wait to share it with you all!”


With special guest contributions from Lucas Szczyrbak (bass) and Michael Catton (background vocals), the album is a true ensemble effort, executed with taste, precision, and emotion. From the first track to the last, the band demonstrates their deep respect for the genre’s legacy while injecting it with rich textures, impeccable songwriting, and a clarity of vision that’s rare in modern melodic rock.

Warm yet vibrant, technical yet deeply human, this album confirms that Boys From Heaven are not just students of AOR – they’re master craftsmen.

“The Wanderer” Tracklist:

1. I’ll Wait
2. Hotline
3. Hold Your Heart
4. Street Life
5. Say Goodbye
6. How Long
7. Eileen
8. I Will Never Let You Down
9. Time Is On Our Side
10. Till The Bitter End

Line Up:
Chris Catton – Lead vocals
Jonas Klintström Larsen – Saxophone
Mads Noyé – Keyboards
Mads Schaumann – Guitar and backing vocals
Søren Viig Mathiesen – Drums

Guests:
Lucas Szczyrbak – Bass
Michael Catton – Background vocals
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|||| 19 àïð 2026

PRO-PAIN Release New Single ‘Scorched Earth’ with Lyric Video

“And so it begins…”: Hardcore juggernauts PRO-PAIN share the third single from their upcoming album, Stone Cold Anger, out May 15, 2026 via Napalm Records. “Scorched Earth” sets the tone for the future, accompanied by heavy riffs, catchy guitars, and sing-alongs. A sinister yet fiercely anthemic track, “Scorched Earth” is a pummeling demonstration of power, perfectly fitting for the band’s first album in 11 years. PRO-PAIN are back—and they stayed on top of their heavy game!

Gary Meskil about “Scorched Earth”:
“Scorched Earth explores what happens when ordinary people are pushed to their breaking point. Drawing inspiration from films such as the 1990s Michael Douglas drama Falling Down, the lyrics examine how pressure, frustration, and a sense of powerlessness can build over time. The song speaks to themes of reckoning, consequence, and the desire for genuine accountability”.


Legendary New York hardcore juggernauts PRO-PAIN make their debut on Napalm Records with their sixteenth studio album, Stone Cold Anger, out on May 15, 2026. Their first release in eleven years showcases the band’s explosive energy in its purest form: Stone Cold Anger unfolds heavy, angry, and ready as ever—proving PRO-PAIN haven’t lost even an ounce of strength. An exceptionally catchy offering, the new album fortifies its groovy melodies and stirring guitar riffs with furious and inciting, anthemic vocals, turning the ten new songs into worthy follow-ups to their 3.5M-stream hit “Voice Of Rebellion” (2015).

Stone Cold Anger is an enthralling, memorable, and triumphant milestone for PRO-PAIN, and an impressive demonstration of power. See you in the pit!

Gary Meskil about Stone Cold Anger:
“Thank you to our fans worldwide for 35 years of unwavering support. After a decade away from the recording studio, we return with Stone Cold Anger—an album forged from global tension and the rising demand for accountability.”


Order your copy of Stone Cold Anger NOW

The highly anticipated new album (which features the return of former guitarist Eric Klinger) opens up with the punishing “Oceans Of Blood”, an energetic and captivating track which confirms once again that the hardcore icons have not lost one bit of their relentless anger in the last 35 years. The title track abruptly commences with soaring melodic guitars acting as sirens around frontman and bassist Gary Meskil’s commanding barks. Aptly named “March Of The Giants” is just that, a show of brute force layered upon an ever-so-heavy groove-laden foundation. “Uncle Sam Wants You!” displays a more rock ’n’ roll attitude, complete with a driving bass line and distinct social commentary; the raw and honest vibe continues throughout “Demonic Intervention” and “Rinse & Repeat”. Meskil’s raspy shouts fill the melodies of “Hell Or High Water” before PRO-PAIN forge onward and into the anthemic “Scorched Earth”—fiercely belting “And so it begins…” The following track, “Jonestown Punch”, galvanizes with stirring, up-tempo two-steps before “Sky’s The Limit” rounds off the album with catchy sing-along choruses.

Stone Cold Anger tracklisting:

Oceans Of Blood
Stone Cold Anger
March Of The Giants
Uncle Sam Wants You!
Demonic Intervention
Rinse & Repeat
Hell or High Water
Scorched Earth
Jonestown Punch
Sky’s the Limit

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|||| 19 àïð 2026

MITHOTYN Announce Re-Issue of “In the Sign of the Ravens”, Out 5th June

Hammerheart Records have announced the re-issue of Viking metal outfit Mithotyn‘s debut album In the Sign of the Ravens. The 1997 classic, remastered by Nightside Audio (God Macabre, Skymning) will be out on 5th June via the label.

Pre-orders are available HERE.

After releasing four demo tapes, Mithotyn finally put out their first full-length album in 1997. In the Sign of the Ravens delivers a hard, cold take on Viking metal, and at this early stage the band hadn’t yet fully embraced the stronger melodic elements that would become more prominent on later records.

One area where this record really shines is its atmosphere. In many ways, the Viking feeling here is the strongest in their entire discography. This is especially the case during the instrumental tracks like ‘Lost in the Mist’ and ‘Let Thy Ale Swing’. The band creates a mystical mood with folky keyboard melodies layered behind distorted guitars, growls, and occasional chants.

If you’re already a fan of Viking or black Metal, you’ll know roughly what to expect: longer songs with some variation, harsh growled vocals balanced with cleaner chorus sections, and a strong sense of atmosphere. It’s a familiar formula, but one that works well and captures what makes this style of music so enjoyable.


Track-list:
1. Upon Raging Waves
2. In the Sign of the Ravens
3. Shadows of the Past
4. Lost in the Mist
5. Embraced by Frost
6. In the Forest of Moonlight
7. Tills Dagen Gryr
8. Stories Carved in Stone
9. Freezing Storms of Snow
10. Where My Spirit Forever Shall Be
11. Let Thy Ale Swing

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[= ||| 19 àïð 2026

WANDAR Premiere Lyric Video for New Single ‘Trug’ from Upcoming Album

German atmospheric black metal act WANDAR presents the first offering from their upcoming new album “Tiefe Erde” (Vendetta Records) with the release of the lyric video for their new single “Trug”. As the album’s debut single, the track sets the tone for what’s to come – immersive, emotionally charged, and steeped in the band’s signature blend of haunting atmosphere and raw intensity.

“Trug” captures WANDAR at their most evocative, weaving together melancholy, tension, and surging aggression into a dense and hypnotic soundscape that pulls the listener deep into the record’s dark thematic core.


Formed in 2006, WANDAR emerged to cast a shadow over every ray of light creeping down from the heavens. Rejecting flashy posturing, the band has built its name on crafting incredibly dense and immersive atmospheric black metal. Rooted in Scandinavian tradition, shaped by representatives of the Cascade region, and ultimately refined through modern perspectives and uncompromising standards.

Torn between raging fury and pain-filled lamentation, teetering between erupting rage and melancholic powerlessness, WANDAR create a state of ominous suspension, a menacing intoxication that can be dangerously beautiful to succumb to. Their messages are full of melancholy, longing, and absolute passion. Coming from deep within crypts, with scarred hearts and bloody eyes.


Tracklist:

Bedrängnis
Trug
Visol-Bolvis
…Nächtlich
Drangsal
Erden
Irrlicht
Hetäre
Gestirne
As the band states: “We burned our temple of the elemental. We descended into the depths of transcendent hells. We bled, we suffered, we fell, and we became one with ancient earths. ‘Tiefe Erde’ completes the circle we began with ‘Landlose Ufer’ and ‘Zyklus’. The fire will always be light!“

“Tiefe Erde” will be released on May 1 via Vendetta Records and is available for pre-order HERE

Line-up:
Kallenheim – Vocals
Zazhgul – Guitar
Karlsgrad – Guitar
Mara – Bass
Totz – Drums
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|||| 19 àïð 2026

SOUR BLOOD Release Video for New Single ‘Of Animal Flesh and Inhuman Soul’

SOUR BLOOD is an progressive/alternative rock band from Poznań, Poland.

A band Sour Blood already released new single titled “Of Animal Flesh and Inhuman Soul” together with video done by Maciej Gensler from costamwyszlo. Song is available for listening at popular streaming platforms. “Elegy” was mixed and mastered by Konrad Janiszewski (Heresy Denied, Stayfires, Kansha).

“Of Animal Flesh and Inhuman Soul” is a song about a person who lives unreflectively within a civilizational bubble, and in their increasingly dominant apathy drifts toward self-destruction. The way we live shares much with the existence of farm animals, while we grow ever more disconnected from nature. We could — and often even want to — question the system and the modern lifestyle built upon it more decisively, but we simply lack the will..

Trio comments new single:

“Life in large cities offers comfort, technology demands little thought from us, art and culture have been overtaken by kitsch, and our herd mentality manifests itself on social media. We want to believe it’s all fine. We like thinking that way — it makes us feel better.

In the song, the lyrical subject in part criticizes others for this behavior, yet is painfully aware that they are guilty of the same ignorance and conformity. The dominant emotion is a sense of hopelessness — or perhaps even more so, disappointment in oneself, as well as in humanity as a whole. It is the realization that one is part of the problem, but in the face of its overwhelming scale, it feels easier to simply coexist with others, even as the world seems to be falling apart before our eyes.

Apathy becomes a vicious cycle — an orbit encircling our entire planet.“


LINE-UP:

Karol Chapko – vocals
Witold Brylewski – guitars
Sergii Serdiuk – drums
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|||| 19 àïð 2026

THE PRETTY RECKLESS Shares New Single 'Love Me' From Upcoming 'Dear God' Album

THE PRETTY RECKLESS has released "Love Me", the third single from the band's highly anticipated fifth studio album, "Dear God", due on June 26 via Fearless Records. The track arrives as the band prepares to embark on their 2026 headlining world tour.

With "Love Me", THE PRETTY RECKLESS continues building on that trajectory, delivering a bold, emotionally charged track that blends a gritty edge with their signature explosive guitar work and Taylor Momsen's unmistakable powerhouse vocals. Produced by Momsen, guitarist Ben Phillips and Jonathan Wyman, the song highlights a sound that feels both refined and hard-hitting, pushing their intensity even further.

Following the album's introduction with "When I Wake Up", currently at No. 10 on the Mediabase Active Rock chart and reaching No. 16 on Billboard Mainstream Rock last week, "Dear God" leans further into vulnerability, intensity, and creative freedom, shaping one of the band's most raw and uncompromising releases to date. Written with diaristic honesty, the record captures THE PRETTY RECKLESS at their most unfiltered.

Speaking about the song, Momsen said: "'Love Me' came from a place I didn't want to admit I was in. There's this moment in your life where you're so hollowed out that you start bargaining with God, not even for happiness, just for proof that someone sees you. That's what this song is. It's not pretty. It's not wrapped up. It's just a raw, ugly need and I think that's exactly why people connect with it."

THE PRETTY RECKLESS will bring its electrifying stage performance to fans across the world with their all-new headlining "Dear God" tour. The tour will kick off in North America, making stops in New Orleans, Dallas, and Los Angeles before wrapping in Europe. This tour follows their incredible two-year long trek across the globe alongside AC/DC on the "Power Up" tour.

This upcoming marquee year follows a remarkable 12 months for THE PRETTY RECKLESS, which included an acclaimed performance at the prestigious 2026 MusiCares Person Of The Year Gala, where Taylor honored the legendary Mariah Carey alongside the FOO FIGHTERS, as well as a performance at the 2025 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame where Taylor performed with SOUNDGARDEN for their induction. Additionally, the band released their holiday EP "Taylor Momsen's Pretty Reckless Christmas", which features the revamped "Where Are You Christmas?" — the lead single hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Hard Rock Songs chart, reigniting over two decades of global fandom and nostalgia.

"Dear God" track listing:

01. Life Evermore Pt. 2
02. For I Am Death
03. When I Wake Up
04. Love Me
05. Dragonfire
06. Dear God
07. Life Evermore Pt. 3
08. About You
09. Spell On You
10. Rollercoaster Of Life
11. Eye Of The Storm
12. Devil In Disguise (Michelle's Song)
13. Dark Days
14. Life Evermore Pt. 1

THE PRETTY RECKLESS is a record-breaking rock band fronted by the incomparable Taylor Momsen, whose commanding vocals move seamlessly between raw power and haunting vulnerability. Known for their electrifying live performances, the band has toured the world with legends including AC/DC, THE ROLLING STONES and SOUNDGARDEN. Since their debut "Light Me Up", they've earned global acclaim with hits including "Heaven Knows" and made history as the first female-fronted band to score eight No. 1 singles on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart. Their latest album, "Death By Rock And Roll", is a visceral exploration of life, loss, and the enduring spirit of rock. In 2025, they released their holiday EP "Taylor Momsen's Pretty Reckless Christmas", led by a reimagined version of Momsen's iconic song "Where Are You Christmas?". Next, the band will release their forthcoming fifth studio album "Dear God" and will support the album with a headlining world tour. Marking the beginning of a new creative chapter, "Dear God" embraces vulnerability, intensity and artistic freedom, inviting listeners into one of the band's most raw and uncompromising records yet. The album's release is preceded by its lead single "For I Am Death", which saw the band repeat their record of earning four consecutive number ones on Billboard's mainstream rock chart.
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