Year: 2026

Seventh Wonder return with new video “Eternal Flame” with new vocalist Mattias Olofsson

Swedish progressive metal masters Seventh Wonder are thrilled to announce their return with a new single, “Eternal Flame”, a revisited version of John Norum’s hit, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.

The song marks an exciting new chapter in the band’s journey, featuring their new lead vocalist Mattias Olofsson (Grand).

Bassist Andreas Blomqvist commented: “Seventh Wonder is finally back with a new voice on the microphone. Those who have known us through the years know that we work slowly and, in order to avoid delaying the album, we opted for a cover song to introduce Mattias to the world”.

“John Norum and Marcel Jacob, who wrote and play on the original track from 1987, have been very important in shaping the origins of Seventh Wonder and we though a little modified version of this 80s rocker would be a fun way to say “Hello, World!”, he continued. “We hope you like it and, while you give this track a few spins, we’ll head back to the studio to wrap up the new album!”

 

Stream “Eternal Flame” HERE

Seventh Wonder are excited to announce the recording of their first studio album since the departure of previous singer Tommy Karevik (Kamelot), showcasing Mattias Olofsson on the microphone.

Blomqvist said: “We really took our time in finding a new singer and, while the rest of the band remains unchanged and therefore also much of the songwriting, we are excited to go to new places where haven’t ventured before as Mattias will put his mark on the band’s sound. Super excited for 2026!”

Seventh Wonder was formed in 2000 by bass player Andreas Blomqvist, guitarist Johan Liefvendahl and drummer Johnny Sandin after their previous band fell apart and quickly recruited keyboard player Andreas “Kyrt” Söderin in late 2000.

Lion Music signed the band in 2004, and this collaboration spawned the first release of Seventh Wonder and ‘Become’ saw the light of day in June 2005. The band and their singer at the time, Andi, decided to part ways shortly after the recording process had ended, and Tommy Karevik (ex: Vindictiv and later Kamelot) joined the band in 2005.

Three studio albums were recorded (“Waiting In The Wings” in 2006, “Mercy Falls” in 2008 and “The Great Escape” in 2010) with this set-up, widely lauded as the peak of progressive metal at that time.

After The Gret Escape founding member Johnny Sandin left the band and Stefan Norgren (ex: Lion’s Share) joined for the double live album “Welcome To Atlanta” (2016), this line-up also released “Tiara” (2018) and “The Testament” (2022). Tommy left the band after The Testament tour concluded and once again the search for a new singer began.

Now, with Mattias Olofsson joining the band, Seventh Wonder are currently working on completing what will be the band’s seventh studio album.

Line Up:
Andreas Blomqvist
Johan Liefvendahl
Andreas Söderin
Stefan Norgren
Mattias Olofsson

Follow SEVENTH WONDER:
Website
Facebook
Instagram

Zürich’s FUELED BY FEAR Unleashed Hard-Hitting New EP “Ordinary Evil”

The wait is over! Zürich’s FUELED BY FEAR have unleashed their long-awaited new EP “Ordinary Evil”. Produced by Oscar Nilsson (The Halo Effect, The Haunted), bringing the characteristic Gothenburg metal sound to perfection at Bohus Studio. His extremely broad and uncompromisingly hard production gives Fueled By Fear their final edge – like the missing puzzle piece of their sound.

Stream, download and add to your playlists the EP: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1fI2HcU1Xn3qdXXiMGAu0g

Mauro Galasso (Drums) on “Ordinary Evil”:
“The title Ordinary Evil is inspired by Hannah Arendt’s book Eichmann in Jerusalem and her idea of the banality of evil. The realization that evil often doesn’t appear as an obvious monster, but emerges through conformity, thoughtlessness, and the abdication of personal responsibility.
These thoughts feel disturbingly relevant today. Authoritarian tendencies, power figures, and oversimplification show how quickly history repeats itself when people stop thinking for themselves and find resistance too exhausting.
This confrontation also shaped our work on the EP. During the creative process, we completely questioned ourselves musically and personally. What defines us? Where do we want to go? It was a process that forced us to let go of the familiar and approach things differently. There were moments when it would have been easier to give up rather than face this confrontation. This is exactly where Ordinary Evil comes in: Don’t give up. Keep going. Face the repetitions,
defend your own path, and don’t let indifference win. It’s worth staying committed. Creatively, humanly, defiantly. Ordinary Evil is our statement for that”

Manuel Elber (Guitar) continues:
“Imagine making a dough, only to discover that you don’t like the texture. You put it back into the fridge. The next day you add a little bit of this, a little bit of that, and after processing, your dough still sucks, but not so much to scrap it. So you put it back in the fridge, thinking about what to change. Then you try to learn all the insights a baker learns in a crash course. You add your dangerous half-assed knowledge you gained and surprisingly it starts to feel better. You keep going, learn, each time adding more to the dough and finally you have a bake-worthy consistency, so far from where you started, that it seems like magic.
For context: “Ordinary Evil” took about four years to come to life. Scrapped more times than I can count. Cost us blood, sweat and tears, caused literal breakdowns, frequent questioning of the reason why we do this. But it shaped us as musicians, as a family, as a team. The amount of things we learned, technical, recording-wise, in persistence, in constructive criticism, is something no one can take from us. And as for all endeavours this heap of maniacs is tackling: it’s always evolving, always changing, following the heart with an open mind. This one, we’re especially proud of!”

Daniel Zopfi (Guitar) adds:
“Ordinary Evil was written out of frustration, anger, and watching the same systems fail us over and over again. It’s about how cruelty gets normalized, how power hides behind routine, and how people learn to live with injustice as long as it’s quiet enough. This EP isn’t subtle and it’s not meant to be comfortable. It’s confrontational by necessity. These songs come from a place of distrust toward empty promises, authority without accountability, and a world that keeps demanding silence and obedience. It’s loud, raw, and uncompromising, fueled by everything we’re done ignoring: the hypocrisy, the violence beneath the surface, and our own complicity in letting it happen. This is us calling it out, refusing to soften the message, and turning that anger into sound exactly as we feel it right now.”

On the EP artwork Mauro Galasso shared:
“The cover of Ordinary Evil visually captures the central idea of the EP: Hannah Arendt’s realization that evil often doesn’t appear as an obvious monster, but hides behind an ordinary facade. The ancient bust, whose surface crumbles to reveal a demonic face, is deliberately chosen. Ancient busts are a core element of my visual language as an artist, but here an additional layer emerged: They represent history and human patterns that repeat themselves. The monumental decays and releases what has been repressed.
We had various approaches that were either conceptually too complex or didn’t properly convey the message. When I returned to my own visual language, it became clear: The rawness, the epic quality, and the bold impact of this visual language reflect exactly the musical identity we developed with this EP.
The series was planned from the beginning. With each release, the facade crumbles further until the true face is fully visible at the end. A visual evolution that runs parallel to the EP. That my own style represents the band best has confirmed me as a graphic designer and as the drummer of Fueled By Fear: We have taken the right creative path.”

With their new EP, Fueled By Fear deliver their most mature and uncompromising work to date. The five tracks move between dark groove steamrollers and melodically dense anthems – harder, more powerful, and more forceful than all previous productions. The band has sharpened their sound: hardness meets groove, tempo meets aggression, while melodic passages merge with modern pressure. The result is songs with enormous chorus quality and real singalong potential – dark, but irresistibly catchy.

BIO:
FUELED BY FEAR from Zurich have been combining the intensity of metalcore with the melodic depth of melodic death metal since 2011. The band manages to merge melodic passages with grooving rhythms into a sound that can both strike brutally and touch emotionally. Support performances for In Flames, Sepultura, and even Pantera underscore their international relevance. Their debut “Two By Eight” reached #5 on the Swedish rock charts and #22 in Switzerland.

Line-up:
Vocals: Marco Böhlen
Guitar: Manuel Elber
Guitar: Daniel Zopfi
Bass: Josh De Souza
Drums: Mauro Galasso

Social Media Links:
https://www.instagram.com/fueled_by_fear_official/
https://www.facebook.com/fueledbyfear/
https://www.youtube.com/@fueledbyfear2516
https://www.tiktok.com/@fueled_by_fear_official

Streaming Links:
https://open.spotify.com/intl-de/artist/6trMH3h5QEeV4RkGJUTKkH
https://music.apple.com/ch/artist/fueled-by-fear/1175459666
https://soundcloud.com/fueledbyfear
https://music.youtube.com/channel/UChy74syl4Mi2XG03J0qyWkw

Bastion Rose Marches Forward with Heavy Metal Anthem “Bones” – Second Single from Upcoming Album Blue Rising

Following the success of their recent single “Dust,” cinematic hard rock powerhouse Bastion Rose has unleashed their next single, “Bones.” The new single serves as the second offering from their highly anticipated upcoming record, Blue Rising.

“Bones” is a heavy metal anthem defined by its rhythmic, marching intensity and massive, driving riffs. Exploring themes of willpower and the toll of endurance, the track captures a cinematic precision and grit that has quickly become the band’s hallmark.

“There are songs that I have written over the years that have taken control of me. Possessed me. I couldn’t put them down until they were finished. I couldn’t get them out of my mind for more than a minute or two until the full song materialized.” says frontman Austin Frink. “It’s about the grind—something in your bones—tells you that you need to survive. It’s a song to help you keep pushing forward through the rain, even when it feels like there is nothing left to give.”

The release of “Bones” arrives as Bastion Rose continues to dominate the digital rock landscape. Building on the foundation of their debut album Traces of Gold—produced by three-time Grammy-winner David Bottrill (Tool, Godsmack, Rush, Muse)—the band has surpassed 1.5 million streams and built a global community of over 60,000 YouTube subscribers.

Praised by Metal Hammer Magazine as a band with music “for fans of Black Sabbath, Soundgarden, and rock’s darker angels” and dubbed the “new architects of modern heavy rock” by The CHRD Magazine, Bastion Rose is striking while the iron is hot. “Bones” signals a heavier, more aggressive shift in the Blue Rising era, showcasing the band’s ability to balance technical precision with the raw energy of a live performance.

With the backing of a rapidly growing audience and critical acclaim from Metal Hammer and SPIN, Bastion Rose is positioning themselves as an essential voice in the new era of heavy music.

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

STREAM “BONES” NOW: https://linktr.ee/bastionrose

Bastion Rose is a cinematic hard rock project based in Bloomington, Indiana. Known for their sophisticated fusion of monumental 70s-era grooves and 2000s era alternative metal intensity, the band has earned international recognition for their high-caliber production and narrative-driven songwriting. Following their David Bottrill-produced debut Traces of Gold, the band is currently unveiling the next chapter of their evolution with the album Blue Rising.

bastionrose.com
facebook.com/bastionrosemusic
instagram/bastionrosemusic
youtube.com/@bastionrosemusic
www.tiktok.com/@bastion.rose
Spotify –tinyurl.com/SpotifyBastionRose

All-female grunge metal band Maneaters released album “Craved”

Maneaters is an all-female grunge metal band formed in Bari in 2010, standing out in their territory for attitude and sonic identity. Rooted in the rawest vibrations of ’90s grunge —without nostalgia — and infused with punk and metal influences, Maneaters turn live energy into a direct, instinctive, and uncompromising language.
After years of national live activity and four albums released, through several line-up
evolutions, the band now returns with “Crave,” their last album released last december. A record that marks a powerful and conscious evolution: darker
atmospheres, granite-heavy sounds, and songwriting that dives deep into the emotional and physical tensions defining the band’s identity.
Their approach remains faithful to their origins: playing without artifice, with a fierce and authentic attitude, where music is free and visceral expression

With a recognizable stylistic signature and strong stage presence, Maneaters continue to pursue an independent and radical vision: make noise, do it yourself, and never
compromise.

DISCOGRAPHY
Crave (Album, 2025)
ORDINARY BITCH (2018)
UGLY DIRTY EVIL (2014)
VIVA LA VULVA (2010)

Maneaters are:
Miriam — bass & vocals
Alessia — guitar
Terry — drums

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/maneaters_riot?igsh=anNsa3Bid2lsZXB1/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/1NmLNdYP67/
YouTube https://youtube.com/@maneaters_riot?si=MGXfqpKU66LM6y1

 

Jack Harlon & The Dead Crows – Inexorable Opposites

Within the heavy psych rock underground scene Jack Harlon & The Dead Crows aim to grab your attention with the charming lysergic soundscapes of the brand new album “Inexorable Opposites”.
“Moss” unfolds like a nostalgic daydream spontaneously mixing slow burning melodies and major gritty riffage within a properly fuzzed out atmospheric realm where vocals seem to emerge from outer space.
Throughout “Venomous” guitars invoke astral energy and a renowned heavy rock force to efficiently build abrasive grooves well supported by a monolithic rhythmic section.
“Mt. Macedon” once again puts the spotlight on the colossal guitar work acquiring acidic tonalities and melodic warmth to shape a series of hypnotizing rhythmic crescendos.
Contemplating about the duality of life “Dave Is Done” follows a blurry atmospheric pathway channeling a darkened spaghetti western mood with loads of somber & spacey melodic guitar progressions.
To fully express genuine emotions “To Die” offers an immersive psychedelic finale as mellow bluesy guitars and laid back vocals flow peacefully through a hazy atmospheric maze that belongs to a distant desertic land.
On their fourth album “Inexorable Opposites” self proclaimed psychedelic western rockers Jack Harlon & The Dead Crows unleash a groovy cosmic energy to embark on a proper trippy & spiritual sonic voyage and you’re all invited to join.

Lord Elephant – Ultra Soul

Italy’s psychedelic doom instrumentalists Lord Elephant aim to impress the audience channeling the glorious spirit of classic heavy psych rock throughout the moody soundscapes of the sophomore release “Ultra Soul”.
Opening the album with determination “Electric Dunes” already manifests the band’s strong psych rock attitude delivering loads of soulful melodic phrases that make you space out easily and intense rhythmic crescendos.
The impactful track “Gigantia” aptly relies on monolithic loud guitar riffs to maintain a solid groovy momentum that will naturally evolve into extensive darker progressions showcasing old school doom influences.
“Black River Blues” is a trippy heavy rock doom affair as colossal guitars acquire the power to hypnotize you with bewitching melodic tonalities and surprise you with variegated crushing rhythmic patterns.
Within the multidimensional sonic realm of “Astral” a fiery cosmic energy flows through the heavy drum blasts and the extensive kaleidoscopic guitar leads enriched by shimmering psychedelic atmospheric elements.
Evidently on “Ultra Soul” Lord Elephant carry the torch for an exquisite vintage style and proudly jam their way through the chaotic underground scene.

Ritual Arcana – Ritual Arcana

Featuring the legendary godfather of doom Scott “Wino” Weinrich, power trio Ritual Arcana lights the candles and prepares a distinct ritualistic experience with the release of the self-titled debut full-length.
The eponymous track at the same time opens the album and obviously a spiritual door with a slick retro style and extensive majestic guitar leads that manifest a beloved classic doom inspiration.
Throughout “Summon The Wheel” guitars build massive acidic grooves embellished by multiple wicked solos while the high priestess SharLee LuckyFree inevitably puts a spell on you with a moody vocal performance.
“Berkana” focuses on the occult side favoring a slow burning rhythm and cryptic tonalities fueled by the omnipresent monolithic guitar riffs and the bewitching vocal harmonies.
“Mistress Of Change” successfully maintains a supernatural aura as massive doom laden guitars lead the way to anthemic heavy rock dynamics and haunting melodies.
“Subtle Fruits” evokes a mystifying cosmic energy through recurring hazy guitar leads and a subtle wicked catchiness emerges from a towering groovy momentum.
“Wake The Goddess” relies on a sultry rhythmic core and a rebellious spirit to create a darkened yet widely accessible tune, so you can expect loads of galloping fuzzy & loud guitar riffs and wilder leads.
Invoking supernatural forces Ritual Arcana enters the occult rock scene with the right attitude and delivers an overdose of seductive & mysterious guitar driven grooves.

Textures – Genotype

After a hiatus of seven years Dutch prog metallers Textures return in excellent shape to deliver a modern revitalized sonic vision perfectly embodied by the eclectic new album “Genotype”.
The crispy guitar sound of “At the Edge of Winter” guides you through a majestic ensemble of vitriolic rhythmic blasts and cathartic atmospheric waves naturally unfolding around a flamboyant duet featuring guest vocalist Charlotte Wessels.
“Measuring the Heavens” offers an ideal dosage of technical guitar acrobatics and heavily distorted progressions surrounded by immersive atmospheric arrangements and epic accents.
The multilayered synths of “Nautical Dusk” convey a mystifying futuristic mood embellished by the impeccable soloing while the empowering guitar riffs and the precise drumming maintain a visceral rhythmic assault.
“Vanishing Twin” favors an emotive approach highlighting the passionate clean vocal performance yet the heavy prog metal approach remains crucial leading to relentless guitar riffs and ruthless screams.
The final chapter “Walls of the Soul” showcases an elaborate composition that generates highly energetic rhythmic patterns courtesy of the aggressive riffage in contrast with the dramatic melodic essence of the elegant guitar phrases.
The cohesive strength of “Genotype” relies on the meticulous blend of luminous melodic themes and inflamed technical dynamics demonstrating Texture’s desire to impress an audience of music connoisseurs.

Uhrattu Video Interview

Uhrattu is a new Finnish band that fuses black metal with elements of death/doom to create a wicked hybrid of these two dark musical genres. The band is currently recording their debut album, scheduled for release in 2026.
Our reporter Cristina had the chance to meet Eloton and Kirottu after their debut show and learn more about the band, their music and more.

https://www.instagram.com/uhrattuband/

Ellende – Zerfall

Founded in Austria by multi-instrumentalist L.G, Ellende continues to shape a personal artistic identity that now reaches an intense emotional depth with the somber blackened soundscapes of the new full-length album “Zerfallˮ.
Under a shroud of darkness “Wahrheit Teil I” pleases the audience with a series of relentless ominous rhythmic patterns fueled by ravenous drum blasts in contrast with the bucolic themes of the crestfallen acoustic guitars.
“Wahrheit Teil II” continues to follow a mysterious atmospheric black metal pathway delivering the expected gelid rhythmic assault while the slower mystifying guitar melodies express grim feelings.
The title track relies on the stark beauty of contemplative melodic phrases embellished by charming classical accents yet the rhythmic section can acquire a violent attitude producing crushing progressions.
“Zeitenwende Teil I” features a spellbinding blend of strings and grand piano while the abrasive guitar riffs begin a perilous march leading to a significantly faster and inevitably ruthless rhythmic rampage.
Throughout “Reise” guitars effortlessly shift from poignant melodic splendor, with additional grief stricken arpeggios, to primordial blackened crescendos within a cinematic deeply melancholic atmosphere.
On “Zerfall” Ellende presents to the world a grand misanthropic vision channeling the aggressiveness of traditional black metal and evoking endless gloom with a thoughtful atmospheric approach.