Author: Crix

Finnish Metal band Horizon of Aeons released a doomy single ‘Until the Darkness Claims Us’ – debut album out in May

The Finnish dark metal band Horizon of Aeons are set to release their debut album, Timeless Forms of Desolation, on 29 May 2026 via Inverse Records. The second single ‘Until the Darkness Claims Us’, is available on all essential streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/horizon-of-aeons-darkness

The band comments:

“The title of the song is taken from the book written by Sarah J. Maas. The lyrics are loosely based on that story. The vow of absolute loyalty and brotherhood binds us to one another until our very last breath. The doomy atmosphere in the first part of the song is crushingly heavy, but only momentarily until the melodic relief comes. Later in the song, the heaviness returns, followed by beautiful melodies from keyboards and guitar, and the outro features three consecutive key modulations. This is something you don’t hear every day in metal music.”

BIOGRAPHY:

Horizon of Aeons is a gothic dark metal band founded in 2024, bringing together seasoned musicians from the Finnish metal scene. The band consists of Miska Lehtivuori (vocals, guitar), Ville Pekkala (guitar), Pekka Venho (bass), and Pekka Jokela (drums). These members have a rich history of playing together in various bands (Fall of the Leafe, Ablaze in Hatred, Searing Meadow, Mormânt De Snagov, Leaflet, Jackie’s Land), which laid the foundation for their cohesive and powerful sound.

Horizon of Aeons’ musical influences are as diverse as the members’ extensive backgrounds in the metal scene. Each member brings a wealth of experience from their previous bands, contributing to the band’s unique sound. Together, these musicians create a sound that is both intense and melodic, drawing from a wide array of metal subgenres. Their influences span across various styles, allowing them to craft a distinctive musical identity that is uniquely their own. This blend of experience and inspiration results in a sound that is both familiar and innovative, pushing the boundaries of gothic dark metal.

Themes and Lyrics

Horizon of Aeons’ lyrics delve deeply into the dark and complex concept of time and its relentless progression. Their songs often explore the infinite future contrasted with the finite past, creating a haunting and introspective atmosphere. The band masterfully weaves themes of existence and memory into their music, painting vivid pictures of a world where time is both a creator and a destroyer.
In addition, Horizon of Aeons touches on themes of cosmic forces, often using esoteric and mystical imagery. They explore the inherent inclinations of humanity, the seductive nature of sin, and the purifying power of darkness. This adds a layer of depth to their music, as they challenge conventional beliefs and embrace the darker aspects of existence.
Overall, the band’s lyrics are a profound exploration of time, existence, and the human condition, offering listeners a journey through the infinite and the ephemeral.

Debut Release

Horizon of Aeons’ debut album titled Timeless Forms of Desolation is set to be released through Inverse Records in 2026. Their first single, Haunting Presence, is already available on all digital platforms, showcasing a tantalizing preview of their dark, atmospheric sound through a condensed single edit.

LISTEN to the first single Kairos: https://push.fm/fl/horizon-of-aeons-kairos

 

Guitar Player praises the Finnish guitarist-musician-producer Jimmy Westerlund, who joined legendary Giant

After more than 25 years of writing, producing, and shaping music for his various band projects and other artists, Jimmy Westerlund has risen to the ranks of the world’s guitar stars. The world’s leading guitar magazine, Guitar Player, has just published an extensive feature praising Westerlund’s skills and style, and has also invited the Finnish guitarist to join its masterclass video series, where Westerlund reveals the secrets behind his playing.

“When Jason Sidwell called me, I first thought it was a prank call – there’s no way Guitar Player would call me! But he was convinced that the story had to be told: how some random guy from Finland ended up in Giant,” Westerlund says.

Westerlund’s name has been gaining recognition for years through his work with major artists trough Warner Music and Sony. His latest major role is as guitarist, producer, and songwriter in the current lineup of legendary American band Giant, stepping into the shoes of Dann Huff on the album Stand and Deliver.

Westerlund has also previously appeared on Escape Music owner Khalil Turk’s solo album TURKISH DELIGHT III, alongside internationally renowned rock musicians such as Marty Friedman, Glenn Hughes, James LaBrie, Billy Sheehan, Vinny Appice, and Ian Paice.

Guitar Player’s Jason Sidwell was particularly impressed by how Westerlund’s playing captures the essence of classic ’80s guitar heroes – even more so, stylistically, than many of them today.

“This is the music I’ve lived and breathed since I was a kid, and I don’t think I would’ve been ready for this ten years ago. I also want to sincerely thank Jason for the support he’s given me through all of this.”

The Guitar Player feature explores the legacy of melodic ’80s guitar tradition, placing Westerlund alongside names like Steve Lukather and Neal Schon.

“It feels like a huge recognition to be acknowledged by such an institution in the guitar world.”

Known as a go-to producer for multiple bands, Westerlund has also ventured beyond classic melodic rock during his career. One notable example is Game On, co-written with Pitbull, which served as the mascot song for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The Listen Up! album featuring the track reached No. 1 on Billboard’s World Music chart in the U.S. and remained on the chart for 14 weeks. The same album included Shakira’s Waka Waka. Altogether, music written and produced by Westerlund has amassed over 200 million streams worldwide.

Looking ahead, Westerlund will continue working as a solo artist while also focusing on producing and songwriting primarily for international artists. In addition, Westerlund plans to share his expertise in melodic rock guitar through clinics, live performances, and his newly launched YouTube channel, where upcoming Guitar Player masterclass episodes will also be published.

At the same time, stepping out from behind the scenes into the spotlight as a solo artist feels both exciting and slightly surreal for Westerlund.

“I feel this is a clear turning point in my career. After decades of being ‘the other guy in the background’ – a role I’ve also truly enjoyed – creating my own music with my own voice is both a risk and exactly what I need to stay inspired,” he says.

INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK

Smoking Snakes return with new video “Pleasure And Pain”

Swedish sleaze metallers Smoking Snakes return today with their new single and video, “Pleasure And Pain”, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.

The band commented on the new track, by saying: “The song dives into the dangerous attraction between desire and obsession. That thin line where passion turns into something a little more twisted.  Pleasure And Pain plays with the idea that sometimes the things that thrill  us the most can also be the ones that drive us insane”.

Watch the official video for “Pleasure And Pain” HERE

Stream “Pleasure And Pain” HERE

Smoking Snakes are a Gothenburg-based sleaze metal band turning heads and making waves in the rock scene. Formed in 2022 by Brett Martin (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Andy Delarge (bass, backing vocals), Mackey Gee (drums, backing vocals), and Rob Raw (lead guitar, backing vocals), they are the next generation of hard-hitting, guitar-driven rock ’n’ roll.

Influenced by 80s arena rock giants like W.A.S.P, RATT, Dokken, and Kiss, Smoking Snakes deliver a fresh, modern take on classic sleaze metal — from catchy hooks to heavy riffs and powerful vocals, their sound is unmistakably their own.

Their critically acclaimed debut album, Danger Zone (2024, Frontiers Records), earned finalist status for both Album of the Year and Debut Album of the Year at the Rocknytt Prize, standing alongside some of Sweden’s biggest rock acts. In 2025, the band made their UK debut with explosive shows in London, Nottingham, and Wakefield, leaving audiences stunned and quickly securing a return visit later that year.

Currently putting the finishing touches on their second album, Smoking Snakes are ready to push boundaries, forge their own path, and take the world by storm.

Line Up:
Brett Martin – Lead vocals, rhythm guitar
Andy Delarge – Bass, backing vocals
Mackey Gee – Drums, backing vocals
Rob Raw – Lead guitar, backing vocals

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Norwegian metallers Triosphere share new video “Monster’s Ball”

Norwegian heavy metal band Triosphere are excited to share their new single and official lyric video, “Monster’s Ball”, the first to be released through Frontiers Music Srl.

The band stated: “The time has finally come to share some brand new music! We have been looking so much forward to this moment for so long, and the very first track we now release into the “wild”, is “Monster’s Ball”! This is a fierce tune with – in our opinion – a heavy Triosphere-signature, and lyrics about the role of echo chambers in the face of cruelty and destruction. We truly hope it will be greeted well by listeners all over the world and just stay tuned because we’ve now just started!”

Watch the official lyric video for “Monster’s Ball” HERE

Stream “Monster’s Ball” HERE

Triosphere were formed in 2004 by guitarist Marius Silver Bergesen and singer/bassist Ida Haukland. They brought in drummer Ørjan Aare Jørgensen, and guitarist Tor Ole Byberg joined the band in 2006. The band amicably parted ways with Jørgensen in 2014 and welcomed Kenneth Tårneby to fill the drummer’s chair.

Triosphere’s music moves in between hard rock, power prog and thrash metal, and presents uniquely honest and hard-hitting songs; from the heaviest to the calmest, from intricate to classic, all led by strong melodies and compelling guitarwork.

Triosphere released their debut album “Onwards” on FaceFront Records in 2006/2007. It received rave reviews, and the award “Best Metal Album” from the world’s largest independent music organization JPF’s at their annual JPF Awards in Nashville in 2009.

In 2010, the band signed with AFM Records, who released their sophomore album “The Road Less Travelled” (2010), and “The Heart Of The Matter” (2014). Both albums received huge critical acclaim worldwide and consequently a growing number of listeners.

Throughout the years, the band has had the privilege of touring with some of the truly great names within the rock and metal genre: their first tours in 2006 and 2007 was with W.A.S.P., and in the years to follow they have toured Europe with Arch Enemy, Sonata Artica, Kamelot, Timo Kotipelto, Jorn, Crimson Glory and Sirenia.

They’ve opened for Dio and Nightwish, and played festivals like Wacken Open Air, Progpower USA, 70 000 Tons of Metal, Tons of Rock and Metaldays, to name a few.

The bands’ solid quality both on record and stage have earned them a steadfast audience and listeners around the world, something that has proven to stand the test of time in the long wait for Triosphere’s 4th album. The band has been active on stage until the pandemic hit, but in the years following this the band focused their time on finishing the album.

From 2025 and onwards, Triosphere has teamed up with Frontiers Music Srl, and this new single is just a taste of what’s to come in the near future.

Line Up:
Ida Haukland – bass and vocals
Marius Bergesen – guitars
Tor Ole Byberg – guitars
Kenneth Tårneby – drums

Follow TRIOSPHERE:
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Power metal legends Masterplan unleash new video “Through The Storm” from upcoming album “Metalmorphosis” out June 26th

Power metal legends Masterplan have unleashed their new single and official video, “Through The Storm”, another taste of the upcoming new studio album, “Metalmorphosis”, set for release on June 26, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.

The band commented: “We absolutely love this one! It’s pure metal: straightforward, energetic, and fun in its own way. The song was inspired by our experience playing metal cruises last year, including one crazy show on deck during a storm with freezing wind and heavy waves. That wild energy is exactly what this track is about. The video captures that spirit perfectly – we’re just having fun, but even tough conditions can’t stop us from playing and enjoying what we do. 🤘”

Masterplan are also gearing up for their upcoming European tour, starting on April 12. For the full list of dates, please see below and HERE.

Watch the official video for “Through The Storm” HERE

Pre-Order “Metalmorphosis” HERE

Grapow expressed his enthusiasm for the record – the first new songs since “Novum Initium”, released in 2013: “Metalmorphosis” really captures what this album means to us: a transformation, but still true to the spirit of Masterplan. We’ve grown over the years, both as musicians and as people, and you can hear that in the new songs. Some ideas go back many years, and now they’ve finally come to life. It’s powerful, melodic, and emotional – classic Masterplan, but with a new energy”.

Masterplan stand among the most enduring and influential names in German power metal. Founded in 2001 by guitarist Roland Grapow and drummer Uli Kusch following their exit from Helloween, the band quickly established a distinctive identity built on strong melodies, technical precision, and an epic yet modern metal approach.

Their self-titled debut album, released in 2003, was met with widespread critical acclaim and immediate chart success, setting the standard for a career defined by consistency and evolution.

Over the years, Masterplan have released several highly regarded albums – including “Aeronautics”, “MK II”, “Time To Be King” and “Novum Initium” – each showcasing refined songwriting and a powerful balance between classic power metal energy and progressive elements.

Their work earned them international recognition, extensive touring across Europe and beyond, and industry accolades that confirmed their status as a leading force in the genre.

After a prolonged hiatus from studio releases, Masterplan have re-emerged with renewed creative drive. The band recently signed a new worldwide deal with Frontiers Music SRL, marking a significant milestone and the beginning of a new chapter in their career.

This partnership sets the stage for their long-awaited return with a brand-new studio album, “Metalmorphosis”, representing both transformation and continuity: a heavier, more aggressive edge combined with the melodic sophistication that has always defined Masterplan’s sound.

With renewed focus, sharpened songwriting, and decades of experience behind them, Masterplan are poised to reaffirm their relevance and deliver one of the most anticipated power metal releases of the year.

“Metalmorphosis” Tracklist:

1.    Chase The Light
2.    Electric Nights
3.    Shadow Man
4.    Bound To Fall
5.    Pain Of Yesterday
6.    Metalmorphosis
7.    Through The Storm
8.    Ghostlight
9.    The Call
10.    Rise Again (Album vers.)

Line Up:
Rick Altzi
Roland Grapow
Jari Kainulainen
Axel Mackenrott
Kevin Kott

METALMORPHOSIS OVER EUROPE TOUR – GET TICKETS HERE:

12.04.26    HR    – Zagreb, Boogaloo
14.04.26    SLO  – Ljubliana, Orto Bar
15.04.26    SK    – Bratislava – Randal club
16.04.26    CZ    – Budweis – Club Lucerna
17.04.26    GER – Regensburg – Airport
19.04.26    GER – Augsburg – Spectrum
21.04.26    GER – Bensheim – Musiktheater Rex
22.04.26    GER – Dortmund – Piano
23.04.26    NL    – Leiden, Nobel
24.04.26    NL    – Den Bosch – Willem II Poppodium
25.04.26    NL    – Hoogeveen,  Het Podium
28.04.26    GER – Hannover -Musikzentrum
29.04.26    GER – Hamburg – Knust

Follow MASTERPLAN:
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VOV Video Interview

VOV is a Finnish symphonic metal band known for their ability to blend classical influences with melodic metal and narrative writing. Their music explores themes of identity, loss, dignity, and existential conflict, often through cinematic and mythical imagery. On the day of the release of their new single “Drunk At The Opera,” they performed at Nakkila, where our reporter Cristina interviewed them after the show to learn more about the band and their creative world.

https://vovofficial.fi/

 

Cumbeast Video Interview

Cumbeast is a brutal and groovy Finnish deathgrind band formed in 2005, known for their distinctive sound: a blend of catchy slamming guitars, versatile fretless bass lines, and intense blastbeats, topped with inhuman guttural vocals. Over the years, they have released six studio albums and several music videos, establishing themselves as a powerful presence in the death metal scene.

Their latest album, “Fairytales of Filth,” released in 2025, features guest such as Sami Perttula, John Puig, Lukas Swiaczny, and Henri Sorvali.
Cumbeast has no limits when it comes to songwriting, crafting songs in their own unique style.

We had the chance to sit down with frontman Snoop Rott Iirot to discuss the highlights of their career, the latest album, tours, and much more.

https://cumbeast.bandcamp.com

France’s HIGHWAY Turn Up the Voltage with AC/DC Inspired Single “D.K./D.C.” from New Album “Last Call for Rock’N’Roll” Out April 2026

France’s high‑voltage hard rockers HIGHWAY fire up the engines once again with the release of their explosive third single, “D.K/D.C”, taken from their upcoming sixth studio album “Last Call for Rock N’ Roll,” arriving April 24th, 2026, via Rock City Music and distributed physically by FTF-Music and digitally by Virgin Music.​
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After the anthemic road‑warrior spirit of “Hi‑Way” and the swaggering arena‑rock punch of “¡Bang Bang!”, the band now unveils one of the album’s most unifying and rebellious tracks, a song built to be shouted back by thousands of fans.
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​“D.K/D.C”, short for “Don’t Know / Don’t Care”, opens with a subtle, unmistakable AC/DC‑inspired picking intro, a playful wink to the band that first ignited HIGHWAY’s passion back in 1999. But the track quickly evolves into something entirely their own: a dynamic, tension‑building rocker that teases, coils, and finally erupts into one of the biggest choruses on the album.
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This isn’t a full‑throttle assault from the first second; it’s a slow burn, a prelude before the explosion, a rock’n’roll tease that pays off in pure catharsis. Lyrically, “D.K/D.C” closes the motivational trilogy started with “Go! Go! Go!” and continued with “Let Me.”

This final chapter is a bold declaration of independence: Forget the haters. Forget the judgment. Forget the noise. Live your life your way. Chase your happiness; nothing else matters. It’s a rallying cry for anyone who’s ever felt held back, criticized, or boxed in. A middle finger to conformity. A celebration of personal freedom.
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With its nervous, electrifying groove, massive backing vocals from new members bassist Cerise Pouillard and guitarist Florian Arnaud, and a chorus designed to shake venues to their foundations, “D.K/D.C” is destined to become a live highlight. This is the kind of song that transforms concerts into communal explosions of energy, fists in the air, voices united, sweat flying, amps roaring.
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​HIGHWAY themselves describe the chorus as:
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​“One of the great moments of the album, and one of the great moments to come on stage.”​
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​“D.K/D.C” also showcases the band’s revitalized lineup and their most powerful sound to date. Twin guitars are back for the first time since 2007. Cerise Pouillard brings thunderous bass and soaring backing vocals. Florian Arnaud adds precision, fire, and vocal power. Produced and mixed by Brett Caldas‑Lima (Ayreon, Devin Townsend, Megadeth) for a rich, organic, high‑voltage sound. This is HIGHWAY at full strength, confident, mature, and unapologetically rock’n’roll.

Listen to the music video for “D.K/D.C” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FUFvVMWXQ4​

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://kuronekomedia.lnk.to/LCFRnR​
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A 12‑track journey through power, melody, emotion, and pure hard‑rock spirit, “Last Call for Rock N’ Roll” marks HIGHWAY’s triumphant return to full electric force after their acoustic detour on The Journey (2022). It’s their most personal, diverse, and ambitious record yet, a rallying cry for a world losing its spark.

With over 500 shows across Europe, six albums, and a reputation as part of the new wave of European classic hard rock, HighWay have shared stages with Michael Schenker Group, Gotthard, Jeff Scott Soto, Kissin’ Dynamite, Nashville Pussy, and more.
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Recommended for fans of AC/DC, Aerosmith, Extreme, Guns N’ Roses, and Queen, “Last Call for Rock’N’Roll” is available for pre-order on CD Digipack and exclusive collector LP at https://highwayshop.sumupstore.com/​

Previous Singles:

Music Video – “Hi-Way” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPYb7fBvNAU​

Music Video – “¡BANG BANG!” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGpYOR4Xx20​

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Track Listing:​
1. Last Call (For Rock N’ Roll) – 5:13
2. Hi-Way – 4:40
3. ¡Bang Bang! – 3:47
4. Nineties Action Movie – 5:16
5. Peace Out – 5:44
6. Mayday – 4:25
7. Go! Go! Go! – 5:48
8. Let Me – 4:54
9. D.K/D.C – 3:16
10. Rat Race – 6:00
11. Action – 4:32
12. (Don’t) Look Back – 5:09
Album Length: 58:48

Album Band Line Up:​
Ben Chambert: Lead guitar, Backing vocals
Benjamin Folch: Vocals
Sam Marshal: Bass Guitar, Backing vocals
Romain Chambert: Drums

Live Band Line Up:​
Ben Chambert: Lead guitar, Backing vocals
Florian Arnaud: Rhythm guitar, Backing vocals
Benjamin Folch: Vocals
Cerise Pouillart: Bass Guitar, Backing vocals
Romain Chambert: Drums

https://linktr.ee/highway_the_band​

BOUM PATAT Announces “Ma Belgique” Eastern European Tour 2026

Get ready for a dose of absurd energy and high-octane riffs. Following the breakout success of their latest album Ma Belgitude, the undisputed icons of Electro-Fun-Metal, BOUM PATAT, have officially announced the first leg of their 2026 European takeover.

Kicking off this April, the band will bring their signature blend of heavy metal, pulsating electronic beats, and surrealist Belgian humor to the underground clubs and festival stages of Eastern Europe.

After catching the attention of metal critics across the continent, BOUM PATAT is set to deliver their legendary “festive chaos” to fans in Slovenia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, including a headline appearance at Future Shock Fest in Satu Mare

“We don’t just play a show; we bring a Belgian block party to the mosh pit,” says the band. “Eastern Europe has a legendary metal scene, and we can’t wait to see how they handle the BOUM PATAT energy.”

This Eastern Europe leg is the first part of the BOUM PATAT EU Tour 2026. A second leg across Western Europe, including France, Belgium, Germany, and more, is planned for November 2026, with dates to be announced soon.

BOUM PATAT is the new electro fun metal project by Belgian musician Olivier Wittenberg, former drummer-composer of Manic Movement. In the 2000s, he toured Europe with bands like Kreator, Moonspell, and Psychotic Waltz, and played major festivals such as Graspop Metal Meeting.

After a long break, he returns with Ma Belgitude, a self-produced solo debut that blends heavy metal, Belgian humor, and old-school electronic sounds. BOUM PATAT breaks metal’s usual codes—serious and absurd at once, mixing groove, industrial, and electronic punch with offbeat themes and playful visuals.

Live, the project becomes a trio with Laurent Soulasse (bass) and Maxime Demulder (drums).

www.facebook.com/BOUMPATAT
www.instagram.com/boumpatatofficial
www.tiktok.com/@boumpatat

Stam1na & VOV live at Verstas, Nakkila (Finland) 13.3.2026

Following the release of their eleventh album, Apnea, Stam1na are currently touring across Finland, and last Friday they brought their energy to a sold‑out show at Verstas in Nakkila. Before their set, the local band VOV had the chance to warm up the crowd on a smaller stage.

VOV, a Finnish metal band founded in 2023, delves into the darker corners and shadows of the human mind, wrapping their stories in a dark, modern, and melodic metal sound. Their 40‑minute performance leaned into symphonic metal, with vocalist Karoliina McLoud taking center stage with her versatile mezzo-soprano voice. Their setlist also included well‑known covers such as Nemo and Over the Hills and Far Away, which the audience welcomed enthusiastically.

Stam1na took over Konehalli with a set that blended fresh material from Apnea with beloved classics like Vereen Piirretty Viiva, Puolikas Ihminen, Enkelinmurskain, Maalla Merellä Ilmassa, Panzerfaust, Sirkkeli, and Lääke. The new songs proved to be a rollercoaster of emotions live, amplified by striking use of lights and smoke that intensified the atmosphere.
During one of the final tracks, front-man Antti “Hyrde” Hyyrynen stepped off the stage and made his way to the bar area, performing up close with the fans.
As expected, the show was filled with wild headbanging, and the audience formed circle pits a couple of times. Overall, it was a great show in a unique venue; the only downside was the overwhelming heat inside.

Here are some photos from the show, brought to you by Cristina Gregori.