Author: Crix

Black Royale, Themata & Sees live at Mera Klubi, Pori (Finland) 23.5.2026

The last Meara Klubi before the summer took place on May 23, featuring three bands: Black Royale, Themata, and Sees.

Sees opened the night. Rooted in post‑metal, their sound shifts from fierce aggression to the bleak beauty of melancholy. Their performance was intense and immersive, showcasing every shade of their atmospheric style.

Next came Themata, stepping onto the stage for their first live performance ever. Their sound is abrasive, terminal, and downright vile in the best sludge‑metal way. Despite being newcomers as a unit, their tight execution made it obvious that each member brings years of experience.

Closing the night was Black Royale, offering a highly infectious blend of death metal and crushing sludge. With their dark yet epic sound, they captivated the audience and built a powerful atmosphere to end the evening.

Photos by Cristina Gregori below.

VICTORIA K – New single “Oh So Weary”; The First Glimpse From Upcoming Album “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”

Australian gothic/modern metal act Victoria K unveil “Oh So Weary”, the first single taken from the upcoming album “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”.

With “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”, Victoria K moves toward a darker and more intimate sound, combining gothic atmospheres, modern heaviness, haunting melodies, and emotionally driven songwriting. The album expands the band’s sonic identity while exploring themes of grief, mortality, vulnerability, and rebirth.

“Oh So Weary” offers the first glimpse of this new direction through a composition that balances fragility, tension, and crushing dynamics. Layered arrangements, haunting melodies, and a sharp modern production approach – helmed by producer Lee Bradshaw and elevated through Lance Prenc’s mixing and mastering – shape a track that feels both massive and deeply personal. Additional electronic textures and sound design elements further reinforce the song’s contemporary edge and immersive atmosphere.

The single reflects on mortality and on the human body as a temporary shell inhabited by the soul. Recurring references to “home” and “house” symbolise physical existence itself, questioning what may remain once that form disappears.

Rather than relying on traditional genre formulas, Victoria K continues refining a sound built around atmosphere, emotional weight, and contemporary influences. Over the years, the Australian act has developed a distinctive identity within the modern gothic and alternative metal landscape through dynamic songwriting and cinematic storytelling.

Further details regarding “The Pleasure Of Sorrow”, including the album release date, will be revealed in the coming months. Stay tuned!

Listen to “Oh So Weary” here: https://lnk.to/b2R91u​

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gmo57RpzXrI​

For fans of: Spiritbox, Evanescence, Lacuna Coil

​

VICTORIA K lineup:​
​
​Victoria Knight: Vocals
​Charlie Curnow: Extreme Vocals
​James Davies: Drums
​Ethan Collusi: Bass

BIOGRAPHY:

Emerging from the sepulchral mists and haunted landscapes of ancient myth, Victoria K cast a lengthening shadow over Australia and beyond. Leading the Australian Gothic Metal charge with soaring vocals, expansive melodies, and bombastic songwriting that draws on the resonance of the oldest tales and fresh emotion.

Victoria K first came to the notice of listeners with their single “Lacuna,” which was distributed in Australia and New Zealand by Warner Music Group (Australia) and was an early taste of things to come with their debut album, “Essentia“.

Soon after the release of the 2019 single “Lacuna” ahead of the band’s first album, Victoria K were invited to support Swiss Folk Metal legends Eluveitie at Melbourne’s Croxton Bandroom. Though this was Victoria K’s first live outing, they took the crowd by storm and left them chanting for more. This entry into the live scene set the stage for the release of “Essentia” perfectly.

The diversity of music across the “Essentia” album is showcased across the four single/video releases – “Essentia“, “Forsaken“, “The Haunting“, and “Matrix“. While “Forsaken” reaches into the darker corners of Victoria K’s musical palette, “Matrix,” by contrast, is a fast and uplifting song guaranteed to get the blood pumping.

Just as Victoria K was about to play their first headline show, however, the world was plunged into the throes of lockdowns and the now-infamous pandemic. Even in the face of such a challenging time for the music industry, the band remained undeterred and performed a live show streamed directly from the studio, which was later released as the DVD “Essentia – Live Isolation Concert“.

By the time the world opened up again, Victoria K were ravenous for touring and embarked upon an extensive trek across the Great Southern Land that took in capital cities and regional towns alike, from their hometown of Melbourne to Whyalla.

Even as they toured, Victoria K showed no sign of slowing down in their songwriting, and 2023 saw the release of their sophomore album “Kore“. For this release, Knight drew on her own Greek heritage to weave an enchanting interpretation of the story of Persephone, including lyrics and chants sung in Ancient Greek to truly capture the epic tale.

The lineage from such luminaries of Gothic Metal as Within Temptation, Lacuna Coil, and Evanescence, as well as Prog/Power acts like Evergrey and Melbourne’s own Teramaze, to Victoria K is clear; however, with their latest release, Victoria K pays tribute to a more surprising inspiration, Madonna. In April 2024, Victoria K released their heavy rendition of the iconic 1998 ballad “Frozen“, running the gamut from heavy riffs to more dulcet moments, giving homage to the soulful and introspective nature of the song.

In addition to Knight’s majestic lead vocals, Victoria K’s current touring line-up includes Charlie Curnow tearing up the stage on harsh vocals, Ethan Colussi holding down the bottom end on bass, and the indomitable percussive machine of James Davies on drums.

Victoria K has amassed over 475,000 streams on Spotify and accumulated over 717,000 views on YouTube, averaging over 90 hours a month of watch time, with Matrix achieving over 150,000 views. They also boast over 6300 Facebook, 4000 Instagram, and 2700 TikTok followers, as well as over 6600 YouTube subscribers and 1000 monthly Spotify listeners primarily in Australia and the US.

With Victoria K leaning into epic and fantastical tales, it’s only fitting that they supported Blind Guardian at the Northcote Theatre on Friday, February 9, 2024, and Katatonia at The Croxton on Saturday, February 10, 2024.

Victoria K’s have recorded their 3rd studio album, “The Pleasure of Sorrow.” The details will be revealed in the coming weeks.

More info:
​https://rockshots.eu/​

​https://www.instagram.com/victoria_k_official/​

​https://www.facebook.com/victoriakofficial/​

Portuguese Instrumental Metal Project 7KEYS Signs With Wormholedeath for Debut Album Gæa

Wormholedeath is thrilled to announce the official signing of 7Keys, the formidable instrumental metal project hailing from Portugal. This exciting new partnership will see the global release of their upcoming studio album, ‘Gæa’.

7Keys build their sound around strong melodic writing, precise musicianship, and a modern heavy metal identity shaped without vocals. The result is music that leans on atmosphere and structure, while still carrying weight and momentum throughout each track. Their style sits in a space that will feel familiar to fans of Trivium, Avenged Sevenfold, and Iron Maiden, while staying firmly rooted in their own instrumental approach.

The project was initiated by guitarist Márcio Teixeira, whose relationship with heavy metal started in early childhood. After picking up the guitar at a young age and developing his skills independently, he later studied under renowned guitarist Paulo Barros, refining both technique and musical direction. During a live music production in Portugal, he met bassist Igor Rodrigues, marking the beginning of what would become 7Keys.

The lineup is completed by Gabriel Pereira on rhythm guitar and Igor Rodrigues on bass, bringing a solid and cohesive foundation to the band’s layered sound.

With “Gæa”, 7Keys present a collection of tracks focused on melody, progression, and emotional weight. Each piece stands on its own, yet contributes to a wider narrative shaped entirely through instrumentation. It’s a record built to engage both technically and emotionally, without relying on vocals to lead the story.

www.youtube.com/@7Keys_band_official
www.instagram.com/7keys_band_official
www.facebook.com/7keys

Legendary heavy metallers Stryper share new lyric video “I’m Alright (I’m Okay)”

Today, STRYPER returns with a powerful new single, ‘I’m Alright (I’m Okay),’ reaffirming why they remain one of the most influential and enduring bands in Christian metal. Decades into their career, the band continues to balance their unmistakable message with a sound that is every bit as commanding, melodic, and relevant as ever.

On the new single, Michael Sweet comments:

“This one is for the old school metal heads. It’s a little 1985 mixed with a little 1991, with a little 2026 sprinkled on top. It has all the qualities that you’ve come to expect from STRYPER, yet it also blends in perfectly with the times we live in. It’s a battle cry to stand strong and persevere no matter what, while believing that you will be alright, you will be okay!”

Watch the Lyric Video for “I’m Alright (I’m Okay)” HERE

Following the release of the new single, STRYPER is excited to be hitting the road beginning on June 5th in Anaheim, CA at the Grove of Anaheim. For a full list of dates, please see below.

STRYPER Live:

June 5th – Anaheim, CA @ Grove of Anaheim
June 6th – Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theatre
June 18th – Decatur, IL @ Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater
June 19th – St. Charles, IL @ Arcada Theatre
June 20th – Shipshewana, IN @ Blue Gate Performing Arts Center
July 17th – Arlington, TX @ Arlington Music Hall
July 18th – Houston, TX @ House of Blues
July 19th – San Antonio, TX @ Aztec Theatre
September 19th – Wissen, GER @ Loud and Proud Festival 2026
September 29th – Derry, NH @ Tupelo Music Hall
September 30th – Wantagh, NY @ Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall
October 3rd – Harrisburg, PA @ XL Live
October 4th – Warrendale, PA @ Jergel’s Rhythm Grille
October 6th – Marion, IL @ Marion Cultural and Civic Center
October 9th – Wisconsin Dells, WI @ Crystal Grand Music Theatre
October 10th – Green Bay, WI @ EPIC Event Center
October 12th – St. Louis, MO @ The Hawthorn
October 13th – Cincinnati, OH @ Bogart’s
October 15th – Nashville, TN @ The Cannery Mainstage
October 16th – Newton, NC @ Newton Performing Arts Center
October 19th – Jacksonville, FL @ FIVE
October 20th – Orlando, FL @ House of Blues
October 22nd – Atlanta, GA @ Center Stage
October 23rd – Liberty, SC @ Pickens County PAC
October 24th – Hopewell, VA @ Beacon Theatre
October 25th – Stroudsburg, PA @ Sherman Theater
December 5th – San Juan, PR @ Coca-Cola Music Hall

Stream / Listen to “I’m Alright (I’m Okay)” HERE

STRYPER are:
Michael Sweet – Lead Vocals/Lead & Rhythm Guitar
Robert Sweet – Drums & Percussion
Oz Fox – Vocals/Lead and Rhythm Guitar
Perry Richardson – Vocals/Bass

FOLLOW STRYPER:
Facebook
Instagram
Website

Bloodred Hourglass concludes We Should Be Buried Like This album cycle with After the Burial EP

Last fall, the metal band Bloodred Hourglass released their most successful full-length album, We Should Be Buried Like This. The album cycle is now being completed with the After the Burial EP, which features two new songs, Walk on Water and Heartstrings. In addition, two wonderful live versions of the album songs, God Has Favourites and Mirage, have been recorded for the EP from Bloodred Hourglass’s unique concert with the Mikkeli City Orchestra, the latter of which also features Balance Breach’s Aleksi Paasonen and LUNA KILLS’ Lotta Ruutiainen.

Two songs were created during the recording process, which had a brighter tone than the dark album atmosphere, and they wanted to release them later as separate entities. Special mention should be made of the collaboration with Erja Lyytinen, the most famous guitarist and singer in the Finnish blues and rock scene, who interprets the song Heartstrings in delicate tones.

“After the dark and hopeless themes of We Should Be Buried Like This, the After the Burial EP subtly turns its gaze towards the light. From the beginning, we wanted to include a female vocalist to bring the right amount of soul and depth and to showcase the contrasts that are at their most extensive in our music,” the band states.

The award-winning blues/rock star commented on the collaboration as follows:

“When I was asked to join, I knew that the level and quality would be high with this band. The song immediately seemed like a world-class hit: the production in the song is big, grandiose and the story is thrilling, alternating between an ethereal and a luminous world with a heavy, dark metal beat. It was great to do guitar parts on the song, which I got to do several times throughout the song. This is the first metal song in my life where I sing lead vocal parts! The song has everything: emotion, drama, story, dynamics and the best elements of metal music, topped with slide guitar!”

After the Burial EP track listing:
1. Walk on Water
2. Heartstrings
3. God Has Favourites (live)
4. Mirage (live)

Bloodred Hourglass live 2026

26.06.2026 FI Tuska Festival, Helsinki
03.07.2026 FI Sibeliustalon Metsähalli, Lahti
04.07.2026 NL Surhuzum Open Air, Achtkarspelen
10.07.2026 FI Dark River Festival, Kotka
11.07.2026 FI Metallivuori, Turku
07.08.2026 FI Koria Roll, Koria
12.08.2026 FI Lutakon Lippa, Jyväskylä
15.08.2026 DE Summer Breeze Open Air, Dinkelsbühl
27.11.2026 FI Unholy Winterfest, Joensuu
28.11.2026 FI John Smith Rock Frozen, Jyväskylä

Bloodred Hourglass is:
Jaredi Koukonen – vocals
Jarkko Hyvönen – drums
Jose Moilanen – bass
Lauri Silvonen – guitar
Joni Lahdenkauppi – guitar
Eero Silvonen – guitar
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE

Malummeh have released a new, long-awaited, self-titled EP, 19 years after their debut album

Finnish metal band Malummeh, founded in 2004, have released their new long-awaited EP, simply named ‘Malummeh’ on 28 May 2026 via Inverse Records. It’s been 19 years since the release of their debut album Revival via Spikefarm Records.

LISTEN to Malummeh EP on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/malummeh-ep

The Malummeh EP carries the band’s own name and includes four hidden gems that were left in the drawer more than a decade ago. After a long hiatus, the band members reconnected and came to the conclusion that those old, promising demos simply couldn’t be left unfinished. After extracting their full potential — and in some cases doing major song overhauls — they have now taken shape as the EP you see before you.

This release delivers serious sonic weight, but it has been built as a cohesive front-to-back listening experience, balancing pressure and breathing room in the right proportions. There is no shortage of intensity.

Recording and production were handled by our drummer and studio wizard Valtteri Kallio at Soundwell Studio, where the EP was also recorded and mixed.

The EP explores big themes, and its lyrics feel more relevant with each passing day. The subject matter strongly reflects the major changes of our time, while still leaving space for the listener’s own interpretation.

With this EP, the band closes one circle and opens a new door. While waiting for what comes next — turn this one up loud.

The band comments the tracks:

Dethroned
“The opening track of the EP was written for an authoritarian leader. The listener can decide who. This two-part composition leads the listener straight into the core of the band’s soundscape — from tense anticipation to relentless crushing force. Even though the song is old, the lyrics are more relevant than ever, and the track stays very close to its original version. It represents the band’s modern take on the best elements of early-2000s metal. Any djent that may appear here is purely coincidental.”

Gone Too Far
“If you follow the news, Gone Too Far might help you put your feelings into words. The song deals with betrayal, oppression, and naivety. The original idea for the track is over 15 years old and was once left unreleased by the band. Now it has gone through a complete overhaul and emerged stronger than ever. Musically, it also breaks new ground for the band, featuring symphonic instruments for the first time. The result is a raw and dramatic outpouring that balances between danger and escalation, forcing deep feelings of melancholy and finality to the surface.”

Misery
“Misery takes the listener on a long journey in a short time. This harmonic, dragging, and structurally unconventional piece wakes the listener from slumber to the middle of devastation. Originally intended as an instrumental intro for the EP, the band later chose a different track order, which opened the door to adding vocals. As a composition, this piece is also very old and it was never part of the band’s live set until now.”

October

“October is a piece larger than its size. The song is a gaslighting war speech delivered by the commander of an invading army to his soldiers just before sending them toward certain doom. Fueled by lies and incitement of hatred, the troops are driven into bloodthirsty frenzy. All of this is backed by merciless riff barrages whose twisted nature perfectly reflects the theme of the song.”

BIOGRAPHY:

Malummeh is a metal band founded in 2004 and originating from the Helsinki metropolitan area. The band blends various metal subgenres into an aggressive, melodic, and explosive whole that stands firmly on its own with no apologies. The group was founded by guitarists Mikael Kiikka and Jaakko Eskelinen, with drummer Valtteri Kallio joining at a very early stage. Alongside the original trio, lineup changes eventually led to Jukka Vehkamaa becoming the band’s bassist and Marko Niemistö taking the role of vocalist. During the early 2000s, the band showed promising momentum, culminating in the release of their debut album Revival through Spinefarm (Spikefarm) in November 2007. However, internal dynamics within the band gradually began to fracture, and in 2011 the band disbanded.

The silence lasted until 2022, when old conflicts were laid to rest and the band rediscovered its drive. The idea for restarting initially came from the possibility of releasing older, unfinished songs, but working on those tracks quickly led to writing new material as well. In practice, the band continues from where it left off, but with a more focused approach and without the rigid absolutism that often comes with youth.

In its new era, Malummeh focuses on bringing the strongest elements of early 2000s metal into the present day while leaving behind the most worn-out clichés of that period. This is made possible through complete artistic independence: the band composes, records, and produces its music entirely on its own terms, maintaining a strong emphasis on musicianship and a direct yet emotionally varied style of expression.

The comeback is not built solely on nostalgia. The goal is also to push the band’s sound forward into a more versatile direction while preserving its recognizable core. With new material, Malummeh continues its story after a long hiatus, now with a clearer understanding among its members of what kind of music they want to create and why.

Watch Gone Too Far & Dethroned music videos:
Gone Too Far: https://youtu.be/Qasm5wnHLYI
Dethroned: https://youtu.be/Kf1x1ZvQDUE

Line-up:
Marko Niemistö – Vocals
Mikael Kiikka – Guitars
Jaakko Eskelinen – Guitars
Valtteri Kallio – Drums
Jukka Vehkamaa – Bass

Jussi Saari – Trumpet on “October”
Aapo Salo – Orchestra on “Gone Too Far”

Links:

https://www.facebook.com/malummeh
https://www.instagram.com/malummeh
https://malummeh.bandcamp.com

Colorado thrash quartet Havok officially signs to BLKIIBLK and unleashes new single and video “Fifth Generation Warfare”

Today, thrash metal powerhouse HAVOK are proud to announce they have officially signed to BLKIIBLK. Bringing in a new era to their prolific career and marking their BLKIIBLK debut, the band shares their new single, “Fifth Generation Warfare,”alongside an official lyric video, available below.

On signing to BLKIIBLK, the band comments:

“We’re excited to sign with a new label that is hungry and eager to make a name for themselves, while still being led by a seasoned veteran. The music we’re releasing with BLKIIBLK is a continuation of HAVOK’s history of fast and tight heavy metal and we can’t wait for everyone to hear what we’ve been working on.”

On the new single, they add:

“‘Fifth Generation Warfare’ is the first release with our new guitarist, Brett Rechtfertig. The song showcases a wide variety of HAVOK sounds; incorporating guitar harmonies, punk attitude, pummeling drums, bass lines that deviate from the guitar parts, and a message about a gnarly topic, while still leaning into optimism. A lot of HAVOK lyrics discuss negative topics, but we always try to put a positive spin on things.”

Watch the Lyric Video for “Fifth Generation Warfare” HERE

Mike Gitter, Global Head of A&R for Frontiers Label Group and BLKIIBLK Label Head, comments on the signing:

“BLKIIBLK is proud to chart a new chapter for thrash metal as an international force with HAVOK. [HAVOK leader] David Sanchez continues to reenergize his music with the ferocity, technicality, and incisive lyrical word-fare that makes HAVOK not just accolytes but masters of their steely game.”

In addition to the new single, HAVOK recently announced tours in the United States, Latin America, and Europe. The carnage will begin with a pair of headline shows kicking off June 1st in Omaha, NE. Two days later on June 3rd in Detroit, MI, HAVOK joins up withKillswitch Engage, Machine Head, and Iron Reagan for a US tour. A complete list of dates can be found below.

HAVOK Live:

w/ Killswitch Engage, Machine Head and Iron Reagan
June 1, 2026 – Omaha, NE @ Reverb Lounge*
June 2, 2026 – St. Louis, MO @ Fubar*
June 3, 2026 – Detroit, MI @ Fillmore
June 5, 2026 – Minneapolis, MN @ Fillmore
June 6, 2026 – Milwaukee, WI @ Milwaukee Metal Fest
June 7, 2026 – South Bend, IN @ Four Winds Field
June 9, 2026 – Raleigh, NC @ The Ritz
June 11, 2026 – Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Paramount
June 12, 2026 – Boston, MA @ Roadrunner
June 13, 2026 – Bethlehem, PA @ Wind Creek Event Center
June 14, 2026 – Greensboro, NC @ Hangar 1819**
June 16, 2026 – Orlando, FL @ Hard Rock Live
June 17, 2026 – Atlanta, GA @ Tabernacle
June 19, 2026 – Dallas, TX @ South Side Ballroom
June 20, 2026 – Houston, TX @ Bayou Music Center
June 21, 2026 – San Antonio, TX @ Boeing Center at Tech Port
June 23, 2026 – Albuquerque, NM @ Revel Entertainment Center
June 24, 2026 – Tempe, AZ @ The Marquee
June 25, 2026 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium
June 26, 2026 – Bakersfield, CA @ Temblor Brewing*
June 27, 2026 – San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield
*Havok w/ local support
**Havok & Iron Reagan

Latin America 2026
July 2, 2026 – Mexico City, Mexico @ Fu*k Off Room
July 3, 2026 – Mexico City, Mexico @ Fu*k Off Room
July 4, 2026 – San Salvador, El Salvador @ Simmer Down
July 5, 2026 – San José, Costa Rica @ Mercado La California
July 9, 2026 – Montevideo, Uruguay @ Sala Live Era
July 10, 2026 – Buenos Aires, Argentina @ The Roxy Club
July 11, 2026 – Santiago, Chile @ Sala RBX
July 13, 2026 – São Paulo, Brazil @ Manifesto

w/ Blood Red Throne, Xonor and Eradikated
September 10, 2026 – Frankfurt, Germany @ Das Bett
September 11, 2026 – Bochum, Germany @ Matrix
September 12, 2026 – Eindhoven, Netherlands @ Dynamo
September 13, 2026 – Brussels, Belgium @ Botanique
September 15, 2026 – Bristol, UK @ The Fleece
September 16, 2026 – Nottingham, UK @ Rescue Rooms
September 17, 2026 – Dublin, Ireland @ Whelans
September 18, 2026 – Manchester, UK @ Rebellion
September 19, 2026 – London, UK @ The Dome
September 21, 2026 – Paris, France @ Petit Bain
September 22, 2026 – Nantes, France @ Ferrailleur
September 23, 2026 – Madrid, Spain @ Revi Live
September 24, 2026 – Barcelona, Spain @ Salamandra
September 25, 2026 – Lyon, France @ O Totem
September 26, 2026 – Aarau, Switzerland @ Kiff
September 27, 2026 – Milan, Italy @ Lime Club
September 29, 2026 – München, Germany @ Backstage
September 30, 2026 – Budapest, Hungary @ Durer Kert
October 1, 2026 – Prague, Czech Republic @ Futurum
October 2, 2026 – Warsaw, Poland @ Hydrozagadka
October 4, 2026 – Berlin, Germany @ SO36
October 5, 2026 – Hamburg, Germany @ Logo
October 6, 2026 – Copenhagen, Denmark @ Stengade
October 7, 2026 – Oslo, Norway @ John Dee
October 8, 2026 – Stockholm, Sweden @ Kollektivet Livet
October 10, 2026 – Helsinki, Finland @ Ääniwalli

We can only move forward when we understand what came before. HAVOK possess an airtight grasp on the fundamentals of thrash, enabling them to usher the genre into the fire of the future. The Colorado quartet lock and load throat-slicing guitars with breakneck rhythms and venomously vitriolic vocals. After piling up tens of millions of streams and earning acclaim from Metal Hammer, Loudwire, Consequence of Sound, and many more, the band ignited their first independent release, the ‘New Eyes’ EP, in 2024.

HAVOK have never stopped pushing forward without apology. Thus far, they’ve unleashed a series of fan favorite albums, including ‘Burn’ [2009], ‘Time Is Up’ [2011], ‘Unnatural Selection’ [2013], ‘Conformicide’ [2017], and ’V’ [2020]. The latter represented a critical high watermark with Metal Hammer proclaiming, “HAVOK have nailed 21st century thrash.”

Along the way, the group also lit up stages on tour around the world with the likes of Megadeth, Anthrax, Suicidal Tendencies, Testament, Killswitch Engage, Exodus, Sepultura, Kreator, Children Of Bodom, and many more.

Kickstarting this next era with worldwide touring and new music coming in 2026, HAVOK has enabled itself to move at a prolific pace. In the end, HAVOK are leveling up and taking thrash with them.

FOLLOW HAVOK:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube

Egokills ends their release hiatus with the most aggressive and intense song of their career

Tampere-based heavy rock metal band Egokills has finished their new album and the first single Knuckle Choke was released today. The song is the most aggressive and intense release in Egokills’ catalog to date. Riffs are poured down the listener’s throats accompanied by a fast-paced rhythm – not forgetting the blast beats. The song is accompanied by a visualizer.

“Now for once, strangling like you should!”, singer-guitarist and songwriter Janne Selo commented.

Selo decided to finally take up the guitar in Egokills, after having remained solely the singer’s role until now. The band had always wondered why the best guitarist in the lineup didn’t play the guitar.

The album was produced by Juha Nevala, and it was recorded in the old-fashioned way in a real studio with real instruments. The studio was Lammaskallion Audio in Tuusula.

Egokills has a fifteen-year career behind them, three albums and several tours in Europe. The fourth album is ready and will be released later this year. The previous full-length album Egokills was released in 2023.

“Fifteen years of frustration turned into explosive inspiration! Nothing but fuel for the flames,” says drummer Vilho Rajala.

“There’s a new kind of confidence in this thing now. We show our mettle but with a smile on our faces,” adds guitarist Niko Viita-aho.

Egokills have started their new cycle of social media campaigning. There will be a lot of material from the studio, including a making of documentary series, talking heads, training clips and much more. More information about the upcoming album and Egokills’ plans will be announced soon.

The official Egokills store now has a limited edition of the Knuckle Choke shirt, based on Niko Viita-aho’s cover art.

Egokills is:
Janne Selo – vocals
Niko Viita-aho – guitar
Mika Pusa – bass
Vilho Rajala – drums

EGOKILLS | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | SPOTIFY

Hellsinki Metal Festival lineup changes, Numento replaces Ill Niño – Festival’s own beer also on sale in selected stores and restaurants

The Hellsinki Metal Festival, which will be held in Helsinki on August 7–8, has seen a change in the lineup. One of Finland’s rising export hopes, progressive death metal artist Numento (pictured below), will replace the American band Ill Niño, whose performance at the event has been canceled due to conflicts of interest and logistical challenges. In addition, Accept and Black Label Society will change their schedule to Friday night on stage one.

In addition to traditional band instruments, Numento has harnessed our national instrument, the kantele, to new use, and the kantele also freshens up with the distortion on the band’s latest single The Extortionist. You can watch the music video for the song here. Numento won the Finnish Wacken Metal Battle competition last year, and the band’s music has been heard on stage as well as on the Osu! Beatmap gaming platform. The band has released three albums so far, the latest of which, The Antimatter Fantasy (2024), received rave reviews.

This year, the fourth Hellsinki Metal Festival will be accompanied by Fat Lizard’s own Brutal Fu**ing Lager beer, which will be available at the event itself and at selected K-Supermarkets and major rock bars in the Helsinki region on Friday.

This year’s Hellsinki Metal Festival schedule is:

FRIDAY 7.8.
13:00 – doors

HELLSINKI-01

14:15-15:00 – UNLEASHED

16:00-17:00 – CARCASS

18:00-19:00 – BLOODBATH

20:00-21:15 – BLACK LABEL SOCIETY
22:30-00:00 – ACCEPT

HELLSINKI-02

13:30-14:15 – HORIZON IGNITED

15:00-16:00 – OMNIUM GATHERUM

17:00-18:00 – IKINÄ

19:00-20:00 – BLACKBRAID

21:15-22:30 – CRYPTOPSY

HELLSINKI-03

15:00-15:45 – WORMWOOD

16:30-17:15 – BRYMIR
18:00-18:45 – VREID
19:30-20:15 – SANGUISUGABOGG
22:00-23:00 – MAWIZA
00:00-01:00 – CARPENTER BRUT

SATURDAY 8.8.
13:00 – doors

HELSINKI-01

14:15-15:00 – NUMENTO
16:00-17:00 – MISþYRMING
18:00-19:00 – PARADISE LOST
20:00-21:15 – TRIPTYKON PERFORMS CELTIC FROST
22:30-00:00 – OPETH

HELSINKI-02

13:30-14:15 – ASSEMBLE THE CHARIOTS
15:00-16:00 – IOTUNN
17:00-18:00 – KALMAH
19:00-20:00 – CYAN KICKS
21:15-22:30 – LIFE WAY

HELSINKI-03

15:00-15:45 – SEPULCHRAL CURSE
16:30-17:15 – ORLY
18:00-18:45 – HORNA
19:30-20:30 – TUNGSTEN
22:00-23:00 – MISþYRMING & NERGAL PERFORMS BEHEMOTH’S SVENTHEVITH
00:00-01:00 – THE KOVENANT

Rights to change reserved.

All tickets for the festival are now on sale. More information about the different ticket types can be found at the ticket offices.
The ticket prices currently on sale are:
Fri/Sat day ticket: €134.50 + service fee
2-day basic ticket: €199.00 + service fee
2-day RIP ticket: €279.00 + service fee
Tickets are sold by Ticketmaster, Tiketti and Lippu.fi

Brutal Fu**ing Lager is available from 29.5. starting at the following stores and restaurants:

– K-Citymarket Ruoholahti
– K-Supermarket Kamppi
– K-Supermarket Lippulaiva
– K-Supermarket Tapiola

– The Riff
– Henry’s Pub Kulttuurikasarmi
– On The Rocks

HELLSINKI METAL FESTIVAL | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

Japanese Ambient / Folk Rock Project Happy Sad Signs With Epictronic

Epictronic is delighted to announce the signing of Happy Sad, the evocative solo project of Japanese multi-instrumentalist and acclaimed sound designer Hiroaki Kusano. The partnership kicks off with the worldwide release of the masterpiece album, The World is Grand When We See, arriving June 11, 2026.

“It all began with a comment from Mr. Carlo of Epictronic on Hiroaki’s music.” Kusano said, “The partnership took shape from a shared vision and a clear understanding of the idea of ‘music that paints the landscapes of the heart.’”

“We are extremely proud and honoured to announce our collaboration with HAPPY SAD, an extraordinarily talented Japanese artist whose vision goes far beyond the boundaries of conventional songwriting. What immediately captured my attention was not only the quality of the music itself, but the depth, sensitivity, and artistic identity behind every composition. HAPPY SAD represents the kind of artist that today has become incredibly rare: authentic, cultured, emotionally honest, and deeply devoted to the creative process in all its forms. His music naturally blends elements of mellow soul, ambient, trip-hop, and cinematic soundscapes into something deeply personal and recognisable. There is a poetic elegance in the way he combines acoustic instrumentation with modern production techniques, creating songs that feel intimate, atmospheric, and timeless at the same time. Beyond his solo work, his impressive career as a sound designer and composer for more than 60 video game productions and multimedia projects demonstrates an exceptional artistic versatility and a truly international level of professionalism. For us, this collaboration is not simply a licensing agreement. It is the meeting of two artistic visions connected by a shared love for emotionally powerful music, sonic exploration, and artistic sincerity. We genuinely believe HAPPY SAD deserves much wider international recognition, and we are incredibly excited to help bring his music to new audiences around the world.” — Carlo Bellotti

The World is Grand When We See brings together a refined selection of recent works, focusing on compositions designed to evoke imagery through sound. The album moves between neoclassical arrangements, ambient layers, lo-fi textures, world music influences, and alternative rock structures, forming a fluid and cinematic listening experience.

At its core, the record reflects a personal journey shaped by contradiction. Hiroaki’s perspective—formed through years of travel across ten countries in search of sound, instruments, and lived experience—embraces both beauty and discomfort in equal measure. The result is a body of work that does not avoid darkness but allows light to break through it.

The album carries a dynamic emotional arc. Initial heaviness gradually gives way to moments of clarity, where softness and warmth emerge like light after rainfall. This contrast becomes a central theme, mirroring the instability and emotional complexity of contemporary life. Rather than following trends, Happy Sad focuses on expression rooted in direct experience and human connection.

The title The World is Grand When We See reflects a simple idea: meaning does not come from second-hand perspective, but from direct observation and lived understanding. The music invites listeners into that process—quiet, reflective, and deeply personal.

Hiroaki is the artist behind the project Happy Sad. He began making music during his student years, recording demos while performing solo acoustic sets and playing in café bars. His influences span soul, British rock, folk, trip hop, neoclassical, world music, film scores, and ambient, alongside a strong connection to literature and the arts. His work balances live instrumentation with programmed elements. To date, Happy Sad has released seven albums and 19 EPs.

Alongside his solo work, Hiroaki is a Sound Designer and Sound Director with around 14 years of experience in the game industry. He has held senior roles at companies including NetEase Games, FunPlus, NHN PlayArt, IGNIS / Studio King Inc., and Noisycroak Inc., contributing to more than 60 projects. His work covers music composition (BGM), sound design, MA, direction, promotional video production, and audio for games, commercials, and short dramas.

In 2013, his track “Everyday” won the domestic DJ category and became a finalist in MTV and Lenovo’s “CO:LAB” contest.

Happy Sad is his personal artistic outlet, developed since his student days. It reflects his inner landscape and explores both beauty and darkness in life, connected to a wider tradition of art and philosophy focused on human experience.

In recent years, he has traveled across ten countries in search of sounds and traditional instruments. Along the way, encounters with displaced people left a strong impression and reinforced his desire to share music that carries shared human emotion.

He views music as a universal language—capable of connecting people in the same way visual art can capture and communicate a single, lasting moment.

Official Website: happysadsong.com

Social Media: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Streaming: Spotify