Author: Crix

Romanian Folkcore DIRTY SHIRT Shares Full Live Set at Pol’and’Rock Festival 2025 + Announce “Dirtylicious Decade Tour”

Dirty Shirt has released the full video of their explosive 2025 performance at Pol’and’Rock Festival, one of Europe’s largest and most iconic open‑air music events.
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The 2025 edition marked a major milestone for the Romanian folk‑metal collective: their third Pol’and’Rock appearance, placing them alongside Dubioza Kolektiv as the only non‑Polish acts to have played the festival three times.
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​Dirty Shirt’s history with Pol’and’Rock is deeply intertwined with the festival’s spirit of community, charity, and musical diversity. In 2021, the band made their Pol’and’Rock debut during the special pandemic‑restricted edition, performing for a reduced audience of 20,000. In 2022, Dirty Shirt returned triumphantly after winning the Golden Spinning Top (Złoty Bączek), the public‑voted contest that determines which artist opens the next edition of the festival. Past winners include major international names such as Clawfinger, Papa Roach, Sabaton, Anthrax, Bring Me The Horizon, Avatar, Amon Amarth, and others. And their third and most recent appearance in 2025 came as part of EERA, the Eastern European Rock Alliance, an EU‑funded cultural collaboration. Dirty Shirt was one of the flagship bands of the project, making their return to Pol’and’Rock both symbolic and artistically meaningful.

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Despite the excitement, the road to the 2025 stage was anything but easy. The band had traveled more than 16 hours from Romania to northern Poland the day before the show, arriving late at night. Show day began at 4:30 a.m. for a 6 a.m. soundcheck, with the hotel located over an hour from the festival grounds. By the time Dirty Shirt stepped on stage, it was well past midnight.
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​“Beyond the fatigue, playing at Pol’and’Rock always feels like coming alive again. The Polish audience, one of the most intense, passionate crowds we have ever played for, gives the energy back a hundredfold and reminds you why you do this in the first place,” shares the band.

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Often described as “the biggest open‑air festival in Europe,” Pol’and’Rock is a free, charity‑driven event organized as a thank‑you to the volunteers and supporters of WOSP, The Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity. WOSP’s annual Grand Finale raises funds for hospitals across Poland, more than $52 million USD in the most recent edition, and the festival stands as a cultural celebration of that nationwide effort.
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Beyond music, Pol’and’Rock hosts workshops, conferences, and a wide range of artistic and educational activities, making it one of Europe’s most unique cultural gatherings.
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​Dirty Shirt is once again eligible for the Golden Spinning Top contest, and fans who want to support the band’s return to Pol’and’Rock in 2026 can vote online (email confirmation required): https://polandrockfestival.pl/o-festiwalu/zloty-baczek​
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​The complete live set of their landmark third appearance at Pol’and’Rock 2025 is now available to watch online at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v67KzzE6ivk

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Over their 30 years, Dirty Shirt has become one of Eastern Europe’s most original and successful rock/metal bands, known for their explosive fusion of modern heavy music with the vibrant energy of Eastern European traditional sounds. Formed in the mid‑90s as a wedding band, the group has kept its core lineup intact for three decades, evolving into a major international act with a distinctive, genre‑blending identity. Their music draws from metal, hardcore, industrial, funk, world music, and authentic regional folk influences, enhanced by the use of traditional acoustic instruments both in the studio and on stage.
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The band gained international attention after winning second place at the Wacken Metal Battle 2014 world final, followed by performances at major European festivals including Hellfest, Wacken Open Air, Pol’and’Rock, Electric Castle, Rockstadt Extreme Fest, Reload Festival, Dong Open Air, and many more. With more than 1000 shows across 17 countries, Dirty Shirt has shared stages with artists such as Megadeth, Godsmack, Gogol Bordello, Skindred, and Orphaned Land.
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Their albums have earned widespread critical acclaim, featured in leading publications such as Metal Hammer, Rock Hard, Metalsucks, Angry Metal Guy, Hard Rock Mag, and Metalized. Known for their high‑energy, danceable live performances and cross‑genre appeal, Dirty Shirt continues to expand its international presence while redefining what modern Eastern European metal can sound like.

Recommended for anyone looking for something interesting and lively, Dirty Shirt is for fans of Skindred, Bloodywood, Alestorm, and The Hu.

Music video – FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyloBE8YbqY​

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/artist/7lnoKzE5unKzShIzkjlTX7​

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DIRTY SHIRT Dirtylicious Decade Tour​
Ticket Info – https://www.ambilet.ro/dirtyshirt/
​30.01.2026 – Quantic – Bucuresti
31.01.2026 – Rockstadt – Brasov
12.02.2026 – Lokal – Oradea
13.02.2026 – Form Space – Cluj Napoca
14.02.2026 – Republic Hub – Tg Mures
06.03.2026 – Art Rock Cafe – Suceava
07.03.2026 – Urbana – Iasi
08.03.2026 – Beraria Valhalla – Bacau
20.03.2026 – Teatrul National – Ploiesti
21.03.2026 – Music For Autism – Constanta
17.04.2026 – Oldies Pub – Sibiu
19.04.2026 – The Station – Petrosani
08.05.2026 – Log Out – Baia Mare
09.05.2026 – Soho Music Hall – Bistrita
22.05.2026 – Terasa Flex – Arad
23.05.2026 – In Spatele Casei – Timisoara

For more info: https://linktr.ee/dirtyshirtband​
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HYPERSPACE METALFEST (Vancouver, BC) Announces Full 2026 Lineup w/ SANCTUARY, EDGE OF PARADISE, ATAVISTIA, VOIDCHASER, OWLBEAR, ARTIFICIAL LANGUAGE, and more

Vancouver, B.C.’s leading melodic and power metal festival, HYPERSPACE METAL FEST, is gearing up for its 7th edition after another year packed with unforgettable, high‑energy performances. Taking place at The Cobalt on April 16 and 17, and at the Rickshaw Theatre on April 18, the festival has unveiled its full lineup of 2026 performers, which includes SANCTUARY, EDGE OF PARADISE, ATAVISTIA, VOIDCHASER, OWLBEAR, ARTIFICIAL LANGUAGE, and more.

“The full lineup for Hyperspace Metal Festival VII is here! Sanctuary will be performing a Canadian exclusive performance of Into The Mirror Black in its entirety! Atavistia will be headlining night 1, which will have a heavy emphasis on melodic death metal. Night two headliner Edge of Paradise will cap off a night of epic symphonic and melodic power metal! After this year, the festival will be going on indefinite hiatus, so if you’ve been wanting to make it to Hyperspace, this could be your last chance. Let’s rage together at the Rickshaw and the Cobalt one last time!” adds festival organizer Joey Hockin of Journeyman Productions.

Hyperspace Metal Festival VII – April 16th – 18th.​
One-day passes and three-day passes are available at http://hyperspace-vii.eventbrite.ca/​

Facebook Event – https://www.facebook.com/events/858534116963447​

HMF 2026 Lineup Spotify Playlist – https://open.spotify.com/playlist/29rcYoWLyYXPFyN7OKdPDB?si=7Kke2MVVSyS6v_Lxe5-KSg​

HYPERSPACE METAL FESTIVAL VII​
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Day One – April 16
​Atavistia
Inpathos
Hyperstrike
Ravensun
Kayas​
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Day Two – April 17
​Edge of Paradise
The Scepter
Lycanthro
Ophelia Falling
Valley of Despair​
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Day Three – April 18
​Sanctuary – Performing Into The Mirror Black in its entirety
Owlbear – Canadian Debut
Artificial Language – Canadian Debut
Voidchaser
Witchkiller

About The Bands:

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This year’s HMF headliner, Sanctuary, will make their exclusive Canadian appearance unforgettable by performing their acclaimed 1990 album Into the Mirror Black in full.
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Formed in Seattle in 1985, Sanctuary quickly became a major force in the city’s metal scene, driven by the soaring vocals of the late Warrel Dane. Their debut, Refuge Denied (1988), produced by Dave Mustaine (Megadeth), put them on the global metal map, followed by the darker and more refined Into the Mirror Black in 1990. The rise of grunge paused the band’s momentum, leading members to form Nevermore, but Sanctuary reunited in 2011 and returned to major festival stages worldwide.
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They released The Year the Sun Died in 2014 and the archival collection Inception in 2017. After Dane’s passing later that year, the band continued with Joseph Michael on vocals, earning strong support from fans. Today’s lineup features Michael, original members Lenny Rutledge and Dave Budbill, plus bassist George Hernandez, with a second guitarist joining them live.
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Sanctuary will perform special sets of Refuge Denied and Into the Mirror Black at select 2026 festivals and is currently working on a new album, Transmutation. The band is ready to bring fresh music and a powerful new show back to Europe and beyond. See you on the road!

​https://www.sanctuaryofficial.com/​

Video – Future Tense – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v5NCBaPE3k0​

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Headlining the night two of HMF, Los Angeles’ Edge of Paradise arrives fresh off extensive North American touring with Delain, Xandria, and Japan’s Lovebites. Hyperspace Metal Fest in Vancouver is one of several major headline appearances for the band this year, alongside Fire It Up Festival in California and Rock in Rautheim in Germany, with more dates on the way.
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The band recently released a striking new video for “Martyr (Monster)” from last year’s hit album Prophecy, expanding their immersive sci‑fi universe and showcasing new keyboardist Alex Nasla in his first performance with the group. The video’s second act reimagines the track as an instrumental, further deepening the album’s sonic world.
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Known for their cinematic fusion of heavy riffs, soaring vocals, electronic textures, and vivid storytelling, Edge of Paradise, fronted by vocalist and visual artist Margarita Monet, has toured more than 30 countries and released acclaimed albums including Universe, The Unknown, Hologram, and now Prophecy (Napalm Records, 2025). Widely praised as their most ambitious work yet, Prophecy introduces 8‑string guitars and explores the looming “Singularity,” balancing futuristic themes with Monet’s emotional lyricism and artwork.
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The band’s expanding creative universe also includes a graphic novel series that enriches the albums’ narratives. Lead single “Death Note” has quickly become a fan favorite, accompanied by a visually rich, cinematic video directed by Monet. With their bold artistic vision, relentless touring, and multi‑dimensional storytelling, Edge of Paradise continues to push modern rock forward—inviting fans into a world where music, art, and imagination collide.

​https://www.edgeofparadiseband.com/​

Video – Martyr (Monster) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtHYeuZpXbA​

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Headlining the first night of HMF, Atavistia (HMF Alumni) is a Canadian symphonic melodic death metal band that blends aggressive riffs, cinematic orchestrations, and melancholic atmospheres. The band has built a strong international following, particularly across Europe, through consistent releases and extensive touring alongside established acts. Known for their powerful live performances and polished production, Atavistia continues to push their sound forward while remaining rooted in melodic death metal.

​https://linktr.ee/atavistia​

Video – Eternal Oceans (Reforged) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vthxzis6lzs​

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Voidchaser, a progressive metal band from Montreal and Stockholm, has rapidly gained international attention since 2023, earning praise from major outlets across the Americas and Europe. Their 2024 concept album Solace surpassed 250,000 streams and charted globally, followed by the 2025 EP Trust, which features high‑profile collaborations. In 2025, the band launched their debut international tour, performing at ProgPower Europe, the inaugural ProgStorm Festival, and sharing stages with Threshold, Kingcrow, Vulkan, Nospūn, and more.

​https://www.voidchaser.net/​

Video – Time (feat. Universe Effects) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nnxaEiAmBv4​

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Owlbear, forced to cancel their 2025 HMF appearance, is now set on taking the stage in 2026. Formed in 2020 by North American metal veterans Katheryn Scary, Jeff Taft, and Leona Hayward, the band quickly evolved from a remote project into a full live act following the success of their 2023 debut Chaos to the Realm and their 2024 performance at Chicago’s sold‑out Legions of Metal festival. Drawing on classic heavy and speed metal with lyrics inspired by beloved games and fantasy worlds, Owlbear continues to build momentum with their acclaimed sophomore album, Feather & Claw

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

Lyric Video – Hawkriders Of The Waste – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AXFZ3ZmF5o​

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Artificial Language is a progressive rock/metal band from Fresno, California, known for blending technical precision with a cinematic, emotionally driven sound. Since 2017, they’ve built a reputation for intricate songwriting and immersive arrangements that bridge the intensity of metal with the expansiveness of modern prog. Their evolution continues through ambitious studio work and striking visual storytelling, including their standout “Skinwalker” music video.

​https://www.artificiallanguagemusic.com/​

Video – Skinwalker – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nyHudUCLQIM​

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Ophelia Falling, a Vancouver‑based symphonic metal band and HMF alumni, blends soaring vocals with driving power metal, orchestra, and choir, gaining early momentum after Chelsea Rose joined in 2015 and their explosive 2018 debut. With the lineup solidified by bassist Sylvain Maltais and drummer Chris Pallot, the band’s rise included their Savage Love EP, soundtrack placements, and performances at Wacken Battle Canada and Decimate 2.0. Their 2020 debut album, Destroyed in Delight, continues to receive global radio play, and the band is now writing new material as they prepare for their return to the stage.

​https://www.opheliafalling.com/​

Music Video – Destroyed in Delight – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksRUe2mCS5I​

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The Scepter is an Ottawa heavy metal band known for blending classic metal power with a sharp modern edge. Formed by seasoned musicians united by their love of traditional metal, the group has built a reputation for high‑energy performances and commanding, riff‑driven songwriting. With new music underway and momentum growing, The Scepter stands poised as one of Ottawa’s strongest emerging voices in the next wave of heavy metal.

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

Stream – Protector of the Skies – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gA0xp6VoWEY​

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Inpathos is a melodic death metal band from Bellingham, WA, blending Scandinavian‑inspired riffs with rhythms influenced by the founding Boulos brothers’ Lebanese heritage to create a distinct and dynamic sound. They have released an EP and three LPs, including 2025’s Apparitions, and have performed alongside acts like Be’lakor, Anciients, and Nekrogoblikon at sold‑out Pacific Northwest venues. The current lineup features Patrick Bradford, Alex Mattison, Brendan Brendible, and brothers Adonis and Nabil Reed‑Boulos.

​https://www.inpathosofficial.com/​

Music Video – Radiance – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aokQVIH35EU​

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Lycanthro, an Ottawa‑based power metal force and HMF alumni, blends power, thrash, and traditional metal into a bold, cinematic sound inspired by classic horror, mythology, and genre legends like Savatage and W.A.S.P. Their acclaimed 2021 full‑length Mark of the Wolf showcased dynamic storytelling and helped propel them onto stages such as Power Metal Quest Fest and Legions of Metal. Now signed to Psychomanteum Records, the pack is hard at work on their anticipated second album, proving the howl never dies and the hunt never ends.

​https://lycanthrometal.com/​

Video – Far Beyond The Walls – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g5ImX4EEwjk​

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Witchkiller emerged from Ottawa’s early‑’80s metal underground as one of Canada’s standout heavy metal forces, gaining a cult following with their powerful blend of classic metal and NWOBHM‑inspired intensity. Their 1984 EP Day of the Saxons became a defining release of the era, and after disbanding in 1985, the group reignited in 2012, introducing their legacy to a new generation. Today, Witchkiller remains a celebrated name in traditional metal, their influence continuing to resonate through collectors, die‑hard fans, and the genre’s modern revival.

​https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064302991214​

“Day of the Saxons” LIVE Headbangers Open Air 2025 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcVtxUuhRmk​

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Valley of Despair is an independent metal band from Edmonton blending modern rock, power metal, and thrash, earning national attention when their 2024 debut EP Burn At The Stake hit #1 on college radio and charted on the Earshot National Loud Chart. They toured Western Canada in 2025 with festival stops in Armstrong and Yellowknife and are now preparing their full‑length debut for release in 2026. The band features Cheryl Leia, TJ Buggins, Joel Croft, and Preston Lehoux.

​https://valleyofdespair.ca/​

Video – Burn At The Stake – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJcccWhNpUs​

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Born of “The Blade,” Seattle, WA, Hyperstrike brings action, danger, and excitement back to heavy metal. Feat. members of Xoth, Ghost Ship Octavius. Chop Daddy on Nasty Slap Bass, Brain Lord on Explosive Pipes, Siberian Claw on Ripping Guitar, and Goblin Hammer on epic drums.

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

Video – Leaving You Again – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuLjvIJyz8w​
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Ravensun is a Vancouver Island-based melodic death metal band. Themes of war and brutality are the main focus of the lyrical content. Blending soaring vocals, driving riffs, and atmospheric soundscapes into a style that bridges modern metal and classic influences. Known for their dynamic live performances and emotionally charged songwriting, the band has quickly become a standout presence in the BC metal scene. With new music in development and a growing regional following, Ravensun continues to expand its sound and carve out its place in Western Canada’s heavy music landscape.

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

Live at Armstrong MetalFest 2024 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxPgSDlXgCs​

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Replacing the originally announced Thorsguard, who unfortunately canceled, Vancouver melodic death metal band Kayas has been asked to join the lineup. Known for blending melodic intensity with modern aggression, creating a sound that bridges classic influences and contemporary edge. Their dynamic live performances and tightly crafted songwriting have quickly earned them a growing presence in the West Coast metal scene. With new music underway and momentum building, Kayas continues to carve out their identity as one of Vancouver’s most promising rising acts.

​https://linktr.ee/kayasofficial​

Music Video – Reflections in the Water – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1VQ07Pej40​

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To follow updates for Hyperspace Metal Festival 2026, please visit the following links:
​Facebook.com/HyperspaceMetalFestival​
​Instagram.com/HyperspaceMetalFestival​

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

 

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/

Stam1na’s Käärmeennyrkki single and video have been released

Metal band Stam1na, who are celebrating their 30th anniversary, have released a new song from their upcoming album Apnea today. Listen to Käärmeennyrkki here.

The band’s 11th album, Apnea, will be released on February 20, 2026. The album was produced by Stam1na together with Julius Mauranen (Viitasen Piia, Oranssi Pazuzu).

“Käärmeennyrkki shed its skin several times during the demo sessions, sometimes causing feelings of despair as to whether it was a king cobra or an earthworm. With the support of Julius “Reksi” Mauranen, we boldly set out to examine the amount of distortion and seek airiness in the arrangements, and we happily succeeded. Faced with the combination of beauty and ugliness, it is easy to go to the mirror, take a handshake position and say the words “Thank you, Reksi. Thank you,” describes the song’s composer Kai-Pekka Kangasmäki.

The Käärmeennyrkki music video was directed by internationally awarded filmmaker and musician Anna Eriksson. This is Eriksson’s first music video direction for another artist.

“After listening to the song, I thought for a long time about what Käärmeennyrkki means to me. I think it is an awareness of death and at the same time its exorcism. I wanted to depict pain, strength and sensitivity. Antti’s dedication to the process made a big impression on me. I appreciate Stam1na’s attitude and desire to seek something new,” Anna Eriksson commented.

“In my opinion, Kai-Pekka often composes the most interesting, different Stam1na songs. Käärmeennyrkki is no exception. The atmosphere when the song meets Anna’s wonderful cinematography is unique. It was a special honor to be able to act in this music video”- Antti Hyyrynen.

Stam1na, who has won seven Emma awards during their career, will start the Käärmeennyrkki 2026 tour in support of thier new album on March 6, 2026.

https://stam1na.com/

Hungarian Modern Metal Heavyweights SENKI Global Deal with Wormholedeath

Wormholedeath Records is proud to announce the signing of Hungarian modern metal powerhouse SENKI. This new partnership will see the global digital release of the band’s highly anticipated EP, “Szilánkok” (Shards), on March 13, 2026.

Emerging from the depths of the Hungarian underground, SENKI (Hungarian for “Nobody”) has evolved from a solitary vision into a crushing collective. Their sound, a blend of Metalcore, Groove, and Progressive Metal, is defined by tension-driven riffs, massive dynamic shifts, and an uncompromising vocal delivery that mirrors the raw energy of their live performances.

For frontman and founder Ákos Rikter, Szilánkok is more than just a collection of songs; it is a sonic confession. The EP explores the internal fracture between the relentless pursuit of artistic dreams and the profound responsibilities of family life.

“It is a huge honor that such an acclaimed label sees potential in Senki’s music and concept,” the band stated. “We have been searching for a long time for a partner who can help us achieve our goals, and we believe that Wormholedeath Records is the best base for taking the next step. We are ready to work together to bring the emotional charge of ‘Szilánkok’ to the international community.”

What began in 2018 as Ákos Rikter’s solo project has transformed into a formidable three-piece. After years of refinement and several lineup iterations, the band solidified its foundation with bassist Olivér Takács and the recent addition of drummer Adrián Miskoltzy in late 2025. With a complete lineup and a global label behind them, SENKI is now ready for international expansion and is already developing material for a full-length album.

www.youtube.com/@csakegysenki2018
facebook.com/csakegysenki
www.tiktok.com/@csakegysenki2018

Finnish industrial metal band RUOSKA releases the final single before their new album -“Kade” album out on February 27

2002 formed Finnish industrial metal band Ruoska, will release their sixth studio album “Kade” February 27th. Now they have released the final single Ikirouta from the upcoming album.

When the mood darkens and despair rears its head, Ikirouta hits you in the face with memories, biting into your bones and core like a freezing winter wind.

Based on audience reactions at recent gigs, Ikirouta proved that there is demand among Ruoska fans for heavy, slow-tempo tracks. The feedback on the song surprised the band members themselves, even though Ikirouta breaks the traditional boundaries of Ruoska.

For the first time, Ruoska combines powerful distorted guitars with stunning orchestral arrangements in a way that reveals new nuances with each listen. Ikirouta keeps its listeners in its strong grip, creating a chilling and gloomy mental landscape that only a Finn can understand.

Listen to the single on music services (Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Tidal etc.): https://push.fm/fl/ruoska-ikirouta

The band, which hails from Juva, Eastern Finland, and has already racked up nearly 25 million plays on Spotify alone, will also be heading out on an album release tour, which will be starting right after album release.

Ruoska is:
Patrik Mennander (Vocals)
Samuli Rimmi (Guitar, Backing vocals)
Miika Kokkola (Bass, Backing vocals)
Teemu Karppinen (Drums)

https://www.facebook.com/ruoskaband

https://www.instagram.com/ruoskaband/

https://ruoska.bandcamp.com/