Author: Crix

DragonForce joined forces with Arch Enemy’s Alissa White-Gluz

GRAMMY-nominated power metal legend DragonForce has released a new music video for an alternate version of their song Burning Heart.

The new version and its music video feature Arch Enemy singer Alissa White-Gluz, known for her brutal and versatile vocal sound! Originally released as a bonus track on last year’s critically acclaimed Warp Speed ​​Warriors album, the special edition is now available on all streaming services. The album was released by Napalm Records.

“I’ve been a fan of DragonForce for a long time, so it was really fun to sing on this song! This band has no speed limits, I even found myself stumbling over consonants to keep up. It was a refreshing challenge! I’m happy to be a part of such a great song and video,” Alissa White-Gluz commented on the collaboration.

“Alissa has been one of my favorite metal vocalists for a long time. I’m really excited that the stars aligned and we were able to collaborate on this song. Burning Heart is the perfect song for Alissa to showcase her impressive vocal range. Her amazing interpretation took this song to a whole new level,” says guitarist Herman Li.

The Warp Speed ​​Warriors tour kicks off today at Sweden Rock. During the European tour, DragonForce will also be playing with Powerwolf, who is part of the Napalm roster. The bands will head to North America in September, when DragonForce joins Powerwolf’s tour caravan.

Warp Speed Warriors Final Round – Europe 2025:
06.06.25 SE – Sölvesborg / Sweden Rock Festival
08.06.25 DE – Dortmund / FZW
10.06.25 FR – Toulouse / Zenith *
11.06.25 FR – Lyon / Halle Tony Garnier *
13.06.25 SK – Prešov / Dobry Festival
14.06.25 AT – Nickelsdorf / Nova Rock Festival
16.06.25 FR – Meisenthal / La Boite Noire
17.06.25 FR – Lille / Zenith *
18.06.25 DE – Bremen / Modernes
20.06.25 DE – Rostock / Stadthalle *
21.06.25 BE – Dessel / Graspop Metal Meeting
22.06.25 SE – Huskvarna / Folkets Park *^
24.06.25 SE – Uppsala / Fyrishov *^
27.06.25 FI – Helsinki / Tuska Festival
30.06.25 PL – Lodz / Atlas Arena *~
02.07.25 HR – Zagreb / Tvornica
03.07.25 HU – Dunaújváros / Rockmaraton
05.07.25 DE – Ballenstedt / Rockharz Festival
06.07.25 NL – Utrecht / Tivoli Ronda
08.07.25 CH – Pratteln / Z7
09.07.25 DE – Nuremberg / Hirsch
10.07.25 CZ – Vizovice / Masters of Rock Festival
11.07.25 DE – Balingen / RV Bang Festival
* w/ POWERWOLF
^ w/ Amaranthe
~ w/ Epica

WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | SPOTIFY

Rising Steel announce new album “Legion Of The Grave” out on August 29th

Rising Steel announce the release of their upcoming new studio album “Legion Of The Grave”, set for release on August 29th, 2025, via Frontiers Music Srl.
The first single and official video, “King Of The Universe”, are available now, offering a taste of the sound of the new record.

 

Pre-Order “Legion Of The Grave” HERE

Talking about the first single, the band stated: “King Of The Universe” stands as a powerful anthem of freedom. Inspired by the Silver Surfer breaking free from Galactus, the song parallels humanity’s struggle to break free from societal and psychological constraints. With cosmic storytelling, dramatic tension, classic heavy riffs, and a chorus that lodges itself in your memory, the track captures the heart of the album: epic, introspective, and unmistakably heavy metal.”

About the album, they commented: “Sharpened in both sound and spirit, we returned to a more old-school heavy metal approach – without losing the raw energy and intensity that have long defined our style. Every track hits with precision, driven by razor-sharp riffs, commanding vocals, and an organic production that channels the true passion of real metal.”

“The album explores darker and more introspective themes, focusing on lost identity, inner struggles, and the strength to rise again. With a mix of raw emotion and powerful imagery, we aim to take the listener on a journey through personal battles that reflect broader human experiences. It’s both a statement of resistance and a search for meaning”, they added.

Rising Steel’s new album, “Legion Of The Grave” is their fourth full-length studio effort and it sees the French metallers playing as ferociously as ever, while continuing to evolve their heavy and aggressive sound.

The album was recorded in France by Mathieu Gaud and Steel Zard at Studio de la Plaine (KNT) and Lezard Studio. Mixing duties were handled by Staffan Karlsson and Rickard Bengtsson at Sweetspot Studio in Sweden, known for their work with bands like Meshuggah and Arch Enemy. It was mastered by the renowned Mika Jussila at Finnvox Studios in Finland, ensuring a production that’s as powerful and precise as the music itself.

Based in Grenoble, France, Rising Steel deliver a “not so” classical heavy metal experience, drawing strong influence from the ‘80s NWOBHM movement, as well as elements of hard rock and thrash. With nods to iconic bands like Judas Priest and Iron Maiden, their music also appeals to fans of Metallica, Accept, Saxon, Grand Magus, Nevermore, and Slayer.

Following the release of their debut EP “Warlord” (2014) and the full-length album “Return Of The Warlord” (2016), the band gained traction by sharing stages with acts such as Jaded Heart, Sister Sin, Nightmare, ADX, Nashville Pussy, and Annihilator. This helped increase their international visibility.

Their second and third albums, “Fight Them All” and “Beyond The Gates Of Hell”, both released via Frontiers Music Srl, further cemented their reputation in the European metal scene.

Now, with “Legion Of The Grave”, Rising Steel return with an explosive offering full of crushing riffs, high-speed rhythms, and no-compromise heavy metal power. It’s a must listen for headbangers seeking pure, unfiltered metal mayhem.

“Legion Of The Grave” Tracklist:

1.    Betrayer
2.    King Of The Universe
3.    Black Martin
4.    Legion Of The Grave
5.    Nightmare
6.    Venomous
7.    Messiah Of Death
8.    Dead Mind
9.    Trapped In A Soul’s Garden
10.    Night Vision

Line Up:
Emmanuelson – Vocals
Steel Zard – Drums
Tony Steel – Guitars
Steff Leadmaster – Lead guitars
Stone warrior – Bass

Follow RISING STEEL:
Facebook
Instagram
Website

Katatonia releases Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State album – Get a head start with the song and video for Wind of no Change

Today is a big day for fans of Swedish melancholic and heavy music, as Katatonia releases their album Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State. You can already get a feel for what’s to come by checking out the video for the song Wind of no Change.

The band’s previous album Sky Void of Stars reached the official top 5 charts in several countries, so the band is living quite exciting moments waiting to see how the new album will be received around the world.

After the summer festivals, Katatonia will also head out on a major European tour with Evergrey.
The entire upcoming European tour looks like this:

UK & EUROPE TOUR 2025
w/ EVERGREY & Klogr
11.11.25 FI – Tampere / Tavara-asema
12.11.25 FI – Helsinki / House of Culture
14.11.25 NO – Oslo / Rockefeller
15.11.25 SE – Gothenburg / Pustervik
16.11.25 DE – Hamburg / Gruenspan
18.11.25 PL – Warsaw / Progresja
19.11.25 DE – Berlin / Huxleys
20.11.25 DE – Leipzig / Täubchenthal
21.11.25 CZ – Prague / Palac Akropolis
22.11.25 AT – Vienna / Simm City
24.11.25 DE – Munich / Backstage Werk
25.11.25 DE – Stuttgart / LKA Longhorn
27.11.25 IT – Milan / Alcatraz
28.11.25 CH – Zurich / Komplex
29.11.25 FR – Lyon / La Rayonne
01.12.25 ES – Madrid / BUT
02.12.25 ES – Barcelona / Salamandra
03.12.25 FR – Toulouse / Le Metronum
05.12.25 UK – London / Electric Ballroom
06.12.25 UK – Glasgow / Garage
07.12.25 UK – Manchester / Academy 2
08.12.25 UK – Bristol / SWK
10.12.25 FR – Paris / Le Trabendo
11.12.25 LU – Luxembourg / Rockhal
12.12.25 DE – Frankfurt / Batschkapp
13.12.25 DE – Cologne / Live Music Hall
14.12.25 NL – Amsterdam / Melkweg Max
16.12.25 BE – Antwerp / Trix
18.12.25 DK – Copenhagen / Amager Bio
19.12.25 SE – Karlstad / Nöjesfabriken
20.12.25 SE – Stockholm / Fållan

Festivals:
22.06.25 BE – Dessel / Graspop Metal Meeting
05.07.25 DE – Mühlheim / Castle Rock
06.07.25 TR – Istanbul / Headbanger’s Weekend
26.07.25 PL – Ostrów Wielkopolski / Ostrów Rock Festival
30.07.25 RO – Braşov / Rockstadt Extreme Fest
01.08.25 DE – Wacken / Wacken Open Air
22.08.25 IT – Marina Di Altidona / Wondergate

Katatonia is:
Jonas Renkse – vocals
Niklas Sandin – bass
Daniel Moilanen – drums
Nico Elgstrand – guitar
Sebastian Svalland – guitar

HOMEPAGE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER

The epic lyric video ‘Kissed by This Life’ by the Finnish symphonic progressive metal band Dominant Chain is out now

Finnish female fronted symphonic progressive metal band Dominant Chain, formed in 2006, is set to release their debut EP ‘Wasteland Requiem’ later this year via Inverse Records. The band released their first single ‘Kissed by This Life’ from their upcoming ”Wasteland Requiem” EP on May 20th. Now the band unleashed an epic lyric video for the song, which rubs the song’s haunting backstory in watcher’s face.

The lyric video features the stunning and expressive actress Johanna Loimalahti, who dives deep into the song’s themes of cruelty, mental issues and human fragility.

The video’s script, direction and editing were handled by the band’s lead singer, Marja Kettunen, who says the following about working with Johanna: “I had a clear vision of what this video should look and feel like. Johanna was scary, haunting and heartbreakingly gorgeous. Johanna embodied everything I hear in this song. The disintegration of the mind, the immense anxiety and the terrifying tyranny. The mind that forces you to shut bad things out in the background, from which they nevertheless emerge like flaming demons, raging. Demanding attention.”

The whole song is based on Juho’s (Keränen) core ideas of a prisoner who is locked up in an institution and, having lost her memory, asks the darkness “Why are these scars in me, kissed by this life.” The song, in all its darkness, is also a reminder of what extreme experiences do to the human mind.

‘Kissed by This Life’ is available on all essential streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/dominant-chain-kissed

Dominant Chain, hailing from Northern Finland, plays progressive symphonic metal. Their music is not only about complex time signatures and technical skills, but massive, catchy choruses too, along with influences from various other music styles.

The band was originally formed in 2006 in Sonkajärvi, Northern Savo. The musicians have seasoned backgrounds in the professional musicianship. Their first official release, the EP Wasteland Requiem, consisting of five tracks, will be released in the summer of 2025. The first single, “Kissed By This Life,” is released digitally on May 20, 2025.

Line-up:
Bass: Tuomas Korkatti
Drums: Toni Balk
Guitars: Jarno Keränen
Keyboards & orchestrations: Juho Keränen
Lead & backing vocals: Marja Kettunen

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/dominantchainband
https://www.instagram.com/dominantchainband
https://dominantchain.bandcamp.com

Monolicht Releases New Single “Frozen Child” – A Cold and Hypnotic Journey into Northern Darkness

Nordic dark metal band Monolicht unveils its new single “Frozen Child”, marking the band’s darkest and deepest musical expression to date. The track fuses the bleakest tones of melodic dark metal and black metal, creating a cold, almost paralyzing atmosphere.

“Frozen Child” is based on true events from a small town in Northern Finland during the 1990s. The narrative unfolds like the polar night – gradually deepening, stark, and emotionally raw. The song culminates in a hypnotic finale where time itself seems to stop.

A visually striking music video has been produced for the track and is available here:

 

“Frozen Child” is now available on all major streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Tidal etc.): https://push.fm/fl/monolicht-frozenchild

Follow the band on social media:
linktr.ee/monolichtband

Finnish deathgrind band I, Cursed released the second single “Death Pays It All” from the forthcoming EP

Finland’s I, Cursed, who combine angry and furious death metal and grindcore, will release a new as yet unnamed EP later this year. The EP will be released in cooperation with Finnish record labels Inverse Records & Meara Music which is also an agency and event producer based in Ulvila.

The second single ‘Death Pays It All’ was just released with the lyric video.

 

The band comments:
” ”Death Pays It All”, the second single from the new I, Cursed EP to be released later this autumn. “Death Pays It All” continues what the first single from the upcoming EP, “Disfigurement”, offered in the form of furious death metal and grindcore. “Death Pays It All” is a dynamic and, to some extent, distorted melodic depiction of how the seductive call of death drives the mind down into the depths and darkness. “Death Pays It All” is complemented by a darkly soothing lyric video produced by Soft Neon Audiovisual.”  

Listen to the ‘Death Pays It All’ single on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/i-cursed-death

WATCH music video of first single ‘Disfigurement’: https://youtu.be/NlR4xJvdzlg

BIOGRAPHY: 
Combining angry and furious death metal and grindcore, I, Cursed, from the Pori / Ulvila area, is a brutal dredging of Ville-Veikko Laaksonen and Eero Haula, known from Atlases, Marto and Oceanwake, among others, which is fed to the Finnish metal scene in an atonal coldness. I, Cursed’s music is a mix of something old and familiar, the HM-2 sound of Swedish grind, and somewhat more modern and crushing production. The line-up of the band in July 2024 is completed by guitarist Nico Brander from Marto and drummer Arttu Leppänen from Atlases and Marto. FFO Coldworker, Gadget, Nasum & Rotten Sound.

LISTEN to previous EP Death Holograms: https://push.fm/fl/icursed-death

Line-up:
Eero Haula – Vocals (Oceanwake)
Ville-Veikko Laaksonen – Bass & guitar (Atlases, Marto)
Nico Brander – Guitar (Blood Service, Marto)
Arttu Leppänen – Drums (Atlases, Marto)

Discography:
I, Cursed / Blood Service S/T Split EP 2023 (Meara Music)
Bloodsoaked / Storm Parade Double Single 2023 (Meara Music)
Blades Single 2024 (Inverse Records / Meara Music)
Sorrower Single 2024 (Inverse Records / Meara Music)
Death Holograms Single & EP 2024 (Inverse Records / Meara Music)
Disfigurement Single 2025 (Inverse Records / Meara Music)
Death Pays It All Single 2025 (Inverse Records / Meara Music)

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/I.Cursed.Grind
https://www.instagram.com/i.cursed.grind
https://icursed.bandcamp.com

Progressive Metal Discovery Álaghom Drops “The Opening of Satori” Music Video

Álaghom unleash “The Opening of Satori” in a powerful video performance, where each member steps into the spotlight with precision and intensity. Rooted in Mayan philosophy and Zen Buddhism, the track channels the band’s signature progressive metal energy—featuring Melisa Durán’s delicate vocals and 8-string guitar, Ricardo Esperón’s intricate 10-string work, and synth layers. A striking visual and sonic journey from their EP Return to the Beginner’s Mind, out via Wormholedeath Records.

Álaghom’s name, rooted in Mayan mythology, symbolizes wisdom and knowledge, reflecting the band’s mission to draw from the ancient Mayan worldview and Zen Buddhism to create music that resonates with universal themes of consciousness and growth. Their lineup includes Melisa Durán (vocals, 8-string guitar, synthesizer, bass) and Ricardo Esperón (9-string guitar, bass, piano, synthesizer, drums, and orchestral percussion), whose combined talents create a powerful and profound soundscape.

Álaghom’s influences span an extraordinary array of artists across genres, including Bach, Devin Townsend Project, Cynic, Iron Maiden, Death, and Dimmu Borgir, weaving classical inspiration with modern metal innovation.

alaghom.com
www.youtube.com/@alaghom_mx
www.facebook.com/Alaghom.mx
www.instagram.com/alaghom_mx
www.tiktok.com/@alaghom

What Awaits Us fights loneliness and digital self-isolaton – new single ‘Vanish into Grey’ available now

Celebrating their 10th anniversary, What Awaits Us have released a new thought-provoking single, ‘Vanish into Grey’. The melodic yet crushingly heavy metalcore song deals with the dark side of the digital age, such as loneliness, screen addiction and self-isolation. The song offers a relatable yet hopeful perspective on the silent crisis that is affecting the younger generations in particular. The song features Aleksi Rautiainen, vocalist from Split Iris.

Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1jZMtRhstVBcoGFzVHewPz?si=60129d634f604810

After the previous release ‘Hell Above’, which was bursting with technical deathcore nuances, ‘Vanish into Grey’ takes the band’s sound to a more melodic level, but maintains a hugely heavy and modern, even futuristic direction. The song combines a catchy chorus, nicely coloured by guest vocalist Aleksi Rautiainen, massive production and punchy riffs. The song is mixed by Olli Korpela and mastered by Miro Kiiski.

“Vanish into Grey is more of a message than a song. We are in a mental health crisis not only in Finland, but also the whole world. WHO has declared loneliness to be a global health threat, and according to a global study done in 2024, almost 25% of adults experience loneliness. The numbers are even higher in younger age groups, with 63% of young people experiencing anxiety and depression linked to loneliness. In addition, screen addiction and isolation behind a screen are on the rise in younger age groups. We have dreamed of doing good and spreading awareness with our music, and talking about it is the first step. More is well on the way!” 

What Awaits Us tours extensively in Finland and the new single ‘Vanish into Grey’ will be making its first appearance next Wednesday, 04.06.2025 in Helsinki.

What Awaits Us Summer gigs:

4.6.2025 – On the Rocks, Helsinki, FIN – Supporting Horror Dance Squad (EST) w/ Admire the Grim

24.7.2025 – RockNeck, Jyväskylä, FIN – w/ Nameles, Our Hands Tied

26.7.2025 – Maanalainen, Tampere, FIN – w/ Chainline, Falling from Grace

Recommended for fans of: Architects, Polaris, ERRA

https://www.instagram.com/whatawaitsus
https://www.tiktok.com/@whatawaitsus
https://www.youtube.com/@whatawaitsus7854

Canada’s FAMOUS STRANGERS’ New Single “L.S.C.” Digs Deep Into Power, Obsession, and Emotional Survival – Festival Dates: Decimate Metal Fest, Armstrong MetalFest, Loud As Hell Open Air

Canada’s Famous Strangers, is proud to unveil their fourth single entitled “L.S.C.” as they gear up for perfmances at this year’s festival appearances at Decimate Metalfest (Millet, AB – June 13-14), Armstrong Metal Fest (Armstrong, BC – July 11-12) and Loud As Hell Open Air (Drumheller, AB – Aug 1-3) along with upcoming tour dates to be announced.

“L.S.C..” is meant to take you on a ride. It starts soft, like it is letting you in slowly, and then it flips the switch. The heaviness hits out of nowhere. It grabs you, shakes you, and then drags you through the rest of the track without letting go. It eases you in, then completely takes over, and by the time it is done, it feels like it has drained the life out of you in the best way.

“LSC is one of the most intense and personal songs we’ve released. It digs deep into power, obsession, and emotional survival, all wrapped in a sound that’s meant to hit you hard and stay with you. It is heavy, emotional, and completely unhinged in the best way. Come get some,” adds guitarist Jeff Kittilitz.

Famous Strangers wants fans’ listening experience to be unpredictable, emotional, and honest. This single, and everything they have been working on, doesn’t stick to one lane. They jump from the heaviest riffs they can come up with to slow, bluesy, chilled-out moments. It’s all over the place, and they know not everyone is going to be into that…and that’s okay.

What they hope is that it opens people up a little, even if it’s not what they usually listen to. There’s so much music out there that people miss out on because they’re stuck in one genre or one mindset. Famous Strangers are trying to break through that and just write what feels real, no matter what it sounds like. They are about being fearless in their songwriting. Put everything on the table, be yourself, and don’t hold back. That’s the energy they’re trying to give people when they press play.

Famous Strangers has had a healthy and steady evolution. Since their earlier singles in 2024, Famous Strangers have started to lock in with each other creatively and naturally found a sound that they can all stand behind. It flows and feels more cohesive, and everyone in the band feeds off each other in a way that keeps pushing the songs to a new level.

Listen to “L.S.C.” at the following links:

YouTube – https://youtu.be/drbeRCBcCGo​

Spotify – https://spoti.fi/4kNbe7F​

​

Previous Singles:

Music Video – I’ll See You In The Stars” – https://youtu.be/OtdfaMp4Hec​

George – https://youtu.be/fz85ChqELO4​

Deepstar – https://youtu.be/00jujvck9sM​

More info:

​Famousstrangersband.com

​Facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559110131774

​Instagram.com/famousstrangersband

​Tiktok.com/@famousstrangersband

About: Since their formation in 2023, Famous Strangers‘ signature blend of haunting melodies, powerful vocals, and immersive soundscapes has captivated listeners. The band brings together accomplished musicians whose past experiences in various musical projects have shaped their collective sound. Their diverse influences converge in a unique sonic experience characterized by atmospheric instrumentals and a dynamic vocal approach that seamlessly shifts between melodic and aggressive. They are recommended for fans of Halestorm, Judas Priest, Dio, and Arch Enemy.

The Brains Feel No Pain As The Crazy Monster Draws Closer

Psychosonic gothapunkabilly freakoid noise merchants The Brains are on their way back from beyond with what might be their wildest album yet – their ninth altogether, and their second for Cleopatra Records… unless you wanna count last year’s Friends & Zombified Antics remix collection. Which, of course, you should.

Because the only thing better than listening to primal Lemmy, Dead Boys and the mighty Mitch Ryder is listening to what happens when the Brains get behind the remix desk.
But that was then and this is now, and if Crazy Monster isn’t set to become the most scarifying soundstorm you’ve been chased round the house by this year, then you probably need new ears.  
Storming the streets on July 4, Crazy Monster is Rene De La Muerte, Colin the Dead and Gui Kitty hitting what even they agree are fresh extremes, classic Brains meet modern horrors, all incendiary guitar riffs, heart attack rhythm and ghoulish punk rock attitude!
You’ve already heard “Evil,” the first single from the album… you’re already primed for  “Darkness,” “Candy Apple Red,” and the rest of this 12 song horror show.  
Just to get you even more in the mood, though, here’s “Feel The Pain,” the band’s new single and their latest, breathless, video as well.  And if you want to know what to expect, here’s Rene’s take on it.
“An undead nation with my favorite ghouls, this song was a blast to write!!! Getting back to old school Brains songs… I feel no pain!”
There’s really not much to be added to that!
Track listing
1. Evil
2. One More Time
3. Feel No Pain
4. Crazy Monster
5. Candy Apple Red
6. Darkness
7. Let’s Go
8. Shakey Queen
9. Never More
10. Skeleton Kiss
11. Hollywood
12. The Blood Is Warm