REVIEW: PRIMORDIAL, Where Greater Men Have Fallen (2014)

 

PRIMORDIAL, Where Greater Men Have Fallen (2014)

Metal Blade Records

Ένα ακόμη βήμα στη πολυτάραχη ιστορία τους.

Το ποσό αγαπημένο στο κοινό της χώρας μας είναι αυτό το συγκρότημα απ'την Ιρλανδία είναι γνωστό. Αυτό εδώ είναι ένα ακόμη άλμπουμ τους που δε θα εφεύρει ούτε κάποιο νέο μουσικό στυλ ούτε σφύζει από πρωτότυπα ηχητικά ρεύματα. Είναι ένα καθαρά, άδολα κι ακούραστα άλμπουμ της έως τότε πεπατημένης τους. Δε χρειάζεται να κάνεις ριψοκίνδυνα πειράματα στο ήχο σου για να ακουστεί διαφορετικός! Είναι λοιπόν ένα επιστέγασμα της σταθερής απόδοσης της μουσικής τους και τελικά, ναι γι'αυτό παραμένουν αγαπητοί στο κοινό γενικότερα. Ο ύμνος Babel's Tower, το ομώνυμο του άλμπουμ κομμάτι που προηγήθηκε, τα The Seed Of the Tyrants, Ghosts of the Chapel House, The Alchemist's Head, Born to Night, Wield Lightning to Split the Sun απ' τον δίσκο έχουν την ίδια, αδιάλειπτη και σταθερή σε απόδοση αξία με οτιδήποτε έχουν σε κάθε δίσκο τους από το 1998 κι ύστερα. Είτε Doom, είτε Black Metal riff (πλέον δεν έχουν τίποτα σχετιζόμενο με αυτό αλλά κάποτε είχαν) είτε Folk ή ό, τι άλλο κι αν τους πεις, είναι πάντα οι Primordial.

English Text:

Another step in their tumultuous history.

The beloved band from Ireland is well-known in our country. This is yet another album of theirs that will neither invent a new musical style nor burst with original sound trends. It is a pure, sincere, and tireless album that follows their established path up until now. You don’t need to take risky experiments with your sound to be heard as different! Therefore, it is a culmination of their consistent musical performance, and ultimately, yes, this is why they remain beloved by audiences in general. The anthem "Babel's Tower," the album's title track, preceded by other songs like "The Seed of the Tyrants," "Ghosts of the Chapel House," "The Alchemist's Head," "Born to Night," and "Wield Lightning to Split the Sun," have the same, unwavering, and consistently high value as anything they have released in every album since 1998. Whether it's Doom or Black Metal riffs (although they no longer have anything to do with that, they once did), or Folk, or whatever else you may call them, they are always Primordial.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης!

AN-XUL released debut album

 

Italian Black Metal band An-Xul has released their self-titled debut album, recorded, mixed, and mastered at ADSR DECIBEL Studio by Carlo Meroni. Formed in May 2023 in Bergamo, Italy, the band consists of members L. Plaguer (bass/vocals), M.T. (drums), and A. Nacht (guitars), who have backgrounds in bands like Xpus, Mortuary Drape, and Dark Redeemer. An-Xul's music features a blend of fast brutality and melancholic, atmospheric passages, exploring themes of Satanism, the occult, and humanity's destruction, characterized by rhythmic intensity and deep growling vocals.

GRAVE DIGGER release "The Devils Serenade" video single

 

In 2025, German metal band Grave Digger will celebrate their 45th anniversary with the release of their 23rd studio album, "Bone Collector," set to launch on January 17 via ROAR!. Founded in 1980, Grave Digger has become a significant and influential force in metal, beginning their journey with the landmark album "Heavy Metal Breakdown" in 1984. Their upcoming album marks a return to their old school roots and follows previously released singles "Kingdom Of Skulls" and "Killing is my Pleasure." Recently, the band premiered a music video for their latest single, "The Devil's Serenade." Frontman Chris Boltendahl described the song as a tribute to heavy metal and 80s stadium rock, embodying energy and nostalgia while promising an engaging live performance.

SUBWAY TO SALLY Release Poetic Ballad "Herz in der Rinde"

 

SUBWAY TO SALLY has released their poignant ballad "Herz in der Rinde," a track from their upcoming 15th studio album, Post Mortem, set to be released tomorrow by Napalm Records. The song showcases the band's melancholic side, exploring themes of love, loss, and memory through poetic lyrics and their characteristic folk sound. With stirring melodies and haunting imagery, it encapsulates the pain of a love that has faded. The band describes the single as quintessentially them, blending grand melodies, folk instruments, and heavy metal elements, culminating in a powerful finale. They view it as a cinematic experience and express pride in the result.

AVULSED video-clip: 1st advance single for new album

 

Legendary Spanish Death Metal band AVULSED, have just launched the 1st advance single, in form of a video-clip, of what will be their 8th full length album to be entitled "Phoenix Cryptobiosis" which will see the light next March 4th through Xtreem Music on CD, 12"LP, Cassette & Digital formats.

HUMANKIND – presents music video for brand new song, "Fed Up", taken from forthcoming studio album

 

Modern metalcore band HumanKind has surprised fans with a new song, "Fed Up," following their successful 2022 debut album, *An End, Once and for All*. The band is currently working on their sophomore studio album, set to be produced by Christoph Wieczorek. "Fed Up" features a high-energy sound and addresses feelings of frustration and the desire to break free from repetitive struggles and mental challenges. The band describes the track as a reflection on the more intense aspects of dealing with mental health issues and emphasizes the importance of pursuing personal growth and change. A music video for "Fed Up" is also premiering.

SABER present "Madam Dangerous" video single from upcoming, new studio album “Lost In Flames”

 

On February 7, 2025, Los Angeles-based heavy metal band SABER will release their highly awaited sophomore album, "Lost In Flames," through ROAR. The album will be available on CD, "Burning Orange" marbled vinyl, and various digital formats. Additionally, the band will reissue their debut album, "Without Warning," on the same day, providing fans a chance to purchase limited editions in vinyl and CD formats. Following the recent release of the title track "Lost In Flames," SABER has also premiered a music video for their new single "Madam Dangerous." This song tells the story of a band member's encounter with a captivating woman after a show, who ultimately leads her prey to ruin.

BLACK & DAMNED - unleash album details & first video single, "Ruthless Wrath",

 

BLACK & DAMNED, the South German metal band, is set to ignite the metal scene with their upcoming third album, "Resurrection," scheduled for release on March 14, 2025. With a distinctive fusion of epic power metal and dark atmospheric elements, the album features powerful guitar riffs, intense rhythms, and compelling vocals, drawing listeners into a realm of myths and inner turmoil. The band has recently signed a new record deal with ROAR, known for their association with notable acts like Grave Digger and Mystic Prophecy. "Resurrection" promises to deliver an exhilarating metal experience.

LÖANSHARK releases new single, "The City Goes Fast", taken off furious new album "No Sins To Confess"!

 

LÖANSHARK is a Barcelona-based heavy metal trio perfect for fans of true, loud, and heavy music, especially those who love the 80s metal scene. They've recently signed with ROAR (RPM) and released their first video single, "Electric Shockin' Waves," from their upcoming album *No Sins To Confess*, set to drop on February 14, 2025. Their latest track, "The City Goes Fast," reflects the experiences of band member Lögan, detailing his journey from his quiet hometown in Sardinia to the bustling city of Barcelona. The song combines solid riffs and emotional melodies, expressing themes of melancholy, courage, and the desire to start anew.

KILMARA - premiere "Chances" video single from upcoming, new album “Journey to the Sun”

On January 31, 2025, KILMARA, a power metal band from Barcelona, will release their new studio album titled 'Journey to the Sun' via ROAR. The album will be available in various formats, including a CD jewel case, a limited edition of 300 "Mediterranean Aura" marbled vinyl, and digital streaming/download options. Following the release of the title track earlier, the band has now premiered a new single called "Chances."

Guitarist Carles Salse describes the track as a dynamic blend of powerful metal, intimate moments, and melodic rock, featuring 80s-inspired orchestrations and synthesizers. Vocalist Dani Ponce emphasizes the song’s themes of passion and devotion, portraying the feelings one experiences when meeting a special person. Guitarist John Portillo adds that upon hearing the song, he felt an urge to dance to its 80s vibe, indicating it has potential as a standout single.

New Video from HARMONIZE ORACLE for "Crawling Among Shadows"

 

The band Harmonize Oracle returns with an impressive new video for their song "Crawling Among Shadows." The track features guitar solos with aggressive melodies and heavy, fierce rhythms that transport listeners to the dark place where the story's hero finds himself.

Originally featured on their album "Warrior In The Night," this ten-minute song is making a comeback on their new EP "Before The Oracle," presented in a refreshed and striking production that signifies the band's musical evolution.

LORD OF THE LOST Vocalist CHRIS HARMS to Release First Solo Album, 1980, on January 31, 2025

 

Chris Harms, known for his versatility in the band Lord of the Lost, is set to release his debut solo album, *1980*, on January 31, 2025, via Napalm Records. The album marks the realization of a long-held dream and showcases a sound that diverges from Harms' typical guitar-driven rock style, instead embracing atmospheric synth-pop reminiscent of the 80s, infused with electronic, wave, and goth elements.

The album opens with the dancefloor-ready single "I Love You," accompanied by a visually captivating music video that reflects the retro aesthetics of the era. Harms describes the track as deceptively cheerful, revealing that beneath its light 80s synth sound lies a deep melancholy, making it one of the saddest songs he's ever written.

1980 tracklist:

1. I Love You    

2. She Called Me Diaval

3. Somewhere Between Heaven And Armageddon       

4. Missed Call  

5. Madonna Of The Night (feat. Sven Friedrich)

6. Lunamor      

7. Parallax         

8. Past Pain      

9. The Grey Machines (feat. Ronan Harris)

10. Vagueness Of Faith

11. May This Be Your Last Battlefield 

REVIEW: DARK ANGEL, Leave Scars (1989)

 

DARK ANGEL, Leave Scars (1989)

Combat Records

Σε σημαδεύει, το λέει ξεκάθαρα ο τίτλος.

Αυτό είναι το υπ. Αρ. 3 άλμπουμ των Thrashers απ'το Λος Άντζελες τα τρία χρόνια που το χωρίζουν απ'το εκπληκτικό Darkness Descends μοιάζουν να μην έχουν αξία ούτε λεπτού αφού έχουμε να κάνουμε με ένα ισάξιο άλμπουμ  επιθετικού και εξαγριωμένου Thrash Metal. Οι συνθέσεις έχουν όμως αποκτήσει κάποια έκταση σε σχέση με πριν (το ...And Justice for All των μεγάλων όντως έριξε τη σκιά του στη σκηνή της εποχής) αλλά αυτό θα ακουμπήσει τα όρια του progressive στο επόμενο (Time Does Not Heal) εδώ, δώδεκα δυναμίτες που περιλαμβάνουν δύο ορχηστρικά κομμάτια τα Cauterization & Worms, τέσσερα  ζωντανά ηχογραφημένα κομμάτια σαν επιπλέον υλικό στην επανέκδοση του CD και φυσικά η διασκευή - εκτελεστικό απόσπασμα - στο... Immigrant Song των Led Zeppelin, αποδεικνύει πόσο ακομπλεξάριστοι ήταν οι μουσικοί τότε! Στη τελική, αυτά άκουγαν όταν ήταν μικρότεροι, σήμερα σπάνια οι πιο ακραίες μπάντες θα διασκεύαζαν rock των 70s (εξαιρούνται οι ομόσταυλοι μουσικά και συμπατριώτες τους Slayer  και Testament). Από εκεί και πέρα κάψιμο μυαλών, κόψιμο κεφαλιών και ύμνοι σα τα Never to Rise Again, No One Answers, Older Than Time Itself, The Promise Of Agony, Leave Scars.

English:

The title makes it clear—it hits you hard. This is the third album from the Thrashers from Los Angeles. The three years since the remarkable “Darkness Descends” seem to count for nothing, as we are faced with an equally powerful album of aggressive and furious Thrash Metal. The compositions have, however, gained some expansiveness compared to before (the ...And Justice for All by the giants indeed cast its shadow over the scene of the time), but this will touch the boundaries of progressive in the next album “Time Does Not Heal”. Here, we have twelve dynamite tracks, including two orchestral pieces, "Cauterization" and "Worms," and four live recordings as bonus material in the CD reissue. Of course, the cover—a powerful rendition—of Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song" shows how uninhibited the musicians were back then! After all, this is what they listened to when they were younger. Nowadays, it's rare for the more extreme bands to cover 70s rock (the notable exceptions being their musical peers and compatriots Slayer and Testament). From there on, no strikes make you scars, with mind-blowing intensity, head-chopping riffs, and anthems like "Never to Rise Again," "No One Answers," "Older Than Time Itself," "The Promise of Agony," and "Leave Scars."

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης!

REVIEW: RIOT, Army Of One (2006)

 

RIOT, Army Of One (2006)

Metal Heaven

Αδικημένο στη συνείδηση του κόσμου.

Το δέκατο στούντιο άλμπουμ τους κι οι Νεοϋορκέζοι υπό τις κιθαριστικές εντολές του Mark Reale (RIP) έδωσαν το διάδοχο του πολύ καλού Through the Storm που προηγήθηκε. Για κάποιο λόγο τότε αν και δεν διέφερε σε στυλ ή συνθέσεις από τα άλμπουμ πριν, δεν του δόθηκε η απαραίτητη προσοχή, μπορώ να καταλάβω το ότι η ηχογράφηση του συγκεκριμένου άλμπουμ είχε γίνει πρακτικά απ' το 2003-4 οπότε είχε τη λογική ενός κρυμμένου έργου! Ο δίσκος με τα 3/4 απ' τους συνεργάτες που είχε ο Mark πάνω από δέκα χρόνια Mike DiMeo φωνή (αν και πρακτικά ο DiMeo ήταν ήδη εκτός σύνθεσης, αλλά και πάλι), Mike Flyntz δεύτερη κιθάρα, Pete Perez μπάσο και στα τύμπανα ο Frank Gilchriest με τη τεράστια φήμη του από τους Virgin Steele να τον ακολουθεί, είναι ένα τυπικό δείγμα δουλειάς τους ισάξιο με τα τέσσερα τελευταία τους πριν ως το 1996 , μη πω κιόλας ότι είναι σίγουρα μισό βαθμό καλύτερο συνολικά απ' το Sons of Society (1999). Μελωδικό, γρήγορο σε σημεία Heavy Metal με τη κλασική Riot-Rock αισθητική όπως μας είχαν καλομάθει και όπως έπρεπε να είναι! Δε ξέρω αν το βλέπω ειδικά εγώ έτσι θα αλλά με κομμάτια σαν το ομώνυμο που κάνει έναρξη,  Knockin' at my Door, Blinded, One More Alibi, The Mystic, Still Alive, Shine να τα βρίσκω κλασσικά του ύφος τους ανάλογα του Born in America άλμπουμ  και πίσω (προφανώς πρίν το Thunder Steel του '88 που είναι η αρχή της Speed Metal εποχής τους!) το CD είναι μία χαρά. Η λογική του να βγάλουν δεύτερο ή τρίτο Thunder Steel και Privilege of Power που είχαν οι κολλημένοι οπαδοί (όχι μόνο των Riot αλλά γενικότερα) προφανώς κι έθαψε την αξιόλογη προσπάθεια που έκαναν απ' το '99 και μετά. Το κακό είναι ότι το συγκρότημα ενέδωσε στις πεποιθήσεις του κοινού μετά. Αυτό όμως είναι μία άλλη ιστορία για το reunion που ακολουθεί.

English:

Wronged in the Consciousness of the World.

Their tenth studio album, the New Yorkers under the guitar direction of Mark Reale (RIP), delivered the successor to the very good “Through the Storm” that preceded it. For some reason, even though it did not differ in style or compositions from the albums before it, it did not receive the attention it deserved at that time. I can understand that the recording of this particular album had practically been done since 2003-2004, which gave it the sense of a hidden work! The album features 3 out of 4 collaborators who had been working with Mark for over ten years: Mike DiMeo on vocals (even though DiMeo was practically no longer part of the lineup at that time, still), Mike Flyntz on second guitar, Pete Perez on bass, and Frank Gilchriest on drums, who carries a huge reputation from his time with Virgin Steele. It is a typical example of their work, equal to their last four albums before 1996. I would even go so far as to say it is definitely half a point better overall than “Sons of Society” (1999). It is melodic, fast in parts, heavy metal with the classic Riot-Rock aesthetic that we had become accustomed to and that it ought to be!

I don’t know if it’s just me, but with tracks like the self-titled opening track, "Knockin' at My Door," "Blinded," "One More Alibi," "The Mystic," "Still Alive," and "Shine," I find them to be classic examples of their style, comparable to the “Born in America” album and earlier (obviously before *Thunder Steel* from '88, which marked the beginning of their Speed Metal era!). The CD is quite good. The logic of wanting to produce a second or third

“Thunder Steel” and “Privilege of Power” that their die-hard fans (not just of Riot, but generally) desired clearly overshadowed the commendable effort they made after '99. The unfortunate thing is that the band succumbed to the beliefs of the audience afterward. However, that is another story regarding the reunion that followed.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης!

BLANKET HILL Releases New Album!

 

The eclectic metal band Blanket Hill, founded in 2015 in Luxembourg, has just released their second full-length album titled "The Ash That Shall Remain." Featuring 11 explosive tracks that blend hardcore, thrash metal, and old-school heavy metal, Blanket Hill has solidified their reputation as "Luxembourg's Hardest," gaining international acclaim. With over 100 live performances, they've shared the stage with notable bands such as Jinjer and Agnostic Front. Their new album includes the powerful track "Let the Hammer Swing."

MIDAEV released new single

 

Industrial/Gothic Rock band MIDAEV has launched their new single "My Fight," recorded at Le Dome Records Studio in Dubai and mixed/mastered by Dmitry Smirnov. The track fuses heavy gothic rock with industrial elements and reflects a theme of resilience, as described by frontman Ruslan Midaev: “It’s my way of saying to myself and the world: Move forward, never give up.” Featuring Ruslan on vocals and Anastasia Midaeva on bass guitar, who also created the visuals for the music video, "My Fight" epitomizes the band's dark, powerful sound with emotional depth and cinematic production. This release further establishes the UAE-based band’s presence in the global metal scene.

PREDATOR sign with Fighter Rec.

 

Legendary US Heavy/Speed Metal band PREDATOR has signed with Fighter Records to release their second album, "Unsafe Space," set to drop on March 18, 2025, in multiple formats including CD, 12"LP, Cassette, and Digital. Originally formed in July 1984, PREDATOR is making a comeback under the leadership of vocalist and guitarist Jeff Prentice. Their debut album, "Easy Prey," released in 1986 via Metal Blade Records, showcased their fast-paced sound and impressive guitar work, earning them notable touring opportunities alongside other Speed Metal bands.

In recent years, the band has crafted new material for "Unsafe Space," with Prentice co-writing alongside bassist Frank Forray of NINTH CIRCLE. The album represents a bold evolution in their music, blending Heavy, Speed, and Thrash Metal influences.

Tracklist for "Unsafe Space":

1. Saviors

2. Raping the Population

3. N.L.M.

4. The Fascism Variant

5. Winter Wars

6. Sons of Liberty

7. A New Civil War

8. California Dreaming

9. Plague of the Deceivers

10. Violent Objection

11. Saboteur

12. The Crow Upon the Cross

PREDATOR's "Unsafe Space" will be available on March 18, 2025, through Fighter Records.

STEALTH: Released The New Live EP "Renaissance After Death"

 

NMTCG proudly announces the release of the Stealth live EP titled "Renaissance After Death" on December 10, 2024. It will be available worldwide as a digital download and streaming through platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and all major stores.

This live EP features five tracks recorded at the Renaissance Alternative Music Festival at Crystal Palace Bowl in London, UK, on May 26, 2024. A video of the complete performance set is available on the band's official YouTube channel.

Stealth is an Italian metal band formed in 1997 by Ivan (vocals) and Daniele (bass). They have released several albums, EPs, and singles, performing across Italy and various European countries.

FRACTURED INSANITY new video online

 

Belgian Brutal Deathmetallers FACTURED INSANITY, have just launched a lyric-video of the song "Age of Manipulation" as a 2nd advance single from their upcoming 2nd album entitled "Age of Manipulation" which will see the light next February 18th through Xtreem Music

REVIEW: RIOT, Through The Storm (2002)

 

RIOT, Through The Storm (2002)

Metal Blade Records

Έχοντας πολλά να αποδείξουν.

Οι Riot της εποχής φωνής Mike DiMeo είχαν ήδη δείξει το μέταλο τους τα προηγούμενα δέκα χρόνια σχεδόν με δίσκους που το κοινό λάτρεψε. Ο πιο σταθερός στη σύνθεση τραγουδιστής τους λοιπόν με τον ηγέτη Mark Reale στη μια κιθάρα και τον Mike Flyntz στη δεύτερη κιθάρα, Pete Perez μπάσο και ειδικά εδώ ντραμς αντί του Bobby Jarzombeck ο έτερος Bobby Rondinelli με τους Rainbow, Black Sabbath, Blue Oyster Cult να είναι κομμάτι της ιστορίας του σαν μουσικός, στο άλμπουμ τους που είχε πολλά να μας δείξει ακόμα και σε ευθεία σύγκριση με τα  Sons of Society κι Inishmore πριν να κατατάσσεται στην ίδια θέση. Αξιόλογη συνθετικά προσπάθεια πάντα στο αγαπημένο σε μεγάλο ποσοστό το κόσμου Νεοϋορκέζικο Heavy Metal στυλ τους, τουλάχιστον σε όσους είχαμε συμπαθήσει και γιατί όχι ταυτιστεί με αυτή τη σύνθεση του συγκροτήματος. Μελωδίες και κιθαριστικά riff, η πάντα στιβαρή φωνή,  μπάσο και τύμπανα σε έναν ρυθμικό τομέα για σεμινάριο και κομμάτια άλλη μια φορά επιπέδου best of συλλογής σαν τα Turn the Tables, Lost Inside This World, Chains (Revolving), Through the Storm, Burn The Sun, Essential Enemies, τη διασκευή στο Only you Can Rock Me στους U.F.O. αλλά και το Here Comes the Sun των Beatles (δύο διασκευές υπό άλλες περιστάσεις σηματοδοτούν ότι κάτι δε πάει καλά, εδώ αυτό δε ισχύει!) να μας δείχνουν τί θα πει να είσαι ένα απ' τα πιο αγαπημένα σχήματα του σκληρού ήχου.

English:

Having much to prove.

The Riot lineup from the Mike DiMeo era had already demonstrated their metal prowess over the previous decade with albums that fans adored. The most consistent member in their lineup, alongside leader Mark Reale on one guitar and Mike Flyntz on the second guitar, was bass player Pete Perez. Notably, on drums, instead of Bobby Jarzombeck, they had the other Bobby Rondinelli—who had a history with Rainbow, Black Sabbath, and Blue Öyster Cult—as part of their musical legacy. Their album had much to show us, even when directly compared to *Sons of Society* and *Inishmore*, before being placed in the same category.

It was a remarkable compositional effort, always appealing to a large segment of fans who loved their New York heavy metal style, at least for those of us who had come to appreciate and, why not, identify with this lineup of the band. Melodies and guitar riffs, the always solid vocals, and the rhythmic bass and drums formed a seminar-worthy sound. Once again, they delivered tracks that could easily belong in a best-of collection, such as “Turn the Tables,” “Lost Inside This World,” “Chains (Revolving),” “Through the Storm,” “Burn the Sun,” “Essential Enemies,” the cover of “Only You Can Rock Me” by U.F.O., and the Beatles’ “Here Comes the Sun.” (Two covers, under different circumstances, suggest that something isn't quite right; however, this is not the case here!) These songs illustrate what it means to be one of the most beloved bands in the heavy sound genre.

Τάκης "Ε-Μortal One" Γιώτης!

RETADOR new video

 

Spanish Thrashers RETADOR, have just launched a lyric-video of the song "Lux Ferre" as a 2nd advance single from their upcoming 2nd album entitled "Earëndel" which will see the light next January 21st through Xtreem Music

ViseriA release new single

 

Mexican Progressive Death Metal band ViseriA has released a new single titled "En Tierra de Tiza," recorded in their home studio and mixed/mastered by Roberto Salgado at Estudio Diez Seis Uno. Founded in 2011 in Tizapán el Alto, Jalisco, the band aims for global recognition through their innovative performances and original compositions. The current lineup features Heriberto Alatorre (guitar/vocals), Isaac Pérez (bass/vocals), and Jesús Cárdenas (drums). ViseriA has shared stages with notable bands and has previously released three singles from their upcoming 10-track album, including "Vestiges of an Extinct Culture" and "The Dark Sacrilegious." They are known for combining powerful music with meaningful themes.

BURNING WITCHES Releases Spellbinding Newest Anthem “Mirror, Mirror”

 

BURNING WITCHES have revitalized their signature 80s heavy metal sound with the release of their new maxi-single, "The Spell Of The Skull." Out today, the single features two new tracks, including the standout "Mirror, Mirror," which showcases the band's melodic guitar riffs and impressive vocal range from frontwoman Laura Guldemond. The Swiss band has quickly risen in the metal scene, performing at major festivals like Wacken and Summer Breeze shortly after their formation. With five successful albums under their belt, they are gearing up for another release in 2025, promising to enchant audiences with their powerful and dynamic sound.

PATRIARKH drop New Single “ВЕРШАЛИН II”

 

Polish black metal band PATRIARKH, previously known as Batushka and led by singer Bartłomiej Krysiuk, has released a new single titled “ВЕРШАЛИН II” (Lat. WIERSZALIN II) as part of their conceptual album ПРОРОК ИЛИЯ (Lat. PROROK ILJA), set to be released on January 3, 2025, via Napalm Records. The track fuses heavy doom metal with black metal, featuring folk instruments, haunting choirs, and emotive string arrangements, accompanied by growls that create an intense atmosphere. The upcoming album, consisting of eight tracks, tells the true story of Eliasz Klimowicz, the Prophet Ilja, against the dramatic backdrop of the 1930s and ‘40s, blending historical themes with Eastern Orthodox traditions. Following their successful previous album, Hospodi (2019), PATRIARKH continues to tour extensively and expand their musical narrative. In a statement, the band described “ВЕРШАЛИН II” as exploring themes of revelation, emphasizing the role of the Mother of God in connection with the prophet's mission. Pre-orders for the album are now available.