Mad About Rock

GREEN LUNG announce their 'Dance To The Grave Tour MMXXVI' across the UK & Europe this December

2026-05-18T20:58:57.113+01:00

Riding high after an all-timer homecoming show at Desertfest London this weekend, and hot on the heels of announcing their long-awaited fourth studio album, Necropolitan (to be released on Friday September 11th 2026) Green Lung announce a black crusade of the UK and Europe this winter... the Dance to the Grave Tour MMXXVI.

Special guests on this run will be High On Fire with support from Gnome. The tour poster was designed by the band's frequent collaborator, Richard Wells.

Tickets will go on general sale: Friday, May 22nd @ 09:00 AM BST
Pre-sales will be running from: Tuesday, May 19th & Wednesday, May 20th

GREEN LUNG
DANCE TO THE GRAVE TOUR MMXXVI
w/ High On Fire & Gnome

03-Dec BE Antwerp @ Trix
04-Dec DE Frankfurt am Main @ Batschkapp
05-Dec DE Munich @ Backstage
07-Dec AT Vienna @ Arena
08-Dec DE Leipzig @ Anker
10-Dec DE Hamburg @ Große Freiheit 36
11-Dec DE Berlin @ Astra Kulturhaus
12-Dec DE Cologne @ Carlswerk Victoria
13-Dec NL Tilburg @ O13
14-Dec FR Paris @ Bataclan
16-Dec UK London @ The Roundhouse
17-Dec UK Bristol @ Bristol Electric
18-Dec UK Manchester @ Manchester Academy
19-Dec IE Dublin @ The Academy
20-Dec UK Glasgow @ SWG3 Galvanizers

For more information and tickets head to: https://www.greenlung.co.uk/

Necropolitan will be released on Friday September 11th 2026. A monumental portrait of the power of nature over the dreams and dominion of humankind, Necropolitan is also a grand celebration of the occult lore and heavy music scene of the band’s birthplace, the city of London.

With producer Tom Dalgety (Opeth, Ghost) at the helm, this time handling everything from recording to mixing, the band decamped to Rockfield Studios in January 2026, following in the muddy footprints of some of Green Lung's key inspirations, from Black Sabbath to Queen to Judas Priest. Sonically, they were set on capturing their megalithic live sound more accurately than ever - stripping back their usual dense, multilayered arrangements to their rawest, leanest form and recording much of the album live to capture their Sabbathian heaviness, frenzied Hammonds and haunting Mellotrons as faithfully as possible.

The result is an album that combines the soaring hookiness of This Heathen Land with an uncompromising rawness and heaviness, and takes the band’s distinctive brand of sonic storytelling to macabre new heights.

If, a year after Black Sabbath’s Back to the Beginning show and the death of Ozzy Osbourne, you had any doubts about the future of traditional British metal, Necropolitan will lay them to rest. Here is a band taking the torch from the heavy metal godfathers and running with it, bursting with all the musicianship and storytelling flair that has kept the genre’s flame burning for a half-century, and using it to temper a lyrical and sonic world that is entirely their own.

Lead single ‘Evil in this House’ answers the question ‘what would it sound like if a stoner metal band carried out a paranormal investigation?’, complete with a monstrously Sabbathian riff and an ectoplasmic synth solo.

Pre-order Necropolitan here: https://greenlung.bfan.link/necropolitan
Stream lead single ‘Evil in this House’ here: https://greenlung.bfan.link/evil-in-this-house
Watch the video for ‘Evil in this House’ here: https://youtu.be/ISrZImai8cQ

Green Lung: Summer 2026 Live Dates

25 June - UK Manchester, Manchester Academy*

*supporting Acid Bath

A cult band in every sense of the word, Green Lung emerged from London’s heavy rock scene with self-released debut EP Free the Witch (2018).

Drawing on a host of peculiarly British musical influences, from doomy hard rock to pastoral prog and psych to the Hammer Horror theatrics of the NWOBHM, the band have swiftly risen to the forefront of the UK metal scene.

Lyrically celebrating the folklore, myths and legends of Britain, they conjure the wild and witchy spirit of their forebears for a new generation.

Green Lung have released three critically acclaimed albums, Woodland Rites (2019), Black Harvest (2021) and This Heathen Land (2023). They have toured internationally with Clutch, Opeth and Unto Others, and performed on festival stages from Roadburn to Download. Their latest album This Heathen Land landed at #1 on the UK’s Official Rock and Metal Album Chart.

"This is heavy metal how it should be done" The Guardian

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CELAVI RELEASE NEW SINGLE & ANNOUNCE DOWNLOAD APPEARANCE

2026-05-18T20:47:43.923+01:00

Welsh Bilingual nu-metal duo C E L A V I continue their rise with their fiercest release yet, 'PLASTER', which is a cathartic, high-impact anthem that merges raw aggression with captivating hooks. The track is out now and is taken from the band’s highly anticipated upcoming EP, produced by Romesh Dodangoda (Bring Me The Horizon, Motörhead, Nova Twins). Watch the video here:

Listen to the band at - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4OEzNJIkgsH8PTw0y86ATx

Formed by married duo Gwion Griffiths and Sarah Wynn Griffiths, C E L A V I have built a reputation for emotionally charged performances and high-impact releases that explore identity, mental health, and self-expression. Their bilingual approach continues to champion the Welsh language within modern alternative music while pushing into a wider global space.

Following support from Metal Hammer, BBC Radio 1, Kerrang Radio, and BBC 6 Music, plus a Match of the Day sync, the band continue to build major momentum. BBC Radio 1 have already declared: “C E L A V I — remember that name.” Their recent singles including: COFIA’R ENW, l o w e r c a s e, and MORGANA have marked a clear evolution in sound and vision, while their upcoming live shows include a prestigious appearance at Download Festival 2026 and support slots with As December Falls at Chepstow Castle, highlighting C E L A V I’s increased momentum and widening reach.

Their new single, PLASTER, finds C E L A V I at their most expansive and hard-hitting, turning negativity into fuel for defiance. Speaking on the track, Sarah Wynn Griffiths explains: “With PLASTER, we wanted to channel something fierce and cathartic. It’s about taking all that negativity and toxicity that we experience externally and internally and turning it into strength.” Gwion Griffiths adds: “Sonically PLASTER is a nu-metal banger — it’s aggressive with melodic hooks; it’s our fight-back anthem.”

With growing national radio backing and tastemaker attention, C E L A V I bridge underground intensity with crossover potential aiding in their emergence as one of the most compelling new acts in UK heavy music.

www.wearecelavi.com
https://www.instagram.com/wearecelavi
https://www.facebook.com/WEARECELAVI
https://www.youtube.com/@WEARECELAVI
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4OEzNJIkgsH8PTw0y86ATx

Evanescence Releases Official Video for "Who Will You Follow"

2026-05-15T22:51:38.153+01:00

Evanescence releases the official music video for their powerful new song “Who Will You Follow” — listen here/watch here

Directed by Jensen Noen, the cinematic visual pairs thought-provoking imagery with an emotionally charged performance to explore the overwhelming impact of technology, misinformation, and digital culture, examining how constant online noise impacts us all. Both the lyrics and accompanying video emphasise the importance of seeking authenticity in an era where truth feels increasingly and intentionally corrupted.

“Who Will You Follow” has already become the fastest-moving rock radio single of Evanescence’s career to date, entering the Top at US Rock Radio in under 4 weeks and earning the band its first-ever #1 on Billboard’s Hard Rock Song Chart. The track was co-written and produced by Zakk Cervini (Bad Omens, YUNGBLUD, Bring Me The Horizon, Spiritbox) and Jordan Fish (Bring Me The Horizon, Poppy, House of Protection, Architects). album, which features tracks produced by Cervini/Fish as well as songs produced by Nick Raskulinecz (Korn, Foo Fighters, Rush).

‘Sanctuary’ will be available as a Digital Album, Standard CD, Deluxe CD and limited-edition Box Set. A double vinyl of the album will be released on September 4th. The Deluxe CD is exclusive to the Evanescence store and includes a Blu-ray that contains; Live in Sao Paolo Concert, Documentary from Evanescence’s 2023 South America tour and a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the “Who Will You Follow” video. The deluxe vinyl is also a webstore exclusive. Pre-Save the album HERE and Pre-order HERE.

The band’s 2026 World Tour, kicks off on June 11th, and takes them across North America, UK and Europe — tickets here. Special guest Spiritbox and Nova Twins will open on the North American portion of the tour, and special guest Poppy will support on the UK & Europe shows with Nova Twins opening outside the UK. K.Flay, who features on Evanescence’s last single, “Fight Like A Girl,” will open the UK shows. K.Flay will also support Evanescence for their Red Rocks Amphitheatre concert. Their recently announced date at Kuala Lumpur’s National Hockey Stadium, which sold out in 24 minutes.

Evanescence has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1/£1/€1 from every ticket sold will support organisations providing humanitarian aid and medical relief to those in need around the world. Additionally, Head Count, a non-profit/non-partisan entity will be on site at most of the band’s US concerts to register new voters and to instruct previously-registered voters how to check their registration status to ensure it is still valid.

Sanctuary Track List:Beautiful Lie
Tell Me When You’ve Had Enough
Who Will You Follow
Rapture
Afterlife
Sanctuary
How Do I Heal
About Us
Calm Down
Self Destruct
Forever Without You
Wide Open Heart

Evanescence 2026 World Tour Dates:

June:

11/6/26 West Palm Beach, FL iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre

12/6/26 Tampa, FL MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

14/6/26 Alpharetta, GA Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

15/6/26 Nashville, TN Bridgestone Arena

17/6/26 Raleigh, NC Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek

18/6/26 Charlotte, NC PNC Music Pavilion

20/6/26 Camden, NJ Freedom Mortgage Pavilion

21/6/26 Mansfield, MA Xfinity Centre

23/6/26 Saratoga Springs, NY Saratoga Performing Arts Centre

24/6/26 Wantagh, NY Northwell at Jones Beach Theatre

26/6/26 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Centre

27/6/26 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live

29/6/26 Toronto, ON RBC Amphitheatre

30/6/26 Montréal, QC Centre Bell

July:

8/7/26 Tinley Park, IL Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre

9/7/26 Noblesville, IN Ruoff Music Centre

11/7/26 North Little Rock, AR Simmons Bank Arena

12/7/26 Kansas City, MO MORTON Amphitheatre

14/7/26 Albuquerque, NM Isleta Amphitheatre

15/7/26 Phoenix, AZ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

17/7/26 Chula Vista, CA North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre

18/7/26 Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum

20/7/26 Mountain View, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre

22/7/26 Ridgefield, WA Cascades Amphitheatre

23/7/26 Auburn, WA White River Amphitheatre

25/7/26 Salt Lake City, UT Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre

28/7/26 St. Louis, MO Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre

30/7/26 Cuyahoga Falls, OH Blossom Music Centre

August:

1/8/26 Cincinnati, OH Riverbend Music Centre

2/8/26 Clarkston, MI Pine Knob Music Theatre

September:

8/9/26 Leeds, UK First Direct Arena

10/9/26 Manchester, UK Co-op Live

11/9/26 Birmingham, UK Utilita Arena Birmingham

13/9/26 London, UK The O2

16.9/26 Brussels, BE Forest National

17/9/26 Paris, FR Accor Arena (SOLD OUT)

19/9/26 Frankfurt, DE Congress Center Messe Frankfurt - Festhalle Frankfurt

20/9/26 Dortmund, DE Westfalenhallen Dortmund

22/9/26 Amsterdam, NL Ziggo Dome

23/9/26 Hamburg, DE Barclays Arena

25/9/26 Berlin, DE Velodrom

26/9/26 Munich, DE Olympiahalle

28/9/26 Bologna, IT Unipol Arena

29/9/26 Zurich, CH Hallenstadion Zurich

October:

1/10/26 Barcelona, ES Palau Olimpic Badalona

2/10/26 Madrid, ES Palacio Vistalegre

4/10/26 Lisbon, PT MEO Arena

26/10/26 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre
November
28/11/26 Kuala Lumpur, M National Hockey Stadium, Bukit Jalil.

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ANTHRAX announce new album 'Cursum Perficio' & first single 'It’s For The Kids'

2026-05-15T22:33:05.086+01:00

Multi-GRAMMY® award-nominated New York heavy metal titans Anthrax - Scott Ian (guitar), Charlie Benante (drums), Frank Bello (bass), Joey Belladonna (vocals), and Jonathan Donais (guitar) - will unleash their long-awaited 12th full-length studio album Cursum Perficio on September 18th via Nuclear Blast Records and Megaforce Records (North America). It marks the band’s first record in ten years since 2016’s For All Kings, which debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200. Cursum Perficio will be available in various physical configurations to pre-order/pre-save; click HERE. The phrase Cursum Perficio is Latin for “My journey has come to an end,” “My journey is over,” or “I complete my journey.” It proves apropos for such a complete body of work.

For Cursum Perficio’s first single and video, 'It’s For The Kids', the quintet bulldoze the way for the album’s impact. It’s a classic Anthrax ripper locked and loaded with buzzsaw-sharp riffs, explosive drumming, and a howling and head-banging hook. It undoubtedly has all the makings of a future live staple. Listen HERE. See the quotes below from the band about the single and album.

Pre-order Cursum Perficio here: https://anthrax.bfan.link/cplp
Stream 'It’s For The Kids' here: https://anthrax.bfan.link/iftksg

The band dove into recording Cursum Perficio in earnest during 2022, working out of Dave Grohl’s Studio 606 in Los Angeles. They carefully pieced together what would be this magnum opus, mining their history with reverence, delivering on fan expectations tenfold, and broadening the scope of their signature sound. Produced by Jay Ruston and Anthrax, the result is an album that’s as angry, aggressive, and alive as their most celebrated fare.

“It was quite a journey from the inception of this album to its completion,” Ian says. "We were supposed to make this in 2020, but the universe had other plans for everyone. After the Pandemic, we got to be a band again. When we started working on the record, we were just happy to be in a room together. It was so exciting that it was like being reborn in a way. All of that energy and emotion went into the music. The fear of being forced out of our lives and the joy of coming back together are present. The title ‘Cursum Perficio’ feels like ANTHRAX. It resembled what we went through to get to the point of finishing the record.”

“There was an awful lot of growth between Worship Music in 2011 and CURSUM PERFICIO,” Benante elaborated. “This album is a culmination of everything we’ve learned. I was watching a Marilyn Monroe documentary, and I saw ‘Cursum Perficio’ written on a tile in her last home. When I found out what the phrase meant, it immediately clicked with me. We aren’t saying this is our last record, but our journey has come to an end. I believe we’ve completed the task.”

“We had to make Fistful Of Metal and Spreading The Disease to be able to write Among The Living,” Ian goes on. “In the same respect, it took Worship Music and For All Kings for us to be able to write CURSUM PERFICIO. I very much compare this record to Among The Living.”

“We left it all on the table,” agreed Bello. “We really know who we are as ANTHRAX, what turns us on, and what we need to do. I don’t think anybody knows what’s next, but we’re hungrier than ever. From here on out, we’re going to go full throttle for every fucking minute.”

“A friend of mine said, ‘It’s For The Kids’ is a straight-up love letter to your fans,’” Ian says. “That’s exactly what I wanted it to be. The album needed a four-minute thrash song that harkened back to our first era. Whether it’s the aggression or the big chorus, it represents all the best parts of ANTHRAX in a very angry four-minute package. For the video, we wanted to throw back to our ‘Madhouse’ video--thematically it just made sense and this idea opened the door for us to share the experience with our fans. For all of us!”

“The video for ‘It’s For the Kids’ turned out really well,” Benante says. “I don’t necessarily like doing videos and this one had elements of things that I really love. There were fans in it, they showed up, they enjoyed it, it made me enjoy the video just seeing them enjoy it. Hearing the song for the first time, their reaction to it, and just the interaction with them was just great. I think the director did a great job on it. It’s kind of a throwback to our first ever video, ‘Madhouse.’ So I think fans are gonna see it and think ‘oh look at that, I see what they did.’ But yeah, great song and a great video. ‘It’s For the Kids’ is one of the songs that I felt was so strong, and the riff behind it and the rhythm behind it was almost like a tug of war, it’s like a push pull. It has this tension to it where the drums are just playing at a high pace speed, and the guitars are doing pretty much quarter notes with it. And the drums are just going full speed ahead. One of my favorite songs on the record and one of my favorite riffs. I really think this song is a gift to ANTHRAX fans who have been with us throughout the years. This basically is ANTHRAX at its best. Fast paced, thrashing, melodic fucking metal.”

“When I hear certain tracks, I immediately go, ‘I want to do this song. It might have a shot,” Belladonna notes. “Even the first time I started singing a tune like ‘Madhouse,’ I figured it was going to be a strong one. You just know. There’s a lot of variety to each of our records. To me, ‘It’s For The Kids’ is nice, straight-up ANTHRAX. It has a lot of fire and a punch to it. Vocally, it’s really cooking. It was definitely fun to hammer down on this one and put a lot of drive into it.”

Donais adds, “‘It’s For The Kids’ is a right to the point thrasher. It’s fast, aggressive, catchy and definitely going to be a fun one live. I love the ‘madhouse’ inspired throwback vibe of this video. Involving the fans and capturing their reactions to a new song adds some energy that really stands out.”

“I’m psyched for people to hear ‘It’s For The Kids!’" Bello comments. “This is a heavy, driving song with a big hook chorus-a combination of classic ANTHRAX and current- I can’t wait to play it live! Had a (cold!) blast filming the video too. It’s a great, energy packed video with a bunch of amazing ANTHRAX fans having a good time on a freezing day in Pennsylvania. The metal kept us all warm.”

The CURSUM PERFICIO track listing is as follows:

Persistence of Memory
The Long Goodbye
It’s For the Kids
Everybody’s Got A Plan
The Edge Of Perfection
Infectious
NYC93
Cursum Perficio
T.O.M.B
Watch It Go
My Victory

Their journey has brought them to Cursum Perficio - a powerful, pummeling, and poetic milestone in Anthrax’s 45-year career.

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Photo credit: Travis Shinn

IMPERIUM ANNOUNCE NEW SINGLE, DEBUT ALBUM, FESTIVAL APPEARANCES & SHOWS

2026-05-15T09:24:23.746+01:00

Rising from the UK underground metal scene, IMPERIUM are quickly establishing themselves as a leading modern thrash act. Known for razor-sharp riffs, groove-laden force, and commanding vocals, they’ve built a reputation for explosive live shows. Their engulfing debut album, 'Exodus Unknown', releases via Heavy Metal Records on Friday 17th July, with the title single out now. Watch the video here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3tPzXOlM34

Listen to the band at - https://open.spotify.com/artist/7ytn24lvOAoMKq8pbszxO1

After breaking through in 2022 with their debut EP and winning London’s Metal 2 the Masses, which earned the ba.nd a spot at Bloodstock Festival, IMPERIUM have now shared stages with a number of prominent acts and have grown their fanbase nationwide.

Now officially signed to Heavy Metal Records and endorsed by Gibson/Kramer/Epiphone, IMPERIUM have entered a new phase in their career and set the stage for their highly anticipated debut full-length album, Exodus Unknown, which has been mixed and mastered by Oz Craggs at Hidden Track Studios. The album features tighter songwriting, heavier production, and an unrelenting sonic assault. The band remark: “We’re taking the next natural step, pushing harder while staying true to who we are. This record drives IMPERIUM forward.”

With festival appearances on the way, including a return to Bloodstock, and a run of live shows with Venom Inc, IMPERIUM are entering a defining chapter. For fans of modern thrash and heavy metal, this is a band not to be missed.

IMPERIUM live: 4th June - Bristol with Venom Inc & Devastator; 5th June - Sheffield with Venom Inc & Devastator; 24th July - Album Release Show - Black Heart, London; 8th August - Bloodstock SOPHIE stage.

Tracklisting: 1. Hell and High Water; 2. Exodus Unknown; 3. Reap That You Sow; 4. Unstoppable; 5. The Gun; 6. Hangman; 7. Tread the Serpent; 8. The End.

https://lnk.to/exodus-unknown
https://www.imperiummetal.com
https://www.instagram.com/imperium_uk/
https://www.facebook.com/IMPERIUMmetal/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7ytn24lvOAoMKq8pbszxO1
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2EvlOV3RhUO9yJsLf1WtoA

IMPERIUM are: Ben Porter (vocals), Hardip Sagoo (lead guitar), Scott Lomas (guitar), Jean-Raphael Come (bass), and James Hawes (drums)

ALBUM REVIEW: OPENSIGHT - 'THE OUTFIT' (INERTIAL MUSIC)

2026-05-14T22:29:10.445+01:00

Diverse Alternative quartet Opensight are back with their highly anticipated follow-up to 2022's 'Mondo Fiction'. With their new album 'The Outfit', they exhibit more purpose and creativity, expanding on their unique and engaging sound.

The first full song, 'Killer Outfit', is very diverse, enthralling, and incredibly catchy, especially aided by the wah-wah guitars, making it hard to resist.

'In Plain Sight' is a fun, infectiously melodic offering that embraces a 70s vibe and is highly memorable, getting its hooks in.

Changing the tone with the cinematic 'Defying Eye' with a more dark sound, which is vast and immersive. Further in, they mesmerise with the atmospheric 'Mantra', which is a striking and intriguing track.

The alarming and alluring 'Heist' is an eerie yet beautiful progressive track which is very reminiscent of Opeth, and you can easily lose yourself in.

The final track, 'Delusion' is rich and layered, soothing and serene, but with a devilish edge and offers an extremely compelling way to end this adventurous ride of musical exploration.

'The Outfit' is a captivating, lively and unforgettable opus with its cinematic allure and varied sound offering something different and very enticing.

Track listing: 1. Procesión de La Muerte; 2. Killer Outfit; 3. In Plain Sight; 4. Defying Eye; 5. Iris (I Rise); 6. Broken Vow; 7. Mantra; 8. The Director’s Curse; 9. Final Cut; 10. Heist; 11. Delusion.

'The Outfit' is released on May 15th on Inertial Music.

Check out our feature on Opensight's songs that influenced them also here:

https://www.madaboutrock.co.uk/2026/04/exclusive-feature-opensights-songs-that.html

https://www.opensightband.com/
https://www.tiktok.com/@opensightband
https://www.facebook.com/opensightmusic
https://www.instagram.com/opensightband
https://www.youtube.com/@opensightband
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4nuByHPiaXckms2WRkAYTX

Download Festival 2026: Beyond The Bands

2026-05-14T19:04:19.338+01:00

With less than one month to go until the mighty return of Download Festival, DLXXIII has unleashed its ‘Beyond The Bands’ offerings, giving Download-goers an even more exciting experience onsite with brand new food, drink, gaming, wellness and fitness options. Taking place on 10-14 June 2026 at the hallowed grounds of Donington Park, Download will be headlined by Limp Bizkit, Guns N’ Roses and Linkin Park. All weekend tickets are now sold out, but last remaining Saturday day tickets are available here: www.downloadfestival.co.uk.

Brand new for this year’s DLXXIII are some huge new collaborations with Final Fantasy XIV and Fourth Wing. District X will host a Final Fantasy XIV Online stand, where rich storytelling, shared adventures, epic battles and a vast world await. Over in the arena, there will be a groundbreaking collaboration with Fourth Wing, where Download-goers and fans of the Rebecca Yarros novels can visit the General’s Office and bag an exclusive merchandise item.

In a first for Download Festival, Four Quarters Arcade Bar will be in District X South with a curated selection of over 20 iconic arcade games, including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Crazy Taxi and Time Crisis. Four Quarters will also be hosting competitions and tournaments on the big screen, including Mario Kart, Super Smash Bros and Guitar Hero.

The Cinema will once again return with their Lionsgate partnership in The Outpost, where they will show the likes of John Wick (in honour of Keanu Reeves, who will be performing in the Arena with his band Dogstar), Final Fantasy XIV: Dad Of Light and A Brief History Of Skateboard Videos, a specially curated 90 minutes of short films presented by LSFF. And on that note, South West Skate Ramps will be returning to District X with free skate sessions and dedicated lessons for children.

Also new for this year will be The Pit, Download’s premier styling collective, who will be located in District X near the Mercian Axe brewery bar. From master barbers to body piercers to high impact alternative beauty, The Pit is fully equipped to handle every style need the Download Family could ask for. And for those who want to stay fit onsite, RockFit return to the Doghouse with their rock and metal fitness workout offering, which includes their new RAGE Body Combat class.

For those who want to prioritise their wellness onsite, Flow State will be back at The Outpost hosting morning sessions that will include gentle movement, meditation, body regulation exercises, breath work and sound baths. In addition to the hour-long sessions every morning, they will now be hosting a 30 minute Q&A after every session. Elsewhere, Raven Records will be returning to host their pop up in District X South, featuring a curated selection of metal music, merchandise, alcohol-free drinks and metal-inspired coffee.

For the first time ever, Download will be hosting Rockschool workshops for children between the ages of 8-17. Led by professional musicians and teachers, the workshops will be fully kitted out with drums, guitars, bass, keyboards and microphones so children can wow the crowds with their favourite song and gear up to be the festival’s future headliners.

This year will feature a new food stage – the Hellfire Stage – dedicated to the Prince of Darkness, Ozzy Osbourne. It will be hosted by Maisie and Shane McBagley BBQ and will feature chilli-eating competitions (hosted by the Clifton Chilli Club) and hot dog eating competitions (hosted by Ollie Eats), as well as live fire-cooking mastery and expert demonstrations from an elite line-up including Shropshire Lad, The Fat Foodie, Cooking With LD and many more.

On the subject of food, Download will host over 160 fantastic food traders across the site, with more than ever catering to vegan, vegetarian and coeliac diets. The top tier line-up of food traders includes the likes of Lost Souls (vampire-themed pizza), Club Mexicana, Loki Poke, Be A Daal, Wholesome Junkies, Bunnyman’s Bunnychow, The Rock And Roll Toastie Co and many more.

Following on from the recent District X announcement featuring live sets from the likes of Five, DJ sets, comedy and live podcasts, DLXXIII’s Beyond The Bands offerings prove that Download is much more than just its stellar band line-up, with truly something for everyone to enjoy across the five days. More information and last remaining Saturday day tickets at www.downloadfestival.co.uk.

ALBUM REVIEW: VOID MONUMENTS - 'POSTHUMOUS IMPRECATION' (BLOOD HARVEST RECORDS)

2026-05-14T15:19:17.424+01:00

Following the release of their crushing 2024 demo, ‘Temples Of Pestilence, ’ the Saint-Petersburg quartet has crafted their anticipated debut album, and it doesn’t disappoint! After an atmospheric intro we land at the ‘Epitome Of Fear’ which showcases their sinister, raw and no nonsense death metal, which leaves a lasting impression and leaves you eager to dive further into the dark abyss with the likes of the savage doom-esque offering ‘Devilish Prophecies’ and be hit with the unrelenting groove of ‘Decapitate The Saints’ which is armed with menacing riffs. ‘Ascent to the Crucifixion’ will consume you as you get lost amidst its overpowering, gloomy rhythms and melodies, while ‘Invocation’ will alarm you with its ominous and skilled guitarwork. The final blow, ‘Father Of Sin’, is foreboding, untamed, and powerful, a great way to end. They deliver an impressive, crushing debut album with their authentic old-school death metal infused with thrash, leaving a deep, brutal mark in a short blast!

POSTHUMOUS IMPRECATION is out now on Blood Harvest Records!

Hard rock giants BREAKING BENJAMIN release new single 'Something Wicked'

2026-05-13T21:46:29.693+01:00

Hard rock giants BREAKING BENJAMIN are back with a brooding and haunting new single, 'Something Wicked', signalling the latest chapter for the band and the tease of a forthcoming full-length album. Marked by their signature blend of atmospheric tension, thunderous instrumentation, and raw emotional weight, the track finds the band pushing deeper into their darker sonic territory while staying rooted in the sound that has defined them for years. 'Something Wicked' builds from a simmering, introspective opening into a powerful, anthemic crescendo, showcasing frontman Benjamin Burnley’s unmistakable vocals as they shift between vulnerable restraint and explosive intensity.

Speaking on the single, Burnley shares:
“'Something Wicked' is a quick look into our influences both musically and thematically. We challenged ourselves especially hard on this record and on this song. We pushed every boundary we’ve previously had as far as it will go, then pushed a little more. Something Wicked was the result.”

Upon releasing their first single in five years back in 2024, 'Awaken' quickly shot to #1 on the Rock Digital Songs charts and landed in the Top 20 on multiple additional Billboard charts including Hot Hard Rock Songs, Digital Song Sales, Hot Alternative Songs and Hard Rock Songs. The single has also since surpassed 131M streams globally.

BREAKING BENJAMIN are no strangers to the upper echelons of the rock charts. Since bursting onto the scene with 2002’s Saturate, the band has amassed an impressive string of mainstream rock radio hits, with ten songs hitting #1, numerous platinum and multi-platinum songs and albums, 8.5 billion combined streams worldwide and a social imprint of over 6.5 million, a true testament to the band’s global influence and loyal fan base. BREAKING BENJAMIN’s studio album, Ember debuted at #3 on the Billboard Top 200 and marked the multi-platinum band’s fourth Top 5 debut on the Billboard Top 200, following 2015’s #1 debut for Dark Before Dawn (Gold), 2009’s Dear Agony (Platinum) at #4 and 2006’s Phobia (Platinum) at #2. Ember spun off two #1 hits at Active Rock Radio with 'Red Cold River' and 'Torn in Two'. Aurora and Ember charted Top 10 across numerous countries worldwide and topped #1 charts across multiple genres, including Top Alternative Albums, Top Rock Albums, Top Hard Rock Albums and Top Digital Albums.

In June and July, the band will be heading to the UK and Europe to tour the continent for their first overseas shows since 2017, with support from Chevelle and Return To Dust. For ticket details, visit: https://www.breakingbenjamin.com/#tour

BREAKING BENJAMIN 2026 UK/IE TOUR DATES
w. support from Chevelle, Return To Dust
10/07 - O2 Institute, Birmingham SOLD OUT
11/07 - O2 Academy, Glasgow SOLD OUT
13/07 - The Telegraph Building, Belfast LOW TICKETS
14/07 - National Stadium, Dublin SOLD OUT
16/07 - O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester VENUE UPGRADE - SOLD OUT
17/07 - O2 Academy Brixton, London VENUE UPGRADE - SOLD OUT

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Photo credit: Dominique D'Costa

Motörhead announce 20th anniversary edition of 'Kiss Of Death'

2026-05-13T21:03:56.179+01:00

Originally released in 2006, Kiss of Death is a ferocious reminder of Motörhead’s uncompromising, no-frills spirit—and a timely nod to the legendary status they’ve earned as one of the greatest hard rock bands of all time.

Driven by Lemmy’s unmistakable growl, backed by Phil Campbell’s blistering guitar work and Mikkey Dee’s razor-sharp precision drumming, Kiss of Death—their 18th studio album—picks up exactly where 2004’s Inferno left off. It’s Motörhead doing what they do best: loud, fast, and relentless.

Leaning into the heavier edge of their sound, the album also features guest appearances from Mike Inez (Alice in Chains) and C.C. DeVille (Poison), and delivers standout cuts like 'Sucker', 'Trigger' and the fan-favourite 'God Was Never On Your Side'.

Marking its 20th anniversary, this new edition sees the album newly half-speed mastered from the original tapes, with fresh liner notes from Dave Ling paying tribute to the contribution of the legendary Phil Campbell following his recent sad passing. It also includes an exclusive bonus live LP, capturing the band’s 2007 performance at Lowlands Festival in Biddinghuizen, Netherlands, available on vinyl for the first time. The CD edition features three additional bonus tracks.

To celebrate the release, there’s also a brand-new official lyric video for God Was Never On Your Side, created by Andy Pilkington, alongside a sneak peek of Killed by Death from the Lowlands performance - out now on all streaming platforms.

Full tracklisting details are below, and for the latest news and updates, head to www.imotorhead.com.

Tracklisting:
VINYL
LP 1 – Kiss of Death
(20th Anniversary Edition)

SIDE ASucker
One Night Stand
Devil I Know
Trigger
Under the Gun
God Was Never on Your Side
Living in the Past

SIDE B
Christine
Sword of Glory
Be My Baby
Kingdom of the Worm
Going Down LP2 - Live at Lowlands Festival, 2007

SIDE C
01. Snaggletooth
02. Stay Clean
03. Be My Baby
04. Killers
05. Metropolis
06. Over The Top

SIDE D
07. One Night Stand
08. In The Name Of Tragedy
09. I Got Mine
10. Going To Brazil
11. Killed By Death
12. Aces Of Spades

CD 1 – Kiss of Death
(20th Anniversary Edition)
01. Sucker
02. One Night Stand
03. Devil I Know
04. Trigger
05. Under the Gun
06. God Was Never on Your Side
07. Living in the Past
08. Christine
09. Sword of Glory
10. Be My Baby
11. Kingdom of the Worm
12. Going Down
13. R.A.M.O.N.E.S (2006 Version) CD Bonus track
14. Whiplash CD Bonus track
15. R.A.M.O.N.E.S (Live) CD Bonus track CD 2 - Live at Lowlands Festival, 2007
01. Snaggletooth
02. Stay Clean
03. Be My Baby
04. Killers
05. Metropolis
06. Over The Top
07. One Night Stand
08. In The Name Of Tragedy
09. I Got Mine
10. Going To Brazil
11. Killed By Death
12. Aces Of Spades

Photo credit: Robert John

MERCERS Announce Debut EP & New Single

2026-05-11T17:30:00.000+01:00

UK alternative rock band MERCERS unveil their captivating debut EP, The Liminal Tapes, out everywhere on Friday 17th July. The band have just revealed their fiery new single and video, 'Cleanse / Repeat'. Check out the video here:

Formed in 2025, MERCERS are comprised of two members from nu-metallers FONY. But this is not a reunion; it’s a continuation of the long-standing partnership between vocalist Olly James and guitarist/programmer Phil Bashford, key songwriters behind FONY’s Routine Irregular and Circles. What began as a creative purge, reworking older material to finally realise its original intent, has quickly evolved into something larger.

With the addition of Richard Titheradge (drums) and Simon Glover (guitars), MERCERS found a new identity. While the EP includes reimagined versions of FONY tracks, A Satire for the World and January Zen, these sit alongside new material that defines the band on their own terms: more open and expansive, and shaped by time and perspective.

Their lead single, Cleanse / Repeat, delivers a stark political statement addressing the destruction of Gaza and the erosion of Western democracy, while New Stockholm explores the intersection of mental health and free speech. Across the EP, textured guitars and thoughtful arrangements bond with real power and potent delivery.

FONY built a dedicated underground following with their blend of heaviness and vulnerability. MERCERS carry that emotional core forward, but with precision and true intent. For longtime listeners, The Liminal Tapes expands the story. For new audiences, it marks the beginning.

Track listing: 1. Cleanse/Repeat; 2. New Stockholm; 3. A Satire for the World; 4. January Zen.

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EXCLUSIVE FEATURE: Versus 5 Songs That Influenced Them

2026-05-07T13:56:00.000+01:00

UK alt-rockers VERSUS have just dropped their stunning new single and video, 'This Is Everything', which is out now. Check it out below:

With the band on the up, we exclusively checked in and asked the guys which tracks have greatly influenced their engulfing sound:

Bring Me The Horizon - Can You Feel My Heart

"The intro to this just has that special ‘something’ with the synths and drums giving such an immense build up to hit the first verse and the raw and aggressive vocals deliver such crushing lyrics that just kick this shit out of everything else – how could anyone listen to this track and not want to pick up a guitar and write something that is completely outside the box?"

Dayseeker - Crooked Soul

"That guitar intro blows us away every single time. The emotional weight on the vocals just adds to those lead lines in the background. Rhythm section is so tight throughout which really gives you the impact in the breakdown that everyone needs, and we love a decent midsection that kicks."

Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks

"What is not to like on this song? Such a sweet and stable rhythm section that is rock solid with some sneaky bass licks to really snake around those drums – vocals hit every spot and the guitars are so good and melodic, it’s hard for us not to be inspired by this track."

Enter Shikari - Sssnakepit

"This band are just fire. Someone once described them as Nintendo-core, and as fucked up as that is, it opens the floodgates for merging genres – this track is the perfect example of ‘genre-hopping’. The harmonies add a sweetener to the mix and the breakdown is utterly insane and its pure filth is providing the proverbial cherry on top that gives us the confidence to do things less conventionally."

System Of A Down - B.Y.O.B

"This is such a fun song to listen to with that insane guitar intro, just gives off heaps of energy all the way through. It’s such a massive juxtaposition between music and the actual message behind it, this song gave us or reinforced the idea that we could really embrace writing music and lyrics that had a fun vibe with all of the emotional baggage attached. "

VERSUS ARE: Shortie (Salt-Short) - vocals, Rob Kewley - rhythm guitar, and Calvin Sargeant - drums.

https://versusbandinc.com/
https://www.facebook.com/TheOfficialVersus/
https://www.instagram.com/officialversusband/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/67pt9vgrdK8u8meLF6B0km
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The Rolling Stones announce new studio album 'Foreign Tongues'

2026-05-05T22:45:00.000+01:00

London, 5th May 2026 - The Rolling Stones today announce the release of their highly anticipated new studio album Foreign Tongues, arriving 10th July from Polydor/Universal Music. The incredibly vibrant 14-track collection follows less than three years after the band’s universally acclaimed, Grammy Award-winning Hackney Diamonds, which topped charts worldwide and achieved multi-platinum success. The new album will be introduced by the upbeat and infectious lead single ‘In the Stars’, released digitally on 5th May alongside the album’s opening track ‘Rough and Twisted.’ In The Stars receives a physical release on 15th May. Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood are set to attend a media launch for Foreign Tongues later today in Brooklyn, New York.

In the lead-up to the announcement, the band have been subtly building anticipation for the new project, including the limited white label release of the track ‘Rough and Twisted’ only on vinyl under the name The Cockroaches. Circulating among fans and collectors, the release has already sparked excitement and speculation around the sound and direction of Foreign Tongues, offering an early glimpse into the album’s raw and exploratory energy. Recorded during an exceptionally creative period, Foreign Tongues was brought to life in under a month at Metropolis Studios in West London, with Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood reuniting with Grammy-winning producer Andrew Watt, who also helmed Hackney Diamonds. The result is a dynamic and forward-looking record that captures the band’s unmistakable sound while pushing into new sonic and lyrical territory, further cementing their unparalleled legacy.

The album features standout performances from Jagger, Richards and Wood, alongside their core collaborators including Darryl Jones, Matt Clifford and Steve Jordan. It also includes a special appearance from Charlie Watts, captured during one of his final recording sessions before his passing in 2021. Additional contributions come from an impressive line-up of guest artists, including Steve Winwood, Paul McCartney, The Cure’s Robert Smith and Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Reflecting on the recording process, Mick Jagger said: “I love doing these recording sessions in London at Metropolis. It was a very intense few weeks recording Foreign Tongues. We had 14 great tracks and we went as fast as we could. I like the room there as it’s not too big so you can feel the passion in the room from everyone.”

Keith Richards added: “The Foreign Tongues album has a continuity from Hackney Diamonds and it was great to be working in London again, and to have that London vibe around us. It was a month of concentrated punch. To me, it's all about the enjoyment of it. I'm blessed to be able to do this and long may it last.”

Ronnie Wood commented: “The atmosphere in the room was so creative, and the whole band was on top form throughout the whole process. Very often we nailed it on the first take. I hope everyone loves it.”

The album’s striking cover artwork is a painting created by acclaimed American artist Nathaniel Mary Quinn who commented: “Creating the album cover for the Rolling Stones is an artistic honour - a dialogue with one of the most enduring forces in cultural history”

Foreign Tongues will be available on a wide range of formats, including CD, deluxe CD editions, cassette, multiple vinyl variants (standard and limited colour pressings), exclusive retailer editions, and special box sets, alongside the single ‘In The Stars’ on CD and vinyl formats.

LISTEN TO ‘IN THE STARS’ HERE
PRE-ORDER FOREIGN TONGUES HERE

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Cancer Bats Announce New Album "Give Me Dirt"

2026-05-05T15:57:00.001+01:00

Canadian hardcore heavyweights Cancer Bats have announced they will release their new album, ‘Give Me Dirt’, on August 7th. The band have joined forces with the formidable Marshall Records for the release.

“We are beyond excited to be joining the Marshall Records Roster! From the amps that helped define the sound of our favourite bands, to their support of independent venues and their absolute punk rock approach to everything they do, we feel like this is the perfect home for Cancer Bats! Can't wait to work with them on our new album and many more to come!” said the band.

Steve Tannett, Director of Music Platforms at Marshall Records, adds: “We are so chuffed to have the legendary Cancer Bats join the Marshall Records roster in our 10th year, which coincides nicely with the band's 20th year. The new studio album Give Me Dirt is testament to a band built on solid rock foundations, and we look forward to a brilliant release and lots of incredible shows - just how we like it!”

Ahead of the forthcoming release, Cancer Bats, composed of lead vocalist Liam Cormier, drummer Mike Peters, bassist Jaye Schwarzer and newest addition Jackson Landry on guitar (Jackson replaced Scott Middleton in 2023), have dropped a new single, “Stay Stuck”, complete with an accompanying video. The track received is premiere as a World Exclusive on the BBC Radio 1 Rock Show last night.

“‘Stay Stuck’ was such a fun song for us to write. It was one of the first songs that we finished while working on the new record, and we really all felt like we had tapped into the classic Cancer Bats bouncy fun element we’ve had in songs since the beginning,” shares Cormier. “The lyrics explore the idea that, at any age or moment in life, we all reach a point where we realise something has to change. Maybe it’s the path we’re on, or just the way we see things, but there’s that instant where we say to ourselves, I’M NOT WASTING ANY MORE TIME! We’re all moving towards something bigger, chasing goals and dreams that the world can’t take away from us. That’s what keeps us going.”

Filmed by Mitch Barnes, who also worked on the video for “Lonely Bong”, the hilarious and super fun video for “Stay Stuck” finds the band stepping into a series of day jobs, roles that closely mirror those they held before forming Cancer Bats. At the heart of it, the band wanted to capture the sense of optimism they carried through those years. Even in jobs that can feel routine or demanding, they were always focused on what lay ahead.

Reflecting on the concept, Cormier explains, “The idea is that we were always having fun and staying positive in those jobs, thinking of the future that we knew was coming for us. I think a lot of times those jobs can feel like a grind, and we wanted to look more at the fun times and how it's really just that stepping stone to really living your dreams. Cancer Bats as a band also just really like an excuse to make fun and funny music videos, so that was our whole thinking for the concept. A great cinematic vehicle for us to all have a really good time.”

Watch The Video HERE

As the follow-up to their 2022 JUNO-nominated, critically acclaimed seventh studio album, ‘Psychic Jailbreak’, ‘Give Me Dirt’ pushes Cancer Bats’ artistry to new heights, fully realising the sound they have pursued throughout their musical careers. Produced by legendary metal producer Kurt Ballou (Converge, Kvelertak, High On Fire, Every Time I Die) and Zach Weeks at God City Studios in Salem, Massachusetts, with vocals recorded by Ian Romano (The Outfit, PigPen, Ancient Shapes) at Camera Varda Studios in Welland, Ontario, ‘Give Me Dirt’, sees Cancer Bats at their most sonically inspiring.

As with their earlier work, the music came together organically, with all four members jamming in the same room. One key lesson the band carried over from their last album was that the real magic happens when everyone is fully collaborating. Once the riffs, breakdowns, and grooves were locked in, Cormier returned to rural Nova Scotia to craft the lyrics and vocal hooks. Many of the songs took shape on dusty forest roads, along winding dirt bike trails, and while brewing campfire coffee on secluded North Shore beaches.

Inspired by a year of travel, ‘Give Me Dirt’ unfolds as both an outward and inward journey, grounded in a deep connection to nature. The songs explore leaving urban life behind, processing personal loss, and confronting environmental devastation, while also reflecting on lessons drawn from the natural world.

Motorcycle travel forms another central thread on ‘Give Me Dirt’. From riding through the harsh conditions of the Canadian Rockies to a transformative journey in the mountains of Nepal just before recording, these experiences shaped the album’s perspective.

The overarching theme of returning to nature and reconnecting with the physical world also provided inspiration for the album's artwork. Instead of using digital tools, Cormier created a giant 4-foot by 8-foot mixed-media painting for the front and back covers. Using materials like paint, paper, stencils and drywall mud, he incorporated whatever he could get his hands on to build a large-scale, tactile piece. A second artwork of similar size was created for the liner notes featuring handwritten lyrics, collages, and similar paints and stencils used on the cover.

Cormier explains his motivation, “So many people I find are so sick of AI these days and all things that look too polished. I wanted the artwork to capture the energy of the album, but also represent us as a band. We are rough and dirty, our sound is loud and a mix of so many influences. Making art like this felt like such a good visual representation of not only the songs, but also Cancer Bats ourselves.”

Full Tracklisting:

1. World Wild Fire Death Race (Feat. Nate Newton)
2. Stay Stuck
3. Don’t Trip
4. Bright Eyes Of Gold (Feat. Chris Creswell)
5. Give Me Dirt
6. Long Tooth (Feat. Brooklyn Doran)
7. Speed Wizard
8. Ocean Crash
9. Positive Grid
10. Prognosis
11. Fool Like You (Feat. Efrem Schulz)

Pre-Order the album HERE

With over 20 years under their belt, including 7 acclaimed studio albums, six JUNO Award nominations and countless tours around the globe, Cancer Bats have become an undeniable force within the world of heavy music. One of the hardest-working bands in the industry, Cancer Bats have graced the covers and pages of countless tastemaking publications, including Kerrang!, Exclaim!, Revolver and Rock Sound. 2026 is set to be a landmark year for Cancer Bats. The band will spend significant time in the UK throughout the summer, performing at major festivals and embarking on a headline Bat Sabbath tour, bringing their signature, sweat-soaked intensity to stages across the country.

With a new album, a new label partnership, and an unrelenting live schedule ahead, Cancer Bats are poised to make ‘Give Me Dirt’ one of the defining heavy releases of the year.

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Photo credit: Joey Senft

A KILLER’S CONFESSION TEAMS UP WITH DJ/PRODUCER ZARDONIC TO RELEASE FEROCIOUS METAL AND DRUM & BASS REMIX

2026-05-05T13:35:00.005+01:00

Alternative/nu-metal force A Killer’s Confession has joined forces with internationally acclaimed producer Zardonic for a high-octane reimagining of “In Case Of Emergency (ft JMANN).” The remix brings Zardonic’s signature aggressive drum & bass sound to the track, bridging the raw intensity of modern metal with the pulse and precision of global bass music.

The original track joined A Killer’s Confession vocalist Waylon Reavis with fellow former Mushroomhead vocalist JMann, and was the first single from AKC’s early 2025 album Victim 2.

For A Killer’s Confession, the remix continues the band’s evolution into hybrid soundscapes that blend industrial textures, electronic elements, and emotionally charged songwriting. The track further expands the sonic universe of their ongoing Victim album trilogy, which explores the psychological tension between morality and darkness.

In addition, A Killer’s Confession sets off on their U.S. Tour with Kottonmouth Kings today.

Full dates are:

May 5 Grand Junction, CO Mesa Theater

May 6 Denver, CO HQ

May 8 West Chicago, IL WC Social Club

May 9 Westland, MI Token Lounge

May 10 Fort Wayne, IN Century Music Hall

May 11 Pittsburgh, PA Crafthouse Stage & Grill

May 12 Reading, PA Nightclub Reverb

May 13 Worcester, MA Palladium

May 15 Rochester, NY Montage Music Hall

May 16 Lansing, MI Grewal Hall at 224

May 17 Cadillac, MI Venue Event Center

May 19 Philadelphia, PA Nikki Lopez

May 20 Towson, MD The Recher

May 22 Spartanburg, SC Ground Zero

May 23 Knoxville, TN Open Chord Stage

May 27 Houston, TX Warehouse Live

May 28 Austin, TX Come and Take It Live

May 29 Tulsa, OK The Vanguard

May 30 Dallas, TX AM/FM Diner

June 1 Roswell, NM The Liberty, Inc.

June 2 Albuquerque, NM Mesa Theater

June 5 Chesapeake, OH* tba

* AKC solo

About A Killer’s Confession

Led by Waylon Reavis, A Killer’s Confession explores the duality of human nature through a blend of industrial metal, alternative rock, and electronic influences. Their ongoing Victim trilogy dives deep into themes of morality, consequence, and inner conflict, pairing cinematic storytelling with genre-defying sound design.

About Zardonic

Zardonic is a globally recognized producer and DJ who has spent over two decades pioneering the fusion of drum & bass and heavy metal. Widely regarded as a pioneer of the Metal & Bass movement, he has a global touring footprint spanning more than 40 countries and a catalog nearing 200 million streams. His signature fusion of drum & bass and heavy music has earned critical acclaim and chart success across both electronic and metal spheres. His work has topped Beatport’s Drum & Bass charts and Amazon’s Hard Rock & Metal rankings, while collaborations and remixes for artists including Fear Factory, Bullet For My Valentine, and Nine Inch Nails have solidified his reputation as a cross-genre innovator.

A Killers Confession Social links:

ACK Instagram
ACK Website
ACK TikTok
ACK Facebook

Zardonic Social links:

Zardonic Website
Zardonic Instagram
Zardonic TikTok
Zardonic Facebook

NOVACAINE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES FIRST WAVE OF BANDS

2026-05-02T17:36:00.001+01:00

As Everything Unfolds, Tropic Gold, TheCityIsOurs and FOXHAUNT confirmed Novacaine Festival has revealed the first wave of artists for its 2026 edition, signalling a major step forward for the fast-rising UK alternative event.

After a hugely successful debut on Saturday 4 October 2025, Novacaine Festival quickly established itself as a new platform within the UK alternative music scene. The inaugural event was headlined by The Five Hundred, with main support from Bleed Again, alongside a diverse line-up including DACRA, Night Thieves, Reckoner, Broken Empire, and local rising artists Reanimate, Our North, Dead Demons and Ocean Thieves. With the 2025 event coming close to selling out, the festival’s mission was clear from the outset: bring together established touring bands and emerging talent from across the UK while delivering an uncompromising live experience for fans.

Now, Novacaine Festival returns on Saturday 28 November 2026, raising the bar once again.

Headlining the event are post-hardcore heavyweights As Everything Unfolds. The band released their third studio album Did You Ask To Be Set Free earlier this year and continue to build momentum across the alternative scene, with major festival appearances already scheduled including Download Festival.

Joining them as sub-headliners are Tropic Gold, whose explosive rock ’n’ roll energy and rapidly growing fanbase make them a powerful addition to the bill.

Elsewhere, TheCityIsOurs and FOXHAUNT add further weight to the line-up, reinforcing Novacaine’s commitment to pairing established names with ambitious rising artists ready for bigger stages.

More acts will be announced in the coming months.

With strong momentum behind it, Novacaine Festival is quickly proving it is far more than a one-off success story — and the 2026 edition is shaping up to be its biggest yet. Event organiser Scott O’Shea said: “First, thank you to everyone who helped turn my dream of launching a music festival into a reality. Our debut show was an incredible night, and the support we’ve seen throughout 2026 has been beyond anything I imagined. None of this would have been possible without the bands, Corporation, and most importantly the fans who showed up and supported the event.

2026 will be the biggest show I’ve put together so far. The aim is not just to grow the festival but to keep creating opportunities for rising artists while giving something back to the community that helped build this. One of our biggest supporters last year was our 2025 compere, Robert Fulton-Hamilton. Rob brought huge energy to the night, introducing every band and conducting interviews throughout the event. Those interviews will feature in upcoming magazine releases, and I’m delighted he’ll be returning in 2026 as our official compere with RJFH Music.”

Tickets

Early Bird Wave 1 tickets are available now for £25, offering exceptional value for the line-up. Go to www.novacaine.co.uk/tickets . Fans can also access 3- and 5-month payment plans, available exclusively through ticketing partner Skiddle.

Partners & Sponsors

Novacaine Festival has also confirmed a strong roster of partners for 2026. For the first time, Skiddle joins as an official sponsor and exclusive ticketing partner, while tickets will also be available directly through The Corporation’s website for standard purchases.

The event returns to The Corporation, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, marking a major milestone for one of the UK’s most established independent live music venues.

Returning sponsors include SaN PR, who have worked alongside Novacaine LTD since 2019, continuing their role in supporting emerging artists and expanding the festival’s media reach.

Official photography will again be handled by Start The Penguin Photography and Mason D Jones, while festival media coverage will come from FestPod, with additional support from The Razors Edge.

Further announcements are expected soon.

Follow Novacaine Festival on social media:

Facebook: @NovacaineFestival
Instagram: @NovacaineFestival
TikTok: @NovacaineFestival

UK Alt Rockers VERSUS Release New Single & Video 'This Is Everything'

2026-05-02T17:18:00.003+01:00

Brit alternative rockers VERSUS have thrown down a serious marker with the release of their enticing new single and video, 'This Is Everything', which is out now – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uB3XRUJshOk

Listen to the band at - https://open.spotify.com/artist/67pt9vgrdK8u8meLF6B0km

Making waves with their high-energy blend of post-hardcore grit and emotionally charged songwriting, VERSUS has quickly built a reputation for live performances that go beyond the typical gig, combining dynamic lighting, powerful visuals, and crowd-driven moments to deliver truly immersive experiences. Drawing on influences from grunge, emo, and heavy rock, the Leeds-based alt-rockers balance raw aggression with melodic accessibility.

Vocalist, Shortie states: “This track explores the aftermath of a deeply toxic relationship, where prolonged gaslighting and manipulation suddenly become clear. That moment of clarity forces acceptance of the damage done, reshaping the entire mindset and driving the journey to confront the past, reclaim control, and move toward a more honest, self-defined future.”

The band’s DIY ethos is evident in every release, managed through their own label, Captain Khaos Records. With a growing catalogue of tracks, VERSUS continues to refine their sound while expanding their reach across the UK alternative and post-hardcore scene. Fans and newcomers alike can expect music that hits hard, lingers long, and invites everyone into the experience.

https://versusbandinc.com/
https://www.facebook.com/TheOfficialVersus/
https://www.instagram.com/officialversusband/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/67pt9vgrdK8u8meLF6B0km
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqkvJ8RmakcP_-GVamgMerA

VERSUS ARE: Shortie (Salt-Short) - vocals, Rob Kewley - rhythm guitar, and Calvin Sargeant - drums.

DOWN cover of Dr. John’s 'Right Place, Wrong Time' now streaming

2026-04-28T17:20:00.001+01:00

DOWN’s special cover of Dr. John’s 'Right Place, Wrong Time', released in video form for a limited time to celebrate Mardi Gras earlier this year, is currently available on all streaming platforms!

New Orleans native Dr. John was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist. His music combined New Orleans blues, jazz, R&B, soul, and funk. 'Right Place, Wrong Time' was the first single from Dr. John’s 1973 album, In the Right Place, and became the most popular single of his career. The song has been featured in various films and television shows, including Dazed And Confused and American Horror Story: Coven. DOWN’s cover of 'Right Place, Wrong Time' is an homage to Dr. John and his appearances on The Midnight Special TV series, a late night musical variety show that aired from 1972 to 1981.

Stream DOWN’s rendition of Dr. John’s 'Right Place, Wrong Time' HERE.

In related DOWN news, the band will serve as direct support to Slayer on the special 40th anniversary of Reign In Blood show September 4th in Shakopee, Minnesota. Additional support will be provided by Suicidal Tendencies and Hatebreed. In December, DOWN will headline day two (December 5th) of this year’s edition of the Decibel Magazine Metal & Beer Fest Denver. The appearance marks the band’s first Denver appearance in over twelve years! See all confirmed DOWN shows below.

Earlier this month, Nuclear Blast Records announced the release of a remastered edition of Over The Under. Initially released in the autumn of 2007, DOWN’s third studio album was produced by Warren Riker and served as a true moment in time delivering over 60 heartfelt minutes of sonic frustration with songs addressing the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and personal turmoil.

The 2026 edition of Over The Under features remastered audio by Eric Koondel (Soilwork, Cynic, Malevolent Creation, Death) and marks the first time the LP will be officially available in the US market. Additionally, the CD and digital versions include bonus track “Invest In Fear” (the first time the track will be available on a US physical release and on Digital Service Providers worldwide). .

DOWN’s Over The Under remaster will be available on CD, LP, and digital formats on June 19th. Find preorders HERE.

You know it’s DOWN as soon as you hear them. Currently featuring vocalist Philip H. Anselmo, guitarists Pepper Keenan and Kirk Windstein, drummer Jimmy Bower, and bassist Pat Bruders, there’s no mistaking those gargantuan riffs, swamp blues leads, crashing drums, and hypnotic howls for absolutely anybody else under the sun. The band upholds a certain tradition that countless fans celebrate, expanding their own musical mythos as they leave its pillars intact and untouched. With a collective resume encompassing Pantera, Corrosion Of Conformity, Crowbar, and EyeHateGod, the quintet puffed out its first haze of sonic smoke from the belly of gritty old New Orleans on the 1995 platinum-selling classic, NOLA. At that moment, they naturally summoned something akin to a ritual, continually partaking in it with critically revered offerings - Down II: A Bustle In Your Hedgerow in 2002, Down III: Over The Under in 2007, Down IV – Part One in 2012, and Down IV – Part Two in 2014. Their shows built a certain live lore with unforgettable runs alongside Metallica and Heaven & Hell, as well as coveted spots on iconic festivals like Download, Soundwave, Ozzfest, and so many others, forever delivering passionate, powerful, pure heavy music you can feel deep down in your soul.

Stand by for updates on new DOWN music in the months to come.

DOWN Live 2026:
6/03/2026 Sweden Rock Festival – Norje, SE
6/05/2026 Mystic Fest Poland – Gdańsk, PL
6/21/2026 Hellfest – Clisson, FR
9/04/2026 Mystic Lake Amphitheater – Shakopee, MN w/ Slayer, Suicidal Tendencies, Hatebreed [tickets]
10/03/2026 Aftershock – Sacramento, CA
10/24/2026 Sick New World Texas – Fort Worth, TX
12/05/2026 Decibel Metal And Beer Fest – Denver, CO [tickets]

DOWN links
website | facebook | instagram

Photo by MetalDave Media

THE LATEST NEWS FROM BLOODSTOCK FESTIVAL

2026-04-28T17:06:00.000+01:00

How about a whole host of excellent BLOODSTOCK news that doesn’t announce a single band?

BLOODSTOCKers, we know you’ve been asking, and HQ wants you to have pleeeenty of time to plan the most splendid FANCY DRESS outfits, so without further delay, here are the themes for 2026!

On Thursday, we know it’s been done before, but with HEAVYSAURUS on the bill and it being SO MUCH FUN, it has to be DINOSAURS again. That costume you bought a couple years back is now excellent value for money, huh?

On Friday, we embrace the dark, the macabre, and the creative… we want to see how you interpret TWISTED FAIRYTALES as a theme! Black widow bitten Miss Muffet? Malice in Wonderland? Goth fairies welcome!

Saturday rolls back the clock to the 1980’s! Bring out your best ‘80’s fashion (mullets encouraged, neon leg warmers optional), or be a character from your fave ‘80s movie, TV show, or band! There is no such thing as too much leopard print.

On Sunday, there’s a special treat in the RAM Gallery, as festival founder and renowned fantasy artist Paul Gregory will be exhibiting his original, oil on canvas, Lord Of The Rings-inspired painting ‘Morannon’! An impressive 1.8m x 3m in size, it was last exhibited over 20 years ago at the indoor BLOODSTOCK. In honour, Sunday’s fancy dress theme will be LORD OF THE RINGS / FANTASY! Come as a dragon, a wizard, an orc, or even as Gollum, my precious.

We’re looking forward to seeing your GRWM reels already. Be sure to tag Bloodstock on your socials and we might re-share our favourites.

Drumroll please, BLOODSTOCK can confirm the return of the unmissable BLACK ICE CREAM, with a new and improved recipe. If you want to get some, make sure you head to the ice cream truck located closest to the Ronnie James Dio main stage!

With such a wide range of food available, BLOODSTOCK recommends you eat more than just ice cream all festival. There’s everything from vegan fried chik’n/sushi and salad boxes, to pies, Bunnychow, paella, smoked meats, gyoza, wraps, Spudman, mac ‘n’ cheese, and more. Head to https://bloodstock.uk.com/events/boa-2026/traders for full details of all food that will be on site, including gluten-free, halal, veggie, and vegan options. While this graphic doesn’t cover every single food vendor on site, it’s a handy quick guide.

There’s free drinking water at designated water points in the campsites and main arena, so remember to bring a refillable non-glass bottle with you and please stay hydrated.

There’s more info at the same link about some of the market traders you can find in the main arena if you’re keen to do some heavy metal shopping in between bands, from clothes both new and vintage, accessories, housewares, face painting, music, sculptures, and more! There’s also a big selection of silver and stainless steel jewellery, not least from Nox of York’s Black Feather - perhaps treat yourself to their twin axe pendant, a cool collab with headliner alumni Jesse Leach of Killswitch Engage!

From tent pegs to tampons, and any other essentials you’ve forgotten, there’s a supermarket in the Midgard campsite (and a small shop in the main arena) plus Fat Frank’s Camping Store, where they’ll also inflate your air bed for a better night’s sleep!

OH, YOU'RE DOING VIP? Did you manage to snap up a now-sold-out VIP ticket for this year? You’ll want to click over to https://www.facebook.com/BloodstockVIP, for details of this year’s exclusive Serpents Lair entertainment - Deadliners have been revealed and a Never Mind The Bloodstocks quiz compered by Raised By Owls is already confirmed, with more announcements to come!

You can also learn how to book for the ultra luxe The Spa @ facility in the VIP campsite (which is in addition to the free VIP campsite Get Ready station with DIY hair-dryers, straighteners, and mirrors). There’s also a new VIP Spa Pass that includes non-alcoholic welcome bubbly, experience shower with bespoke aromatherapy, wood-fired hot tub & sauna (with a birch whisk), cold plunge bath, mineral salt bath, fire pit, relaxation area, and unlimited herbal teas & fruit-infused water! The Spa @ is bookable (limited spaces) Thurs - Mon.

But that’s not all… the VIP Pamper Parlour offers:

The Hair Chair – Mohawks, braids, blowouts, and battle-ready styles

The Beard Bar – Viking plaits, cooling mists, facials & SPF finish

Hell Bound & Highlighted – Warpaint, blackout eyes, blood red lips, make-up glitter & gems

Weary Warriors – Massage, facials, reflexology, & reiki to reset mind and body

Keep an eye on the VIP page, because in the coming weeks you can also find out what classic movies will be showing this year (mornings Fri - Sun), plus all the interesting ales and ciders you can find at the Serpents Lair bar (some are also gluten free). If you missed out on VIP tickets, check Tixel as the official ticket resale partner.

When the bands stop, the fun doesn't - late night shenanigans kick off for all BLOODSTOCKers at the Stowford Press New Blood and Sophie Lancaster stages!

Thursday: the legendary silent disco levels up at the New Blood Stage from 11pm-2am with more channels and headsets than ever! Rich Harris holds down rock/metal, Little M takes dance, while Jamie Haines and Lloyd split '50s-'90s pop vs hardstyle/techno before switching to noughties pop vs jungle/drum 'n' bass. Then over at the Sophie Stage from 12-2am, DJ Pressplay kicks off his Welcome Party with prime cuts from the weekend's bands plus rock and alternative bangers to set the tone.

Friday: Rich Harris returns to New Blood from 11pm-2am to host Rage Against the '90s - a full volume night of nu-metal, grunge and stoner vibes featuring Deftones, Korn, Alice in Chains, Static-X, Pantera, RATM, Slipknot and more. And that'll include a special guest DJ set from none other than BIOHAZARD's Evan Seinfeld! Over at the Sophie Stage from 12-2am, Lloyd and Little M return for year four with the Blood Rave - electronic, industrial and heavy dance inspired by the opening scene in Blade.

Saturday: The silent disco returns to New Blood from 11pm-2am with four channels - Rich Harris on rock/metal, Little M on club classics, Lloyd on cheese/pop, and DJ Pressplay delivering a full set of modern & classic country for your very own hoedown. At the Sophie Stage from 12-2am, DJ Arockalypse's Gary Newey is joined by trap metal sensation N0trixx for guilty pleasures and classic alternative tunes with a twist.

Sunday: Round off the weekend at the Sophie Stage from 12-2am with Rich Harris's closing party - classic singalongs, a taste of next year's bands, and songs to carry you through summer.

Every year, BLOODSTOCK likes to highlight and support a couple of charities. BLOODSTOCK is pleased to confirm that charity partners for 2026 will be the Sophie Lancaster Foundation and Heavy Metal Truants.

The ever important work of the SOPHIE LANCASTER FOUNDATION to stamp out prejudice, hatred, and intolerance everywhere is something BLOODSTOCK have been glad to support ever since 2009 when the second stage was renamed the Sophie Lancaster Stage. Their educational work in primary and secondary schools is second to none, but they also work with university/college students and adult learners, as well as offering outreach activities, training, workshops, and presentations. Learn more at: https://www.sophielancasterfoundation.com/.

After 13 annual cycle rides from London to Download Festival, this year the HEAVY METAL TRUANTS are charting a new path to glory -- destination: BLOODSTOCK.

Co-founded in 2013 by Iron Maiden manager Rod Smallwood and then Metal Hammer Editor In Chief Alexander Milas, the Heavy Metal Truants have so far raised over £1.6 million for four children’s charities: Teenage Cancer Trust, Nordoff & Robbins Music Therapy, Childline, and Save The Children. Since its beginning, this unique initiative has been spearheaded by a three day, 30-person, 175-mile cycle from London to the gates of a major metal festival, and now that destination is BLOODSTOCK.

Sign-ups for Heavy Metal Truants HMTXIV are open NOW! You don’t even need to use your own bike, a hire one can be provided. The 2026 ride will invite cyclists (inc rockstars who aren’t too posh to pedal) of all backgrounds and abilities to take up the gruelling but camaraderie-packed challenge of cycling 175 miles with a single goal: raising vital funds for kids in need. Previous years have seen members of Amon Amarth, Trivium, Judas Priest, Enter Shikari, Orange Goblin, and more take part… you never know who you might end up peddling next to! And when you arrive at BLOODSTOCK triumphant, expect a hero’s welcome, before enjoying all the festival has to offer with an included guest weekend ticket.

As in previous years, the Heavy Metal Truants will also include a series of virtual challenges so walkers, swimmers, runners, cyclists, and more from all over the world can also support and take part!

See the itinerary. For more info and registration: www.heavymetaltruants.com. Follow on social: @hmtruants

Planning your route to BLOODSTOCK yet? For the closest drop-off on site and also eco points, why not come via a carbon-neutral BIG GREEN COACH? There are pick-up points all across the U.K.! And for the first time ever, you can now book your official coach travel to arrive on Wednesday as well as Thursday, helping you to take advantage of the add-on Wednesday Early Bird ticket option for an extra night of metal shenanigans! For those coming by train into Tamworth station, BLOODSTOCK can also confirm that the shuttle bus to site will also run on Wednesday! Get full info & book your seat with Big Green Coach HERE.

BLOODSTOCK’s 25th anniversary is going to be truly unforgettable. BLOODSTOCK 2026 is delighted to present RJD headliners LAMB OF GOD, SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL, JUDAS PRIEST, and SAXON. Sophie Lancaster stage headliners will be CRYPTOPSY (None So Vile 30-year anniversary set), WEDNESDAY 13, LEPROUS, and CARPENTER BRUT. You’ll also be able to see BODY COUNT, SEPULTURA, MUNICIPAL WASTE, DEATH ANGEL, TESTAMENT, NORTHLANE, BLEED FROM WITHIN, VENDED, ORBIT CULTURE, THE SCRATCH, IMPERIAL AGE, LIFE OF AGONY, OF MICE & MEN, BIOHAZARD, 200 STAB WOUNDS, THE HELL, BLACK SPIDERS, SHINING, NEVERMORE, EVIL SCARECROW, HEAVYSAURUS, SKYND, PARTY CANNON, BATTLESNAKE, INHUMAN NATURE, KITTIE, CASTLE RAT, GRAPHIC NATURE, BOOTYARD BANDITS, EXCREMENTORY GRINDFUCKERS, HIDDEN INTENT, SELLSWORD, NECKBREAKKER, SEETHING AKIRA, HAMMER, STAMPIN GROUND, URNE, CELESTIAL SANCTUARY, THROWN INTO EXILE, VIKING SKULL, BOUND IN FEAR, IMPERIUM, FROGLORD, MUSHROOMHEAD, DREAM STATE, TRIVAX, MANTIS DEFEATS JAGUAR, BLOOD COUNTESS, GURT, OUTERGODS, FLAYED DISCIPLE, NOISEPICKER, ACID THRONE, ALUNAH, VOID BELOW, TEMPLES ON MARS, NEGATIVE FRAME, CONCRETE AGE, THRASHERWOLF, IMPERIAL DEMONIC, CHAINED SAINT, IMBRIUM, OVERPOWER, UNTAMED SILENCE, CHANGE PERSONA, AFTER SMOKE CLEARS, SOULRIDE, VANITAS, GOAT MAJOR, CANCEL THE TRANSMISSION, TEMPEST SAINT, TROLLMOTHER, DOSED, STITCHED, WREX, FOLLOWING THE SIGNS, THE CARTOON CARTEL, and AETHORIA. And there's still more bands to be announced.

All weekend tickets (including Kyrr) are now sold out, but you can still snap up day tickets for £99 (+fees) to be part of the fun! Not been to the festival before? A day ticket is a perfect taster to see what you think! Child tickets are also available and under 4’s attend for free. Head over to the ticket store to see all options and if you’re coming by car, pre-book to save on car parking!

For the most up to date festival information, visit the official website at bloodstock.uk.com.

BLOODSTOCK 2026 will take place at Catton Park, Derbyshire on 6th - 9th August, 2026.

EXCLUSIVE FEATURE: OPENSIGHT's Songs That Influenced Them

2026-04-28T13:41:00.000+01:00

We checked in with rising UK hard hitters OPENSIGHT and asked the band to exclusively reveal the five songs that have greatly shaped their sound, and here's the lowdown: "Choosing only five songs was difficult, but it was also a really interesting and cool exercise. Opensight has always drawn inspiration from different places: heavy metal, hard rock, cult cinema, vintage video game music, progressive music, spy themes, horror scores and plenty of other corners. Rather than choosing five favourites, we thought it would make more sense to pick songs that connect in some way with the ingredients behind our new album, The Outfit.

Of course, that means leaving out a lot of artists who have been hugely important to us, including Faith No More, Iron Maiden, Cynic, Fabio Frizzi, Jerry Goldsmith, Black Sabbath, Henry Mancini, Stelvio Cipriani and many more. Their influence is still there somewhere."

OPETH - The Lotus Eater

"The entire journey of Opeth has influenced Opensight. Being exposed to My Arms, Your Hearse many moons ago opened a door. There was always a hope that more bands would follow that light-and-shade approach, that sense of freedom and invention that Opeth seemed to emanate from every pore.

They could create long journeys full of textures, contrast and unusual sections, while still making it feel natural. “The Lotus Eater” is one of the songs that gets that across very clearly. “Ghost of Perdition” could easily have been chosen too, but “The Lotus Eater” has that entrancing middle section that almost feels like it could belong in a giallo film score.

Opensight does not really write “Opeth-long” songs, but their sense of freedom is hugely inspiring: the idea of following what feels natural and not catering too much to expectation, even your own. On The Outfit, “Defying Eye” has a middle section inspired by giallo cinema, and that kind of “anything can happen if it serves the song” approach is part of the spirit there.

Honourable mentions: “Ghost of Perdition” and “Karma”.

DEVIN TOWNSEND - Hyperdrive

"Like Opeth, Devin Townsend’s body of work has always shown a huge sense of freedom, though in a more eclectic and cosmic way. His music can be absurdly heavy, beautiful, ridiculous, emotional, futuristic and completely sincere, sometimes all at once.

“Hyperdrive” stands out because of its simplicity. It is short, direct and built around repetition, but it still feels atmospheric, entrancing like a whole journey. The whole song revolves around its main riff and mood, and that repetition becomes hypnotic rather than static.

On The Outfit, songs like “In Plain Sight”, “Iris (I Rise)” and “Broken Vow” are built around central riffs, patterns or motifs that permeate the entire song. That idea of letting one strong musical cell cast a spell over the whole track is something we find very powerful.

Honourable mentions: “Save Our Now”, “Slow Me Down” and “Vampira”.

PEPE DELUXE - My Flaming Thirst

"The whole album Queen of the Wave by Pepe Deluxe has been a huge inspiration to Opensight. It is an expansive, eclectic masterpiece where the creative freedom is as large as the ambition, and the album takes the listener through a full journey of moods, scenes and emotions.

Picking one representative song from it is extremely difficult, but as enthusiasts of film music and spy themes, we would probably choose “My Flaming Thirst”. In a way, it sounds like an iconic Bond theme without actually being one. It has a hypnotic quality, rich arrangements, and a very direct structure. Despite using a fairly traditional verse / pre-chorus / chorus shape, it starts quietly and gradually builds toward a bombastic conclusion. It is the kind of song you want to play again as soon as it ends.

Also, the video we found online uses images from the Spaghetti Western Garter Colt, which is obviously a plus. If you listen to “Delusion” on The Outfit, you may hear a little of this influence lurking there.

Honourable mention: “Contain Thyself”, although really, the whole Queen of the Wave album is worth exploring."

ENNIO MORRICONE - Death Rides a Horse

"In Opensight’s book, Morricone is the greatest film composer of all time, and his influence on the band is huge. Most people know the theme from The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, and heavy metal fans will almost certainly know “The Ecstasy of Gold” because of Metallica.

Our pick here is the main theme from Death Rides a Horse, starring the great Lee Van Cleef. This theme has a particularly savage temperament, full of burning fury, tension and desert angst. It feels almost like a chant before violence. There is something both ancient and cinematic about it.

Morricone’s influence runs through a lot of Opensight’s music. On The Outfit, the intro “Procesión de la Muerte” is basically our own Morricone-style Mexican standoff theme, with all the funeral-duel drama that implies. You can also hear shades of that influence in tracks like “Mantra” and “Broken Vow”.

Honourable mentions: “The Chase” from A Fistful of Dollars and “La Lucertola” from Lucio Fulci’s A Lizard in a Woman’s Skin"

GOBLIN - Death Dies

"There is something very special about Italian cinema from the ’60s and ’70s, and about the composers and bands who scored those films. The dread, atmosphere, colour and mean spirit behind some of that music are incredibly compelling.

Fabio Frizzi has influenced Opensight in a significant way, but this time we are going with Goblin. They are synonymous with giallo and Italian horror, and “Death Dies” has a sense of immediacy that we also love to capture in Opensight’s music. It creates the feeling of being chased, watched or stalked.

You can hear some of that spirit in “Final Cut” on The Outfit, which actually had the working title “Stalker” during the songwriting stage. That should give you an idea of where our heads were at.

Honourable mentions: “Quiet Drops” from Buio Omega and the main theme from Profondo Rosso."

BONUS TRACK: RYUICHI NITTA - “Bravery on the Clutches” From Ninja Gaiden Nintendo Entertainment System, 1988

"Vintage video game music was incredibly ingenious because of the technological limitations composers had to work with. Despite the chiptune sound, many of those themes are entrancing, dramatic and epic in their own way.

“Bravery on the Clutches” from Ninja Gaiden is a favourite. There is urgency, melody and adventure packed into a very limited sonic palette, which makes it feel even more impressive. That kind of writing has influenced Opensight more than people might expect, to the point that we sometimes use those textures selectively in our own music.

If you want to hear some of that influence, check out “Alibi” from Ulterior Motives, “Primitive Principle” from Mondo Fiction, or “Broken Vow” from The Outfit.

Honourable mentions: “Steady Advance of the Morning Sun” from Double Dragon II, “Area 2 Base” from Contra, “Nobody Told Me About id” from Doom, and “Forest of Monsters” from Super Castlevania IV."

Check out Opensight's official video for "In Plain Sight":

Opensight's new album, 'The Outfit' is out on Friday 15th May via Inertial Music.

For more on the band, see - https://www.opensightband.com/

NIGHT THIEVES REVEAL NEW SINGLE FROM EXPLOSIVE DEBUT ALBUM

2026-04-24T09:59:00.000+01:00

London’s NIGHT THIEVES are coming in hard and fast, and they’re not
easing up for anyone. The alt-metal four-piece have been building
serious momentum off the back of a sound packed with crushing riffs,
razor-sharp hooks, and huge, fist-in-the-air choruses. Their debut
album 'Metaxis' is out now, and it’s a clear statement of intent. The
band have just unleashed a new single 'See You on the Other Side'
(featuring Jessie Powell from Dream State), which is also out now -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ek1eL0mu0_

Listen in via -
https://open.spotify.com/artist/42azirKNGgnSrqW10zeJju

Already picking up heavy support from Metal Hammer, Planet Rock,
Kerrang!, BBC Radio One and more, the band are quickly forcing their
way into the conversation around the UK’s next wave of heavy hitters.
On stage, they’ve been earning their stripes too, sharing bills with
the likes of Marisa and the Moths and Chuggaboom.

Following 2024’s Polarity EP, NIGHT THIEVES teamed up once again with
producer Romesh Dodangoda (Bring Me The Horizon, Nova Twins, Funeral
For A Friend) for Metaxis, and the result hits bigger, heavier, and
more focused than anything they’ve done before.

With a debut album now unleashed and more new music on the way, NIGHT
THIEVES are making one thing clear — they’re not here to sit quietly
in the background.

NIGHT THIEVES – Live Dates:
April 24th – Sheffield Network; April 25th – Manchester Star & Garter.
May 29th, The Star Inn, Guildford, with Black Orchid Empire. June 6th
- London Metal Pride Festival. June 20th - The Fighting Cocks,
Kingston with RUE-NA and Henka. July 5th – SOS Festival Oldham; 24th
July – Northants Rocks Festival Finedon; 26th July – Hammerdown
Festival Worthing.

https://www.youtube.com/nightthieves
https://www.facebook.com/NightThievesOfficial
https://www.instagram.com/nightthievesofficial
https://open.spotify.com/artist/42azirKNGgnSrqW10zeJju

Photo Credit - Rebecca Marshall

FANGSLINGER DROP DEBUT ALBUM 'WELCOME TO THE LOST SOULS SALOON'

2026-04-24T09:44:00.001+01:00

FangSlinger, the chief purveyors of 'UNDEAD REDNECK ROCK ’N’ ROLL', unleash their debut album 'Welcome to the Lost Souls Saloon': A band of Vampire Outlaws blending southern grit, gothic atmosphere and cinematic storytelling into a hard rock sound that is rooted in big riffs, blues-soaked grooves and dual-vocal interplay. Their music draws from the swagger of Guns N’ Roses and Black Stone Cherry, with a darker edge that sets them apart from their peers. Released today on 24th April 2026, the 10-track album is available on all major digital platforms and CD format.

At the core of FangSlinger is a narrative thread of three outlaws bound by a curse, roaming a fractured Old West in search of souls. While that world adds depth and identity, FangSlinger’s true strength lies in their ability to deliver songs that land just as hard in a packed venue as they do through headphones. Their debut album, 'Welcome to the Lost Souls Saloon', brings that vision fully into focus. Built from a run of singles that have steadily grown their audience across the UK and beyond, the record blends high-energy hard rock with more atmospheric and introspective moments, expanding both the band’s sound and scope. From anthemic, riff-driven tracks to darker, cinematic pieces, it captures a Wild West in the grips of a vampire invasion.

FangSlinger have built their reputation on the live circuit, where their performances lean into intensity, connection and theatricality. With a growing run of shows and festival appearances across the UK, they are quickly establishing themselves as a band that walks the line of being heavy but accessible, theatrical but grounded, and always driven by the community they are building - 'The Lost Souls'. As 'Welcome to the Lost Souls Saloon' arrives, FangSlinger are a band with a clear vision and the momentum to carry it forward.

Track Listing: 1. The Lost Souls Saloon / 2. Blood Curse / 3. On Leather Wings / 4. Wanted Undead / 5. As the Crow Flies / 6. He Rides a Pale Horse / 7. Bloodsucker Blues / 8. Bare Your Teeth / 9. We Are The Night / 10. Children of Sorrow.
https://open.spotify.com/album/4MZ3n16LBwgBNUW3JqKHYB

Website: https://www.fangslinger.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FangSlinger/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fangslinger/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fangslinger666

EXCLUSIVE FEATURE: Amongst Liars 5 Songs That Influenced Them

2026-04-19T22:12:00.000+01:00

AMONGST LIARS triumphantly return with their brand new single and video, 'Repair Myself' - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bvm4fcbCEgE
We exclusively caught up with the band and asked them to throw down the top five tracks that have greatly shaped their sound:

Rage Against The Machine - Bulls on Parade

"Anything Rage wise kinda helped shape our sound. This is a personal band fave though for sure. So punchy and full of attack! Tom Morello knows how to write a heavy simple riff that sticks in your head. We deffo take some cues from RATM".

Bring Me The Horizon - Teardrops

"Bit more electronically heavy and very Linkin Park esq I guess both Bring Me and Linkin Park are high up on influences when it comes to style. Bring Me seem ahead of the game all the time making cutting edge tunes and rolling with the times so well. So much respect for that and again it's how we want to be. Keep evolving and never standing still".

Highly Suspect - Lydia

"Heard this song a while ago for the first time before we recorded as Amongst Liars for the first time. Then the whole Mr Asylum album was on repeat for the duration of our stay in Manchester while recording. So it was a bit of a soundtrack of our first time all together."

Skindred - Kill The Power

"These guys are just so fresh and different. I remember listening to this a while back and also watched them at Bestival 2014! There is just nothing like them. Original sound with great songs and real star quality live. Met tw of the guys at a bar in Portsmouth after a music conference and I found them both very inspiring and it gave us a lot of confidence to aim high in what we want to achieve in our own band."

Architects - Doomsday

"I put these guys because they are local to us from Brighton and seeing how they grew and how much of a pleasure it is to see a band from your home city doing well. Again the whole album Doomsday we just played it to death and the mix of heavy and melodic made us really take note!!".

AMONGST LIARS live: April 30th - Fuel- Cardiff; May 1st - Grove Theatre- Eastbourne; May 8th- Corporation – Sheffield; May 9th - The Independent - Sunderland; May 22nd-The Hobbit – Southampton.

https://linktr.ee/amongstliars
https://www.instagram.com/amongstliars
https://www.youtube.com/@AmongstLiars
https://www.facebook.com/amongstliarsband
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3ZwxX5XIpWy4E7xzf9ZqMu

Evanescence Releases Brand-New Single “Who Will You Follow”

2026-04-10T17:27:00.000+01:00

Evanescence are back with a new song “Who Will You Follow” — listen

here - which was co-written and produced by Zakk Cervini (Bad Omens, YUNGBLD, Bring Me The Horizon, Spiritbox) and Jordan Fish (Bring Me The Horizon, Poppy, House of Protection, Architects). The track is a preview for their forthcoming album Sanctuary, set for release June 5th — pre-order/save here. The album, which features tracks produced by Cervini/Fish as well as songs produced by Nick Raskulinecz (Korn, Foo Fighters, Rush) will be available from June 5th as a Digital Album, Standard CD, Deluxe CD and limited-edition Box Set. A double vinyl of the album will be released on September 4th.

Amy Lee said, “This album is over three years in the making, and finally listening back to it all at once, about to release it to the world, I am so damn proud of every second of it. It’s overwhelming. Working on it has been my outlet for so much that feels wrong and out of control, and a place to ignite hope through the power of music and connection… good thing we have the tour all lined up or I wouldn’t know what to do with myself now! I’ve been completely obsessed. I’m dying for the fans to hear this.”

The band recently announced their 2026 World Tour, kicking off on June 11th, taking them across North America, UK and Europe — tickets here. Special guests Spiritbox and Nova Twins will open on the North American portion of the tour, and special guest Poppy will support on the UK & Europe shows with Nova Twins opening outside the UK. K.Flay, who features on Evanescence’s last single, “Fight Like A Girl,” will open the UK shows. K.Flay will also support Evanescence for their Red Rocks Amphitheatre concert.

Evanescence has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1/£1/€1 from every ticket sold will support organisations providing humanitarian aid and medical relief to those in need around the world.

The band’s most recent tracks “Fight Like A Girl (feat. K.Flay)” and “Afterlife” have been met with praise from fans & critics alike, stating “It’s an exciting time to be a fan of Amy Lee and co.” - LOUDER, and “Evanescence’s first song in four years finds the band hitting what they hit best” - REVOLVER Magazine. “Afterlife” dominated the charts upon release reaching the No. 1 spot on both Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart and Mediabase’s Active Rock Radio chart in both the U.S. and Canada.

The band is no stranger to success, with their 2003 record Fallen holding steady as the sixth best-selling album of the 21st century (ranking just behind Lady Gaga’s The Fame and ahead of Coldplay’s A Rush of Blood to the Head), remaining one of the best-selling albums of all time, with more than 17 million copies sold worldwide. The album’s stratospheric singles, including “Bring Me to Life,” broke the Top 10 in more than 15 countries and topped Billboard’s Mainstream Top 40 and Alternative Airplay charts. “My Immortal” was a Top 10 hit in over ten countries, including the US, UK, and Australia.

Sanctuary Track List:

Beautiful Lie
Tell Me When You’ve Had Enough
Who Will You Follow
Rapture
Afterlife
Sanctuary
How Do I Heal
About Us
Calm Down
Self Destruct
Forever Without You
Wide Open Heart

Evanescence 2026 World Tour Dates:

June:

11/6/26 West Palm Beach, FL iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre

12/6/26 Tampa, FL MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

14/6/26 Alpharetta, GA Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

15/6/26 Nashville, TN Bridgestone Arena

17/6/26 Raleigh, NC Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek

18/6/26 Charlotte, NC PNC Music Pavilion

20/6/26 Camden, NJ Freedom Mortgage Pavilion

21/6/26 Mansfield, MA Xfinity Center

23/6/26 Saratoga Springs, NY Saratoga Performing Arts Center

24/6/26 Wantagh, NY Northwell at Jones Beach Theater

26/6/26 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center

27/6/26 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live

29/6/26 Toronto, ON RBC Amphitheatre

30/6/26 Montréal, QC Centre Bell

July:

8/7/26 Tinley Park, IL Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre

9/7/26 Noblesville, IN Ruoff Music Center

11/7/26 North Little Rock, AR Simmons Bank Arena

12/7/26 Kansas City, MO MORTON Amphitheater

14/7/26 Albuquerque, NM Isleta Amphitheater

15/7/26 Phoenix, AZ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

17/7/26 Chula Vista, CA North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre

18/7/26 Los Angeles, CA Kia Forum

20/7/26 Mountain View, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre

22/7/26 Ridgefield, WA Cascades Amphitheater

23/7/26 Auburn, WA White River Amphitheatre

25/7/26 Salt Lake City, UT Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre

28/7/26 St. Louis, MO Hollywood Casino Amphitheater

30/7/26 Cuyahoga Falls, OH Blossom Music Center

August:

1/8/26 Cincinnati, OH Riverbend Music Center

2/8/26 Clarkston, MI Pine Knob Music Theatre

September:

8/9/26 Leeds, UK First Direct Arena

10/9/26 Manchester, UK Co-op Live

11/9/26 Birmingham, UK Utilita Arena Birmingham

13/9/26 London, UK The O2

*16.9/26 Brussels, BE Forest National

17/9/26 Paris, FR Accor Arena (SOLD OUT)

*19/9/26 Frankfurt, DE Congress Center Messe Frankfurt - Festhalle Frankfurt

*20/9/26 Dortmund, DE Westfalenhallen Dortmund

*22/9/26 Amsterdam, NL Ziggo Dome

*23/9/26 Hamburg, DE Barclays Arena

*25/9/26 Berlin, DE Velodrom

*26/9/26 Munich, DE Olympiahalle

*28/9/26 Bologna, IT Unipol Arena

*29/9/26 Zurich, CH Hallenstadion Zurich

October:

*1/10/26 Barcelona, ES Palau Olímpic Badalona

*2/10/26 Madrid, ES Palacio Vistalegre

*4/10/26 Lisbon, PT MEO Arena

26/10/26 Morrison, CO Red Rocks Amphitheatre

ABOUT EVANESCENCE:

Emerging in 2003, Evanescence reshaped the rock landscape with their debut album Fallen, a cinematic blend of rock, metal and symphonic, piano-driven melodies led by powerhouse vocalist Amy Lee. The album became a global phenomenon, earning multiple GRAMMY® Awards and selling over 17 million copies worldwide, with hits like “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal” defining a generation. Fallen remains one of the best-selling albums of all time and has earned Diamond certification from the RIAA. Over the past two decades, the band has continued to evolve while maintaining their signature sound, releasing five studio albums including the chart-topping The Open Door and Evanescence. Their 2021 release The Bitter Truth marked a triumphant return, while their global touring has reached new heights, including their largest headline show to date at Allianz Parque Stadium in São Paulo, Brazil.

Now entering a bold new era, Evanescence continues to push boundaries. 2025 was a landmark year for Amy Lee and Evanescence. The release of last year’s global phenomenon “Afterlife,” from the Netflix series Devil May Cry, became the fastest-rising track of their career and the band’s biggest single since their first album, amassing over 150 million streams globally and reaching #1 on the US Rock Radio Chart, a first at the format for Evanescence. Followed by the release of “End of You,” a collaboration between Evanescence’s Amy Lee, Poppy and Spiritbox’s Courtney LaPlante, the song was named Revolver’s Song of the Year. Also reaching #1 at US Rock Radio, “End Of You" made history in the US by becoming the first all-female collaboration to do so. Their highly anticipated single, “Who Will You Follow,” was co-written and produced by Zakk Cervini and Jordan Fish, and will appear on the forthcoming album Sanctuary, further signalling an exciting new chapter for the band as they continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

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Photo credit: Chapman Baehler

UK Hard Rockers Death Warmed Up Release Single/Video 'Inside My Mind'

2026-04-10T13:21:00.001+01:00

Emerging UK hard rock outfit DEATH WARMED UP are primed to breakout with the release of their blistering debut album Wildcard, arriving Friday 17th April. The band have also just released their electrifying new single 'Inside My Mind'. Watch the video here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QxiNStOeN6I

Listen in at - https://open.spotify.com/artist/7G3tcNolc8GrTX4INNTiHa .

Hailing from Nottingham and formed in 2023, DEATH WARMED UP deliver a fierce blend of hard-hitting, riff-driven rock ‘n’ roll. Fusing the spirit of classic ’80s rock with a sharp modern edge, the band have spent the last two years honing a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshingly current. Their high-octane live performances have already earned them a formidable reputation across the UK, sharing stages with the likes of Defences, Paradise Sins, and Circus 66.

Behind the scenes, the band have been crafting their debut album, and Wildcard stands as a bold and confident statement of intent. Packed with soaring hooks, thunderous riffs, and raw emotion, the record highlights their musical growth and ambition. The band comment: “Wildcard has something for everybody. Whether you’re a fan of pure ’80s rock or something heavier, it’s on this album. Each track has a piece of our soul woven into the music — we’ve really captured a raw and powerful sound.”

With the release of Wildcard and a string of festival appearances lined up, including HRH Sleaze, Breaking Bands, and Destination Festival, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for DEATH WARMED UP.

DEATH WARMED UP are: Alex Keeling – Drums; Romarno O’Reily – Bass; Lewis Potter – Rhythm Guitarist; Charlie Willis – Lead Guitarist; William Evans – Vocals.

Album track listing: 1. Gods Of Rock n Roll; 2. Inside My Mind; 3. Mortal Remains; 4. Cold Act; 5. Rising Star; 6. Roulette; 7. Chains Of Hate; 8. Great Day For Dying; 9. Death Warmed Up.

https://linktr.ee/deathwarmedup
https://www.youtube.com/@deathwarmedup
https://www.instagram.com/deathwarmedupband
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7G3tcNolc8GrTX4INNTiHa
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088892948876