NataliezWorld

You might be quick to think the band is "back" with the explosive "Your Name in Red Ink" — but then again, have they ever really gone away? No, they haven't, at least not in the hearts and minds of the disciple-like fanbase that may have grown up but retains a burning hot passion for the band and its music.

While FFTL's lineup and activity levels have shifted over the years, they prove they are here to stay with the definitive and dynamic "Your Name in Red Ink," featuring new singer Lil Lotus, who certainly knows his way around a microphone, having performed in both scene and hip-hop acts in his career. Clattering, tinny riffs, melodic bluster, and volcanic breakdowns abound throughout this dangerously raw track. This is no nostalgia play; this is your new millenium favorite band coming back with a vengerance unrivaled. Look (and listen) a little more closely and you'll see that the red ink your name is written in may very well be blood...

"We are excited to drop our first song off the EP and announce we are working with Fearless," states singer Lil Lotus. "'Your Name in Red Ink' is a good blend of all the different stuff I love about FFTL — plus new and old screamo/emo. I am really excited to see how everyone receives it."

Just after the turn of the century, band co-founders Travis Richter and Matt Good connected through the local Florida scene. Seeing beyond the boundaries of the zeitgeist's pervasive pop-punk movement at the time, the musicians rallied around a shared vision for what post-hardcore could be without sonic or emotional guardrails. The group turned heads with the Aesthetic EP in 2003 and landed their first proper deal. Long before it was commonplace, they hit the internet hard and built a presence on social media. Searching for a guitarist, Matt linked up with Sonny Moore on MySpace, flew him out for an audition, and the collective welcomed him as a vocalist. 

This seminal lineup quietly left an indelible imprint on alternative music and culture with Dear Diary, My Teen Angst Has a Bodycount [2004] and Heroine [2006]. Throughout the ensuing years, they toured with everyone from Fall Out Boy and The All-American Rejects to Pierce The Veil, Hawthorne Heights, and Every Time I Die, performed on late-night television, and landed high-profile syncs in Madden, FIFA, and Need For Speed. They leapt headlong into another decade, tapping Periphery frontman Spencer Sotelo and fellow innovator as vocalist for 2015's Dead Trees. Coming full circle, Sonny lent his voice to the 2017 fan favorite "Make War," and Kellin Quinn of Sleeping with Sirens handled vocal duties for Mirror Soul in 2025.  Now, From First To Last are joined by Lil Lotus on the microphone, the band picks up where it left off.

Check out the new video HERE.

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

On signing to BLKIIBLK, the band comments:

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

On the new single, they add:

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

Watch the Lyric Video for "Fifth Generation Warfare" HERE.

Legendary American heavy metal band SANCTUARY is proud to announce their official signing to BLKIIBLK. To celebrate, the band returns with a powerful new chapter in their storied career: the brand-new single “Not Of The Living.” A new lyric video comes along with the track and is available to view below.

On the signing to BLKIIBLK, SANCTUARY founder Lenny Rutledge comments:

"SANCTUARY is really excited to sign with BLKIIBLK. We are looking forward to working with our new team to bring future SANCTUARY music to metal fans all over the world!"

"Not Of The Living" marks SANCTUARY’s first new material since the passing of original vocalist Warrel Dane and stands as a bold statement of rebirth as they celebrate 40 years of uncompromising heavy metal.

Mike Gitter, Global Head of A&R for Frontiers Label Group and BLKIIBLK Label Head, exclaims:

“We’re excited to be working with SANCTUARY. Already a legendary band, in 2026, they’re building upon that legend and taking it one step further. When [European head of A&R] Aldo Lonobile and I heard the songs, they had begun recording for their first full-length since their last full-length ‘The Year The Sun Died’ [2014], it was clear, SANCTUARY were back making some of the most vital music of their career.

"Vocalist Joseph Michael (Witherfall) has stepped in for the late Warrell Dane (Nevermore) and carried the ball magnificently. Lenny Rutledge (SANCTUARY founding guitarist) is not only taking SANCTUARY’s legacy forward, but it already feels like he’s intent on exceeding it."

Produced and mixed by acclaimed producer Zeuss (Queensrÿche, Metal Church, Rob Zombie, and Witherfall), “Not Of The Living” captures SANCTUARY’s classic blend of dramatic songwriting, soaring melodies, and crushing riffs while delivering a modern sonic impact. The track also features a blistering guest guitar solo by Jake Dreyer (Witherfall, Demons & Wizards, Iced Earth).

Joseph Michael, vocalist for SANCTUARY, shares:

“The band and I are very happy to announce our partnership with heavy metal's PREEMINENT record label BLKIIBLK! We hope you enjoy this new chapter in the history of SANCTUARY. We look forward to bringing you new music while also honoring the past.”

Watch the Lyric Video for "Not Of The Living" HERE.

Metal Blade Records is proud to announce the signing of Japanese metal sensation Broken by the Scream. Known for their explosive fusion of crushing metal riffs, modern extreme metal heaviness, deep growls, harsh screams and contrasting melodic vocals, the band has been steadily carving out a unique space in the global heavy music scene - and this marks a powerful new chapter in their career.

Check out their latest single, 追憶のナスカ, HERE.

Broken by the Scream will make their Summer Breeze Open Air debut this year, bringing their uncompromising live show to one of Europe's premier metal festivals. The band will also play Wacken Open Air and Reload Festival, further cementing their presence on the European festival circuit. More summer dates in Europe to follow!

TOUR DATES:

February 7 - JP - Kichijoji Shuffle, Tokyo

February 22 - JP - Kichijoji SEATA, Tokyo

March 4 - JP - Aoyama RizM, Tokyo

March 30 - JP - Shinjuku Antiknock, Tokyo

May 2 - JP - Shibuya Metal-Kai, Tokyo

May 24 - JP - Nishikawaguchi Hearts, Saitama

May 29 - JP - Tokyo Kinema Club, Tokyo (headline show)

July 29 - DE - Wacken Open Air, Wacken

August 13 - DE - Summer Breeze Open Air, Dinkelsbühl

August 14 - DE - Reload Festival, Sulingen

Their distinctive style has continued to shock and captivate heavy music audiences both in Japan and worldwide. In 2025, BBTS performed on the main stage at Resurrection Fest in Spain and at Japan Expo in France as part of their 9-date European tour across 7 countries.

Beyond the stage, Broken by the Scream are already hard at work on new material, with fresh music currently in development. While details remain under wraps, fans can expect new songs that continue to push the band's aggressive, genre-defying sound even further.

Shadows Fall, who were at the forefront of the New Wave of American Metal scene that dominated the '00s, are back with a brand new song and a new label! The band has shared the new single "In the Grey." Watch the video HERE.

The band — singer Brian Fair; guitarists Jonathan Donais and Matt Bachand; bassist Paul Romanko; and drummer Jason Bittner— is also thrilled to announce it has signed with MNRK Heavy.

The song is classic Shadows Fall — galloping solos, riffs on top of riffs, three-tiered vocals, memorable, stadium-sized melodics, and introspective lyrics.

"We are incredibly excited to share our first new music in over a decade with our single 'In the Grey' and are proud to announce our partnership with MNRK Music Group," states singer Brian Fair. "When Shadows Fall first got back in the practice space to prepare for our reunion shows, we did not know if it would lead to new music, but the excitement of jamming together and all of the riffs that Jon [Donais] had floating around in his head led us in the direction almost immediately. The idea began flowing, the energy started building and new songs began taking form out of the the chaos."

He continues, "'In the Grey' is a full-throttle thrasher that contains all of the elements that are the bedrock of the Shadows Fall sound, but also adds new elements and approaches that developed in the recent past while we all explorer other musical avenues. Lyrically, I was trying to put into words and describe the physical manifestation of the weight and crushing power that can come with depression, that feeling that the weight of gravity is crashing down on you or being trapped in the dark waters of our own mind, trying to rise to the surface and take a breath. It can be an overwhelming and lonely place but there is always a light at the end of that tunnel and we always need to keep striving for a brighter day and escaping the grey."

Fair finishes, "We want to sincerely thank everyone for the decades of support that you have given Shadows Fall and we cannot be happier to be back and rocking once again. Crank up 'In the Grey,' raise those horns to the sky, and bang your head as hard as you can.  Stay tuned for more music and news soon..."

Scott Givens, MNRK's SVP of Rock & Metal, stated, "When you get the chance to sign a genre-defining band like Shadows Fall, you do it. We at MNRK are proud they have chosen to work with us as they enter the next phase of their career."

Death/Thrash Metal stalwarts Avenger of Blood sign to M-Theory Audio and bring you a new single/lyric video entitled “Revenge Is My Name.” Ripping and ruthless, “Revenge Is My Name” takes no prisoners in its all-out assault as the band pummels and crushes all in their wake. Listen now on all digital platforms or watch HERE https://youtu.be/gw0rwLRaQeo?si=4YOFATR15dyMlojr 

"’Revenge Is My Name’ is a song about violence and anger! The inspiration came from our love of slasher and horror films, as well as a lot of the first-person perspectives you see on social media and such these days,” explains drummer Shannon Frye. “The world can be a violent place, and songs like this are an outlet for those who experience the same thing."

“Revenge Is My Name” is the first slice from the band’s forthcoming EP of the same name. The ‘Revenge Is My Name’ EP features four new songs from the re-energized quintet and will be released April 25th on limited (200 copies) throes of ash colored vinyl and CD. Pre-orders launch today HERE https://lnk.to/avengerofblood 

"We are excited to work with Marco and the M-Theory Audio staff,” states Shannon. “Having been friends for a long time and knowing Marco's dedication, work ethic and knowledge, we knew we made the right decision in this new partnership! We look forward to releasing this new EP and much more great things to come."

M-Theory label president Marco Barbieri has been a fan of the group almost 20 years and their paths have crossed many times over the years whether it was being considered for Century Media, handling music publishing deals, booking AOB on locals shows, producing a single for Relapse, or handling digital distribution, Marco has always lent a helping hand to the guys and he’s proud to finally add them to the label roster.

German Teutonic thrash metal trio WARFIELD is ready to start a new chapter and walk right into battle with Napalm Records in alliance. With their decade-long dedication to their idols, Tom Angelripper, Jeff Hanneman and Dave Lombardo, the three know how to play tight with brutal shredding riffs and rapid speed beats. Today, WARFIELD is pleased to announce that they’ve signed a worldwide contract with the premier rock and metal label!

In early 2012, the band introduced their own thrash tornado to the scene. The speed and anger from German genre-heroes like Sodom and Kreator mesmerized the band from day one – and now it's time to pay tribute. In 2016 and 2017, WARFIELD played many shows alongside both recognized and rising bands at Taunus Metal Meeting, such as Iron Kobra, Warrant and Evil Invaders, as well as Metallergrillen with Tankard and Bay Area thrash legends Exodus. In 2018, the trio released their debut album, 'Wrecking Command', with ten skull-crushing songs.

Call your chiropractor – WARFIELD has arrived with breakneck force!

WARFIELD state about signing with Napalm Records:

“This is happening! We are more than proud to announce that WARFIELD has officially signed with Napalm Records. After over a decade of pouring our souls into this band, this is very special to us. We also want to take this opportunity to genuinely thank all the people who supported us along the way. We can't wait to let you all know what we have in store for you. Are you ready for this?”

Senior A&R Sebastian Münch says about WARFIELD:

“WARFIELD creates the same feelings you get when you listen to Kreator, Sodom or Destruction for the very first time! WARFIELD are lethal, authentic and surprisingly fresh! We are incredibly proud to join forces with WARFIELD from the metal stronghold Kaiserslautern!”

Watch the official video for “Tie The Rope” HERE.

Century Media Records is thrilled to welcome SARCATOR, four young men from Trollhättan, Sweden who have dedicated their lives and souls to blood, fire and death.
 
At the young age of 14-20 SARCATOR released their first demo tape, Visions of Purgatory, via the American label Redefining Darkness Records in 2019. Just two years later the quadrumvirate got nominated for best rock/metal album for the Swedish music award P3 Guld with their 2020’s self-titled debut release for the same label. After releasing their 2nd album, Alkahest, via Black Lion Records in 2022, SARCATOR finally got a proper chance to play live, captivating crowds with their intense, blackened live shows. With their current line-up fully committed to the band despite their young age (all members are between 19 and 25) it was time for them to record their 3rd album which will be out via Century Media Records in early 2025 and bring SARCATOR to the forefront of an emergent, highly determined new generation of Scandinavian extreme metal bands.
 
The band comments on the cooperation that was inked in black blood: “We are extremely pleased to announce that we have now signed with Century Media Records, who will be releasing our upcoming third full-length album. This is a huge next step for us as a band and we're ready to enter this new chapter with deathrashing fury and full force! Hope to have you all, supporters of the band, coming along for the ride as well! More info on the new album coming soon…but first come and see us on the European dates with Hellripper and Cloak!”
 
Mike Gitter (VP of A&R Century Media Records) on the unholy alliance: "SARCATOR is pure blackened thrash-on-fire. Severely pissed and utterly fast and furious, the still barely out of their teens Swedish foursome take the thrashing blueprint, pour a ton of gasoline on it, light a match and they're nothing short of explosive. Their third and upcoming LP is as modern and punk in its ferocity as it is classic, conjuring the sounds of Possessed and Kreator while amping up its very intensity. We're excited to be working with SARCATOR and have no question that the future of thrash is upon us. And it's Swedish.”

Make sure to join circle-pits on their European tour with HELLRIPPER and CLOAK starting this week:
 
TOUR DATES:

FR 19.07. Poznan (Poland) - Pod Minogą *
SA 20.07. Warsaw (Poland) - Hydrozagadka *
SU 21.07. Ostrava (Czech Republic) - Barrák Music Club *
MO 22.07. Bratislava (Slovakia) - Pink Whale *
TU 23.07. Salzburg (Austria) - Rockhouse *
WE 24.07. Mörlenbach-Weiher (Germany) - Live Music Hall *
TH 25.07. Namur (Belgium) - The Belvédère *
FR 26.07. Tilburg (The Netherlands) - Next Stage *
SA 27.07. Bochum (Germany) - Trompete **
SU 28.07. Stuttgart (Germany) - Schwarzer Keiler ***
FR 23.08. Malmö (Sweden) - Malmö Massacre Festival
SA 31.08. Västerås (Sweden) - Bulgasal Metal Fest
* with Hellripper & Cloak / ** with Hellripper & Scalpture / *** with Cloak

SOLID STATE RECORDS is thrilled to announce it has signed Ohio metalcore favorites MISS MAY I to its global roster.

The band will release the 15th anniversary edition of their classic, beloved album APOLOGIES ARE FOR THE WEAK (RE-RECORDED 15TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION).The album arrives August 23. Pre-order it HERE.

The anniversary edition has been entirely re-recorded and features cameos on every single song, ranging from Jake Luhrs of August Burns Red, Brandan Schieppati of Bleeding Through, Scott Lewis of Carnifex, and many others. See the full track listing below.

Today, the band has shared the anniversary version of album closer "Forgive and Forget," featuring singer Ryan Kirby and bassist Ryan "Tuck" O'Leary from Fit for a King. Listen HERE.

"When it came to choosing which song went best with each one of our friends, this match up was the first one that came to mind," the band shares. "We have became brothers with Fit for a King over the years and having not only Kirby, but also Tuck, as well, made this track such a celebration of the song. Their dynamic, alongside of Ryan and I in 'Forgive and Forget' was meant to be."

The band also created a throwback website in conjunction with the release. Send your Friend Request HERE.

The sound and fury of Miss May I is deeply embedded in the hearts and minds of a legion of fans. The MMI faithful are from different backgrounds, of different ages, with diverse life experience, who all come together and connect with Miss May I's combination of brutal proficiency and impassioned delivery. The four-piece powerhouse, from the fertile metalcore grounds of America's heartland, have become an integral part of the worldwide heavy music community, transcending boundaries and limitations, galvanizing crowds, and energizing each person they encounter. Miss May I celebrate 15 years of savage metalcore and soaring melodic refrains, newly revitalized, and poised for an insurgent career renaissance; armed with unmistakable power, road hardened experience, a steadily building catalog, and unrelenting spirit, supported by a diehard community.

APOLOGIES ARE FOR THE WEAK (RE-RECORDED 15TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION):
"A Dance With Aera Cura" (Feat. Garrett Russell from Silent Planet)
"Architect" (Feat. Brian Wille from Currents)
"Not Our Tomorrow" (Feat. Brandan Schieppati from Bleeding Through)
"Arms Of A Messiah" (Feat. Scott Lewis From Carnifex)
"Apologies Are For The Weak" (Feat. Anthony Notarmaso from After the Burial)
"Harlots Breath" (Feat. Brook Reeves from Impending Doom)
"Tides" (Feat.Jake Luhrs from August Burns Red)
"Blessing With A Curse" (Feat. Trevor Wentwoth from Our Last Night)
"Porcelain Wings" (Feat. Telle Smith From The World Alive)
"Forgive And Forget" (Feat. Ryan Kirby + Ryan "Tuck" O'Leary from Fit for a King)

Miss May I will hit the road on a headline tour this fall, during which they will play Apologies Are for the Weak in full. All dates are below.
 

TOUR:

10/2 — Lakewood, OH — The Roxy
10/3 — Lansing, MI — Grewal Hall
10/4 — Chicago, IL — Bottom Lounge
10/5 — Des Moines, IA — Wooly's
10/6 — St. Paul, MN — Amsterdam Bar & Grill
10/8 — Denver, CO — The Oriental Theatre
10/9 — Salt Lake City, UT — Metro Music Hall
10/11 — Seattle, WA — El Corazon
10/12 — Portland, OR — Hawthorne Theatre
10/14 — Roseville, CA — Goldfields
10/15 — Pomona, CA — Glasshouse
10/16 — San Diego, CA — Brick By Brick
10/17 — Mesa, AZ — Nile Theatre
10/19 — Dallas, TX — Trees
10/20 — Austin, TX — Come And Take It Live
10/21 — Houston, TX — Warehouse
10/23 — Atlanta, GA — Masquerade
10/24 — Tampa, FL — Orpheum
10/25 — Charleston, NC — Music Farm
10/26 — Greensboro, NC — Hangar 1819
10/27 — Richmond, VA — The Canal Club
10/29 — Brooklyn, NY — Brooklyn Monarch
10/30 — Worcester, MA — Palladium
11/1 — Mechanicsburg, PA — Lovedraft's Brewing Co.
11/2 — Pittsburgh, PA  — Mr. Smalls
11/3 — TBA

Metal Blade Records is pleased to welcome Oxnard, California crossover collective DEAD HEAT to its iconic roster!

Forged in 2016 in, DEAD HEAT is known for their high-energy live performances and aggressive sound that draws influence from various subgenres of thrash, punk, hardcore, and metal. DEAD HEAT's music is characterized by fast, thrashy riffs, driving rhythms, harmonious leads, and intense vocals that often veer into screamed or shouted terrain. Thematically, the band delves deep into social and political issues, as well as personal struggles and experiences.

In addition to crafting pulverizing music, the DEAD HEAT crew is notorious for their DIY approach to punk/metal culture and their involvement in the broader hardcore scene. The band members are regularly involved in booking shows and events in their local scene, as well as supporting various social and political causes.

Comments vocalist Christian Ramos of the band's union with Metal Blade Records, "To be part of a label that has put out some of our favorite records and has had some of our favorite artists is without words an absolute honor!"

Adds rhythm guitarist Justin Ton, "We're on the same label that birthed Slayer and put Metallica on the map. It's an honor."

States Metal Blade's Ryan Williams; US A&R, "DEAD HEAT fucking slays; it's an honor to welcome them to the Metal Blade family."

Once, I Had A Dream - And This Is It...

It's safe to say that this collaboration is one of the most magical and enchanting in modern metal history: 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the partnership between Finland's symphonic metal legends and NUCLEAR BLAST. Today, the international metal label is proud to announce that NIGHTWISH said "I Do" again and renewed their contract with a worldwide multi-album deal.

Tuomas Holopainen states:
“20 years ago our journey together with Nuclear Blast started, and the time has now come to renew our vows. Superbly excited to see what kind of magic we can cook up together this time!”

Marcus Hammer states:
“It’s an honor to renew this partnership to continue writing music history. We´re more than proud to carry on the collaboration with this exceptionally gifted group of musicians and their management team. Thanks for your friendship and trust, Floor, Tuomas, Emppu, Troy, Kai, and Jukkis. Looking forward to celebrate your upcoming album and everything beyond! Kiitos!”

About NIGHTWISH:

Working with NUCLEAR BLAST since the release of their highly lauded 2004 album Once, NIGHTWISH have gained international fame and success selling more than ten million records and receiving more than 60 gold and platinum awards, having released six No #1 albums and thirteen No #1 singles. In October 2018, NIGHTWISH was inducted into the Tähtikatu – Walk of Fame Finland, becoming the honorary gallery's eleventh member. 2020 saw the release of the band's last studio record, Human. :II: Nature. that crowned the band's discography with another No. #1 success in Finland and Germany as well several other impressive chart entries worldwide.  The band recently announced the completion of recordings for their new studio album planned for autumn 2024.

About NUCLEAR BLAST:

For 35 years and counting, Nuclear Blast Records has been synonymous with the worldwide advancement of heavy music. Founded in Donzdorf, Germany in 1987, Nuclear Blast is part of Believe, one of the world's leading digital music companies. Nuclear Blast boasts a roster of over 150 bands. Their offices in Los Angeles, London, Hamburg, and Paris have helped build the label’s trusted global reputation with numerous album chart entries, high-profile tours, and continual signings of new and heritage acts. The label has additional representatives in Australia, Brazil, and Sweden, amongst others.

As they barrel towards their upcoming tour dates, Canadian melodic metal outfit LUTHARO are excited to announce they have joined new label home, Atomic Fire Records!

"We are incredibly excited to announce that we have officially joined the Atomic Fire Records family!" says the band about the signing. "This is a HUGE stepping stone on the path we are paving as a band and grateful doesn’t even begin to describe how we feel! With this being said, we have a TON of amazing things yet to be announced and we cannot wait to share them with you! If you are following us on our journey, thank you so much! And stay metal!"

“We are extremely excited to welcome one of the most promising and overwhelming newcomers in the metal genre: LUTHARO! This band simply blew all of us in the company away. What an incredible and unique mix of extreme, powerful and melodic metal with the stunning voice of Krista Shipperbottom. This upcoming new album is a record you simply fall in love with immediately. Also check out anything else available online, especially their epic “Wings Of Agony” hymn. You all will realize: LUTHARO is the future." adds Atomic Fire Records A&R Markus Wosgien.

To celebrate this announcement, as well as give you a preview of what to expect live, the band has revealed a fresh new single "Ruthless Bloodline", along with an electrifying live shot video showcasing the band's powerful stage presence. The video can be found HERE.

Napalm Records is proud to announce the signing of the world’s fastest band – GRAMMY nominated power metal legends DRAGONFORCE! Formed in 1999, the London, UK based unit has captivated audiences worldwide with their highly successful records and iconic singles, including the platinum-selling anthem 'Through the Fire and Flames.' Renowned for their epic compositions, DRAGONFORCE’s signature lies in their masterful and lightning-fast guitar solos, brilliantly crafted by the virtuosic duo of Herman Li and Sam Totman. Comprising vocalist Marc Hudson, bassist Alicia Vigil, and drummer Gee Anzalone, the five-piece ensemble draws inspiration from a myriad of heavy metal styles, fantasy realms, and video games, blending 80’s rock influences with infectious sing-along choruses and uplifting melodies.

Together with the signing announcement, and with their most ambitious album on the horizon, DRAGONFORCE is excited to announce the North American headline leg of a colossal world tour that promises to be their most exhilarating to date! Featuring special guests Amaranthe with additional support from Napalm Records labelmates NanowaR of Steel, as well as Edge of Paradise, the tour will begin on October 20, 2023 in Mesa, AZ. After visiting many major cities across the US and Canada, the tour will culminate in a grand finale in Los Angeles, CA on November 19. DRAGONFORCE promises to take their unique stage production to new heights, presenting a fresh setlist that includes new tracks, songs not played for a long time and beloved classics. 

DRAGONFORCE frontman Herman Li on the signing:

“We are absolutely thrilled to join forces with Napalm Records, a true powerhouse in the metal music universe! This marks the beginning of an epic new chapter for DRAGONFORCE, and we're eager to see what our collaboration will bring to our fans around the world!”

Napalm Records Managing Director Thomas Caser adds:

“It’s an absolute honor to team up with the mighty DRAGONFORCE and announce this signing today. Their speed, sound and hooks are undeniably legendary along with their captivating and unique concepts! We look forward to getting their new music out to the world!”

 Herman Li adds on the tour:

"We're really looking forward to touring in the US and Canada again. We've prepared a new setlist with some brand new songs that we'll be releasing before the tour begins. Alongside these, we'll also be playing some older songs that haven't been in our setlist for a long time, as well as some classic favorites that are a must. It's shaping up to be a fantastic tour!"

TOUR DATES:

Oct 20 - Mesa, AZ - Nile Theater*

Oct 21 - Albuquerque, NM - Revel*

Oct 23 - Austin, TX - Empire Garage

Oct 24 - Dallas, TX - The Granada

Oct 25 - Houston, TX - House of Blues

Oct 27 - Orlando, FL - House of Blues

Oct 28 - Ft Lauderdale, FL - Culture Room

Oct 30 - Atlanta, GA - Masquerade - Heaven

Oct 31 - Charlotte, NC - The Underground

Nov 01 - Baltimore, MD - Baltimore Soundstage

Nov 03 - New York, NY - Palladium Time Square

Nov 04 - Worcester, MA - The Palladium

Nov 05 - Montreal, QC - MTelus

Nov 06 - Toronto, ON - Danforth Music Hall

Nov 08 - Cleveland, OH - Agora Theater

Nov 09 - Detroit, MI - The Majestic

Nov 10 - Chicago, IL - House of Blues

Nov 11 - Minneapolis, MN - First Avenue

Nov 12 - Lawrence, KS - Granada Theater

Nov 14 - Denver, CO - Summit Music Hall

Nov 15 - Salt Lake City, UT - The Depot

Nov 16 - Boise, ID - Knitting Factory

Nov 18 - Berkeley, CA - UC Theater

Nov 19 - Los Angeles, CA - The Wiltern

* no NanowaR of Steel

Death Metal legends Deicide announces a new partnership with Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM) for their upcoming, 13th full-length album.

The influential Florida Death Metal legends finished recording the self-produced new album and are in the process of adding the final touches to the new slab of brutality, with a release date to be announced. This marks the first time recording with their new guitar player, Taylor Nordberg, who joined the band last year.

“With great pleasure and after several years of debate and consideration, I wish to announce the signing of a historic one album deal with the newly formed RPM for the development and marketing of the newest Deicide album, Banished By Sin. We look forward to working with all the talented hand-picked individuals that create RPM music and adding our latest accompaniment to the Deicide catalogue,” said Glen Benton 

RPM's Gerardo Martinez comments: “We would like to welcome The Satan Spawns’ Deicide to RPM, and we cannot wait to release the very fitting new 13th chapter of their very successful and historied career! Many of us grew up in the original early Death Metal years and Deicide was in many people’s soundtracks. As for me, I ended up in the principal’s office in High School, for wearing the original Legion shirt as the back print was dangerous and controversial. Let’s bring some of that back!” ·    

Metal Blade Records is pleased to announce the signing of the American metal quintet, WRETCHED, who will release their 5th full-length album with the label - more details will be announced in the coming months so be sure to follow the band to keep up to date on all things WRETCHED.

The band commented; "It is with great excitement that we announce the official return of WRETCHED! We've signed on with Metal Blade Records and we're both eager to bring new material to you. Stay tuned."

Check out this video from the band HERE.

Veteran harbingers of technical death metal CRYPTOPSY have officially signed with Nuclear Blast Records! The world's heaviest label welcomes one of Canada's most ferocious bands with plans to release their first album in over a decade later this year.

Commenting on the the signing, vocalist Matt McGachy states: 

"We are truly excited to have joined Nuclear Blast's roster. Many of the bands we love and a bunch of our friends have released killer albums via Nuclear Blast. Back in 2012, we became an independent band. Now in 2023, we have decided to team up with one of the most influential metal labels. We are eager to be showcased alongside the world's best metal acts and can't wait to unveil the next era of Cryptopsy as a Nuclear Blast artist."

Details of the CRYPTOPSY's long-awaited 8th album and return to the forefront of death metal will be revealed in the coming months. Follow the band for additional updates. 

About CRYPTOPSY:

Originally hailing from Montreal, CRYPTOPSY officially formed in 1992 and has since been anchored by long-time drummer extraordinaire Flo Mounier. Over the last 3 decades the band has become a revered and influential pinion in North America's underground metal scene. Groundbreaking albums like "Blashphemy Made Flesh" (1994)," "None So Vile" (1996) and "Once Was Not" (2005), helped define the genre of technical death metal, while the band's intense, earthshaking live shows garnered them a rapid following around the world. Now signed with Nuclear Blast, the band begins the next chapter of their legendary career, ready once again the break necks and pierce the eardrums of metal fans everywhere.

Follow CRYPTOPSY:

https://www.facebook.com/cryptopsyofficial/.

https://www.instagram.com/cryptopsyofficial.

BABYBEARD, the group of cross-dressing Australian wrestler and Kawaii-metal icon Ladybeard, returns with the new 4 track maxi-single “Twisted Kaiju Tale” through new label Setzuzoku Records.

[Song demo URL]

https://youtu.be/wR2gix-fwyk

Hot off the back of a schedule of resumed international appearances and featuring both full cuts and karaoke versions of 2 new tracks, the maxi-single started streaming globally April 26. The release has happened through US based Setzuzoku Records, indie label whose touring arm Orion Live hosted Metal Matsuri, the world’s first ever Japanese metal festival anywhere outside Japan, that was MCed by Ladybeard, in 2019.

The Maxi-single features title track “Twisted Kaiju Tale” alongside “OPTISQUAD”, both composed and produced by Tokyo based Swedish musician Endigo of Drag Race Sweden fame, with lyrics by Ladybeard himself.

“Twisted Kaiju Tale” is a high octane kawaii-metal onslaught, boasting devastating verses juxtaposed with a delightfully cute and catchy chorus, as the world has come to expect from Ladybeard. Telling the story of a giant monster rising from the sea to attack Tokyo in the style of a Japanese Kaiju movie, we take you crashing through a saga of screams, claws and tumbling buildings!! But don’t get too scared….. every tale has 2 sides. And even monsters can end up being friendly.

“OPTISQUAD” bubbles enthusiastically for keeping the charms of optimism forever in your heart. A colourful synth led anthem of advocation for doing what makes YOU happy, OPTISQUAD encourages the pursuit of your own joy regardless of others’ opinions. After all, we can deal with tomorrow as it comes. Right now, let’s have fun!!

Tear down the city or get optimistic with BABYBEARD’s “Twisted Kaiju Tale”!! Available everywhere now on streaming services and through Setzuzoku Records.

Twisted Kaiju Tale / BABYBEARD

Formerly known as Gyze, Japanese "samurai metal" band RYUJIN have been reborn - signing a worldwide contract with premier rock and metal empire Napalm Records to usher them into their new era!

RYUJIN rises to carry heavy metal from Japan to the masses around the world. With high speed riffs and breakneck guitar descents paired with traditional music from their home country, RYUJIN creates a sound unknown in the west.

After four highly acclaimed albums and worldwide appearances at large festivals, RYUJIN have developed their own identity, expressed with accents of traditional Japanese instruments and lead guitarist Ryoji Shinomoto's incredible shredding technique and ripping vocals.

Napalm Records is thrilled to have RYUJIN join its growing roster!

RYUJIN mastermind Ryoji Shinomoto says: "We have a very GRATEFUL announcement on behalf of RYUJIN (ex-Gyze): Like a Phoenix from the ashes… GYZE has become RYUJIN! "Matthew Kiichi Heafy from Trivium is our manager, producer, mentor. "We are proud to have just signed a worldwide deal with the amazing Napalm Records. "We are ready to make this band a worldwide-known act; and to bring happiness and excitement to everyone around the globe. "The name RYUJIN comes from the Japanese Dragon God King with the same name. In Japanese lore, Ryujin freely moves heaven and earth, moves the clouds, blows the wind, and makes it rain. The Dragon God King also controls the flow of weather, ocean currents, and geothermal heat. "We can’t wait for you to hear the music we’ve been working on."

Trivium frontman and RYUJIN manager Matthew Kiichi Heafy adds: "It is my incredible honor to announce that I am officially working with the newly reincarnated form of Gyze, RYUJIN, for management, production, and mentoring. Ryujin is the Japanese king of the dragons - and the namesake of this for the band is nothing but appropriate.

"Ryoji is one of the most talented human beings I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing. Whether it's his monstrous screaming, powerful singing, other-worldly guitar playing, or his masterful songwriting - he is a musical force of nature. "This album is going to be mind blowing."

Sebastian Muench, A&R, Napalm Records says: "We have been following the exciting career of RYUJIN (former Gyze) for many years and believe that their style of Japanese Melodic Death Metal is simply amazing. We are happy to work with RYUJIN, along with Matthew Kiichi Heafy, on the new album release and to break the band in the global market."

Southern Californian death/thrash battalion EXMORTUS has officially joined the roster of metal's heaviest label Nuclear Blast Records. In addition to the signing announcement, the band is giving fans a taste of their highly-anticipated next album with the single "Oathbreaker," which is available for streaming now and accompanied by the music video created by Wayne Joyner (Dream Theater, Devin Townsend).

Commenting on the signing, founding guitarist Jadran “Conan” Gonzalez says: 

"We are very excited to announce that our upcoming album will be our first with Nuclear Blast as our new label. We're working with them to bring you what we consider to be our best album yet!"

Adding about the single, Conan states: "'Oathbreaker' is the perfect teaser for the new album. Not only is it fast, heavy and filled with shred, but it's inspired by Tolkien's haunting lore of the Dead Men of Dunharrow in the Lord of the Rings: the Return of the King. While our previous work focused more on the heroic aspect of fantasy and sword & sorcery, this album expresses the darker side with tragic heroes and horrors of humanity. Enjoy the new track cause we feel it belongs in our setlists for years to come!"

EXMORTUS' new single was produced and mixed by Zack Ohren (Machine Head, Fallujah) and is the first new music since 2018's acclaimed full-length "The Sound of Steel" and subsequent 2019 EP, "Legions of the Undead." The band recently supported Death Angel on the road and are expected to announce additional touring soon.

Stream "Oathbreaker": https://bfan.link/Exmortus-Oathbreaker

Watch the video for "Oathbreaker": https://youtu.be/vMCWh71vcjw

Two international metal heavyweights celebrate an extension of their alliance: Swedish metal legends IN FLAMES have re-signed with Nuclear Blast, extending their partnership on a worldwide level. As one of the most influential metal bands of all time, the news foreshadows some exciting plans for the Gothenburg legends, soon to be rolled out.

Marcus Hammer, the managing director of Nuclear Blast, states, "We are extremely happy to welcome In Flames back into the NBR family on a worldwide basis. Here's the message to the metal world: A new metal masterpiece is about to drop and you can guarantee there is no decay visible. Quite the contrary. In Flames and Nuclear Blast will kill it together — once again and stronger than ever!"

Nathan Barley Phillips, Senior A&R, comments, "As a dedicated long-serving Jesterhead myself, it gives me great pleasure to represent In Flames as they embark on this exciting new chapter of their illustrious career. I cannot wait for you all to hear what this incredible band have in store!"

Following this groundbreaking news, In Flames have today released a crushing new single titled "State of Slow Decay." Watch the video HERE.