Metal Blade Records is proud to announce the addition of Lafayette, Louisiana thrashers, VOID, to their prestigious roster.
“Metal Blade has been a cornerstone for heavy metal for decades,” the band comments, “so joining the roster is an absolute honor and we feel right at home. We are sharpening the fangs for our most vicious material yet. It’s about to get bloody.”
To commemorate the signing, the band has released a limited-edition Metal Blade “Signed In Blood” Merch drop, available HERE. Each order comes with a signed 8×10 print, while supplies last.
Forged in 2019 by vocalist Jackson Davenport, VOID is a haunted, technically sharp thrash/heavy metal force. Blending razor-edged aggression with eerie atmosphere and narrative ambition, VOID stands at the crossroads of classic thrash intensity and dark, theatrical heavy metal.
The band made its first major statement with their debut album Horrors Of Reality in early 2023. The record introduced VOID‘s uncompromising sound – fast, intricate riffing, commanding vocals, and a sinister edge – and was followed by a relentless stretch of touring that hardened the band on the road and built a growing underground following.
That momentum led to VOID signing with Shadow Kingdom Records in the Summer of 2024. Throughout late 2024 and 2025, the band focused their efforts on crafting their most ambitious work to date, Forbidden Morals, a full-length concept album centered on a lost traveler’s descent into the castle of Vlad The Impaler. Dark, cinematic, and technically ferocious, the album marked a turning point for the band placing VOID firmly on the map and opening the door to larger tours and wider recognition.
Following the release of Forbidden Morals, VOID became a sought-after presence on the road, sharing stages with genre legends and earning their place alongside some of thrash metal’s most respected names, including Dark Angel, Forbidden, Sacred Reich, and Exhorder as well as appearing at Hell’s Heroes, Blade Of Steel, and the Keep It True Festival. With a lineup locked in and a sound that balances precision, menace, and storytelling, VOID continues to carve their path as one of the most compelling new voices in modern traditional metal.
VOID Live: 3/13/2026 Bay Area Hard Rock Fest – Tampa, FL 3/14/2026 Bay Area Hard Rock Fest – Tampa, FL 3/21/2026 Hell’s Heroes – Houston, TX 3/26/2026 Brass Mug – Tampa, FL * 3/27/2026 Conduit – Orlando, FL * 3/28/2026 Boggs Social – Atlanta, GA * 3/29/2026 East Room – Nashville, TN * 3/30/2026 Mag Bar – Louisville, KY * 3/31/2026 State St. Pub – Indianapolis, IN * 4/01/2026 Fubar – St Louis, MO * 4/02/2026 Renos Chop Shop – Dallas, TX * 4/04/2026 Feed N Seed – Lafayette, LA * 5/01/2026 Legions Of Metal Fest – Chicago, IL 5/16/2026 San Luis Metal Fest – Mexico City, MX *w/ Phantom, Herakleion
VOID: Aaron Landry – drums Gabe LeJeune – guitars Jackson Davenport – vocals Blake Adams – bass Chris Braune – guitars
Renowned Italian experimental metal visionary Daniele Brusaschetto has officially released the new music video for “Nera,” the latest single from his critically acclaimed album, Dichotomous, out now via Wormholedeath.
“Nera” is darkly ironic and unflinching, capturing the tension and decay of a relentless world. It stands as an ode to frustration—moving, running, and expending massive energy without ever reaching a goal.
Watch the “Nera” Music Video (with English Subtitles) Here:
Since 1994, Daniele Brusaschetto has navigated a relentless journey through a world of “sonic soot.” Now performing as a power trio, the project follows an imaginative trail blazed by Voivod, Godflesh, and early Mastodon—a volatile blend of granite-heavy riffs, metallic grit, and No Wave dissonance. Beneath this massive wall of guitars lies an intricate emotional machinery waiting to be unearthed.
After reigniting his passion for extreme, guitar-driven rock in 2016, Brusaschetto returned to his metal-math-stoner roots with 2019’s Flying Stag. Following the 2023 release of Bruise A Shadow via WormHoleDeath Records, he now presents his latest full-length album: Dichotomous—the natural evolution of a distinctive, uncompromising sound.
The Lineup Driving the Sound:
Daniele Brusaschetto: voce/chitarra Daniele Pagliero: basso Alberto “Mono” Marietta: batteria
Hailing from Finland, DeadCityMonkeys have released a ferocious new single, At Night (War Dance). True to the band’s established style, the track blends elements of rock, punk and metal into a fast-paced onslaught driven by a grooving punch that hooks the listener.
At Night (War Dance) is an ode to the streets after dark. It captures drunken wandering through nighttime alleys and dancing a kind of war dance with strangers you meet along the way. The song conveys a sense of freedom and euphoria, but also the melancholy and emptiness that arrive when the night comes to an end. Longing for those moments, and the tension between joy and sorrow, run hand in hand throughout the track.
DeadCityMonkeys are currently preparing for the release of their debut album. At Night (War Dance) is the second single from the full-length record, due out later this year. The first taste of the upcoming album was last year’s single This Day.
Formed in 2018, the band have previously released a total of six singles.
Legendary New York hardcore juggernauts PRO-PAIN are starting a new era by signing with Napalm Records. With the new partnership comes a new release: their sixteenth studio album, Stone Cold Anger, will be out on May 15, 2026. The band’s first release in eleven years showcases their explosive energy in its purest form: Stone Cold Anger unfolds heavy, angry, and ready as ever—proving PRO-PAIN haven’t lost even an ounce of strength. An exceptionally catchy offering, the new album fortifies its groovy melodies and stirring guitar riffs with furious and inciting, anthemic vocals, turning the ten new songs into worthy follow-ups to their 3.5M-stream hit “Voice Of Rebellion” (2015).
PRO-PAIN announce their long-awaited album with a new single: “Oceans Of Blood” is an energetic opening track from an album that shows that the scene luminaries have not lost a step in their three-decade campaign of carnage. With the groovy “Oceans Of Blood”, the New York-bred hardcore outfit returns heavy, angry, and ready as ever.
Gary Meskil about “Oceans Of Blood”: “A common thread runs through the lion’s share of lyrics found in Stone Cold Anger. Much of it has to do with retribution, and our first single, ‘Oceans Of Blood’, is representative of that. The frustration among people worldwide regarding the rampant corruption and criminality of their governments has reached a breaking point. Wars are being waged in their names, without any consent, funded by their own hard-earned tax dollars. With rising living costs and inflation eroding the value of money, tensions are rising. We’ve already seen this reach a critical level in countries like Sri Lanka, France, and more recently, Nepal, where desperate citizens have taken drastic actions against corrupt politicians, even resorting to violence and destruction of property. When those in power evade accountability for their actions, it leaves the populace with little choice but to assert their rights and take back control.”
The highly anticipated new album (which features the return of former guitarist Eric Klinger) opens up with the punishing “Oceans Of Blood”, an energetic and captivating track which confirms once again that the hardcore icons have not lost one bit of their relentless anger in the last 35 years. The title track abruptly commences with soaring melodic guitars acting as sirens around frontman and bassist Gary Meskil’s commanding barks. Aptly named “March Of The Giants” is just that, a show of brute force layered upon an ever-so-heavy groove-laden foundation. “Uncle Sam Wants You!” displays a more rock ’n’ roll attitude, complete with a driving bass line and distinct social commentary; the raw and honest vibe continues throughout “Demonic Intervention” and “Rinse & Repeat”. Meskil’s raspy shouts fill the melodies of “Hell Or High Water” before PRO-PAIN forge onward and into the anthemic “Scorched Earth”—fiercely belting “And so it begins…” The following track, “Jonestown Punch”, galvanizes with stirring, up-tempo two-steps before “Sky’s The Limit” rounds off the album with catchy sing-along choruses.
Stone Cold Anger is an enthralling, memorable, and triumphant milestone for PRO-PAIN, and an impressive demonstration of power. See you in the pit!
Gary Meskil about Stone Cold Anger: “Thank you to our fans worldwide for 35 years of unwavering support. After a decade away from the recording studio, we return with Stone Cold Anger—an album forged from global tension and the rising demand for accountability. Our first single, ‘Oceans of Blood,’ captures the outrage felt as corruption, injustice, and economic pressure push people to their limits.”
PRO-PAIN Live 2026 13.05.2026 DE – Essen / Turock 14.05.2026 DE – Osnabrück / Bastard Club 19.06.2026 DE – Fehrbellin / Protzen Open Air 21.08.2026 DE – Schmelz / Heartcore Island Open Air
PRO-PAINis: Gary Meskil – Bass, Vocals Jonas Sanders – Drums Greg Discenza – Lead Guitar Eric Klinger – Rhythm Guitar
The undisputed leader of the 2nd wave of Gothic Doom Metal, DRACONIAN, is finally back – and they return in better shape than ever! Their new studio album, In Somnolent Ruin, will creep its way from the artist’s spirit into the light of day on May 8, 2026 via Napalm Records. This promises to be one of the most personal records in the band’s discography, revealed through a dreamlike journey across nine tracks and the poetic lyricism of vocalist Anders Jacobsson. The new album also marks the return of long-time vocalist Lisa Johansson – the band’s vocalist for their first five records – who now once again shares vocal duties with Anders Jacobsson. The lineup on the new album has been together and touring since 2022, which gives the album a special live-feeling.
As a recurring theme on In Somnolent Ruin, DRACONIAN explore Plato’s theory of the soul – an element that was not planned from the very beginning, but instead emerged organically during the creation of the new album, which has once again been written, recorded and arranged by Johan Ericson.
Johan Ericson on the new album: “The first idea—the embryo, really—of In Somnolent Ruin goes back to 2021. It began with the song “Misanthrope River,” a title that had already existed since the demo days of Under a Godless Veil, now finally finding music to accompany it. As small pieces and fragments slowly started to grow into actual songs, it only made me more inspired to keep writing. I drew a lot of inspiration from art and from other musical acts—everything from dark folk to eerie ambient music—which helped keep the creative spark alive. Early on, I had a clear sense of the overall vibe I wanted for the album: classic doom intertwined with ambient soundscapes. I also wanted a wide variety of songs across the record, but without losing that strong gothic thread that connects everything and gives it a shared atmosphere.”
Anders Jacobsson adds: “It took quite some time before the album began to feel whole. We didn’t settle on the final track list until very late in the process, as each piece slowly came together—vocals finding their place, ideas overlapping, and a real sense of collaboration allowing the songs to evolve toward an imagined destination. In the end, the music always seems to transform into something that once felt almost unimaginable. For me personally, it was a fascinating but challenging experience. I struggled at times to see how everything would ultimately come together, and there were moments of doubt throughout the process. But it did come together in the end, and all the uncertainty and self-reflection somehow proved worthwhile. The creative journey for me is always deeply tied to introspection, and this record demanded a great deal of that. It was without question the most difficult album for me to fully grasp and work through—but perhaps that’s what makes the final result all the more compelling, and, I believe, quite remarkable. It’s been a long time coming…” It was also fantastic to work with Lisa again, and to have Daniel Johansson bring a new dimension to the drums added another layer of depth to the entire process.”
In Somnolent Ruin Tracklist: 1. I Welcome Thy Arrow 2. The Monochrome Blade 3. Anima (feat. Daniel Änghede) 4. The Face of God 5. I Gave You Wings 6. Asteria Beneath the Tranquil Sea 7. Cold Heavens 8. Misanthrope River 9. Lethe
Six years have passed since the band released its predecessor, Under a Godless Veil, DRACONIAN’s most successful record to date. Much has changed since then, yet everything feels familiar: after introducing new guitarist Niklas Nord (Myteri, DeathTrap, The Random Victims) in spring 2022, the band announced the return of vocalist Lisa Johansson, who now once again shares vocal duties with Anders Jacobsson, promising even more enigmatic music to come. Johansson had been the band’s vocalist for their first five records before leaving DRACONIAN in 2011 for personal reasons. In Somnolent Ruin marks her official comeback, following several live performances at festivals over the past years. The band’s renewed lineup is rounded out by Daniel Johansson (Antikult, ex-Wormwood), who joined DRACONIAN as a full member in 2025 following Jerry Torstennson’s departure. Prior to that, Johansson had served as the band’s session drummer since 2019. It’s the first album on whch longtime member Daniel Arvidsson can be heard on bass, where he switched from guitar in 2022.
In Somnolent Ruin captures the essence of a band that no longer needs to prove anything – and yet still does. Active since the mid-1990s and having released their debut album, Where Lovers Mourn, in 2003, DRACONIAN have continuously demonstrated their unmatched ability to craft otherworldly doom melodies and searing heavy instrumentation, complemented by lyrics that read like poetry. Their art cuts deep, compelling listeners to confront their inner demons, wander through the darkest shadows, and even embrace emotional numbness, only to emerge with a sense of inner peace. This album confronts listeners with life’s hardest questions, exploring feelings of alienation and the search for direction in unfamiliar territory.
In Somnolent Ruin’s journey begins with “I Welcome Thy Arrow”, which captivates from the very first seconds through haunting melodies and a vocal interplay that embodies fragility and strength alike. Tracks such as “The Monochrome Blade” and “The Face of God” introduce increased tempo and eruptive vocal dynamics. “Anima” features Swedish artist Daniel Änghede, adding layers of emotional depth and confronting listeners with their darker impulses, capturing the sense of being lost and questioning one’s place in the world. “Asteria Beneath the Tranquil Sea” serves as a transitional interlude between “I Gave You Wings” and “Cold Heavens”, the latter exploring the delicate balance between life and death and not finding relief in any of both, while delivering the album’s most intense vocal performance. “Misanthrope River” opens with an extended instrumental passage and narration by Simon Bibby, slowing the tempo but by no means reducing the emotional weight, reflecting life’s daily struggles and obstacles. The closing track, “Lethe”, references the river of forgetfulness in Greek mythology. Those who drank from it would lose all memory. “Oh, shooting star… Drown in me! Drink. Forget. Repeat.” mourns Jacobsson through devilish growls. And yet, In Somnolent Ruin remains a work of art one wishes not to forget – not a single blink of an eye.
DRACONIAN Live 2026: 16.05.26 BR – Sao Paulo / Carioca Club 17.05.26 AR – Buenos Aires / Teatro Flores 19.05.26 CL – Santiago / Sala Metronomo 21.05.26 CO – Bogota / Teatro Astor Plaza 23.05.26 MX – Mexico City / Circo Volador
06.08.26 CZ – Jaromer / Brutal Assault More shows to be announced
DRACONIAN is: Johan Ericson – Guitar, Vocals, Keys Anders Jacobsson – Vocals Lisa Johansson – Vocals Daniel Arvidsson – Bass Niklas Nord – Guitar Daniel Johansson – Drums
The Finnish dark metal band Horizon of Aeons are set to release their debut album, Timeless Forms of Desolation, on 29 May 2026 via Inverse Records. The single ‘Kairos’, is unleashed today and it’s available on all essential streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/horizon-of-aeons-kairos
The band comments:
“The lyrics deal with the concept of deep time. The vastness of the universe challenges human perspective. Our collective cosmic history shapes the eternal harmony of our souls. We are part of the ever-flowing stream of humanity’s consciousness. Musically, this song is more up-tempo and contains unique elements compared to other Horizon of Aeons songs. It is a perfect opening track as it gives the album a good kickstart with the blasting double bass on the drums. The outro is a piece of text spoken by our technician and co-producer Kristian Kipinoinen. This text is handled more closely in the song “1846 (The Ones Beneath)”.”
–Composed by Miska Lehtivuori, Ville Pekkala, Pekka Venho & Pekka Jokela –Lyrics by Miska Lehtivuori & Ville Pekkala –Mixed & mastered by Miska Lehtivuori –ISRC: FIP6B2600001 –Single cover by Miska Lehtivuori
Timeless Forms of Desolation -Track list:
Kairos
Aedis Tenebrae
Ghosts Transcending
Devilish Mist of Deformed
1846 (The Ones Beneath)
Until the Darkness Claims Us
Spectral Echoes
Haunting Presence
–Album cover by Miska Lehtivuori
Horizon of Aeons is a gothic dark metal band founded in 2024, bringing together
seasoned musicians from the Finnish metal scene. The band consists of Miska Lehtivuori (vocals, guitar), Ville Pekkala (guitar), Pekka Venho (bass), and Pekka Jokela (drums). These members have a rich history of playing together in various bands (Fall of the Leafe, Ablaze in Hatred, Searing Meadow, Mormânt De Snagov, Leaflet, Jackie’s Land), which laid the foundation for their cohesive and powerful sound.
Horizon of Aeons’ musical influences are as diverse as the members’ extensive backgrounds in the metal scene. Each member brings a wealth of experience from their previous bands, contributing to the band’s unique sound.
Together, these musicians create a sound that is both intense and melodic, drawing from a wide array of metal subgenres. Their influences span across various styles, allowing them to craft a distinctive musical identity that is uniquely their own. This blend of experience and inspiration results in a sound that is both familiar and innovative, pushing the boundaries of gothic dark metal.
Themes and Lyrics
Horizon of Aeons’ lyrics delve deeply into the dark and complex concept of time and its relentless progression. Their songs often explore the infinite future contrasted with the finite past, creating a haunting and introspective atmosphere. The band masterfully weaves themes of existence and memory into their music, painting vivid pictures of a world where time is both a creator and a destroyer.
In addition, Horizon of Aeons touches on themes of cosmic forces, often using esoteric and mystical imagery. They explore the inherent inclinations of humanity, the seductive nature of sin, and the purifying power of darkness. This adds a layer of depth to their music, as they challenge conventional beliefs and embrace the darker aspects of existence. Overall, the band’s lyrics are a profound exploration of time, existence, and the human condition, offering listeners a journey through the infinite and the ephemeral.
Debut Release
Horizon of Aeons’ debut album titled Timeless Forms of Desolation is set to be released through Inverse Records in 2026. Their first single, Haunting Presence, is already available on all digital platforms, showcasing a tantalizing preview of their dark, atmospheric sound through a condensed single edit.
Line-up: Miska Lehtivuori – Vocals, Guitars Ville Pekkala – Guitars Pekka Venho – Bass Pekka Jokela – Drums
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s ASA unveil the long-overdue release of "Collective Failure" + first music video for title-track! Check it out and stay tuned for more news! Click image to watch the video
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s SARCOFAGUS return with a Historic 2010 Concert Video Premiere on YouTube! Click image to watch the video
Ads
Visionary artist KIMMO KUUSNIEMI's ANCIENT STREAMING ASSEMBLY (ASA) have released “Aurora Nuclearis”, a powerful 12-minute audiovisual experience, dedicated to the Late Keyboardist Esa Kotilainen. - Click image to watch the video
Click image to watch the video
Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 