American death metallers MALEFIC THRONE comprising guitarist Gene Palubicki (Angelcorpse, Perdition Temple), vocalist & bassist Steve Tucker (Morbid Angel) and drummer John Longstreth (Origin, Hate Eternal, ex-Angelcorpse), premiere their first ever music video for the track “When our Shadows Align”, lifted from the album “The Conquering Darkness”, out now on Agonia Records.
The trio was put together by Palubicki in 2020, after initially having met at Morrisound in 1997, where both Angelcorpse and Morbid Angel were recording their own albums side to side. “This bands roots can be traced all the way back to the mid 90s when Gene, Steve, and I first met at Morrisound studios,” John Longstreth comments. “It’s an amazing feeling to see those old conversations and hang outs develop into a true celebration of blistering infernal death metal. I have no doubt that this union will be absolutely crushing.” Palubicki stresses out that the music produced by MALEFIC THRONE has the imprint of all three members very present in every moment of the songs. The synthesis of the three members through delivery and writing is what makes band its own special entity, with an an increased dynamic within the form of death metal they generate.
“The Conquering Darkness”, the band’s debut album released in November 2025 on Agonia Records, and recently re-issued on vinyl, was recorded, mixed and mastered at Menegroth The Thousand Caves (Gorguts, Origin, Atheist) with Colin Marston. Drummer John Longstreth hints at the outcome as extremely brutal and infernal nuclear death metal. Its cover artwork was painted by renowned artist Daniele Valeriani (Dark Funeral, Mayhem). Christophe Szpajdel (Emperor, Moonspell) crafted the band’s logo.
Line-up: Gene Palubucki – guitars Steve Tucker – vocals and bass John Longstreth – drums
Swedish extreme metal architects MESHUGGAH announce the release of newly remastered anniversary editions of two of the band’s most important works: Destroy Erase Improve: 30th Anniversary Edition and Catch Thirtythree: 20th Anniversary Edition. Both titles will be available on vinyl, CD digipack, and digitally, featuring the original album artwork and newly remastered audio. Both editions will be released on July 24th, 2026 via Reigning Phoenix Music.
The releases follow their limited Record Store Day editions, which arrived this April with alternate/reimagined cover art. For these wider anniversary editions, MESHUGGAH return both albums to their original visual identities while preserving the enhanced, remastered sound created for this milestone campaign.
Originally released in 1995, Destroy Erase Improve marked a decisive turning point not only for MESHUGGAH, but for the future of heavy music itself. The album introduced a sharpened and unmistakable version of the band’s evolving language: machine-like rhythmic precision, dissonant riff architecture, jazz-fusion flashes, and a level of technical control that would become foundational to progressive, extreme, math, and djent-adjacent metal in the decades that followed. Widely regarded as one of the defining metal albums of the 1990s, Destroy Erase Improve remains a blueprint for the sound MESHUGGAH would make entirely their own.
To accompany Destroy Erase Improve: 30th Anniversary Edition, the remastered single “Future Breed Machine” has been released, spotlighting one of the album’s most iconic and enduring tracks. Stream “Future Breed Machine”
A decade later, MESHUGGAH pushed their vision even further with Catch Thirtythree. Released in 2005, the album stands as one of the band’s most singular statements: a continuous 47-minute composition divided into 13 movements, built around hypnotic repetition, shifting rhythmic illusions, crushing eight-string guitar work, and an atmosphere that remains uniquely immersive within the band’s catalog. Self-produced by MESHUGGAH, Catch Thirtythree also marked the band’s only full-length album built with programmed drums, using Toontrack’s Drumkit From Hell technology as part of its stark, futuristic design.
In celebration of Catch Thirtythree: 20th Anniversary Edition, the remastered track “Shed” has been released on all streaming platforms. Stream “Shed”
Both anniversary editions reaffirm the lasting impact of MESHUGGAH’s work across generations of heavy music. From the genre-redefining force of Destroy Erase Improve to the monolithic conceptual scope of Catch Thirtythree, these remastered releases offer longtime followers and new listeners alike the chance to experience two essential chapters in the band’s history with renewed clarity and weight.
Destroy Erase Improve: 30th Anniversary Edition and Catch Thirtythree: 20th Anniversary Edition will be available on vinyl, CD digipack, and digital formats on July 24th.
About MESHUGGAH:
Formed in Umeå, Sweden in 1987, MESHUGGAH have spent more than three decades redefining the outer limits of heavy music. Known for their groundbreaking use of complex polyrhythms, down-tuned guitars, dissonant atmospheres, and surgically precise execution, the band has become one of the most influential forces in extreme and progressive metal.
Across their catalog, MESHUGGAH have continually pushed their sound forward, from the technical thrash foundations of their earliest work to the genre-altering breakthroughs of Destroy Erase Improve, Chaosphere, Nothing, Catch Thirtythree, obZen, and beyond. Their music has had a profound impact on modern metal, inspiring generations of artists and helping shape the rhythmic vocabulary later associated with the djent movement, while remaining unmistakably singular in vision and execution.
Rather than following trends, MESHUGGAH have built an entire language of their own: mechanical yet human, cerebral yet crushing, and as hypnotic as it is devastating. With a reputation for uncompromising innovation and formidable live performances, MESHUGGAH continue to stand as one of the most original, challenging, and revered bands in heavy music.
70000TONS OF METAL, The Original, The World’s Biggest Heavy Metal Cruise, proudly announces the next edition of its legendary voyage: 70000TONS OF METAL 2027 will set sail from Miami, Florida to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic and back, from January 14 through January 18, 2027.
Additional details, including ship information, sales dates, lineup announcements, and onboard experiences, will be revealed in the coming months. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned by visiting http://www.70000tons.com and following @70000tons across all official social media channels.
After another unforgettable chapter of Heavy Metal history on the High Seas, the iconic festival-at-sea is preparing to welcome Sailors from around the globe once again for five days of Heavy Metal, Caribbean adventure, and the unparalleled camaraderie that has defined 70000TONS OF METAL since its inaugural voyage. As always, the journey will unite metalheads from every corner of the world for the ultimate onboard experience: 60 bands, 120+ live performances, exclusive artist activities, meet-and-greets, and a floating community where fans and artists share the same decks, stages, restaurants, bars, and unforgettable moments.
For the 2027 edition, Sailors will travel from the iconic PortMiami to the sun-soaked northern coast of the Dominican Republic, where Puerto Plata awaits with a vibrant tapestry of Caribbean scenery, historic charm, local culture, and unforgettable shore-side experiences. Known as one of the Dominican Republic’s most beloved destinations, Puerto Plata offers a striking coastal backdrop framed by mountains, a bustling oceanfront Malecón, colorful shops, and elegant 19th-century Victorian architecture.
During the day in port, Sailors will have the opportunity to explore one of the Caribbean’s most distinctive destinations before returning on board for another evening of Heavy Metal on the High Seas. From panoramic mountain views to golden beaches, lively local culture, and world-renowned amber, Puerto Plata offers a powerful contrast to the intensity of the onboard festival: the perfect Caribbean interlude between late-night shows, artist-hosted events, and round-the-clock entertainment.
Among Puerto Plata’s highlights is Mount Isabel de Torres, rising nearly 800 meters above sea level and crowned by its towering Christ statue. Visitors can take a scenic cable car ride to the summit, explore lush botanical gardens, or enjoy sweeping views over the coastline and city below. Sailors looking for beach time can head toward Sosúa Beach, known for its soft sand, clear waters, and opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax by the Caribbean Sea.
Those interested in culture and history can explore Parque Independencia, also known as Parque Central, surrounded by royal palms and Victorian architecture, or visit Casa de Cultura, a three-story Victorian house that serves as a hub for local art, exhibitions, books, and creative expression. Puerto Plata is also famous for producing some of the world’s clearest amber, giving visitors the chance to browse local shops and bring home a unique piece of Dominican craftsmanship.
The destination also offers a taste of Dominican flavors, from “La Bandera Dominicana” — a traditional plate of rice, beans, meat or fish, salad, and fried sweet plantains — to pica pollo and mamajuana, one of the country’s most recognized local drinks. Whether Sailors choose mountain views, beach time, cultural exploration, local cuisine, or simply a few hours ashore before returning to the madness on board, Puerto Plata is set to become a memorable part of the 70000TONS OF METAL 2027 voyage.
With this announcement, 70000TONS OF METAL continues its tradition of combining the world’s most unique Heavy Metal festival experience with extraordinary Caribbean destinations. More than a cruise, more than a festival, and far beyond a standard vacation, 70000TONS OF METAL remains a one-of-a-kind gathering where metalheads from around the world come together as The United Nations Of Heavy Metal At Sea.
70000TONS OF METAL is The Original, The World’s Biggest Heavy Metal Cruise.
With ten consecutive sellouts since the inaugural voyage in 2011, this extraordinary and unique floating festival now sails onboard some of the largest luxury passenger vessels in the world. Featuring 60 Heavy Metal bands from around the globe performing across four stages, 70000TONS OF METAL is home to The World’s Biggest Open Air Stage Structure to Ever Sail the Open Seas.
Guests can enjoy the Heavy Metal festival experience of a lifetime with all the benefits that a cruise has to offer: complimentary fine dining, bars that never close, 24-hour room service, as well as the ship’s many amenities.
All 60 bands onboard play twice — and there are four concert locations on board: a concert hall, the Royal Theater, stands tall with five levels. The Star Lounge offers a more personal and local club-like ambiance. Discover the arena-like vibes at Studio B, the third indoor stage available. Lastly, yet undoubtedly the most remarkable, is the Pool Deck Stage: The World’s Biggest Open Air Stage Structure to Ever Sail the Open Seas. This immense stage is accompanied by bars, pools, and even hot tubs that are integrated into the stage itself, allowing guests to indulge in the unique experience of watching their favorite metal bands while soaking in a hot tub.
This 4-day Heavy Metal Music Festival and Caribbean vacation offers 3000 metalheads the amazing opportunity to mingle side-by-side with all of the bands onboard. With no VIP areas it truly is like everyone has a backstage pass. Not only do guests have unrestricted festival access to 120+ live performances — all bands play twice — every ticket also includes meet & greets with each band, intimate masterclasses with select musicians, world live premieres, exclusive listening sessions of unreleased material, and special artist events. Guests also have full access to the “Jamming in International Waters” All Star Jam — a one-of-a-kind concert featuring a host of musical virtuosos performing classic metal songs together on stage.
Sailors also have the special opportunity to explore a Caribbean dream destination with their favorite band members on an Artist Escorted Shore Excursion, another 70000TONS OF METAL exclusive.
For more details about 70000TONS OF METAL 2027, including FAQs, vessel amenities and contact information, please visit 70000tons.com.
Maryland-based metalcore outfit Omen//Skye have released their powerful new single and music video, “Cry the White Lie.” Blending crushing heaviness, cinematic atmosphere, and emotionally driven songwriting, the track showcases the band’s signature balance of intricate riffs, melodic hooks, and raw intensity.
“Cry the White Lie” explores the tension between self-deception and accountability, diving into the quiet lies people tell themselves to justify who they’ve become, the reality of the world around them, and the inevitable breaking point where those illusions begin to collapse.
“Crying out against the lies we’re told day after day. No longer will we remain complacent,” the band shares about the track.
Drawing influence from both classic and modern metalcore while maintaining a distinct identity of their own, Omen//Skye continue building momentum through high-impact live performances and a growing catalog of emotionally charged releases. “Cry the White Lie” further cements the band’s ability to fuse cinematic soundscapes with aggressive, hook-driven songwriting that resonates long after the song ends.
Mixed and mastered by Drew Licurgo and Six:Eight Audio, the single delivers a polished yet punishing sound that highlights the band’s dynamic approach to modern heavy music. The release is distributed via Arson Theory and managed by Core Collective Talent Agency.
Raivo Jackson’s “Better Not” is a delightfully confident, comforting, and major-key-leaning traditional country song. It takes the listener to the counter of a Texas Dixie bar, where a weathered cowboy reflects on his relationship with a glass of whiskey in hand, a beer for company.
”Better Not” is the fourth track on side A of Raivo Jackson’s debut album Tangled Up in Roots, and it deserved its release as a single.
The song captures a middle-aged man’s longing for an equal relationship and independence. “Better Not” is something anyone navigating a relationship should listen to and take to heart.
The interplay between Jussi Linkola’s lap steel guitar and harmonica is a standout feature of the track, and Oona Kavasto’s strong backing vocals add the presence of the other side of the relationship to the storytelling song.
“My life has looked for me for half a century / And I know my moral code without you judging me.” Every word rings true.
The cover painting for the “Better Not” single is a work by artist Tuukka Peltonen, with cover layout by Matti Reivi.
Previously released singles from Tangled Up in Roots include ”Fire Song Revisited,” ”Babes in the Woods,” and ”Swimming Under Ice”.
VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) look beyond the glamour and allure of the neon-lights in the new single release, “Monsters!”. Beneath the luxury façade, something sinister awaits in V.B.O.‘s fusion of retro-futuristic synths and heavy music. Comprised of Francesco Cavalieri (WIND ROSE) and Simone Giusti, a wizard of electronics and groove-laden basslines, Italy’s V.B.O. is preparing to unveil the forthcoming full length, Vice Business Only, on July 24, 2026, via Reigning Phoenix Music.
“‘Monsters’ dives into the darker side of modern society, exposing the vices we often choose to ignore or disguise.” Reveals frontman Francesco Cavalieri. “In true VBO style, the video transforms these flaws into literal monsters, turning hidden truths into striking visual metaphors. Beneath the neon lights and cinematic aesthetic lies a deeper message; like a reflection of a world that often masks its imperfections behind glamour. Too excessive? No. It’s VBO baby.”
V.B.O.‘s characteristic catchy hooks and energized electronics are infused with a shadowy touch in “Monsters!”. Explosive beats see “Monsters!” spark into life, before heavy rhythmic stabs and melodic guitar riffs emerge beneath an array of warm analogue synth textures. The memorable chorus lyric “we are monsters” injects an anthemic feel while the track’s breakdown passage takes a darker turn.
Filmed at Vacuum Club, Milan, V.B.O. lift the veil on the bloodthirsty monsters that hide in plain sight across the electric urban nightlife.
Vice Business Only was recorded at LSD-Studios (Lübeck, Germany), produced, mixed and mastered by Lasse Lammert. Photography is by Onofrio Petronella and Tommaso Barletta, with the album cover artwork design by V.B.O.
Vice Business Only Tracklist: 1. VBO x Vesti la Giubba 2. Bring on the Fire 3. Waiting for the Dawn 4. Lovers on the Run 5. Surrendered 6. Fire Fire 7. Shadow of Your Kiss 8. Monsters! 9. The Wild Boys
About V.B.O.:
VICE BUSINESS ONLY (V.B.O.) is a musical project founded in 2023 by Francesco Cavalieri, best known as the frontman of the power metal band WIND ROSE, together with electronic music producer Simone Giusti. The project marks a bold artistic shift for Cavalieri, moving from fantasy-driven metal into a modern, urban, and cinematic soundscape.
The band’s lineup is completed by Claudio Falconcini (guitar), Federico Meranda (keyboards), and Angelo Carmignani (drums), combining diverse musical backgrounds into a cohesive identity.
V.B.O. blends retro-futuristic synthwave with rock and metal, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and electrifyingly modern. Inspired by Depeche Mode, Tears for Fears, Daft Punk, and Justice, the band combines analog-style synths, driving rhythms, and powerful vocals into a polished, immersive experience.
At the core of V.B.O. lies a neon-drenched vision of excess, elegance, and cinematic nightlife—echoing the glamour and danger of cities like Miami. Themes of power, luxury, passion, and excess define the project, presenting the band almost as a stylized gang where image and attitude are as essential as the music.
The band made its live debut in January 2026 at the 70000 Tons of Metal festival in the United States, stepping onto one of the world’s most recognized international stages.
Since its inception, V.B.O. has positioned itself as a distinctive force in contemporary music, merging rock and metal energy with electronic groove and texture. More than a band, Vice Business Only delivers a complete audiovisual experience—a high-stakes journey through a retro-futuristic universe where the rhythm never slows and the attitude is larger than life.
THE ROCK ALCHEMIST – Italian Rock Band from Turin with a strong sonic identity that blends modern rock with progressive, hard, alternative, and pop elements!
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s SARCOFAGUS return with a Historic 2010 Concert Video Premiere on YouTube! Click image to watch the video
Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 