UK-based black-gothic metal ensemble Abscence unveils their latest lyric video for the track “Under the Moon’s Glance”.
In this chapter of Abscence’s dark odyssey, “Under the Moon’s Glance” unravels a tale of longing, blood, and nocturnal reverie. Born from the union of haunting melody and raw intensity, this track dives deep into the romance and ruin of our vampiric lovers.
“Let the moonlight guide you— and may you never look away.”
The track comes from Enigma, the band’s latest concept album. Across nine epic songs, Enigma tells the tragic story of two vampire women bound by blood, devotion, and betrayal. Drawing from 90s black and gothic metal, the album layers symphonic textures, rich vocal arrangements, and immersive storytelling to create a world that is both timeless and intense.
Previous videos: “Eternal Vows Of Midnight”: Watch “Our Love Ignites”: Watch
Abscence:
Emerging from the UK underground, Abscence channels the raw power and bleak beauty of black metal, blending ferocious riffs with haunting melodies to explore despair, nature, and the shadows of existence. With Enigma, Abscence invites listeners into a world of symphonic blackened art, embracing drama, darkness, and emotional intensity in its purest form.
As a second glimpse into the vast sonic cosmos of their forthcoming 16th album, BLUT AUS NORD present second single ‘The Ordeal‘, accompanied by a striking video from Alex Moreán (AVERSIO HUMANITATIS). Characteristic of upcoming album “Ethereal Horizons“, the track traverses otherworldly dimensions using a combination of elements that have defined the inimitable band through each era: celestial leads, subtle industrial undertones, distinctive choirs and the spectral, subliminal snarl of mainman Vindsval.
Vindsval comments:
“‘The Ordeal‘ refers both to judgment — not necessarily divine — and to suffering. Any profound spiritual journey involves a form of trial; you cannot avoid that pain. Seeking to understand, to rise, to give meaning to our existence inevitably means confronting our own flaws and a certain inner anguish. But this pain is not in vain — it is essential to transformation and transcendence. Religion, and more broadly spirituality, is not torment in itself; it reflects the perpetual inner struggle between our shadows and our light.“
16th album “Ethereal Horizons” is BLUT AUS NORD fully realised: richer, deeper, grander, more enigmatic and simultaneously more human than ever. Intermeshing the earthen and the futuristic as a vessel for the dark dreamer, soaring and ascending to vivid realms. Experience the first unveiled single, ‘Shadows Breathe First,’ and its immersive visual accompaniment below.
BLUT AUS NORD‘s new album will be released November 28th on several CD/vinyl editions and digital, accompanied by a selection of new merchandise. Pre-orders are open through the label’s EU, US, and Bandcamp shops.
Alongside the new BLUT AUS NORD album, a special 2025 reissue of the band’s trailblazing 2003 Avant Black Metal masterpiece “The Work Which Transforms God” will also be made available, accompanied by new merch. This special edition will restore the album’s original artwork and features personal reflections upon the record from fellow artists, an in-depth interview with Vindsval, and a booklet/slipcase cover featuring newly-commissioned illustration by Rob Borbás (Grindesign Tattoo).
Originating in 1994 from the ashes of VLAD (who released two demos), BLUT AUS NORD are undisputable French Black Metal pioneers, always managing to progress and move forward, evolving in perpetual mutation, developing their own vision of Black Metal.
Choosing, from the start, the total opposite path of regressive bands (who copy what others have done ten years earlier and ten times better), BLUT AUS NORD eschews all the inherent clichés belonging to the genre. BLUT AUS NORD‘s Black Metal approach is a fist in the face of mainstream mediocrity, becoming more macabre and sinister through a blend of innovative musical research, subliminal mental manipulation, and an incredible haunted, nightmarish feeling based on disharmony.
BLUT AUS NORD are creators of a hallucinogenic universe, erasing all preconceived ideas of Black Metal – and extreme music in general. They redefine the rules…
Backed by their defiant and critically-acclaimed new album, Mawiza continue to serve as a guiding force for indigenous metal. Fresh off a spirited European tour with fellow Chileans Ater, the modern day Mapuche warriors recently received a new medal from the LIT Music Awards. “Mamüll Reke”, the towering single from ÜL, was named the Silver winner in the category for Metal/Hardcore Songwriting.
“We are deeply honored by this recognition” says Mawiza’s guitarist and vocalist Awka. “Our chant ÜL was born from our struggle to defend the land and the spirit that lives within it. Knowing that people from around the world have felt that pulse, the call of nature and resistance, means everything to us. Deep thanks to the judges and to everyone who keeps this newen alive”.
With its quick-fire double bass and cavernous growls, “Mamüll Reke” might sound like a world that’s on the verge of collapse. But at its core, the song is steeled by the resilience and resistance of not only the Mapuche people but also their native land. In English, the song translates to “Just Like the Tree”. Soaring above the clouds with brightly piercing flute, the enchanting chorus summons its harmonious energy with a mournful Afafan war cry.
Mamüll reke / Lhalu witxan / Afafalen / Lhayaiñ ka (Just like the tree / that dies standing / chanting the war cry / we will die too).
“This is one of the most melodic songs on ÜL“, Mawiza says. “We wanted it to bring the same energy that you carry into battle. We will die like a burning tree standing. Because nature has taught us everything we are”.
Tracklist(English Translation) 1. To Decolonize (3:38) [WATCH] 2. Hummingbird Dream (4:29) 3. Western Storm (3:50) 4. Become a Cougar (5:06) 5. Just Like The Tree (4:24) [WATCH] 6. The War of the Sky (6:13) 7. Dead of the Sun (4:08) 8. Let It Die (3:58) 9. The Last Harp Call (featuring Joe Duplantier from Gojira) (4:42) [WATCH]
Mawiza are a force of nature on ÜL. With sky-scraping riffs and earthshaking grooves, these nine chants call for the protection of Mapuche territory. Opening ceremony “Wingkawnoam” stomps to an industrial groove, but the song’s bounding rhythm mirrors the way a deer dances while eluding its predators. “History is normally written by the colonizers”, the band says. “We have to show the indigenous vision”.
Mawiza have seen the Mapuche Nation endure tremendous hardships. With its storming leads and blood-pumping chants, “Ngulutu” echoes the ancient battles between the Spanish and Mapuche by channeling the strength of the Mapocho and Maipo rivers. Half of the video for “Mamüll Reke” was filmed on Mapuche territory in southern Chile, outside the city of Valdivia, that is now controlled by two timbre companies.
But the band are steeled by the resistance of not only their Mapuche ancestors but also their land. Soaring above the clouds with brightly piercing flute, “Mamüll Reke” draws its harmonious energy from a mournful Afafan war cry. “Mamüll reke / Lhalu witxan / Afafalen / Lhayaiñ ka (Just like the tree / that dies standing / chanting the war cry / we will die too)”.
“The Mapuche are still standing”, Mawiza’s vocalist and guitarist Awka says. “You can cut us down, but if one falls, ten shall rise”.
For the album’s climactic harp-strung defense, Mawiza bring together allies from across their community. Gojira frontman Joe Duplantier joins forces with Mapuche tribesmen on “Ti Inan Paw-Pawkan”, which comes roaring down with the rushing force of a waterfall. “We wanted this song to sound like nature resisting the advancement of the city”, says the band’s drummer Txalkan. “Even when crushed by industrial pollution, nature is always pushing up from beneath the concrete”.
On ÜL, Mawiza summon ancestral spirit with modern groove metal.
“I have been working with Mawiza for several years,” says Andrés Hetzler, who filmed all three videos for ÜL. “It’s always an honor to continue our collaboration. Their message deserves a strong and powerful visual”.
“This was a profound experience”, says the band’s photographer Kata Ulloa. “I would like to thank the Mapuche community for opening their doors to me, welcoming me so warmly and allowing me to get to know their culture from the inside. I would also like to thank Mawiza for trusting my aesthetic and vision for their album cover. I deeply love the band’s honesty and character, as subtle as it is expansive”.
More info:
ÜL means “chant” in Mapuzugun. The album represents the voice of the land, the origin of feeling, the first call to connect with emotions. It is the materialization of a part of the spirit that, for a few seconds, becomes one with the wind—a force we can hear, resonate, communicate with, and return to. ÜL is Mawiza’s indigenous chant, and like smoke, it rises as a message to the skies.
Like their Mapuche ancestors, Mawiza always look back. ÜL chants to awaken the energies that have fallen asleep in the land, using the power of the great cities to resist the noise of imbalance. In this way, the album becomes another element of nature, a force defending itself, speaking in its own language to keep fighting and condemning those who continue to futilely subjugate their own strength.
With ÜL, Mawiza present themself to the world with a decolonizing and empowering mission. The album proclaims that nature possesses consciousness and spirit. Opening song “Wingkawnoam” emphasizes the importance of indigenous Mapuche thought by following dreams as precise guides for one’s path in life.
“Pinhza ñi pewma” is a dream that Mawiza’s vocalist Awka had during a time when hummingbirds were nowhere to be seen. Their chant was absent and the chilco plant was disappearing. In Awka’s dream, four hummingbirds came to feed on the blood from his fingertips, as if it were nectar flowing from the flowers of the chilco.
ÜL pays tribute to nature and Mawiza’s ancestors. “Ngulutu” recalls ancient battles between the Mapuche and the Spanish in Santiago, Chile. “Mamüll Reke”, “Wenu Weychan”, “Lhan Antü”, and “Kalli Lhayay” are filled with rhythms and sounds reminiscent of the most hermetic rituals of the Mapuche people. They were used by shamans to induce trance and heal the sick, to communicate with and greet the spirits of the mountains.
Closing song “Ti Inan Paw-pawkan” features chants from members of Mawiza’s indigenous community, as well as Gojira frontman Joe Duplantier. It is here, during the album’s finale, that the band stake their claim as both indigenous and urban. The song acknowledges the mission entrusted to Mawiza by Mapuche authorities and by the land itself: to raise awareness about balance on Earth in an empowered way and to call for greater attentiveness to Mapuche territory. Otherwise, the consequences will be dire.
Surprises are rare and wonderful. When music decides to just show up and strut and rock and roll and stomp with swagger, swing and raw energy all over you, that’s the rarest surprise and Michael Monroe does not disappoint with his brand new studio album, Outerstellar, set for release via Silver Lining Music on February 20th 2026.
The first video and single taken from Outerstellar, ‘Rockin’ Horse’ is out now and can be watched/streamed at this location – video by Leigh Brooks.
“Rockin’ Horse is a cool, rockin’ song that we made a great fun video for with the fantastic director Leigh Brooks,” comments Michael Monroe. “We got into different characters on the so called ‘Waking Up With Michael Monroe’ TV morning show with me as the host. And it’s the first time ever you can see me without make up(!). Great fun and good times. Hope you enjoy it!”
‘What ‘genre’ is Michael Monroe?’ Oh, go and throw yourself back into the shoebox you restrict yourself to if you need a genre… How about ‘sweet smelling leathery sweat wrapped in one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll voices?’ How about ‘harmonies and vibes swimming in silk scarves and lounging on a beaten sofa in leather pants, with the AM hours alive and the melodies so, so intoxicating?’ And how about ‘attitude! Which screams carefree not carelessness, confidence not arrogance, a cocksure sense of self-bathed in the sheer joy of playing the religious experience of real rock ‘n’ roll.’
From loud crashing guitars to harmonicas, to gorgeous acoustic moments, you’ll sing, you’ll dance, you’ll shiver, you’ll shake, and you’ll smell this wonderful exhilarating record in all its weathered biker jacket incense-coated glory and you’ll also realize that whatever the hell is going on in the world right now, when you put this album on, it’s an instant escape to carefree days and an emancipation from worries, fears and woes.
It is EXACTLY what rock ‘n’ roll in its truest sense is meant to be, and Michael Monroe is handing you permission to get lost in the love of it. In fact, just stop reading this, get off your ‘Rockin’ Horse’ and go see Michael Monroe on tour at your first opportunity! In support of the release of Outerstellar, Michael Monroe and band will embark on a UK co-headline tour with Buckcherry, kicking off in Southampton on February 24th. For a full list of upcoming shows and tickets visit: michaelmonroe.com – more dates to be announced.
2025: 24 Nov Rock Beyond Rock Vol. 2, Osaka (JP) 25 Nov EX THEATER ROPPONGI, Minato City (JP)
2026: 24 Feb The 1865, Southampton (UK) 25 Feb O2 Ritz, Manchester (UK) 27 Feb KK’s Steel Mill, Wolverhampton (UK) 28 Feb Northumbria Institute, Newcastle (UK) 1 Mar SWG3, Glagsgow (UK) 3 Mar Tramshed, Cardiff (UK) 4 Mar The Foundry, Torquay (UK) 6 Mar Rock City, Nottingham (UK) 7 Mar O2 Forum, London (UK) 8 Mar Chalk, Brighton (UK) 3-7 Apr Underground Garage Cruise, Miami (US) to Cozumel (MX)
Outerstellar will be available on Limited Edition 12” White Viny, 12” Turquoise Vinyl, 12” Black Vinyl, CD Digipak, Digital Download, Streaming and special D2C bundles. Available to pre-order now at this location
Outerstellar Track Listing:
Rockin’ Horse
Shinola
Black Cadillac
When the Apocalypse Comes
Painless
Newtro Bombs
Disconnected
Precious
Pushin’ Me Back
Glitter & Dust
Rode To Ruin
One More Sunrise
ROCKIN’ HORSE Lyrics:
All of your imitation soaking me like inundation You never swallow pride it’s all rotten on your insides It’s only rock and roll and I don’t like it, no I love it Haters say what you will and you best believe I’ll rise above it
Yeah, I look this way when I wake up, wake up Shut the fuck up about the makeup, makeup Too many people rockin’ the mic who should be in the wings I never gave up on myself I knew I’d always have to sing
Ain’t gonna give you what you want I’m gonna give you what you need You need a shockin’, a head-knockin’ Get offa your rockin’ horse Get off!
Hey! You don’t get it! When I’m talking it goes in one ear and out the other Brother, sister listen mister you can hear whatcha want Not fakin’ it, life gets you dirty But ya take it on the chin ‘cause you live in the city
We only come out for the nighttime vampires Sucking all the goodness from the moon eternal youth fire Overflowing passion and compassion, not just ninja fashion Come along people ‘cause I got a lot I will be smashin’
Ain’t gonna give you what you want I’m gonna give you what you need You need a clockin’, a good mockin’ Get offa your rockin’ horse
Some punks feel nothing so what is this I’m seeing blood red after your Judas kiss Life’s tough and all is fair in peace and hate So don’t give me that love ‘n light You never take a breath to meditate
Ain’t gonna give you what you want I’m gonna give you what you need Ya big talkin’, keep walkin’ Get offa your rockin’ horse Sucka!
Band Line-Up: Michael Monroe – Lead vocals, Harmonica Steve Conte – Guitars, Vocals Rich Jones – Guitars, Vocals Karl Rockfist – Drums Sami Yaffa – Bass, Vocals
German hard rock veterans MAD MAX proudly open a new chapter in their 45-year legacy with the announcement of their new lead singer Alan Clark from Durham, UK – also known from the band DARK HEART! Alan’s authentic British rock spirit and commanding melodic voice bring fresh energy to the band as they prepare for an exciting run of releases leading into their 45th anniversary in 2026.
“I feel super excited and honoured to be part of the Mad Max legacy, looking forward to getting started on the new album and playing a lot of shows with the guys… keep believing and keep the faith!” Alan Clark comments.
MAD MAX founding member Jürgen Breforth adds: “When I founded Mad Max in 1981 all my idols and influences came from the UK like Def Leppard, Judas Priest, Status Quo or Iron Maiden. So it was always my dream to have a native speaker from the UK in the band but it never happened until now. I am excited to celebrate Mad Max’s 45th anniversary with Alan and to record the new studio album with him.”
Before entering the next era, MAD MAX are looking back where it all began: on November 28th, 2025, the band will re-release their legendary debut recordings – the EP In Concert (1981) and the groundbreaking full-length Heavy Metal (1982) – both newly remastered by Rolf Munkes (Crematory, etc.) and available on CD, LP, and digital via ROAR – A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music.
The Heavy Metalreissue also includes unreleased photo material, detailed liner notes, and exclusive insights into the band’s early days, along with a special MAD MAX comic drawn by the acclaimed Latin American artist Arturo Said.
Looking ahead, 2026 will see the release of the brand-new studio album Stories Of Destiny via ROAR. This monumental record resurrects extraordinary songs that had remained in the shadows for decades – now reimagined and brought to life by Breforth and the current line-up featuring new singer Alan Clark.
Adding to the excitement, Crush Concerts will now handle all national and international concert and festival bookings for MAD MAX, ensuring the band’s global return to the stage in style.
Fans can expect the ultimate MAD MAX experience: The legendaryHeavy Metalreissue this November, the much-awaited new studio offering Stories Of Destinyin 2026, and a full touring schedule alongside their powerful new frontman. The legacy continues – stronger than ever!
Finnish pagan metal band Kaamos Warriors is set to release their yet untitled fifth studio album later in 2026 via Inverse Records. The second single ‘Nightless Night’ is released today and music video of the track is available below.
The guitarist Jani Moilanen comments: “The new single “Nightless Night” continues the exploration into the Finnish paganism with ethereal and melodic approach. It is the second song of the upcoming album following the opening track “Seita”, which was released earlier this year.”
The Finnish Pagan metal band Kaamos Warriors was formed in 2018 by Jani Moilanen (guitars) and Mikko Ojala (vocals, guitars). Their inspiration for the musical athmosphere is derived from the the beauty and the harshness of the Northern nature. The roots of the band rely heavily on the wilderness of the North. Current line-up includes also Inka Ojala (shamandrum) and Marjo Moilanen (bass guitar). Their presence in the band has further expanded the whole audiovisual atmosphere of the Finnish paganism. Jani, Mikko and Inka have also being playing together in the melodic metal band Dark The Suns. The former bass player for the Kaamos Wariors (played bass in the previous two albums) Jyri Moilanen is currently having a break from playing in the band. All the musical releases of the band have been released via Inverse Records.
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
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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 ) 