BLIND WATCHMAKER is a solo heavy metal project that began in 2024 by musician/ songwriter Ray Howland, and originates from Brooklyn, Michigan, USA.
While the core of the music is grounded in thrash, BLIND WATCHMAKER is also influenced by a variety of other metal sub-genres, including black metal, cosmic metal, and death metal.
Watch the full album visualizer for Behold the Event Horizon:
BLIND WATCHMAKER is: Ray Howland – guitars, bass, vocals, keyboards, and drum programmer.
BLIND WATCHMAKER discography includes: Atheos (2024) Shadows Over Elysium (2025) The November Witch (Single, 2025) Behold the Event Horizon (2026)
Italian progressive death metal stalwarts FATE UNBURIED return today with a brand new single, “Deep Rest”. The track is included in their upcoming album “Neraspeme”, set for release on October 16th, 2026 via Time To Kill Records.
The band commented:
“‘Deep Rest’ reflects a moment of isolation taken to confront everything built for the outside world rather than for oneself. The track moves through the weight of expectations, criticism, and the constant attempt to become someone shaped by other people’s needs instead of personal truth. What first feels like collapse slowly reveals itself as a necessary interruption, a moment of disconnection to strip away external pressure and rediscover identity beneath it. Destruction and renewal coexist, turning exhaustion into the possibility of becoming something real again”.
With “Neraspeme”, the band continue to refine a progressive death metal language built on intricate arrangements, emotional depth and a strong atmospheric core, positioning the album as their most complete and multifaceted statement to date.
Tracklist:
01. Hope. 02. Expecting Nothing 03. Drain 04. Not Allowed 05. The Descent 06. Deep Rest 07. Seed, Feed, Keep 08. Seeking Perfect Harmony 09. Garden 10. A Pragmatic Way Out 11. Nowhere, After All 12. The Gift
“Neraspeme” is a sonic journey into the core of a relationship in decay. A 12-track concept album, each song is designed to unsettle, surprise, and relentlessly pull the listener forward, never allowing a moment of rest.
The album is defined by sharp, powerful riffs that are often unexpectedly catchy, lodging themselves in the listener’s mind while retaining a fierce, unyielding aggression. The band skillfully weaves in progressive elements through sudden tempo shifts, intricate instrumental passages, and moments of eerily suspended atmosphere, balanced by sections driven by a strong, groove-oriented drum performance.
On a thematic level, “Neraspeme” traces the full emotional cycle of a relationship approaching its end. The tracks unfold like chapters of an inner collapse, moving from blinding anger to disoriented madness, and finally to the album’s title concept: a warped, dark form of hope that offers no redemption and ultimately dissolves like a mirage.
For fans of: Between The Buried And Me, Cynic, Sadist, Alkaloid, Misery Signals
Line-up:
Riccardo Babbolin – Vocals, Guitar Francesco Garatti – Guitar Davide Piccolo – Bass Giorgio Piva – Drums
Acclaimed rockers JOHN DIVA & THE ROCKETS OF LOVE have unleashed today their new single “S.M.I.L.E.”, along with an official visualizer, ahead of the upcoming new album, “Your Favorite Drug”, out October 16, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
The band commented: “Summer starts now – and John Diva demands “Good Times Just With a S.M.I.L.E.” The single kicks the door wide open for the summer we’ve all been waiting far too long for. “S.M.I.L.E.” is the kind of song you blast first thing in the morning – loud and proud, packed with sunshine and a fistful of feel-good attitude – whether you’re heading to the beach or celebrating the last day of school before summer break.”
“Fueled by a massive chorus, irresistible hooks and lush Beach Boys-inspired backing vocals, “S.M.I.L.E.” lifts you up with an explosion of positive energy that will have you grinning and singing along from the very first listen. It’s the ultimate summer anthem, made for open roads, rooftop parties and endless nights under blue skies”, they continued. “Part rock ’n’ roll manifesto, part feel-good rollercoaster, “S.M.I.L.E.” proves that life’s too short to play it safe. So crank it up, flash those pearly whites and remember, good times are only a S.M.I.L.E. away.”
John Diva & The Rockets of Love make a triumphant return with their explosive new album “Your Favorite Drug”. Bursting with attitude, swagger, and unapologetic energy, the band delivers a full-throttle hard rock experience that feels both timeless and electrifyingly fresh.
The band commented: “We wanted to achieve absolute focus and intensity – and in the production, working together with Hannes, to be extremely efficient. What sounds like hard work (which it was) – this sharpening of focus – brought us a lot of joy. It can be fun to keep hammering away at a raw diamond until it sparkles and shines. This time, there’s less emphasis on experimentation (like on “American Amadeus” for example) – though the album is still experimental in the sense that everything unnecessary has been stripped away”.
John Diva added: “When I think about making this album, there’s a very personal layer to it. We recorded in southern Germany, where my family is from, and I stayed with relatives during the sessions. It brought back a lot of great memories, so I went into the studio with a double sense of joy – giving everything to the record while reconnecting with my roots”.
“Your Favorite Drug” was a trip in the cleanest sense – we stayed completely sober, but worked in a real frenzy. Writing, recording, and finishing the album happened fast, and by the fourth record you know exactly what you want – and how to get it. There’s a lot of spontaneity in it too: the title track came together in just a few hours, and songs like “Bigger Than America” evolved into something bigger and bolder than we first imagined”, he continued.
Packed with massive hooks, soaring choruses, and razor-sharp riffs, “Your Favorite Drug” showcases the band at the peak of their songwriting power. Standout tracks like “Bigger Than America” and “The Devil’s Got My Back” emerge as true anthems, destined to ignite stages and thrill every hard rock fan with their infectious energy and sing-along choruses.
Produced by Hannes Braun, the album captures a polished yet gritty sound that perfectly amplifies the band’s larger-than-life personality. This is more than a comeback – it’s a statement. John Diva & The Rockets of Love are back, louder, bolder, and more addictive than ever.
One of the best hard rock releases of the year!
“Your Favorite Drug” Tracklist:
1. The Devil’s Got My Back 2. Bigger Than America 3. No Mercy For The Teenage Heart 4. Lamborghina 5. Favorite Drug 6. S.M.I.L.E. 7. Love Is Cold 8. Girls In Overdrive 9. Spectacular 10. Soundtrack Of My Life
Line Up: John Diva Snake Rocket Remmie Martin Marcus Coolman jr. C.J. Stevens
Having assembled one of the most ambitious gatherings of heavy metal royalty ever gathered for a single recording project, William Shatner is now exploring the possibility of taking his acclaimed Heavy Metal album to the stage for a live event unlike anything audiences have seen before.
Part concert, part theatrical experience, and part celebration of heavy metal’s enduring power and legacy, the proposed production would transform Shatner’s star-studded recording project into an immersive live spectacle combining legendary musicians, cinematic visuals, storytelling, and the larger-than-life charisma that has made Shatner a global icon for more than six decades.
Adding fuel to the growing excitement surrounding the project is the recent participation of Mikkey Dee, the legendary drummer who served as the driving force and rhythmic pulse of Motörhead for more than 35 years before joining Scorpions. Dee recently completed drum tracks for Shatner’s explosive version of the Judas Priest classic “Living After Midnight,” bringing his trademark thunder and precision to the album.
”I needed pounding beats to make the music feel the way I feel it,” says William Shatner. “The drums drive the emotion. They create the urgency, the excitement, the danger. Heavy metal should hit you in the chest and move your soul at the same time.”
Other featured drummers on the project include Dave Lombardo (Slayer, The Misfits), Chris Adler (Megadeth), Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath), Carmine Appice (Vanilla Fudge, Cactus), Kenny Aronoff (Steve Vai), Simon Wright (AC/DC, UFO), Bobby Rondinelli (Blue Öyster Cult, Quiet Riot), Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Joe Lynn Turner), Steve Zing (Danzig, Samhain, Mourning Noise), and Fred Aching (Kings of Thrash, Nuclear Messiah, Fraxures).
The possibility of a live production has become increasingly compelling as the recordings continue to exceed expectations. Early discussions envision a unique multimedia event where Shatner’s dramatic storytelling and unmistakable voice are paired with the raw power of a live metal band, massive visual production, and a celebration of the songs and artists that helped shape heavy music.
Should the production move forward, it promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime event—an unforgettable collision of heavy metal power, theatrical imagination, and the boundless creative spirit of William Shatner.
Alternative heavy artist Sorry X will release her highly anticipated debut album, EXES, on July 24 via SBG Records. The record marks a defining moment in the artist’s evolution, capturing both personal transformation and creative discovery.
Written during a period of intense heartbreak and self-reflection, EXESchronicles the emotional aftermath of lost relationships while showcasing the sound that would ultimately define Sorry X’s place within the heavy music landscape. Blending raw vulnerability with crushing intensity, the album serves as both a deeply personal statement and a bold artistic arrival.
“This album was critical in helping me find my sound,” says Alexa Graves of Sorry X. “It was written through intense heartbreak and the growth that followed, but it was also the record that helped me find my place within heavy music. It’s a Sorry X origin story.”
In support of the release, Sorry X will join The Art of Love & Power Tour beginning July 16 in Greensboro, North Carolina at Hangar 1819, alongside Of Virtue and Savage Hands. The tour will introduce audiences across the country to the artist’s energetic live performance and emotionally charged songs ahead of the album’s release.
Sorry X is an emerging force from Phoenix, Arizona, led by vocalist and songwriter Alexa Graves. In a remarkably short time, the project has amassed more than 18 million independent streams and over 4 million views across TikTok and Instagram, building a rapidly growing audience through authentic storytelling and a fresh perspective on modern rock music.
Already being championed as “the next generation of Active Rock,”Sorry X is bringing a youthful and contemporary edge to the genre. The project is managed by Gary Avila, whose career includes work with bands such as Papa Roach, while the visual identity has been shaped by creative talent Shan Dan, known for work with Volbeat and Greta Van Fleet.
Produced by Billboard-charting producer Hiram Hernandez and Shea Moore, with co-writing from Tobin Esperance (of Papa Roach), “EXESrepresents the culmination of Alexa’s artistic growth and the clearest statement yet of where Sorry X is headed. Throughout the album, themes of loss, resilience, identity, and self-discovery are woven into a powerful collection of songs that balance vulnerability with strength.
With EXES, Sorry X delivers her most authentic and fully realized work to date, a record born from heartbreak but ultimately defined by empowerment, evolution, and finding one’s voice.
EXES will be available on all major streaming platforms on July 24 via SBG Records.
The Art of Love & Power Tour: July 16 – Greensboro, NC – Hangar 1819 July 17 – Orlando, FL – Conduit July 18 – Atlanta, GA – The Masquerade (Purgatory) July 20 – Dallas, TX – Three Links July 21 – San Antonio, TX – Paper Tiger July 23 – Phoenix, AZ – Rebel Lounge July 24 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues (Parish) July 25 – Sacramento, CA – Starlet Room July 27 – Seattle, WA – El Corazon July 28 – Portland, OR – Hawthorne July 30 – Salt Lake City, UT – Urban Lounge August 1 – Denver, CO – Marquis August 2 – Colorado Springs, CO – Black Sheep August 4 – St Louis, MO – The Duck Room August 5 – Minneapolis, MN – Amsterdam August 6 – Milwaukee, WI – X-Ray Arcade August 7 – Chicago, IL – Reggie’s August 8 – Detroit, MI – Sanctuary August 9 – Columbus, OH – Ace of Cups August 11 – Buffalo, NY – Rec Room August 13 – Hartford, CT – Webster Underground August 14 – Worcester, MA – Palladium Upstairs August 15 – Philadelphia, PA – The Foundry August 16 – Richmond, VA – Canal Club August 18 – Baltimore, MD – Ottobar August 19 – Pittsburgh, PA – Preserving Underground August 21 – Nashville, TN – The End
Vancouver traditional heavy‑metal torchbearers Iron Kingdom have released a brand‑new behind‑the‑scenes mini‑documentary offering fans an inside look at the making of their sixth studio album, “Shadows and Dust,” released June 6, 2026. The short film captures the band speaking of the recording process and pushing themselves creatively as they crafted what they describe as one of their darkest and most emotionally charged records to date. The documentary highlights the group’s jam‑oriented writing style, their collaborative approach, and the personal inspirations behind the album’s themes of death, impermanence, hardship, and resilience. “Shadows and Dust” marks a significant evolution for Iron Kingdom. While rooted firmly in the classic heavy‑metal tradition they’ve championed since 2011, the album explores heavier emotional territory.
“The album explores a dark realm of topics, from death, hardship, and the lowest points of human emotion, balanced by music that offers hope and the will to fight on,” says bassist and lyricist Leighton Holmes. Across its 10 new tracks and 48‑minute runtime, the album blends NWOBHM spirit, melodic storytelling, and the band’s signature twin‑guitar attack. Songs draw inspiration from history, mythology, literature, and personal reflection, ranging from the Battle of Gdansk (“Defenders”) to Malazan‑inspired fantasy (“Deadhouse Gates,” “Blood and Steel”) to philosophical meditations on time, compassion, and purpose. The mini‑doc showcases how these ideas took shape in the rehearsal room, where riffs, lyrics, and arrangements were built collectively.
“We’re a very jam‑oriented band. We walk in with ideas, feel them out together, and let the songs grow naturally,” says vocalist/guitarist Chris Osterman.
Formed in Vancouver in 2011, Iron Kingdom has built a reputation for reviving the spirit of traditional heavy metal with unwavering authenticity. Inspired by Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Helloween, Riot, and Savatage, the band delivers high‑energy performances, intricate melodies, and a stage presence reminiscent of metal’s golden era. The current lineup, Chris Osterman (lead vocals/lead guitar), Leighton Holmes (bass), Megan Merrick (lead guitar), and Max Friesen (drums), represents the strongest incarnation of the band to date. Their chemistry is on full display in the documentary, revealing the trust, camaraderie, and shared passion that fuel their sound. Iron Kingdom’s journey has taken them across Canada, the U.S., Europe, and Brazil, with appearances at festivals such as Keep It True XVII and tours alongside acts like Night Demon and Blaze Bayley. Through lineup changes, near‑fatal touring accidents, and global disruptions, the band has remained committed to carrying the torch of classic heavy metal.
The album’s exclusive EU edition is available from Steel Shark Records (France), offering limited-edition 300 double‑CD copies. Disc 1 will contain the full “Shadows and Dust” album, while Disc 2 will feature a “Best Of” collection highlighting tracks from Iron Kingdom’s previous five releases. In addition, the label will introduce a third vinyl colour (100 copies) available only to EU fans.
True North Strong And Heavy Canadian Tour – Iron Kingdom, W.M.D. https://www.iron-kingdom.com/tour-dates July 2 – Nanaimo, BC – The Terminal July 3 – Victoria, BC – Lucky Bar July 4 – Cumberland, BC – The Waverley July 5 – Powell River, BC – The Carlson Loft July 17 – Armstrong, BC – AMF 2026 July 21 – Prince George, BC – Knox Performance Centre July 23 – Whitehorse, YT – Lefty’s Well July 24 – Dawson City, YT – Palace Grand Theatre July 25 – Dawson City, YT – outside at The Pit July 26 – Whitehorse, YT – The 98 Hotel July 28 – Yellowknife, NT – The Underground July 29 – Fort Smith, NT – Dirty O’ Fergie’s July 30 – Edmonton, AB – Starlite July 31 – Drumheller, AB – LAH 2026 Aug 1 – Winnipeg, MB – Park Theatre Aug 2 – Thunder Bay, ON – Bloom Bar + Lounge Aug 3 – Sudbury, ON – The Lounge 390 Aug 4 – London, ON – Supply & Demand Aug 5 – Waterloo, ON – Maxwells Aug 6 – Ottawa, ON – Dominion Tavern Aug 7 – Toronto, ON – Bovine Aug 8 – Montréal, QC – Foufounes Électriques Aug 9 – Sherbrooke, QC – Le Murdoch Aug 11 – Woodstock, NB – Monteith Manor Aug 12 – Halifax, NS – Gus’ Pub Aug 14 – Corner Brook, NL – Retro Aug 15 – St. John’s, NL – The Rockhouse Aug 17 – Truro, NS – Marigold Cult. Centre (Lobby) Aug 18 – Quebec City, QC – L’Anti Aug 19 – Hamilton, ON – Doors Pub Aug 21 – Saskatoon, SK – Black Cat Tavern Aug 22 – Calgary, AB – Dicken’s Aug 23 – Kelowna, BC – Jackknife Brewing
Track Listing: 1. Defenders 2. Eternal Emperor 3. Dreamless Sea 4. Deadhouse Gates 5. Line Of Fire 6. Blood And Steel 7. Shadow Of Time 8. Dark Demands 9. Starlight 10. Sacred Fire
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 ) 