WITCH RIPPER Drop New Album “Through the Hourglass”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 13, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

While WITCH RIPPER are getting ready to embark onto their massive headlining “Through the Hourglass” US Tour 2026, the US metal band also drops their red hot new album “Through the Hourglass” today, on April 10, 2026, via Magnetic Eye Records. 

Tracklist:
1. Odyssey in Retrograde
2. The Portal
3. Symmetry of the Hourglass
4. Echoes and Dust
5. The Clock Queen
6. Proxima Centuari
7. The Spiral Eye

Listen to  “Through the Hourglass” here:

On their third full-length, “Through the Hourglass”, WITCH RIPPER unleash the full potential of their stunning ability to deliver captivating melodies, catchy riffs, and merciless hooks in sheer droves.

The US metal band perfectly combines melodic heaviness with pinches of progressive, sludge, and other styles with seeming ease. WITCH RIPPER can be generally located within the wider sonic realm that is inhabited by MASTODON, BARONESS, and HIGH ON FIRE, yet they also continue to channel the rock bombast of QUEEN and DAVID BOWIE as well as the modern prog of COHEED AND CAMBRIA and MUSE.

While WITCH RIPPER‘s songwriting has climbed to a new peak, they continue with their loving pastiche of the legendary pulp science fiction stories of old. “Through the Hourglass” extends the story that began on their sophomore full-length, “The Flight after the Fall” (2023), in which the central character’s search for peace in death by flying into a black hole proved futile. As “Through the Hourglass” begins, he awakens to a world without time and a familiar dark presence from his past… 

Conceived in 2012 in the city of grey skies, lush vegetation and loud rock, Seattle, Washington’s WITCH RIPPER garnered critical acclaim and a strong buzz in the underground scene with their sludgy self-titled EP (2012) and debut full-length “Homestead” (2018). The second album, “The Flight after the Fall”, made the band’s name on a global scale, as the band dramatically expanded the range of their sound in ways both catchy and progressive.

On stage, WITCH RIPPER have performed alongside heavy rock outfits such as MONOLORD, CONAN, and CASTLE RAT as well as modern metal acts including SLIPKNOT, GOJIRA, and KHEMMIS among many others.

WITCH RIPPER are already at work planning for tour across the United States once more and hope for a first voyage to Europe in support of releasing “Through the Hourglass”. Metal is anything but dead, and this album is living proof of its vibrant present.

P.S.: Music aficionados will find a revelation hiding in the key of each song.

Line-up
Chad Fox – guitar, vocals
Brian Kim – bass, vocals
Curtis Parker – guitar, vocals
Joe Eck – drums

Guest musician
Irene Barber – vocals on ‘The Spiral Eye’

Recording by Matt Bayles at Studio Litho & EXES Audio, Seattle, WA (US)
Mix by Matt Bayles at Studio Litho, Seattle, WA (US)
Mastering by Brad Boatright at Audio Siege Studios, Portland, OR (US)

Cover art by Chris Panatier
Layout by Łukasz Jaszak

WITCH RIPPER “Through the Hourglass” US TOUR 2026
03 APR 2026 Seattle, WA (US) The Sunset Tavern 
01 MAY 2026 Vancouver, BC (CA) The Cobalt 
22 MAY 2026 Bellingham, WA (US) The Shakedown 
30 MAY 2026 Missoula, MT (US) M-80 Chicken 
31 MAY 2026 Boise, ID (US) The Olympic 
01 JUN 2026 Salt Lake City, UT (US) Aces High Saloon 
02 JUN 2026 Denver, CO (US) The Crypt 
03 JUN 2026 Santa Fe, NM (US) Desert Dogs 
04 JUN 2026 Phoenix, AZ (US) The Blooze Bar 
05 JUN 2026 San Diego, CA (US) McGuffies 
06 JUN 2026 Los Angeles, CA (US) The Escondite 
08 JUN 2026 San Francisco, CA (US) Bottom of the Hill 
09 JUN 2026 Chico, CA (US) Naked Lounge 
10 JUN 2026 Reno, NV (US) Pizzava 
11 JUN 2026 Eureka, CA (US) The Siren’s Song Tavern 
12 JUN 2026 Roseburg, OR (US) The Rosebud Theater 
13 JUN 2026 Portland, OR (US) Twilight Cafe and Bar 
14 JUN 2026 Seattle, WA (US) Hidden Hall 

Links:
https://www.facebook.com/witchripper
https://www.instagram.com/witch_ripper
https://www.facebook.com/MagneticEyeRecords/
https://www.instagram.com/magneticeyerecords/

SLYDER SMITH’s New Single ‘Killing The Machine’ Out Now

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 13, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

UK rock singer-songwriter Slyder Smith returns with his explosive new single “Killing The Machine”, out now, – a hard-hitting, thought-provoking track that tackles the growing fear and reality of technology overtaking human connection and control.

Blending gritty guitars, anthemic melodies, and his trademark raw lyricism, “Killing The Machine” channels both urgency and unease, capturing the tension between modern dependence on technology and the instinct to resist it. The track stands as one of Slyder’s most socially charged releases to date, reflecting a world increasingly dominated by screens, algorithms, and artificial noise.
“This one’s about that disturbing feeling that we’re losing control,” says Slyder. “We’ve built something that’s meant to serve us, but it’s starting to feel like it’s shaping us instead. It’s about fighting back — holding onto what makes us human.”

Produced by Robin Wynn Evans (Manic Street Preachers, The View, Sam Brown, Dodgy) at TPot Studio, the single showcases a bold evolution in Slyder’s sound — combining a modern sonic edge with the timeless energy of classic rock. Evans’ production brings clarity and punch to a track that is both sonically powerful and lyrically resonant.

Order and stream here: https://slyder-smith.ffm.to/killingthemachine

Produced by Robin Wynn Evans (Manic Street Preachers, The View, Sam Brown, Dodgy) at TPot Studio, the single showcases a bold evolution in Slyder’s sound — combining a modern sonic edge with the timeless energy of classic rock. Evans’ production brings clarity and punch to a track that is both sonically powerful and lyrically resonant.

Killing The Machine follows a string of acclaimed releases including “Plan To Fail” and “Nobody’s Listening”, further cementing Slyder’s reputation as an artist unafraid to confront uncomfortable truths – from self-doubt and addiction to isolation and societal disconnection. 
The release also comes as a limited edition numbered CD bundle. Including a signed CD, signed poster & lyric sheet featuring 2 tracks recorded live at a sold-out Forfar 10 Bar show last summer. 

The release coincides with a run of UK live shows:
1st May – Audio (w/Bonifide), Glasgow
24th May – 10 Bar, Forfar
11th July – Rock Bottom, Falkirk
12th July – Trillians, Newcastle

Now fronting a powerful four-piece band featuring Brian Kerr (guitar), Kevin Skelly (bass, backing vocals), and John McAvoy (drums), Slyder continues to build momentum with electrifying live performances that have already seen sold-out shows and glowing praise from the UK rock press.
“The new band is sounding awesome in rehearsal; moving to a 4-piece was a great move that brings much more depth to the sound & we genuinely can’t wait to put it in front of a live audience”

Following the success of his critically acclaimed debut album Charm Offensive (2022), Slyder Smith remains a compelling voice in modern rock — delivering music that is fearless, honest, and deeply relevant to the times we live in.

“Killing The Machine” is available now on all major streaming platforms.

https://www.facebook.com/slydersmithandtheoblivionkids
https://www.instagram.com/slyder_smith
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRJya7QcdImW-Y2OUS0StfQ
Slyder Smith & the Oblivion Kids – Spotify

Slyder Smith & the Oblivion Kids – Website

ABROGATION’s New Album “Widerschein” Out Now + First Tour Dates for 2026/2027 Announced

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 13, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo by Mina Wallace Photography

German melodic death metal outfit ABROGATION celebrate the release of their new studio album Widerschein”, out now via Massacre Records.

Order / Stream the album HERE: https://massacre-records.com/abrogation_widerschein_sale

Following the previously released singles “Morgenrot” and “Spieglein, Spieglein”, which introduced the album’s cinematic scope and emotional depth, “Widerschein”  is now fully available, marking a new milestone in the band’s evolution.

With Widerschein”, ABROGATION deliver a powerful and narrative-driven record that blends melodic intensity, modern production and thematic depth. The album explores concepts of conflict, identity and fragile hope in times of uncertainty, combining aggressive riffs with atmospheric layers and dynamic vocal expression.

Developed over an extended creative period and refined through a detailed pre-production phase, the album represents a significant step forward in both songwriting and conceptual coherence. Mixed by Ricardo Borges and Jens Bogren and mastered by Tony Lindgren at Fascination Street Studios, Widerschein”  achieves a modern, clear and impactful sound that enhances its emotional weight.

To support the release, ABROGATION have announced a series of live dates across Germany, bringing the new material to the stage:

LIVE DATES 2026 / 2027
04.09.2026  Hannover / Cafe Glocksee
12.09.2026  Barleben / Metal Embrace Festival
18.09.2026  Passau / Zauberberg
25.09.2026  Oberhausen / Helvete
10.10.2026  Selb / Rockclub Nordbayern
16.10.2026  Erfurt / From Hell
31.10.2026  Kirchheim / Linde
11.12.2026  Bremen / Zollkantine
30.01.2027  Cham / LA
17.04.2027 Soest / Schlachthof – Full Metal Impact

With their new album now unleashed and a strong live presence ahead, ABROGATION continue to establish themselves as one of the most compelling acts in the modern melodic death metal scene.

LINE-UP
Benny – Vocals
Poldi – Guitars
Kutte – Guitars
RW – Bass
John Doe – Drums

ABROGATION online:
https://www.abrogation.de
https://www.facebook.com/abrogation
https://www.instagram.com/abro_gation

TONIC BREED Drop Epic New Single ‘Close In’, Ft. Guest Drummer Charlie Engen

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 13, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

(Photo Credit: Marius Viken)

Norwegian metal project Tonic Breed, led by founder Patrik K. Svendsen, has unleashed the new 2026 single “Close In”, a powerful, emotionally charged track featuring guest drums by Charlie Engen, known for his work with Five Finger Death Punch, Scale the Summit, and Ideology.

The single follows last year’s collaboration “Anew,” which featured legendary drummer Chris Adler (Firstborne, ex‑Lamb of God, ex‑Megadeth), continuing Tonic Breed’s ongoing evolution through high‑profile guest musicians and bold stylistic shifts.
​
Originally formed in 2006 as a four‑piece thrash and heavy metal band from Sarpsborg, Norway, Tonic Breed transitioned into a one‑man project in 2019. Since then, Svendsen has pushed the project into new creative territory, collaborating with world‑renowned musicians including Chris Adler, Dirk Verbeuren (Megadeth), Björn Strid (Soilwork), and Michael Gilbert (Flotsam and Jetsam).​
​
With “Close In,” Tonic Breed continues this trajectory, this time exploring a more melodic, atmospheric, and emotionally layered sound.

“Close In” dates back to its original writing more than two decades ago and was revisited many times over the years, but never fully came together until now.
​
​“This is definitely the track that’s taken the longest to finish. It’s been sitting with me for years, and it wasn’t until the right people got involved that it finally came together the way it was supposed to,” says Svendsen
​
Co‑producer Adrian Bjerketvedt helped shape the final structure, while Engen’s drum performance added nuance and dynamic movement. Composer Ben Zimmermann contributed orchestration. Some piano arrangements even transformed early guitar‑based ideas into emotional layers that complete the song’s atmosphere.
​
While still rooted in the project’s heavy foundation, “Close In” marks a shift toward melody, space, and emotional depth. It’s a semi‑ballad with clean passages, heavier sections, and dynamic contrasts. The song incorporates harmonies, choirs, and orchestration, rich layering, and atmospheric textures, a first for Tonic Breed.

Svendsen anticipates that “Close In” may surprise listeners.

“It still has weight and intensity, but it leans more into melody and atmosphere than what I’ve done before. Some will probably not expect it, but it still feels like a natural step for me.”​
​
Lyrically, the song explores the long‑term weight of loss, how losing someone close can reshape a person over time, and the struggle to find oneself again while learning to live with that emotional burden.
​
​“It comes from a pretty heavy place. It’s about losing people close to you and carrying that weight with you,” adds Svendsen.

Recommended for fans of Soilwork, Evergrey, Alter Bridge, and Trivium, listen to “Close in”: https://open.spotify.com/album/2l8pHhSRdhWfmJbrHQ5r8z

For more info:​
​https://tonicbreed.com​
​https://facebook.com/tonicbreed​
​https://instagram.com/tonicbreed

CYBORG ZERO Unleash Animated Video for ‘Skool’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 13, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

CYBORG ZERO have released a brand-new animated video for their track “Skool”, created by Erika Errante Baruffaldi. The video marks the opening chapter of the CYBORG ZERO‘s animated series, expanding the band’s visual and narrative universe.

“Skool” is a previously unreleased track and serves as a first glimpse into the forthcoming vinyl reissue of the band’s debut album “Zero”, set for release on May 8th via Go Down Records.

“Set within a school, this punk-blues song addresses boredom, monotony, rules, and pressure – same lessons, same days, same noise. Nothing shifts. Nothing evolves. Until something shatters. ‘Skool’ focuses on resisting conformity, avoiding repetition, and feeling confined within a system that teaches nothing but obedience,” the band comments. 

Tracklist:
01. Skool
02. Surfin’ on Mars
03. Tu Tu Tutu Tu Tu
04. Gaw
05. La Lalla Lalla
06. One Crap
07. Rock and Real
08. Hey Hey Hey Ha Ha Ha
09. Duu Ah Duu Ah
10. Danger
11. Move On

The reissue of “Zero” opens with two previously unreleased tracks, “Skool” and “Surfin’ On Mars”, both marked by a strong personality and an urgent, expressive drive. These new songs form the first chapter of an animated series that further develops the project’s visual concept. The tracklist continues with nine remastered songs from their self-produced 2019 debut “0”.

Musically, the record follows a lean, no-frills approach, blending rock, blues, and punk in a direct and visceral way, driven by gritty guitars and tight, punchy rhythms. This stripped-down sound reflects a deliberate artistic choice: no extra layers, just raw energy and attitude.

CYBORG ZERO was formed in 2018, when guitarist Cyborg Zero joined forces with drummer Mr. G, creating a raw and uncompromising project rooted in rock, blues, and punk. Building on over a decade of experience with his previous band The Cyborgs – including multiple album releases, international touring, and performances alongside artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Iggy Pop, Deep Purple, Jeff Beck, and John Mayall – the duo developed a direct and instantly recognizable musical language.

With CYBORG ZERO, the approach is reduced to its core: guitar, vocals, and drums, without unnecessary additions. The visual identity plays an equally important role – with the band performing in character, blurring the line between reality and representation, and reinforcing the intensity of their overall concept.

Following the release of their self-produced debut album “0” in 2019, recorded and mixed by Tommaso Mantelli at Lesder Studio, the band toured across Europe, including festival appearances such as Freak Valley and Humulus Lupulus, as well as a support show for The Boomtown Rats in Italy.

In 2026, CYBORG ZERO signed with Go Down Records for the release of “Zero”, a remastered vinyl edition of their debut album, now expanded with two previously unreleased tracks.

The album is available for pre-order HERE

Line-up:
Cyborg Zero – Guitar, vocals
Mr. G – Drums

For more info visit:
https://www.facebook.com/cyborgzero/
https://www.instagram.com/cyborgzer0/
https://cyborgzero.com
https://www.godownrecords.com
https://www.facebook.com/GoDownRecords/
https://www.instagram.com/godownrecords/

Viking Metallers MITHOTYN Announce Re-Issue of “In the Sign of the Ravens”, Out 5th June

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 13, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Hammerheart Records have announced the re-issue of Viking metal outfit Mithotyn‘s debut album In the Sign of the Ravens. The 1997 classic, remastered by Nightside Audio (God Macabre, Skymning) will be out on 5th June via the label. 

Pre-orders are available HERE.

After releasing four demo tapes, Mithotyn finally put out their first full-length album in 1997. In the Sign of the Ravens delivers a hard, cold take on Viking metal, and at this early stage the band hadn’t yet fully embraced the stronger melodic elements that would become more prominent on later records.

One area where this record really shines is its atmosphere. In many ways, the Viking feeling here is the strongest in their entire discography. This is especially the case during the instrumental tracks like ‘Lost in the Mist’ and ‘Let Thy Ale Swing’. The band creates a mystical mood with folky keyboard melodies layered behind distorted guitars, growls, and occasional chants.

If you’re already a fan of Viking or black Metal, you’ll know roughly what to expect: longer songs with some variation, harsh growled vocals balanced with cleaner chorus sections, and a strong sense of atmosphere. It’s a familiar formula, but one that works well and captures what makes this style of music so enjoyable.

Track-list:
1. Upon Raging Waves
2. In the Sign of the Ravens
3. Shadows of the Past
4. Lost in the Mist
5. Embraced by Frost
6. In the Forest of Moonlight
7. Tills Dagen Gryr
8. Stories Carved in Stone
9. Freezing Storms of Snow
10. Where My Spirit Forever Shall Be
11. Let Thy Ale Swing