HELLRIPPER Unleashes Electrifying Title Track of Upcoming Opus “Coronach”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 11, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo by MM Photography

Scotland’s ibex-obsessed blackened thrash bastard of Hades, otherwise known as HELLRIPPER, is now unleashing the electrifying title track from his upcoming fourth studio album, ‘Coronach,’ which will be released worldwide on March 27, 2026 via Century Media Records, making it his debut to the label! The anthemic single, “Coronach,” can now be heard along with a lyric video created by Irvan Dionisi / Theblackvisual.id at THIS LOCATION.

Hellripper’s mastermind, guitarist/vocalist and songwriter James McBain comments, “A coronach is a vocal lament traditionally performed at funerals in the Scottish highlands. Intertwined with my own words is the poem of the same name by Sir Walter Scott, which served as an inspiration for this story: the funeral of an ambivalent and mysterious figure, revered by his community for his heroic deeds but whose life hid many dark secrets. As well as lyrically, the track is also a musical experiment for me; it was primarily influenced by late 80’s thrash metal along with bands like Bathory, Gallowbraid and Atlantean Kodex. A dash of post-punk, a fair amount of Iron Maiden-style guitar harmonies, some classical references and the haunting wail of the bagpipes fading in the distance: this song feels like the perfect farewell to the album.”

In addition, Hellripper has recently announced a string of support shows for thrash metal legend Testament in Spain and France. In addition, Hellripper will next embark on European headline tour alongside Schizophrenia and Sarcator to promote ‘Coronach’ and has also revealed a number of festival appearances and two performances in Mexico. The full itinerary can be found below while tickets can be found HERE.

Enter the GOAT KVLT HERE.

‘Coronach’ can be pre-ordered HERE.

The cover artwork was created by Adam Burke / Nightjar Illustration.

Coronach’ Tracklisting:

  1. Hunderprest (05:49) [WATCH]
  2. Kinchyle (Goatkraft and Granite) (04:33) [WATCH]
  3. The Art of Resurrection (05:44)
  4. Baobhan Sith (Waltz of the Damned) (06:24)
  5. Blakk Satanik Fvkkstorm (03:53)
  6. Sculptor’s Cave (04:35)
  7. Mortercheyn (04:18)
  8. Coronach (08:48) [WATCH]
    Full Running Time: 00:44:09
Artwork by Adam Burke

Hellripper Live Dates:

SA 21.03.2026 Aalst (Belgium) – Oilsjt Omploft Festival
FR 27.03.2026 Glasgow (Scotland) – Garage *
SA 28.03.2026 Bern (Switzerland) – EmMetal Festival
FR 03.04.2026 Nottingham (England) – Saltbox **
SA 04.04.2026 London (England) – The Dome **
MO 06.04.2026 Utrecht (Netherlands) – De Helling ***
TU 07.04.2026 Dortmund (Germany) – Junkyard ***
WE 08.04.2026 Hamburg (Germany) – Logo ***
TH 09.04.2026 Copenhagen (Denmark) – Pumpehuset ***
FR 10.04.2026 Berlin (Germany) – Lido ***
SA 11.04.2026 Warsaw (Poland) – Voodoo ***
SU 12.04.2026 Kraków (Poland) – Zascianek ***
MO 13.04.2026 Vienna (Austria) – Arena ***
TU 14.04.2026 Budapest (Hungary) – Dürer Kert ***
WE 15.04.2026 Munich (Germany) – Backstage ***
TH 16.04.2026 Prague (Czechia) – Subzero ***
FR 17.04.2026 Mannheim (Germany) – 7er Club ***
SA 18.04.2026 Paris (France) – Glazart ***
TH 14.05.2026 Mexico City (Mexico) – Foro La Piedad
FR 15.05.2026 Guadalajara (Mexico) – Anexa Independencia
SA-SU 16.-17.05.2026 San Luis Potosi (Mexico) – San Luis Metal Fest
TU 02.06.2026 Athens (Greece) – Kyttaro ^
WE 03.06.2026 Thessaloniki (Greece) – Eightball Club ^
FR 05.06.2026 Emmen (Netherlands) – Pitfest
SA 06.06.2026 Maastricht (Netherlands) – South of Heaven Open Air
SA 13.06.2026 Hauptmannsgrün (Germany) – Chronical Moshers Open Air
TH-SA 25.-27.06.2026 Ukmergė (Lithuania) – Kilkim Žaibu
SA 27.06.2026 Campania (Italy) – Southammer Metal Festival
FR 03.07.2026 Villava (Spain) – Sala Totem Aretoa +
TU 07.07.2026 Zaragoza (Spain) – Teatro de las Esquinas +
WE 08.07.2026 Toulouse (France) – Le Bikini +
TH 13.08.2026 Carhaix-plouguer (France) – Motocultor Festival
TH 03.09.2026 Košice (Slovakia) – Collosseum Club
FR 04.09.2026 Ostrava (Czechia) – Metal!!! Festival
SA 12.09.26 Verona (Italy) – Arcanum Fest
SA 26.09.26 Hinte (Germany) – Coast Rock Festival
SA 09.01.2027 Mangualde (Portugal) – Mangualde Hardmetalfest

*w/ Sarcator
**w/ Schizophrenia
***w/ Schizophrenia & Sarcator
^w/ Midnight
+w/ Testament

The brainchild of guitarist/vocalist/solitary force, James McBain, Hellripper has been running like a denim-vested, backpatch-encrusted William Wallace, bravehearting his way through metal’s bloodiest battlefields since first coagulating his personal darkness in 2014. Taking armaments from “Kill ‘Em All” era Hetfield and “Welcome to Hell” era Mantas, McBain has immersed his fascination with darkness and speed with Scottish history and come with bloody masterpieces like 2023’s “Warlocks Grim & Withered Hags” that Metal Injection stated: “Bursts with growth and a mature exploration of darkness and eeriness while maintaining that original high-octane burning”. McBain is presently sharpening his blades and casting new spells that will transmogrify into Hellripper’s Century Media debut “Coronach”.

Hellripper Lineup:
James McBain – All Instruments & Vocals

Hellripper live and video performance line-up:
James McBain – Guitar & Vocals
Joseph Quinlan – Guitar
Andy Milburn – Bass
Max Southall – Drums

Album credits:
Recorded and mixed by Hellripper’s James McBain at Coronach Studios in Scotland, UK
Mastered by Damien Herring at Subterranean Watchtower Studios in the USA.

Links: Website – Instagram – YouTube – Spotify – TikTok – Discord – Twitch – Facebook

MASTERPLAN Return with New Studio Album “Metalmorphosis”, Out June 26th

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 11, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo by Patric Ullaeus

Power metal legends Masterplan are thrilled to announce their return with a new studio album, “Metalmorphosis”, set for release on June 26, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.

To celebrate the announcement, the band share the new single and accompanying video “Chase The Light”, available below.

Roland Grapow described the single as “a dark and aggressive track about fear, control, and a world that feeds on pain. It shows how power rises while compassion fades, trapping people in silence and despair. The song pushes through chaos and suffering toward release – a call to break free, heal old wounds, and reclaim your strength”.

Masterplan are also gearing up for their upcoming European tour, starting on April 12. For the full list of dates, please see below and HERE.

Pre-Order “Metalmorphosis” HERE

Grapow expressed his enthusiasm for the record – the first new songs since “Novum Initium”, released in 2013: “Metalmorphosis” really captures what this album means to us: a transformation, but still true to the spirit of Masterplan. We’ve grown over the years, both as musicians and as people, and you can hear that in the new songs. Some ideas go back many years, and now they’ve finally come to life. It’s powerful, melodic, and emotional – classic Masterplan, but with a new energy”.

Masterplan stand among the most enduring and influential names in German power metal. Founded in 2001 by guitarist Roland Grapow and drummer Uli Kusch following their exit from Helloween, the band quickly established a distinctive identity built on strong melodies, technical precision, and an epic yet modern metal approach. 

Their self-titled debut album, released in 2003, was met with widespread critical acclaim and immediate chart success, setting the standard for a career defined by consistency and evolution.

Over the years, Masterplan have released several highly regarded albums – including “Aeronautics”, “MK II”, “Time To Be King” and “Novum Initium” – each showcasing refined songwriting and a powerful balance between classic power metal energy and progressive elements. 

Their work earned them international recognition, extensive touring across Europe and beyond, and industry accolades that confirmed their status as a leading force in the genre.

After a prolonged hiatus from studio releases, Masterplan have re-emerged with renewed creative drive. The band recently signed a new worldwide deal with Frontiers Music SRL, marking a significant milestone and the beginning of a new chapter in their career. 

This partnership sets the stage for their long-awaited return with a brand-new studio album, “Metalmorphosis”, representing both transformation and continuity: a heavier, more aggressive edge combined with the melodic sophistication that has always defined Masterplan’s sound. 

With renewed focus, sharpened songwriting, and decades of experience behind them, Masterplan are poised to reaffirm their relevance and deliver one of the most anticipated power metal releases of the year.

“Metalmorphosis” Tracklist:

1.    Chase The Light    
2.    Electric Nights    
3.    Shadow Man    
4.    Bound To Fall    
5.    Pain Of Yesterday    
6.    Metalmorphosis    
7.    Through The Storm    
8.    Ghostlight    
9.    The Call
10.    Rise Again (Album vers.)

METALMORPHOSIS OVER EUROPE TOUR – GET TICKETS HERE:

12.04.26    HR    – Zagreb, Boogaloo                        
14.04.26    SLO  – Ljubliana, Orto Bar                          
15.04.26    SK    – Bratislava – Randal club                 
16.04.26    CZ    – Budweis – Club Lucerna               
17.04.26    GER – Regensburg – Airport                       
19.04.26    GER – Augsburg – Spectrum                     
21.04.26    GER – Bensheim – Musiktheater Rex         
22.04.26    GER – Dortmund – Piano                           
23.04.26    NL    – Leiden, Nobel                                    
24.04.26    NL    – Den Bosch – Willem II Poppodium   
25.04.26    NL    – Hoogeveen,  Het Podium               
28.04.26    GER – Hannover -Musikzentrum               
29.04.26    GER – Hamburg – Knust 

Line Up:
Rick Altzi
Roland Grapow
Jari Kainulainen
Axel Mackenrott
Kevin Kott

Follow MASTERPLAN:
Website
Facebook
Instagram

OUTLIER Release Cover of ‘Superstar’, Feat. Sen Dog of Cypress Hill & Hyro the Hero

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 11, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Outlier returns with a bold reinterpretation of one of the most influential crossover songs of the Y2K era, releasing a powerful cover of “Superstar”, featuring Sen Dog of Cypress Hill and Hyro The Hero, alongside an official music video.

Stream “Superstar”: https://linktr.ee/outliersucks

Cypress Hill’s (Rock) Superstar shattered genre barriers by seamlessly blending hip-hop, rock, and metal—an approach that helped land the track in the Top 20 on rock radio, secure placements in films like Training Day and Little Nicky, and further cement Cypress Hill as pioneers of genre fusion. The original track famously featured Chino Moreno (Deftones), Everlast and Slash, pushing the limits of what crossover music could achieve at the time.

For Joey Arena, “Superstar” represents more than nostalgia—it’s a defining influence. 

“‘Superstar’ was more influential to me than I had realized in my youth. Growing up, there wasn’t a Rap, Rock or Pop station that wasn’t playing this song. A friend of mine would pick me up for school and we would blast this track like it was the only song that had existed for months. I listened to so many genres growing up (still do) and given that my first instrument was guitar, I would play anything from NuMetal, Hardcore and Grunge to Jazz, Classic Rock and Pop Punk but listened to a lot of mid-90’s and 00’s Hip Hop. I never believed a band should have one specific sound and always heard from so many industry reps is that I needed to find my “identity” when my identity was doing whatever the fuck I wanted. An artist is meant to grow, push boundaries and experiment, why would that not manifest in songwriting? ‘Superstar’ was just that for me, it was a staple in the fusion of the genres it portrays. A track that pushed the envelope, took a chance and has the accolades to prove its success.”

“I wanted to cover this song not only cause its nostalgic, but because of the genre blending it represents. I have incorporated some “white boy rap” in previous tracks, but this got to showcase a whole different side and my love for Hip Hop. I wanted to pay respects to the original track, but also somewhat make it my own. This song needed something special though and what could bring a more authentic stamp of approval than getting the iconic, Sen Dog of Cypress Hill on the track. It was such an honor to have him to not only feature on the track but get him to appear in the video. He stuck it out all day with us and hit multiple locations, getting behind the vision and project. Such an awesome and down to earth individual that deserves all the recognition. Lastly, to add a little extra flare to the track, I felt that it was only right to reach out to none other than, my guy, Hyro The Hero. A stud who is no stranger to Rap/Metal, Hyro’s voice brings such a force that it can’t be overheard. His presence in the video speaks for its self and not mention, I’m a genuine fan. It was truly an experience to put this all together and one I will never forget. My hopes to bring about a new wave to it all and open the eyes of so many musicians and artists to step outside of their comfort zones and write for themselves instead of the trends just like this song had done for me. Enjoy!”

The video premiered on Metal Injection!

Honing in on a modern sound while consistently setting themselves apart from the mainstream, Outlier prides themselves on creating exemplary rock and metal music backed by a rapidly growing fanbase. Outlier has earned millions of on demand streams across DSP platforms as well as more than 6 million views of user generated content on YouTube alone. In addition to their loyal fan base, the band has caught attention through achieving features in major media outlets such as Revolver, Loudwire, Alternative Press, Decibel and ABC News.

Continually hitting the Billboard charts, Outlier has been able to spread their sound nationwide through constant spins on FM radio and months of regular rotation on SiriusXM Octane– launching them into the forefront of their genre. Outlier has had 8 singles featured on SiriusXM Octane; “Who We Are”, “Buried Me Alive”, “Blame The Dead”, “Living Dead”, “Heartless”, “Dead Man Running”, “Warriors” featuring Chris Motionless and “Creature of the Night” winning the hearts of satellite radio listeners across the country and emphasizes the bands ability to stay creative while maintaining an ever-growing fanbase.

For More Information Please Visit: Official Website – Instagram – Facebook – X – YouTube

RESTLESS SPIRIT Reveal Video Single ‘The Burning Need’ & Details of Self-Titled New Album

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 11, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

RESTLESS SPIRIT return with a self-titled album as honest and unpretentious as it gets. These headbangers deliver straightforward American heavy metal with a dash of stoner rock, tons of catchy tunes, frying guitars, and raw energy in expertly crafted songs.

The first advance single and music video, ‘The Burning Need‘, perfectly exemplifies the Long Island, NY band’s core values and sets the tone for great things to come. 

“Restless Spirit” is slated for release on May 8, 2026, via Magnetic Eye Records and the album is available for pre-order at THIS LOCATION

RESTLESS SPIRIT comment: “With our first advance single, ‘The Burning Need’, we present Restless Spirit at our most clear and focused“, vocalist and guitarist Paul Aloisio writes. “We took everything we learned from the last decade and put together a track that gets straight to the point while staying interesting and heavy. The lyrics revolve around the theme of resilience, and this song ranks among our most personal to date.“

Tracklist
1. The Burning Need
2. Hallowed
3. Red in Tooth and Claw
4. Desire Lines
5. Desolation’s Wake
6. Ember
7. Time and Distance
8. Phantom Pain

With their self-titled full-length, RESTLESS SPIRIT have reached a point in their career where the band of friends from Long Island, New York knows exactly who they are and where they stand. As the eight tracks on “Restless Spirit” are the most distilled version of what the trio is about, they saw no need for further explanation in the title.

So, what are RESTLESS SPIRIT about? Pure metal, no more, no less. Born from the steel mills of Birmingham this musical style has deep English working class roots that the East Coast outfit translates into an American sonic slang with elements from desert and stoner metal and even the occasional progressive flourish. As a result, they seamlessly merge classic heavy solos with roaring guitars and a pinch of psychedelic fuzz.

RESTLESS SPIRIT also share a down to earth outlook with the British pioneers that values honesty and a no-nonsense approach to songwriting and lyrics. “Restless Spirit” mainly deals with the idea of perseverance through hardship, of pushing through and starting over when everything seems bleak. This makes the album a companion piece to its predecessor “Afterimage”, which revolved around descending into and giving in to growing despair.

RESTLESS SPIRIT grew out of childhood friendship. Frontman Paul Aloisio and bass player Marc Morello first met back in the summer before Kindergarten and grew up discovering music together. Influenced by such greats as BLACK SABBATH, TYPE O NEGATIVE, and THE SWORD, RESTLESS SPIRIT officially started out in 2019 when their album debut “Lord of the New Depression” was released. At the time, their sound fit equally well into the stoner, doom, and sludge moulds. On the following “Blood of the Old Gods” (2021), the three-piece evolved stylistically into a more varied, melodic approach with added complexities.

With the stated mission of never wanting to sound exactly like before, RESTLESS SPIRIT resorted to shorter, sharpened shocks that hit straight home on their acclaimed third album, “Afterimage”, in 2024. This album was driven by tragedy and personal loss with singer and guitarist Paul Aloisio putting his heart and soul into it.

In hindsight, the massive punch to the gut delivered by “Afterimage” set the trio onto a course that led directly to “Restless Spirit”. Trimming away all sonic fat, focusing on the essentials, and refining their sound and songwriting down to its heaviest core has yielded a record that promises to be timeless.

RESTLESS SPIRIT are throwing out a rescue rope to all headbangers and particularly those dealing with all the cruelty that life can bring. “Restless Spirit” is a call to persevere in the face of others not understanding or even outright rejection. This album is about living on one’s own terms, which was and is the essence of metal.

Band: Restless Spirit
Album title: Restless Spirit
Style: US Heavy Metal
Release date: May 8, 2026
Label: Magnetic Eye Records
Review impact date: April 6, 2026

Line-up
Paul Aloisio – guitar, vocals
Jon Gusman – drums
Marc Morello – bass

Recorded by John Forrestal at The Animal Farm, New Jersey (US)
Mixed by John Forrestal at The Animal Farm, New Jersey (US)
Mastering by Jon Markson at The Animal Farm, New Jersey (US)

Cover art & layout by Solomacello

Links
www.facebook.com/restlessspiritny
www.instagram.com/restlessspirit_

FROM SHEEP TO WOLVES Expose Modern Conformity on New Lyric Video ‘Hollow’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 11, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Modern metal outfit From Sheep To Wolves have released the lyric video for “Hollow”. The track is taken from the band’s upcoming album Ephemeris, due for release on 27 February 2026 via Wormholedeath.

“Hollow” delivers an uncompromising takedown of contemporary conformity, tearing apart the illusion of comfort that masks what the band sees as modern-day enslavement. With unrelenting honesty, From Sheep To Wolves dissect the price of acceptance: dreams abandoned, questions silenced, and lives reduced to clockwork routine. Safe on the surface. Empty underneath.

Musically, the track balances weight and restraint. Heavy riffs lock in with tight rhythms, while subtle electronic layers add tension rather than release. It’s direct, focused, and honest.

“Hollow” follows previous singles “Submission” and “Rejection,” building momentum toward Ephemeris, an album that promises to challenge listeners as much as it captivates them.

Ephemeris marks the band’s most ambitious work to date, blending technical precision with raw, emotive storytelling.

Fans can pre-save the album now at orcd.co/ephemeris

Previous videos: Submission: Watch, Rejection: Watch

From Sheep To Wolves is an alternative Metal/ Rock band. Formed by Carlo Cranmer & John Castiel in 2015. The project was driven by production; however, the live performance was inevitable after the great response from listeners, fans, friends, and family. From heavy breakdowns to electronic beats, they are versatile, yet always have a strong message with heart and soul. You never know what to expect.

Line up:
Carlo Cranmer: Vocals & Guitars
Julio Quintero: Drums
Carl Cassar: Bass

From Sheep To Wolves Online:
linktr.ee/fromsheeptowolves
www.tiktok.com/@fromsheeptowolves
www.instagram.com/fromsheeptowolvesband
www.facebook.com/Fromsheep2wolves
www.youtube.com/@fromsheeptowolves4962

EREB ALTOR Kick Off European Tour Today

Posted by tarjavirmakari on February 11, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

Scandinavian metal outfit Ereb Altor are about to kick off their previously announced European tour dates in support of their latest album Hälsingemörker. The album was released in February 2025 via Hammerheart Records.

The ‘Rites of the Blood Moon’ tour will kick off tomorrow, February 11 at the Stengade venue in Copenhagen (DK) and sees the band traveling throughout six different countries before a final curtain at the Cernunnos Pagan Festival in Noisiel (FR). Support comes from Skyforger, Wolfchant and Belore during this run. A full list of confirmed dates can be found below. 

Dates:
11-02 Stengade, Copenhagen (DK)
12-02 Fostfeuernächte, Heidesee (DE)
13-02 Club From Hell, Erfurt (DE)
14-02 March into Walhalla Fest (NL)
15-02 Asgaard, Gent (BE)
16-02 Helvete, Oberhausen (DE)
17-02 Logo, Hamburg (DE)
18-02 Factory, Magdeburg (DE)
19-02 Forum Am Vaz, Burglengenfeld (DE)
20-02 Heathen Strike over Brno (CZ)
21-02 Maschinenfabrik, Heilbronn (DE)
22-02 Cernunnos Pagan Fest, Noisiel (FR)

Tickets are on sale here: https://linktr.ee/RitesOfTheBloodMoon

From the mythical dark forests of Hälsingland, Ereb Altor rises once more, conjuring the ancient spirits of Scandinavia through their signature epic viking metal. With every note, the band tells tales from the old days mythology, legend and mysticism are brought to life in thunderous riffs and haunting atmospheres.

Their latest release Hälsingemörker marks a new chapter in the Ereb Altor saga. This album delves deep into the legends and shadows of ancient Scandinavia, painting a sonic landscape as majestic as it is immersive. Expect sharp, epic melodies intertwined with evocative folk elements, and vocal performances that move seamlessly between clean, soaring choruses and raw, intense growls. The stunning artwork by Tomarúm av Christine Linde perfectly echoes the album’s powerful and mysterious aura.

For fans of Bathory, Grand Magus, Primordial,Enslaved and Wardruna, Ereb Altor’s music is both an homage and an evolution. Founders Mats and Ragnar grew up with Bathory’s epic era as their spiritual compass, Quorthon’s legacy pulses through their veins, inspiring them to carve out a unique path within the viking metal scene. Since answering the call of the one-eyed elder in 2003, Mats and Ragnar have guided Ereb Altor through a journey of relentless creativity, releasing acclaimed full-length albums via IHate Records, Napalm Records, Cyclone Empire and their current label Hammerheart Records.

Ereb Altor‘s latest album Hälsingemörker was released in February 2025 and saw the band making appearances at Stormcrusher Festival, Meh Suff! Festival, 70.000 tons of Metal and more.

Each release stands as a testament to their dedication to pure Scandinavian epic metal, and over the years, Ereb Altor have forged a sound that is entirely their own. Their ever-growing fanbase is a testament to the band’s authenticity and the immersive power of their music, a legacy that continues to thrive with every new chapter.

Track-list:
1. Valkyrian Fate
2. Hälsingemörker
3. Ättestupan
4. Vi Är Mörkret
5. Träldom
6. The Waves, The Sky and the Pyre
7. The Last Step
8. Midvinter (deluxe edition bonustrack)
9. Skogsrået (deluxe edition bonustrack)
10. The Lake of Blood (deluxe edition bonustrack)

Line up:
Tord – Drums
Ragnar – Guitars & Vocals
Björn – Bass & Vocals
Mats – Vocals & Guitars

Follow Ereb Altor
https://www.facebook.com/ErebAltorOfficial
https://www.instagram.com/erebaltorofficial