A raw confession wrapped in distortion, grit, and modern hard rock fury, Blackjacket is back—and they’re not pulling punches.
Blackjacket said about “Exit Letter”:
”About 6 years ago, I received a call telling me that a very close friend of mine took his own life. It was confusing and heartbreaking.
I was subsequently made aware that he left a note. ‘Exit Letter” is my attempt to understand the emotions he felt leading up to that final moment. The song was co-written by Doc Coyle (God Forbid, Snot, Bad Wolves) and Eddie Wohl (Anthrax, Fuel, ill Nino, Smile Empty Soul).” – Luca
With their blistering new single “Exit Letter,” the band delivers a visceral, no-filter gut punch that captures the sound of letting go when there’s nothing left to save. Equal parts catharsis and controlled chaos, “Exit Letter” is Blackjacket at their most honest, most urgent, and most explosive.
Built on crushing riffs, emotionally charged vocals, and a hook that lingers long after the final note, “Exit Letter” reads like a final confession scrawled in distortion. It’s the sound of closure colliding with confrontation—a song for anyone who’s ever had to walk away without answers, slam the door without regret, or burn the bridge just to survive.
Blackjacket is a group of seasoned musicians from the Los Angeles music scene. After missed opportunities to create together, the stars aligned and Blackjacket was born. Timing is everything and the time is now!
Oathbound is a Progressive Metalcore band from Seattle (USA) channeling the raw, unfiltered emotion that defines the human condition while crafting sonic soundscapes that are as emotionally resonant as they are sonically powerful! The band just dropped a new single and occultic music video entitled “False Ideals“. The music video was directed by Brandon Hartsock and filmed on location at Northern State Hospital in Sedro-Woolley, WA. This is the second single & music video taken from their upcoming full-length album Colors In Grey which will be released on March 6, 2026 via Eclipse Records. The album was produced by Oathbound, and mixed/mastered by Aaron Chaparian (As I Lay Dying, Bleeding Through, Chimaira) at Iron Audio.
“The inspiration behind the song title led to the creative process and narrative decisions made” says guitarist Taylor Harper. “As our guitarist Viktor was going through struggles in his personal life, he began to re-evaluate certain postulates he held dearly to be the absolute truth. The inspiration for the ritual itself and the overall visual style was inspired by the history and accounts of pagan rituals, as well as the current occult movements. The song’s emotions are translated narratively, through the story of a person metaphorically taking a glimpse at what their life would have been, had they stayed on their original track.”
The upcoming full-length from Oathbound, Colors In Grey, is exactly the kind of record the progressive metalcore scene needs right now. It’s a definitive statement that firmly entrenches the band in the upper echelon of the genre. More than a simple collection of songs, this is a rigorous, nine-track emotional excavation. The Seattle outfit has always possessed a gift for channeling raw human experience—confronting themes like trauma, addiction, and heartbreak head-on—but here they successfully forge those dark elements into a work of unexpected, profound catharsis. The sheer sonic ambition is evident from the moment the music hits. Colors In Grey was self-produced, a commitment that highlights the band’s unflinching confidence in their vision. Crucially, that vision was polished by the masterful mixing and mastering of Aaron Chaparian at Iron Audio. Highlights on the album include music videos for the songs “Searching For An Answer”, “False Ideals”, and “Insomniac”. We should also note the visual component: Aaron Varshay’s striking artwork perfectly captures the emotional tension and nuance that defines the record’s entire mood. Throughout the project, Oathbound demonstrates a complete command of their craft. They seamlessly merge the punishing intensity of metalcore with powerful, controlled vocals and a technical precision that rivals their most lauded peers. They’ve constructed a focused narrative that ensures every track feels essential, mirroring the crushing lows and necessary highs of the human experience. Colors In Grey is far more than a technical blueprint; it is a forceful, profoundly human document that reminds us why metal, at its best, is the ultimate vehicle for spiritual connection and catharsis. This is the sound of a band operating at an undeniable peak. Slated for release on March 6, 2026, this album is an undeniable, critical pivot point for their career.
Cover art Credit: Aaron Varshay
The album was produced by Oathbound, and mixed/mastered by Aaron Chaprian (As I Lay Dying, Bleeding Through, Chimaira) at Iron Audio. Artwork for the album and singles was created by Aaron Varshay. Colors In Grey by Oathbound will be released on March 6, 2026 via Eclipse Records.
Pre-Save or Pre-Order Colors In Grey at this location.
Colors In Grey track listing 01. Origins 02. Colors In Grey 03. Set Adrift 04. Misunderstood 05. The Masks We Wear 06. Insomniac 07. Searching For An Answer 08. Hold On 09. False Ideals
Oathbound lineup Taylor Harper (guitar), Viktor Schultz (guitar), Steve Schwarz (bass), Travis Morlan (drums)
BLOOD OF ANGELS have unveiled their new single “The Last Rites”, offering a powerful first look into their forthcoming full-length album Les Agnst ov Thanatou, scheduled for release on June 21, 2026. Accompanied by an official lyric video, the single marks a pivotal chapter in the band’s most ambitious and emotionally driven work to date.
“The Last Rites” serves as a thematic cornerstone of Les Agnst ov Thanatou, a concept album centered on mortality, grief, ritual, and the psychological weight of loss. The song captures the moment where struggle gives way to ceremony, reflecting the human need for closure when confronting death. Musically, BLOOD OF ANGELS balance crushing aggression with deliberate structure, blending rhythmic groove, high-speed intensity, and melodic precision to create a track that is both forceful and reflective.
Lyrically, “The Last Rites” explores the stillness that follows life’s final breath. It examines fear, release, and remembrance, presenting death not as chaos, but as a passage shaped by ritual and reflection. The track stands as a transition point within the album’s narrative, preparing the listener for deeper psychological and emotional confrontations ahead.
Les Agnst ov Thanatou represents a significant evolution for BLOOD OF ANGELS. Written during a period marked by widespread uncertainty and personal loss, the album presents a unified narrative that traces humanity’s response to death through resistance, ritual, memory, and acceptance. Recorded at Underground Studios in Tampa, Florida, the album was produced by Bob Noxious, Preston DiCarlo, and BLOOD OF ANGELS, with mixing by Preston DiCarlo and mastering at Soundlab in New York City.
Since forming in 2017, BLOOD OF ANGELS have earned international recognition for their songwriting, musicianship, and uncompromising vision. Their accolades include the 2023 Hollywood Independent Music Award for “Best Rock/Metal Song” and multiple Akademia Music Awards. In 2025, the band completed a sold-out headlining European tour, further establishing their presence on the global metal stage.
With “The Last Rites,” BLOOD OF ANGELS begin the descent into Les Agnst ov Thanatou, inviting listeners to confront mortality through sound, story, and emotion.
Les Angst Ov Thanatou Tracklist:
“Transitional Portal”
“Beating You”
“The Last Rites”
“Red River Death”
“The Pain Inside”
“Spillage”
“Minds of the Broken”
“Nevermore”
“Eulogy”
BLOOD OF ANGELS is an extreme metal band based in Tampa, Florida, known for blending melodic death metal, blackened atmospheres, and aggressive modern metal into a unified and emotionally charged sound. Since forming in 2017, the band has developed a reputation for confronting dark subject matter through disciplined songwriting, cinematic structure, and uncompromising intensity.
The band’s music draws influence from across the metal spectrum, incorporating elements of death metal, black metal, thrash, and groove while maintaining a strong melodic foundation. Rather than adhering to a single subgenre, BLOOD OF ANGELS focuses on emotional impact and narrative cohesion, using heavy music as a vehicle for catharsis, reflection, and confrontation.
Lyrically, BLOOD OF ANGELS explores themes of mortality, loss, conflict, and psychological struggle. These ideas are often presented through concept-driven releases that encourage immersive listening rather than isolated tracks. The band’s forthcoming album, Les Agnst ov Thanatou, continues this approach with a focused examination of grief and the human response to death.
BLOOD OF ANGELS has earned multiple industry awards for songwriting and performance, including honors from the Hollywood Independent Music Awards and Akademia Music Awards. In 2025, the band completed a sold-out headlining European tour, further establishing their presence on the international metal stage.
With a commitment to artistic growth and respect for metal’s legacy, BLOOD OF ANGELS continues to push forward with music that is heavy, deliberate, and emotionally resonant.
BLOOD OF ANGELS is:
Randy Reyes – Vocals, Acoustic Guitar Aaron Robinson – Guitar Jonathan Rushford – Drums, Keyboards The Maggot – Bass, Background Vocals
Enigmatic black metal masters UADA are honoring the first new moon of 2026 with a very special track. The band is now unveiling a haunting neo-folk acoustic version of their seminal song, “The Purging Fire,” from the band’s critically-acclaimed 2018 full-length, ‘Cult of a Dying Sun.’ The moving version of the song can now be found along with a music video HERE.
The video was filmed and edited by Karl Whinnery and directed by Jake Superchi, with Evan Gandy serving as the co-director of photography.
UADA comments, “Following the first New Moon of the year, in the heart of the Wolf Moon cycle, it feels like an exceptional moment to present an unprecedented rendition from the UADA catalog.
“To re-create something in such a radically different and unique way was nothing short of a challenge—a challenge that had been calling for some time. One that demanded to be answered.
“Although the structural foundation of the piece was already in place, the execution itself unfolded as an impromptu session, allowing the natural essence to emerge freely and significantly.
“While we may have had preconceptions about how the musical and vocal interpretation might sound leading up to its (re)creation, everything transformed in the moment of realization, embracing a liberated state of “come what may.”
“Folk music and art have always been a profound influence, and even though this piece was recorded two and a half years ago, the presence of folk elements in our lives and writing feels more prominent today than ever before.
“Though we assume most may not fully grasp our necessity for this adaptation, we hope it will ignite a primal awakening within listeners—to seek the ancient ways and venture into a past that feels increasingly forgotten in the current state of the world.”
In addition, UADA has joined forces with industrial metal artist MORTIIS for a very special co-headliner, featuring exclusive anniversary sets and supporting performances by Jerome Reuter’s ROME and WRAITH KNIGHT. UADA will be performing their seminal 2016 debut album ‘Devoid of Light’ in its entirety + a special CERMONIAL CASTINGS 30-year anniversary set featuring Wraith Knight. In addition, MORTIIS shall be performing songs from his groundbreaking 2001 full-length, ‘The Smell Of Rain,’ along with other volumes of dystopian despair. The full itinerary can be found below while tickets are now available HERE.
Moreover, after much demand from fans, UADA will be returning to Milwaukee Metal Fest for the second time since leaving their mark during the 2024 edition. The festival will take place at The Rave/Eagle’s Club from June 4 – 7, with UADA performing on the 7th. More info and tickets can be found HERE.
THE WITCHES OF DYSTOPIA TOUR MMXXVI (UADA + MORTIIS w/ Jerome Reuter’s ROME + WRAITH KNIGHT):
04/10/26: Portland, OR @ Dante’s 04/11/26: Vancouver, BC @ Rickshaw 04/13/26: Calgary, AB @ Dickens 04/14/26: Edmonton, AB @ Starlite 04/16/26: Winnipeg, MB @ Sidestage 04/17/26: Minneapolis, MN @ Skyway at Studio B 04/18/26: Madison, WI @ Annex 04/19/26: Chicago, IL @ Reggies 04/20/26: Detroit, MI @ Sanctuary 04/21/26: Indianapolis, IN @ Black Circle 04/22/26: Covington, KY @ Madison Live 04/23/26: Pittsburgh, PA @ Preserving Underground 04/24/26: Toronto, ON @ Lee’s Palace 04/25/26: Montreal, QC @ Cafe Campus 04/26/26: Quebec City, QC @ La Source 04/27/26: Boston, MA @ Brighton Music Hall 04/28/26: Brooklyn, NY @ Meadows 04/29/26: Bensalem, PA @ Broken Goblet 04/30/26: Baltimore, MD @ Metro 05/01/26: Raleigh, NC @ Chapel Of Bones 05/02/26: Atlanta, GA @ 529 EAV 05/03/26: Orlando, FL @ Conduit 05/05/26: Houston, TX @ Warehouse Live 05/06/26: Austin, TX @ Come And Take It Live 05/07/26: Dallas, TX @ Club Dada 05/08/26: Albuquerque, NM @ Launchpad 05/09/26: Denver, CO @ HQ 05/10/26: Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge 05/11/26: Las Vegas, NV @ Swan Dive 05/12/26: San Diego, CA @ Brick By Brick 05/13/26: Los Angeles, CA @ The Echo 05/14/26: San Jose, CA @ The Ritz 05/15/26: Eugene, OR @ John Henry’s 05/16/26: Seattle, WA @ El Corazon
Additional UADA Tour Dates:
06/07: Milwaukee, WI @ Milwaukee Metal Fest
Ever since the cloaked Pacific Northwest band appeared on the music radar, UADA has always been electrified by both polar worlds. Their echelon was stark and meaningful. Within the stretch of four albums as well as dense and triumphant live shows across the globe, they have not only spiked the map of extreme metal music but their unrelenting touring schedule and unbridled will to push forward into new horizons has also earned them a reception in all the extremes imaginable, be it worship or spite.
Kindled from Uada’s second record, ‘Cult of a Dying Sun,’ this reimagined torch song wields orchestral grandeur, weaving through the dreamlike forests of inner vision and stirring the primordial cauldron of sonic magick.
Recording lineup: Jake Superchi – All Vocals, Guitars, and Percussion Nate Verschoor – Bass Special Guest: C.E. Brown – Cello
–Engineered and mixed at Obsidian Spells between Summer 2023 and Spring 2024 by Jake Superchi –Mastered by Arthur Rizk
Nuclear Blast Records is proud to announce the launch of RIFFS & REALMS, a brand new Actual Play Tabletop RPG series drenched in chaos, blood and destruction.
The first season titled Vaults Of Unfaith is produced in direct collaboration with MÖRK BORG and brings together the worlds of extreme music and tabletop role-playing like never before.
Watch the first episode here:
The series is helmed by Johan Nohr (MÖRK BORG) as Game Master, with story and graphic design also by Nohr. Commenting on the series Johan says, “It was an absolute riot running Vaults with these guys, all at their characters’ expense, of course. Depraved, violent and grim in a pretty spectacular way”.
RIFFS & REALMS players include: Brady Deeprose (Conjurer) Joseph Ghast (Green Lung) Yannis Papadopoulos (Beast In Black)
Together they descend into the apocalyptic hellscape of MÖRK BORG, where faith rots, kingdoms crumble and survival is never guaranteed.
“A hilarious and horrid crawl through the dankest of dungeons thanks to NB and Johan at MÖRK BORG. I can only hope it’s as fun to watch as it was to roll dice with my fellow reprobates!” – Joseph Ghast, Green Lung
Each episode is underscored by a crushing soundtrack featuring music from Nuclear Blast bands including: Kreator, Oranssi Pazuzu, Green Lung and Conjurer.
With a blend of doom-laden storytelling, live tabletop play and an uncompromising metal soundtrack, RIFFS & REALMS is a ritual invocation for fans of role-playing games, extreme music and utter devastation.
ABOUT MÖRK BORG MÖRK BORG is a pitch-black apocalyptic fantasy RPG about lost souls and fools seeking redemption, forgiveness or the last remaining riches in a bleak and dying world. “A doom metal album of a game”, they are the perfect first collaborator for the Riffs & Realms series. Vaults of Unfaith was written by Johan and published shortly after the release of MÖRK BORG. It was part of a zine called Dissident Whispers, made by a collective of game designers, where all the proceeds went to bail funds during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests. The version played in Riffs & Realms is an expanded upon version that may see a release in the future, along with the updated art that Johan made for the series.
MÖRK BORG is constructed by Pelle Nilsson (Ockult Örtmästare Games) and Johan Nohr (Stockholm Kartell). The game is published by Free League Publishing.
ABOUT NUCLEAR BLAST For 39 years and counting, Nuclear Blast Records is synonymous with the worldwide advancement of heavy music. Founded in Germany in 1987, Nuclear Blast‘s deep-rooted passion for the scene and culture, combined with an international presence, have helped build the label’s trusted global reputation with numerous album chart entries, high-profile tours, and continual signings of new and heritage acts.
Legendary metal pioneers SEPULTURAhave announced their final ‘Celebrating Life Through Death‘ North American tour, marking the end of an era. After more than 4 decades, 14 gold records, and tours across 80 countries and diverse cultures, SEPULTURA has become one of the most influential metal bands of our time, serving as Brazil’s emissary to the rest of the world.
Hailing from Belo Horizonte, the quartet will spread Brazil’s colours and rhythms for a final time. This farewell run will feature an explosive lineup, including special guests, Thrash legends EXODUS, hardcore heavyweights BIOHAZARD, and newcomers TRIBAL GAZE, promising a powerful celebration across North America.
Kicking off on April 29 in Montclair, NJ, the ‘Celebrating Life Through Death‘ tour will visit major cities across the U.S. and Canada, including Montreal, Detroit, Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles, before concluding on May 29 at The Wiltern in Los Angeles. Along the way, Sepultura will also perform at major festivals, including Welcome to Rockville and Sonic Temple.
Tickets will go on sale on January 23rd at 10:00 local time and VIP packages are on sale now from www.sepultura.com.br/tour
SEPULTURA – Celebrating Life Through Death North American Tour 2026 With EXODUS, BIOHAZARD, TRIBAL GAZE
04.29 US Montclair, NJ @ The Wellmont Theater 05.01 CAN Montreal, QC @ MTELUS 05.02 CAN London, ON @ London Music Hall 05.04 US Detroit, MI @ Royal Oak Music Theatre 05.05 US Louisville, KY @ Old Forester’s Paristown Hall 05.06 US Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl 05.07 US Atlanta, GA @ The Masquarade 05.08 US New Orleans, LA @ The Civic Theatre 05.10 US Daytona Beach, FL @ Welcome To Rockville* 05.11 US Charleston, SC @ Music Farm 05.12 US Greensboro, NC @ Piedmont Hall 05.13 US Reading, PA @ Reverb 05.15 US Chicago, IL @ Ramova Theatre 05.16 US Columbus, OH @ Sonic Temple* 05.17 US Milwaukee, WI @ The Rave 05.19 US Des Moines, IA @ Val Air Ballroom 05.21 US Denver, CO @ The Ogden Theatre 05.22 US Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot 05.23 US Boise, ID @ Shrine Social Club 05.25 US Las Vegas, NV @ House Of Blues 05.26 US San Diego, CA @ The Observatory North Park 05.28 US Berkeley, CA @ UC Theatre 05.29 US Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern *Festival Date
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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
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Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 