Wormholedeath is proud to welcome Malta’s rising alternative metal/rock trio, From Sheep To Wolves. The band, known for its unpredictable blend of heavy breakdowns and electronic beats, will unleash their ambitious new full-length album, “Ephemeris,” worldwide on February 27, 2026.
Formed in 2015 by founding members Carlo Cranmer and John Castiel, From Sheep To Wolves quickly transitioned from a production-driven project to an unavoidable live act thanks to overwhelming fan response. The band has since cultivated a sound that is as versatile as it is visceral, ensuring listeners “never know what to expect.” This unpredictable sonic approach is consistently grounded by a commitment to delivering a strong message fueled by heart and soul.
“Ephemeris”: A Musical Diary of Perseverance
The upcoming album, Ephemeris—a word meaning “journal”—is positioned as a deeply personal and immersive journey into self-discovery. Crafted with contributions from both current and former members, the album serves as a raw and honest look at navigating life’s most profound obstacles.
The lyrics are a direct reflection of personal experiences, documenting encounters and emotions faced during the writing process. Sonically and lyrically, the album moves through a complete spectrum of feelings, from struggle and pain to eventual growth and hope, ultimately documenting the relentless journey of striving for self-betterment. Ephemeris is a powerful musical diary that promises to resonate with anyone striving to persevere.
Tracklist
Ephemeris
The Climb
Rejection
Indifference
Submission
Electrify
Hollow
Acceptance
Reminiscent
Denial
To get a first taste of their world, revisit the band’s official video “Submission”:
Line up: Carlo Cranmer: Vocals & Guitars Julio Quintero: Drums Carl Cassar: Bass
Milwaukee Metal Festival 2026 is pleased to continue to announce another wave of bands to its already stacked lineup! In addition to previously announced headliners Acid Bath (Friday), Killswitch Engage (Saturday), and Ministry (Sunday), the festival now welcomes JOHN BUSH, who will be performing songs from his ANTHRAX era, ARMORED SAINT, WAKING THE CADAVER, 9 DEAD, CARDIAC ARREST, THE SUFFERING, GORED EMBRACE, LECHEROUS NOCTURNE,WEEKEND NACHOS, CASTRATOR, VISCERAL DISGORGE, DIRT, + THE CROSSES perform DIE KREUZEN to the lineup, with more still TBA! The festival will once again return to The Rave/Eagles Club from June 5 – 7, 2026, with the pre-party kicking off on June 4!
Co-organizer Jamey Jasta comments, “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome a true pioneer in the genre & one of the best voices in metal. The one & only John Bush! Catch him Saturday, June 6 with Armored Saint & again Sunday, June 7, performing his Anthrax era songs. These are must see sets at MMF 2026!”
The current lineup and day splits can be found below with more bands still TBA!
Milwaukee Metal Fest 2026 will once again showcase a wide range of metal styles, including death metal, doom, hardcore, metalcore, thrash, industrial, and underground extremity, with performances spread across multiple stages throughout the venue. In addition to live music, the festival will feature a dedicated floor for merchandise and collectibles, giving fans access to exclusive band merch, vinyl, rare items, and more throughout the weekend.
The Metal Fest Pre-Party kicks off the weekend on Thursday, June 4, hosted by Jamey Jasta and friends + special guests TBA. Pre-Party tickets are free with the purchase of a three-day pass.
Three-day passes, two-day passes, single-day tickets, and a limited number of reserved seats are on sale now. For the full lineup, ticket options, and festival updates can be found at THIS LOCATION.
The current day splits are as follows with more TBA:
Friday, June 5:
Acid Bath Obituary Agalloch (Retrospective Set) Iron Reagan Pallbearer Hirax NunSlaughter Master Weekend Nachos Morta Skuld Polkadot Cadaver Dusk Jeffrey Nothing Cardiac Arrest Thanatotic Desire Eyes of the Living Misery DIRT +more TBA
Saturday, June 6:
Killswitch Engage Suicidal Tendencies Power Trip Agalloch (‘Ashes Against the Grain’ Set) After the Burial NAILS Armored Saint Havok Prong Weekend Nachos Internal Bleeding Macabre Belushi Speed Ball Sworn Enemy Castrator Casket Robbery Human Artifacts Brick by Brick Threnody The Suffering Striking 13 +more TBA
Sunday, June 7:
Ministry All Shall Perish Integrity UADA Cyco Miko Waking the Cadaver Deadguy Visceral Disgorge Incite 9 Dead Gored Embrace Lecherous Nocturne The Crosses performs Die Kreuzen Dead by Wednesday Texas Toast Chainsaw Massacre Trip to the Morgue Dark Horse Prophet +more TBA
Stay tuned for the next wave of bands – you don’t wanna miss this!
ABOUT MILWAUKEE METAL FEST
Founded in 1987, Milwaukee Metal Fest is one of the longest-running and most influential metal festivals in the United States, with a rich history of showcasing groundbreaking artists across the heavy music spectrum. After establishing itself as a cornerstone of American metal through the late 1980s and 1990s, the festival was revived in 2023 under the direction of Hatebreed frontman Jamey Jasta, ushering in a new era while honoring its legacy. Today, Milwaukee Metal Fest continues to unite fans and artists for an uncompromising celebration of metal across the iconic stages of The Rave/Eagles Club.
Florida death thrash metal outfit INTOXICATED will be unleashing their third full-length, ‘The Dome,’ on March 27, 2026 via Redefining Darkness! The band is now unleashing the vicious second single from the album, “Shifted Cross,” which can be found at THIS LOCATION,
Vocalist/guitarist Erik Payne comments, “‘Shifted Cross’ was written for the puppeteers. The ones that hide in the night, the manipulative cowards. It’s a reminder that we see them and to never get complacent. They as well can be pulverized where they snivelingly hide.”
INTOXICATED is a thrash/death metal band from Altamonte Springs, Florida, originally formed in 1993. Led by vocalist and guitarist Erik Payne, the band quickly carved out a place in Florida’s extreme metal lineage, earning early mentorship from Death’s legendary Chuck Schuldiner. Rooted firmly in Florida’s storied death-thrash tradition, Intoxicated’s sound draws natural comparisons to Death, Sadus, and Obituary— as marked by unrelenting speed, sharp riffing, and concise, high-impact songwriting.
‘The Dome’ is now available for pre-orders in the USA HERE while it’s available for the rest of the world HERE.
The cover artwork for ‘The Dome’ was created by Celeste Payne and can be found below along with the tracklisting.
Drowning The Weak (02:22) Full running time: (00:27:15)
Intoxicated is a thrash/death metal band from Altamonte Springs, Florida, originally formed in 1993. Led by vocalist and guitarist Erik Payne, the band quickly carved out a place in Florida’s extreme metal lineage, earning early mentorship from Death’s legendary Chuck Schuldiner. Their first run produced a trio of EPs—.08 (1994), Scars (1995), and Metal Neck (1997)—before releasing their third EP, Drain.
Following their initial rise, Intoxicated went on hiatus as Payne, along with Obituary’s Donald Tardy and Ken Andrews, joined the touring lineup for Andrew W.K. in 1999, a role they held for nearly two decades while performing around the world.
The band reactivated in 2019, returning with the Walled EP (2020) and their long-awaited debut full-length, Watch You Burn (2022). The album showcased the band’s signature blend of ragged thrash aggression and Florida-bred death metal grit. Featuring guest appearances from Ken Andrews (Obituary, ex–Andrew W.K.) and Tony Foresta (Municipal Waste), and produced, mixed, and mastered by Ryan Boesch (Foo Fighters, Andrew W.K.) at Candor Recording—formerly Morbid Angel’s headquarters—Watch You Burn reaffirmed Intoxicated’s place among fans of classic Kreator, Death, Obituary, Protector, and Devastation.
Now, Intoxicated is preparing to unleash their second full-length album, The Dome, on Redefining Darkness Records.
Rooted firmly in Florida’s storied death-thrash tradition, Intoxicated’s sound draws natural comparisons to Death, Sadus, and Obituary— as marked by unrelenting speed, sharp riffing, and concise, high-impact songwriting.
Lineup: Erik Payne – Guitar/Vocals John Sutton – Guitar Shawn Clarson – Bass/Backing Vocals Colin Vaccaro – Drums
Album credits: Produced by Ryan Boesch and Erik Payne @ Candor Recording in Tampa Fl Recorded, mixed and mastered by Ryan Boesch
New Miserable Experience, featuring an all-star cast with members of Rivers of Nihil, Rosetta, ex-Revocation, and Model Prisoner, give us another glimpse of their new record Gild The Lily,coming 23rd January via Pelagic Records.
The band comment: “‘Ataraxia’ started as one of Brody‘s ideas. We all felt it had a Portishead type of vibe that we instantly grabbed on to. As far as the lyrics, when life is falling apart the idea of ‘Ataraxia’ (calmness untroubled by mental or emotional disquiet) sounds very appealing.”
New Miserable Experience area Philadelphia-rooted collective that reshapes heavy-music rigour into expansive, melody-forward songs through alternative synth-rock. What started as a file-trading collaboration between vocalist/bassist David Grossman (ex-Rosetta) and multi-instrumentalist Joshua Mahesh Kost (Model Prisoner)expanded into a full band that now includes Rosetta drummer Bruce “B.J.” McMurtrie Jr., technical-metal bassist Brett Bamberger (ex-Revocation), and guitarist Brody Uttley (Rivers of Nihil).
Each member of New Miserable Experience contributes a distinctive sonic fingerprint. The vocals act as the emotional centre, delivering lines that feel confessional and immediate; synths and guitars are constructed with shimmering arpeggios and decisive motifs; percussion and production choices blend groove and tension within electronic nuance; and bass work often functions as a countermelody, lifting refrains and anchoring transitions. Together the five players emphasise careful craft over spectacle, shaping a song that rewards patient listening.
Across the twelve tightly arranged tracks of 3rd album Gild The Lily, the band pares its palette to essential elements: clear melodies, precise dynamics, and richly textured production. The album trades overt bombast for craft, building emotional weight through small gestures and patient arrangements rather than moments of spectacle.
Elements of Gild the Lily combines alternative synth rock with chorus-tinted guitars, and a rhythm section that alternates between taut propulsion and roomy, reverb-soaked space. Elements of artists as lauded and disparate as Crosses, Ulver, The Black Queen and more combine to irresistible effect.
Tracklisting:
1. Heartsick 2. Ordinary People 3. The Devil We Know 4. In the House of Denial 5. Infinite Sadness 6. Payback From God 7. Yours to Bury 8. Perfect Things 9. Letters to Insomnia 10. Perfect Blue 11. Running the Fear of it Dry 12. Ataraxia
New Miserable Experience are: Josh Kost (multi-instrumentalist) Brody Uttley (guitar) Brett Bamberger (bass) David Grossman (vocals) BJ McMurtrie (drums)
All-star hard rock collective Black Swan – featuring Robin McAuley (McAuley Schenker Group), Reb Beach (Winger, Whitesnake), Jeff Pilson (Foreigner, The End Machine, ex-Dokken), and Matt Starr (Ace Frehley, Mr. Big) – unveil today their new single and official video, “Paralyzed”, title track of the upcoming studio album set for release on February 27, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl.
Robin McAuley commented: “Nowadays it’s difficult not to become submerged in the news and negative comments presented to us through all media sources. That feeling of being numb and unsafe with an overpowering feeling of anxiety. Desperate for change, get back to the good old days when things seemed simpler. Craving to hear something positive and yet helpless and repeatedly overwhelmed by so much negative space, leaving us feeling paralyzed”.
“Paralyzed” is another Robin McAuley story that speaks to that anxiety most of us are feeling about the state of the world right now. It’s scary, overwhelming and seemingly never-ending! We need to find the positive in all the negativity and we need it soon! Plus- it rocks!!!!!”, added Jeff Pilson.
Matt Starr also said: “Paralyzed” kicks ass! This is one of the things that Black Swan does best… Hard driving high energy rock ‘n’ roll with great melodies, tons of hooks, thought provoking timely lyrics and exceptional musicianship. I’m really proud of this track”.
“With Paralyzed I was going for a Black Sabbath “Neon Nights” vibe when I started writing it, and then it blossomed into the title track when Jeff and Robin got their hands on it. It’s a very cool song guitar wise, and I hope we get to play it live one day because it really rocks!”, continued Reb Beach.
McAuley expressed his enthusiasm for the new record, by saying: “Can’t wait for you guys to hear our new record. We feel we’ve taken our songwriting to another level on this one, with amazing guitar riffs that once again show the brilliance that is Reb Beach. Pounding Bass as you’d expect from Jeff, and Matt Starr leaving no doubt about where the thunder comes from. Soaring melodies with strong lyrics are what we do best, combine that with sheer heaviness and we have a record we think you the fans are going to love”. “Black Swan is old school eighties rock that is all about good guitar riffs with badass vocals. No one is better than Robin at singing this kind of music. I think the combination of my riffs and his vocals are what makes the band stand out”, Reb Beach said.
“I think the fans are going to love our new record. It builds on the first two records taking the songwriting, playing and energy to another level. I’m so proud to be part of this great group of musicians and guys”, stated Matt Starr.
Jeff Pilson commented: “We’re all very excited for the release of Black Swan’s Paralyzed and can’t wait for all the fans to hear it. We wanted to come up with a real step forward in melodic heaviness, and I strongly believe we delivered. Enjoy!”
Black Swan are back with their explosive third album, “Paralyzed”. Following the critical acclaim of their previous releases, the supergroup once again delivers a powerful statement in modern hard rock.
With all songs written and composed by McAuley, Pilson, and Beach, and expertly produced by Pilson, “Paralyzed” showcases Black Swan at their peak performance – offering a dynamic mix of towering vocals, razor-sharp riffs, and hook-laden melodies. The band’s chemistry continues to shine, elevating their songwriting and musical delivery to new heights.
Tracked at Pilson’s Los Angeles studio, the album reflects the tight-knit synergy among its members. McAuley’s commanding vocals remain as ageless, while the instrumentalists deliver with precision and fire. Much like its predecessors, the new record is a testament to the individual and collective talents of these seasoned musicians.
“Paralyzed” is fresh, heavy, and melodically rich – a cohesive and compelling album that feels both classic and contemporary. Building upon the blueprint laid by their debut, “Shake The World”, the band expands their sonic universe.
The result is a record that not only meets but surpasses expectations, cementing Black Swan as a formidable force in the modern hard rock scene. Whether you’ve followed these legendary musicians since the heyday of ’80s rock or you’re just now discovering their magic, “Paralyzed” is essential listening – a masterclass in melodic hard rock delivered by artists who continue to defy time and expectations.
The genesis of Black Swan was sparked by a conversation between Jeff Pilson and Frontiers’ President & Head of A&R, Serafino Perugino, who wanted a project that would not only showcase McAuley’s vocal prowess, but have a mighty musical backbone to stand skyscraper tall behind him. Thus, the initial seeds were planted and Pilson ran with it from there.
Black Swan released their debut album, “Shake The World”, on February 14, 2020. A killer slice of melodic hard rock and heavy metal from seasoned players who have gelled musically. Their sophomore album, “Generation Mind”, followed in 2022, a powerful hard rock statement that consolidates the unique sound of the quartet and highlights the talent of each of them.
“Paralyzed” Tracklist:
1. When The Cold Wind Blows 2. Death Of Me 3. Different Kind Of Woman 4. If I Was King 5. Shakedown 6. The Fire And The Flame 7. I’m Ready 8. Paralyzed 9. Carry On 10. Battered And Bruised 11. What The Future Holds
Line Up: Robin McAuley – Lead Vocals Reb Beach – Guitars Jeff Pilson – Bass Matt Starr – Drums
QWÄLEN launch their new single “Kiviä ja Luita”, marking the first taste of the Finnish band’s upcoming third album, “Veri Virtaa Edelleen”, set for release on March 6th, 2026 via Time To Kill Records.
The track captures the band at their most direct and feral, further refining their stark blend of black metal aggression and punk urgency. With its raw drive and uncompromising delivery, “Kiviä ja Luita” highlights a more focused and confident QWÄLEN, while pointing toward an album that sharpens every element of their sound without sacrificing its primal edge.
“‘Kiviä ja luita’ is the definitive track of the new album. Coming into existence as a blaze of creation, the song became a gateway towards expanding what the band can sound like. A testament to the flame within amongst the dying embers of humanity. We will never forget the sound of bone hitting stone. The primal force drives you to leave again and again, but Death always follows. You wait for a return that never comes. All that remains is stones and bones”.
Blood continues to flow. The third statement of QWÄLEN delves into the rottenness of human reality, the abolition of kings and gods, and the bleak, habitual cycle of fraternal violence—concepts that mean nothing to the band, and yet embody everything they express. With the very idea of black metal at its core, QWÄLEN persists in breaking free from the narrow boundaries of the genre. Hail no one but thyself; raise no one on a pedestal but thyself, for borders can only be drawn from within. Gods live only if we allow them. Death becomes the final insult, the ultimate raised middle finger when all is reduced to rocks and bones—the black serpent within, the black flame of rebellion. Hail Satan. Blood continues to flow.
Tracklist:
1. Hunnutettu maa 2. Matala hauta huutaa 3. Kahleet 4. Uusi nahka 5. Kiviä ja luita 6. Pirujen illallinen 7. Veri vastaa 8. Kuolleet jumalat
Formed in 2017, QWÄLEN channels the raw musical backgrounds of its members – active in bands such as Kürøishi, Viimeinen Virhe, Letterbombs and Hoc Est Bellum – into a distinctive interpretation of black metal built on simplicity, rawness, speed and honesty. These foundations shaped their debut, “Unohdan sinut”, which explored self-portrayal, loss, rebuilding, abandonment, misanthropy and Satan. Their second album, “Syvä hiljaisuus”, turned its gaze toward humanity’s sheep-like nature, the inevitability of destruction, the acceptance of flaw and the surrender to greater forces. The new album continues in this vein, embracing the decay of human reality, the fall of kings and gods and the sinister repetition of brotherly violence – motifs that, for QWÄLEN, mean nothing and yet define everything.
As with their previous record, the album was tracked at Waiting Room Recording Studio in Tampere with Mikael Neves, who also handled the mixing. Mastering was completed at Enormous Door by Jack Control, while artwork and layout were created by the always formidable Jussi Pohjanen.
Line-up:
Eetu Viita: Vocals Samuli Similä: Guitar & vocals Antti Kannisto: Guitar & vocals Ville Jylhä: Bass Henri Kaarre: Drums
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 ) 