SOTABOSC Release Debut Album “El Batec dels Maquis”, Out Now

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 19, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

April 17th marked the official release of SOTABOSC’s debut full-length album “El Batec dels Maquis”, arriving via Dunk!Records. With this record, the Barcelona-based atmospheric black metal collective presents a powerful and immersive artistic statement, blending historical memory, political intent, and expansive sonic landscapes into a cohesive and deeply evocative work.

Listen to “El Batec dels Maquis” here:

Founded in 2023 in Barcelona by Oscar Linares and Manel Song (Syberia) alongside Xavi Forné (Ulmus, Error! Design), the band solidified in 2025 with vocalist David Rodríguez and bassist Gerard Serrano, completing a lineup deeply connected to the Catalan underground. Firmly rooted in an anti-fascist ethos, SOTABOSC convey their message entirely in Catalan, pairing lyrics with a carefully crafted visual identity spanning artwork, logos, and stage aesthetics.

Tracklist:

  1. Nerthus
  2. Heimdall
  3. Freyja
  4. El batec dels Maquis / Records vius en la foscor

“El Batec dels Maquis” unfolds in two halves – The first reimagines three compositions from Ulmus, originally instrumental and written for acoustic instruments, now transformed into a sound shaped by atmospheric black metal with strong post-rock influences. The new lyrics focus on animals, forests and the natural environment, forming a narrative arc that connects with the second half of the album.

The second part consists of a single track exceeding 15 minutes, where SOTABOSC expresses its purest musical identity: raw black metal roots, expansive instrumental passages and experimental structures inspired by post-rock. The vocals – harsh and evocative – pay tribute to the Maquis and their anti-Francoist resistance in Catalonia during and after the Civil War.

With this debut, SOTABOSC establishes a project in which identity, narrative intent and sonic depth merge into an artistic statement that is both musical and political.

“El Batec dels Maquis” was recorded, mixed and mastered at Siete Barbas Studio in Barcelona by Daniel Gil, with layout design handled by Error! Design and symbology created by Woodcvtter Illustration. 

Line-up:
Xavi Forné (Error! Design, Malämmar, Ulmus)
Òscar Linares (Syberia)
Manel Song (Amargor, Syberia)
David Rodríguez (Arna)
Gerard Serrano (Hurricäde, Llacuna, Leavs)

https://www.instagram.com/sotabosc_official/
https://www.facebook.com/sotaboscofficial/
https://sotaboscband.bandcamp.com/

BLOODSTAIN Release New Single ‘Something Sinister’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 19, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
[photo credit: Linda Florin]

BLOODSTAIN have released their new single “Something Sinister” via Threeman Recordings, the Swedish powerhouse label run by Entombed guitarist Alex Hellid. The single marks the band’s second release of the year and serves as a key building block in the launch strategy leading up to their debut album this fall.

With “Something Sinister,” BLOODSTAIN continues to define its musical position. The track is built on the band’s core identity: a consistent riff structure, a clear dynamic arc, and a sound that combines classic hard rock roots with a modern production tailored for today’s streaming and live scene.

What sets BLOODSTAIN apart in the growing wave of contemporary hard rock is their precision and fundamental understanding of songwriting dramaturgy. “Something Sinister” is another example of how the band works with hooks and energy to deliver material that functions both on playlists and on larger stages—a balance that is often sought after but rarely delivered with the same clarity.

The single reinforces the band’s tonal identity and showcases a production where every element is designed to strengthen that identity: robust but not overworked, aggressive yet accessible. This makes the release strategically important ahead of the album launch this fall, as it demonstrates the band’s ability to deliver a consistent sound while continuing to develop their profile.

BLOODSTAIN truly shows how hard rock should sound in 2026: rooted in the classics, but with maximum energy and presence. Alx Hell adds: “I am incredibly proud of what these guys have achieved so far, and being able to follow their development up close is truly amazing. The sky is the limit! BLOODSTAIN is one of the most prominent young hard rock bands right now—Sweden’s next major hard rock export!”

“Something Sinister” is now available on all digital streaming providers at: https://orcd.co/tre058s4

BLOODSTAIN was formed in late 2023 by four hungry teenagers, and with their self-released debut EP I Am Death, they burst onto the young Swedish hard rock scene.

Since then, through their intense live performances, BLOODSTAIN has quickly risen as one of Sweden’s most explosive new hard rock acts. In 2026, their full-length debut album awaits, along with more performances across Sweden and Europe.

BLOODSTAIN Live:
21.06.2026 (FR) Hellfest
02.-04.07.2026 (SE) Alive, Borlänge
06.07.2026 (SE) Time To Rock Festival, Knislinge
10.-11.07.2026 (SP) Zurbarán Rock, Burgos
29.08.2026 (SWE) Månegarm Open Air, Norrtälje
19.09.2026 (NO) Heavy Nights, Kopervik

with many more shows to be announced soon

For More Info Visit:

www.bloodstain.se
www.threeman.se/bloodstain
https://www.instagram.com/bloodstain.official
https://www.tiktok.com/@bloodstain.official
https://www.youtube.com/@bloodstain.official
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555780541728
https://open.spotify.com/artist/6uG9Od49dC2XZyHVJS9aEZ

MALEDICTUS Sign with Fireflash Records And Announce New Single ‘Silentium’, Out April 24th

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 19, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment

MALEDICTUS is a Portuguese metal band formed in Lisbon, bringing together experienced musicians with a shared vision for dark, powerful, and atmospheric heavy music. Built on a foundation of aggressive riffs, haunting melodies, and emotionally driven vocals, the band blends elements of modern heavy metal with darker and more melodic influences.

Today, the band is happy to announce their signing with Fireflash Records: „Ever since we began preparing the rise of Maledictus, we knew we wanted to work with people who truly understand our vision. From early on, reaching out to Markus Wosgien felt like the right step. Having collaborated with him before, we were confident in his experience, his perspective, and the trust we’ve built over time. We’re proud to mark this new chapter by joining Fireflash Records. This partnership represents a strong and focused step forward rooted in shared goals and a clear direction for the future. With this conjoint venture, we truly believe we have found the best partner for our musical future”, comments the band.

Markus Wosgien of Fireflash Recpords adds: “Back in the day, when we started Atomic Fire Records, Seventh Storm was one of our first signings. Their debut album „Maledictus“ was outstanding, a true and unique gem in the dark metal genre. The band had some serious hymns, and a vocalist with one of the most intense and incredible voices. Rez reflects what I call a real Rockstar, who lives and breathes what he sings. Unfortunately the band line-up broke up after the release, but four of the members formed a new band, and continued under Maledictus. After I heard the first new tracks, the same overwhelming feeling was there again and I am more than happy, that we can continue our relationship under their new flag. Expect nothing than a real masterpiece!“

Next week friday, on April 24th, MALEDICTUS will release their new single „Silentium“.

Pre-Save the track here: https://save-it.cc/fireflash/silentium

MALEDICTUS is:

  • Rez — vocals
  • Ben Stockwell — guitar
  • Josh Riot — guitar
  • Butch Cid — bass
  • Peter Crushes — drums

MALEDICTUS online:

THROWN Return with New Single + Official Video ‘Split’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 19, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo Credit: Arising Empire

thrown have made their long-awaited return with new single ‘split’. It’s urgent and unfiltered, channeling frustration and inner pressure into something direct and physical.

Stream the single here: https://arisingempire.com/thrown

Lyrically, ‘split’ revolves around losing control, self-doubt, and the exhausting weight of being stuck in your own head. It captures that moment where thoughts start to spiral and nothing seems to move forward. Instead of hiding behind abstraction, the band keep things raw and honest. Lines like “I’ve gotten used to not knowing what to do” reflect a sense of resignation, while the repeated “split my head in two” becomes a powerful expression of overload, almost like a desperate need to break free from your own thoughts.

Sonically, the track stays true to what has made thrown stand out in the first place, while sounding more refined and focused than ever. Crushing, down-tuned riffs drive the song forward, backed by relentless drums and breakdowns that hit with purpose rather than excess. There’s a clear sense of control in the chaos, everything feels tight, intentional, and built for maximum impact without overcomplicating things.
In a short time, thrown have built serious momentum.

With millions of streams across platforms and a rapidly growing international fanbase, the band have established themselves as one of the most exciting new names in modern metalcore. Their straightforward, no-frills approach has resonated with listeners looking for something real, something that doesn’t rely on trends, but on energy and authenticity.

‘split’ feels like a natural next step. It takes everything the band have done so far and sharpens it, heavier, more direct, and emotionally clearer. It’s not about reinventing their sound, but about pushing it further and making it hit harder.

The band have also announced a European summer festival run, as well as headline tour dates.

03.06. Mystic Festival I Gdansk, PL
04.06. Mau Club I Rostock, DE
06.06. Sweden Rock Festival I Sölvesborg, SE
07.06. Musikzentrum I Hannover, DE
08.06. Colos-Saal I Aschaffenburg, DE
10.06. Rock For People I Hradec Králové, CZ
11.06. Greenfield Festival I Interlaken, CH

“one of heavy music’s most blisteringly brilliant bands” – Kerrang
“This rips” – Daniel P. Carter / Radio 1 Rock Show
“grooves deeper than the Mariana Trench” – Metal Hammer

thrown are:
Marcus Lundqvist | vocals
Johan Liljeblad | guitar
Andreas Malm | guitar
Buster Odeholme | drums

For more information:
https://www.facebook.com/thrownband
https://www.instagram.com/thrownband
https://www.tiktok.com/@thrownband
https://x.com/thrownsthlm

ZORNHEYM Unleash Video for Single ‘Somewhere Far Beyond’ + Announce New Album “Descending Into Madness”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 19, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo by Jens Rydén

Swedish symphonic metal act ZORNHEYM has released the first single and music video, “Somewhere Far Beyond”, taken from their upcoming studio album “Descending Into Madness”, which is set for release on October 2, 2026 via Noble Demon. Marking the band’s third full-length release, “Descending Into Madness” serves as a prequel to the dark and intricate story surrounding the asylum “Zornheim”, its inmates and their doctors – where it is never quite clear who is truly insane.

“In an era obsessed with speed and instant results, we chose substance over shortcuts. This album was forged over years of relentless writing, arranging and refining. Every decision mattered. Every layer was earned. Nothing was rushed, nothing was accidental: until the vision stood complete,” the band comments. “‘Somewhere Far Beyond’ is the first glimpse into this new chapter: a prequel that takes us back to the moment when Dr. Bettelheim first arrives at Zornheim, long before the madness fully unfolds. The track captures the epic choral power that defines the album, pushing our sound further than ever, with every member delivering at their absolute peak.”

Stream the single HERE

ZORNHEYM was founded in Stockholm, Sweden, as an ambitious vision by its creator, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Zorn (ex-Dark Funeral), with the goal of realizing his interpretation of the ultimate concept band – a complete fusion of music, narrative, and visual storytelling. Since its inception, the band has set out to redefine the traditional “metal meets symphony” approach, developing a sound that blends cinematic orchestration with a powerful heavy metal backbone and strong influences from melodic death metal, all driven by a distinct sense for epic, memorable melodies.

At the core of ZORNHEYM lies a dark and expanding narrative universe. Each album unfolds within the walls of the mental asylum Zornheim – a place shrouded in mystery, madness, and horror – where the institution itself becomes the central character. Across releases, the band explores different eras of its sinister history through layered storytelling, recurring themes, and hidden connections. This concept was introduced on their debut album “Where Hatred Dwells and Darkness Reigns” (2017) and further expanded on the critically acclaimed “The Zornheim Sleep Experiment” (2021), followed by the acoustic EP “The Forgotten Inmates” (2023), which completed the first chapter of the asylum’s story.

ZORNHEYM’s artistic vision extends far beyond music. Their albums are accompanied by detailed visual concepts and graphic novels, bringing the asylum and its inmates to life in another dimension, while their music videos are produced as short films that further immerse the audience in the band’s universe.

On stage, ZORNHEYM transforms into a theatrical experience led by frontman Bendler, whose commanding presence draws the audience deep into the asylum’s grip. On special occasions, actors become part of the performance, elevating the show beyond a traditional concert into a dark and immersive spectacle.

Tracklist:

  1. Prologue: From the Depths of Sêlasee
  2. Deus Rex
  3. Somewhere Far Beyond
  4. Deep Below
  5. Anneliese
  6. Alone in the Dark
  7. Gallow’s Oak
  8. The Funeral March
  9. Descending
  10. Come Sweet Death
  11. The Foreboding (CD Bonus Track)
  12. None For All (CD Bonus Track)

“Descending Into Madness” will be coming out on October 2 via Noble Demon and is now available for pre-order at THIS LOCATION. The album will be available in a variety of exclusive formats, including colored marbled vinyl, a limited Collector’s Edition CD, a Digipak, and an A5 book.

For more info visit:
https://www.instagram.com/zornheym_official/
https://www.facebook.com/zornheym
https://zornheym.bandcamp.com/
https://linktr.ee/nobledemon

CREMATORY Unveil Video Single ‘Blind’ from Upcoming Greatest Hits Album

Posted by tarjavirmakari on April 19, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
[photo: Ingo Spörl]

German gothic metal pioneers CREMATORY have released a brand-new music video for their latest single “Blind,” offering a dark glimpse into their upcoming greatest hits album “English Hymns & Deutsche Hymnen.”

The album is set for release on May 15, 2026 via ROAR – A Division of Reigning Phoenix Music and celebrates 35 years of the band’s career. “English Hymns & Deutsche Hymnen” will be available as an expansive three-CD edition as well as limited double-vinyl formats. The 3-CD set includes “English Hymns,” “Deutsche Hymnen,” and “Engulfed in Darkness Demo.” The vinyl editions will be released as a Neon Green double vinyl (English Hymns) and a Turquoise double vinyl (Deutsche Hymnen).

The album pre-sale is available here: https://crematory.rpm.link/greatesthitsPR

With “Blind”, the exclusive bonus track on the “Deutsche Hymnen” LP edition, CREMATORY present one of their darkest German-language tracks to date. Driven by themes of spiritual erosion and emotional desolation, the song unfolds a bleak, cinematic atmosphere, combining crushing heaviness with immersive depth. Lines such as “kein morgen naht, kein leben bleibt / nur kalte asche” reinforce the track’s cold, ritualistic aesthetic. 

Frontman Felix Stass states:
“‘Blind’ reflects a world where hope dissolves and only shadows remain.”

Formed in 1991 in Mannheim, Germany, CREMATORY have become one of the most enduring and influential acts in European gothic metal. Over more than three decades, the band evolved from their early death metal roots into a distinctive style combining heavy riffs, melodic keyboards, industrial textures, and contrasting vocal approaches.

Throughout their career, CREMATORY have explored themes of life, pain, introspection, and atmosphere, often blending deep growls with clean vocals to create a sound both powerful and haunting. Their growth in the 1990s brought them recognition across Europe through relentless touring and festival appearances.

The upcoming “Greatest Hits” album reflects the band’s bilingual legacy. “English Hymns & Deutsche Hymnen” gathers key tracks from across their catalogue in both languages and also includes the band’s earliest demo recordings, offering fans a comprehensive retrospective of CREMATORY’s long and influential journey. With 35 years of history, countless tours, and a legacy that helped shape European gothic, death and industrial metal, “Greatest Hits” stands as both a celebration of CREMATORY’s past and a powerful reminder that the band remains as vital as ever!

“Greatest Hits” – Vinyl Track Listing

LP “English Hymns”:

The Eyes Of Suffering
Shadows Of Mine
Tears Of Time
Lost In Myself
For Love
Fly
The Fallen
Greed
Pray
Shadowmaker
Ravens Calling
Rise and Fall
Inglorious Darkness
Destination
The Future Is A Lonely Place
Born (Exclusive Bonus Track)
Wrong Side of the Mirror (Exclusive Bonus Track)

LP “Deutsche Hymnen”:

Ist Es Wahr
Ewigkeit
Tick Tack
Kaltes Feuer
Höllenbrand
Kein Liebeslied
Auf Der Flucht
Haus mit Garten
Falsche Tränen
Kommt Näher
Virus
Tränen der Zeit
Trümmerwelten
Welt Aus Glas
Das Letzte Ticket
Blind (Exclusive Bonus Track)
Flammenmeer (Exclusive Bonus Track)

In support of the release, the band will embark on an extensive European run throughout 2026.  Make sure to catch CREMATORY at the following dates below, with many more to be announced soon:

Apr 25 – Hartenrod, DE – Hinterland Metal Meeting
May 01 – Andernach, DE – Metal Days Festival
May 02 – Bad Friedrichshall, DE – Lemmys Bar & Liveclub
May 14 – Mannheim, DE – 7er Club
May 15 – Erfurt, DE – From Hell
May 16 – Zwickau, DE – Club Seilerstrasse
May 17 – Potsdam, DE – Lindenpark
May 22 – Oberhausen, DE – Kulttempel
Jun 04 – Selb, DE – Rock Club
Jun 05 – Salzburg, AT – Rock House
Jun 07 – Pilsen, CZ – Metal Fest
Jun 25 – Oschersleben, DE – Metal Dayz Festival
Jun 26 – Leipzig, DE – Hellraiser
Jul 04 – Mülheim / Ruhr, DE – Castle Rock Festival
Jul 31 – Wacken, DE – Wacken Open Air
Aug 22 – Pindelo Dos Milagres, PT – MMOA Festival
Aug 28 – Barcelona, ES – Ripollet Rock Festival

CREMATORY is:
Felix Stass – Vocals
Rolf Munkes – Guitar
Oliver Revilo – Bass
Katrin Jüllich – Keyboards, Samples
Markus Jüllich – Drums, Programming

Visit CREMATORY online:
Website | https://www.crematory.de
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/crematory.de
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/crematory.de
YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@crematory-de