With the blistering cacophony of 2024’s Loved By None, Hated By All still ringing in our ears, Danish death/metallic hardcore outfit LIFESICK strike back with a brand new single, “Die With Me.”
The track begins in full grind mode with the chant “Die With Me” driving the chaos before shifting into a fast hardcore section. The track keeps pushing forward before collapsing into breakdowns that grow slower and heavier toward the end, finishing in a massive closing breakdown that feels like the final moments of a live set. Lyrically it’s about meeting death head-on and refusing to go quietly.
Stand by for more news on LIFESICK in the weeks to come.
LIFESICK: Simon Shoshan – vocals Nicolai Lindegaard – guitar Nikolai Lund – guitar Jeppe Riis Frausing – bass Lasse Skyttegaard – drums
KHEMMIS continue the march toward their towering new self-titled album with the release of ‘Beneath The Scythe,’ the latest single from the Denver heavy metal institution’s massively anticipated fifth full-length, due out June 12th via Nuclear Blast Records.
Following the explosive first single “Invocation of the Dreamer,” ‘Beneath The Scythe’ digs even deeper into the band’s sharpened sense of purpose—melding colossal riffs, soaring melodies, and the unmistakable emotional weight that has defined KHEMMIS for over a decade. Taken from an album that finds the band reconnecting with the pure exhilaration of making heavy music together, the track captures both the darkness and triumphant spirit at the heart of Khemmis.
Commenting on the new single, guitarist/vocalist Ben Hutcherson states:
“‘Beneath the Scythe’ is a track wherein all four of us just it rip. Dueling guitar solos? Check. Ripping drum fills? Check. A beautiful bass solo over a haunting, atmospheric interlude? Check! In some ways, “Scythe” feels like “classic Khemmis,” but we made sure that the song took the listener on a journey unlike anything we’ve done before. As always, this tune is best enjoyed at high volume while holding an ice-cold beverage in a room adorned with posters of Mercyful Fate, Iron Maiden, and At the Gates (RIP Tompa!).”
Alongside the release of ‘Beneath The Scythe,’ KHEMMIS is also unveiling pre-orders for a new band-exclusive vinyl variant of the new record. Limited to just 400 copies worldwide, the exclusive LP is pressed on transparent magenta vinyl with white splatter and is expected to move quickly—especially following the band’s previous exclusive pressing, which sold out in less than 24 hours. Demand for the new album continues to surge, with the recently announced Decibel exclusive vinyl edition already completely sold out, further proving the overwhelming anticipation surrounding KHEMMIS’ return.
Khemmis—the follow-up to 2021’s acclaimed Deceiver—features eight tracks of unrelenting, monolithic heavy metal adorned by stunning artwork from Christopher Remmers. More than just another chapter, the record represents the band in their truest form: a celebration of heavy music, forged through camaraderie, conviction, and an enduring love of the riff.
Across eleven years, KHEMMIS have become one of modern metal’s most revered names, beginning with their 2015 debut Absolution and continuing through landmark releases like Hunted—named Decibel’s Album Of The Year—Desolation, and Deceiver. But while the band’s legacy is firmly established, Khemmis finds them energized by something more immediate: the joy of simply playing loud, heavy music together.
As Hutcherson explains:
“We decided early in the songwriting process that we wanted to write a tight, high-energy album that retained the essential ‘Khemmis sound’ while also embodying the joy of creating, experiencing, and loving heavy metal. Ours have always been deeply personal songs born from tragedy and sorrow; while the songs on Khemmis are still undeniably dark, they are not mined from our suffering. Instead, this record is a celebration of the music world that has sustained us.”
KHEMMIS will perform a special one-off show with ACID BATH in May before embarking on a headlining tour in early summer with support from NECROFIER and WRETCHED, followed by an excursion with MONOLORD soon after. Tickets and additional tour information are available at khemmisdoom.com/live.
Forsake The Light Headline Tour w / NECROFIER & WRETCHED
June 19 – Vancouver, BC – Rickshaw Theater June 20 – Seattle, WA – Substation June 21 – Portland, OR – Aladdin Theater June 23 – Sacramento, CA – Starlet Room June 24 – Berkeley, CA – Cornerstone June 25 – Santa Cruz, CA – Felton Music Hall June 26 – Los Angeles, CA – Lodge Room June 27 – San Diego, CA – Brick By Brick June 28 – Pioneertown, CA – Pappy & Harriet’s June 30 – Phoenix, AZ – Nile Theater July 1 – Cottonwood, AZ – Queen B July 2 – Albuquerque, NM – Sister
W / MONOLORD
Aug 27 – Chicago, IL – Thalia Hall Aug 28 – Louisville, KY – Portal Aug 29 – Atlanta, GA – Garden Club Aug 30 – Asheville, NC – Eulogy Aug 31 – Columbia, SC – New Brookland Tavern Sep 2 – Philadelphia, PA – Underground Arts Sep 3 – Brooklyn, NY – Elsewhere Sep 5 – Baltimore, MD – Labor Daze Sep 8 – Columbus, OH – Ace of Cups Sep 9 – Detroit, MI – Sanctuary Sep 10 – Indianapolis, IN – Black Circle
About KHEMMIS:
After eleven years of albums and global touring, Colorado’s Khemmis have cemented themselves as pillars of modern heavy metal. Yet as they approach their fifth full-length, the band found something newly vital: the simple joy of creating heavy music together. Formed with no expectations, the group’s longevity has become its foundation, with guitarist/vocalist Ben Hutcherson describing the band as a rare source of stability and camaraderie. Since their 2015 debut Absolution, followed by the acclaimed Hunted, Desolation, Doomed Heavy Metal MLP, and Deceiver, Khemmis have built a legacy of towering, spiritual doom that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Despite changes—including members relocating and bassist David Small joining in 2022—the band emerged more focused than ever. Recording again at Flatline Audio in Colorado, the lineup of Hutcherson, Phil Pendergast, Zach Coleman, and Small leaned into renewed trust and chemistry, with distance paradoxically strengthening their bond. The addition of Small invigorated the rhythm section and encouraged experimentation, while the band rediscovered the excitement that defined their early days. That renewed energy fueled a collaborative atmosphere rooted in confidence, inspiration, and the shared thrill of simply playing heavy metal.
The resulting self-titled album is both a celebration and reinvention: a conceptually framed ritual of heavy metal that moves from the pounding “Invocation of the Dreamer” to the climactic “Benediction Tones,” balancing galloping aggression with emotionally resonant anthems. The record embraces extremity, catharsis, and joy in equal measure, complemented by new visual direction from artist Christopher Remmers. Through lineup changes, distance, and a shifting world, Khemmis remain unshaken—leaning into the music that defines them. Their self-titled album arrives June 12th, 2026 via Nuclear Blast, capturing the band in their truest and most energized form.
May 4th, 2026, a surge of pure metal energy striked with full force: “Thunder”, the explosive new single by Joey Caracciolo, is now officially available via Wanikiya Record/Promotion.
A powerful, visceral, and deeply meaningful track, “Thunder” is rooted in the most authentic foundations of metal history. The song stands as a direct tribute to the origins and spirit of the early incarnation of Thanatos, reviving that raw, uncompromising sonic urgency that defined an entire era.
A TRIBUTE TO METAL’S ROOTS
“Thunder” is not just a single—it’s a bold statement of intent. A sonic journey paying homage to the original Thanatos lineup, celebrating their influence and lasting impact on the metal scene.
The result is an explosive blend of nostalgia and modernity, where the past collides with a sharp, contemporary production.
JOEY CARACCIOLO: A FORCE OF NATURE
At the center of this sonic storm stands Joey Caracciolo, delivering a performance that showcases his full artistic versatility.
On vocals, Joey unleashes a devastating delivery: deep, dark growls clash with razor-sharp screams, creating a dynamic tension that grips the listener from the very first second. His vocal range and technical control perfectly embody the aggression and theatrical intensity of the classic Thanatos sound.
On guitar, the intensity continues: razor-edged riffs, fast and intricate solos, and a massive rhythm section build a solid and overwhelming wall of sound. Every note is infused with technique, passion, and raw energy.
A SINGLE THAT STRIKES LIKE LIGHTNING
“Thunder” is a celebration of metal in its purest form—powerful, direct, and uncompromising. A track destined to leave its mark, appealing both to longtime fans of the genre and to a new generation seeking authenticity and impact.
With Joey Caracciolo leading the charge, this single stands as essential listening for anyone craving intense, adrenaline-fueled metal.
Turn up the volume, brace for impact, and let yourself be struck by “Thunder.”
Melbourne alternative garage rock trio Desert Fire will unleash their debut single, “R.A.D.I.O.”, on 22nd May across all major streaming platforms, marking the band’s first official recorded outing.
Fast, sharp and impossible to ignore, “R.A.D.I.O.” kicks the door in with biting guitars, a relentless rhythm section and a vocal that cuts clean through the noise. Sitting somewhere between garage rock swagger and raw rock’n’roll urgency, it’s a no-nonsense introduction from a band built for volume, sweat and stages that feel too small.
Lyrically, the track leans into ambition, image and expectation, giving the song a tongue in cheek undercurrent beneath its punch. That friction adds weight to a debut that hits hard on first listen but lingers well after. “We wanted our first track to land like a punch but still have something sim mering underneath,” the band says. “R.A.D.I.O. felt like the right place to start – it’s got the energy, the hook and the attitude that define Desert Fire.”
The single was recorded, mixed and produced by Ricki Rae at Lighthill Sound Recording in Riddells Creek, Victoria, mastered by Bill Skibbe at Third Man Mastering in Detroit, and pressed as a limited edition 7” at Third Man Pressing. Featuring guest backing vocals by Jackie Yamada and Ramonda Carrico.
Desert Fire is a Melbourne alt-rock trio featuring Stevie Reds, Roachy and Rachie Reds. Loud, direct and driven by melody, groove and force, “R.A.D.I.O.” serves as the band’s opening shot.
The debut single lands on 22 May 2026 across all major streaming platforms, with a limited 7-inch vinyl edition available online and at upcoming shows.
Can you hear them gnawing? They’re almost through the walls!
American thrash metal pioneers FLOTSAM AND JETSAM are gearing up to unleash their explosive Napalm Records debut album Rats In The Temple, on August 28, 2026.
The legends from Arizona have been a fixture of the metal scene for the better part of the last four decades. With modern renaissance records like The End of Chaos, (2019) and I Am the Weapon, (2024), capturing the glory of their inceptional material, the Kerrang! championed classic Doomsday for the Deceiver, (1986) and No Place for Disgrace, (1988), it’s no wonder they’re still raising hell for their throngs of dedicated fans along festival circuits internationally!
Rats In The Temple lunges out full force with 13 rabid onslaughts of ornate guitarmonies, pummeling double bass kicks, hypnotic bass grooves, and exalted frontman Eric A.K. Knutson’s unmistakably haunting wail. As the temple is besieged by vermin, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM line the walls with grim tales of death, abuse, betrayal, and war, inviting listeners into a dark world not too distant from our own.
Frontman Eric A.K. Knutson said about the album: “This record is a BEAST, truly our best effort to date!! Do yourself a favor. Dim the lights, grab a drink, put the headphones on, and crank this up. You will not be sorry you did!!!”
Rats In The Temple opens strong with the stadium-ready hooks and dizzyingly precise performances of “Harvesting The Hate” and “Damnation”, before delving into thrash virtuosity on “Absolution”. The iconic guitar duo of Michael Gilbert and Steve Conley paint vividly ghoulish images on tracks like “Blame The Knife” and “Rats In the Temple”, then continue to flex their metal muscle on “The Ghost Behind My Door” and “First on the Spike”, invoking pure first-wave excellence with a pummeling modern menace. “The Edge of Nowhere” builds inescapable suspense before firing listeners out of a gun, full throttle into “Last Rites”, another standout track for the band. The legendary rhythm duo of drummer Ken Mary and bassist Bill Bodily take center stage on the anti-war anthem “A Taste For War”, their methodical syncopation invoking images of tanks and boots on the ground. “Her Blood Your Pain” brings ornate, medieval guitarmonies before “Anthem For The Broken” goes full balls to the wall, and “Going Down That Way” hits listeners with heavy riffs and even heavier truths. Rats In The Temple remains enthralling throughout, giving listeners entry to numerous of the band’s metal chambers, sampling a refined and eclectic serving of influences.
Churning like magma beneath the Earth, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM have only been growing more and more fiery with time, and Rats In The Temple sees the band exploding to the surface in a magnificent and awe-inspiring blaze. For fans new and longstanding, you cannot escape them; they’re through the walls.
Rats In The Temple Tracklist: 1. Harvesting the Hate 2. Damnation 3. Absolution 4. Blame the Knife 5. Rats in the Temple 6. The Ghost behind my Door 7. First on the Spike 8. The Edge of Nowhere 9. Last Rites 10. A Taste for War 11. Her Blood your Pain 12. Anthem for the Broken 13. Not Going down that Way
FLOTSAM AND JETSAM Are: Eric A.K. Knutson – Vocals Michael Gilbert – Guitars Steve Conley – Guitars William Bodily – Bass Ken Mary – Drums
DOMINUM, the rising stars of modern metal, unveil the second track cut from their upcoming full-length Night Is Calling, set for release on July 3, 2026, via Napalm Records. The infectious anthem, entitled “Doctor Doctor,” is driven by crushing riffs and irresistible hooks, showcasing the band’s signature blend of theatrical horror themes and massive sing-along choruses, destined to echo across festival crowds. Following their previously released banger, “The Circus is in Town,” the second single, “Doctor Doctor,” is served alongside a high-quality official music video, telling the bittersweet story of sickening love.
With their sophomore studio album, The Dead Don’t Die (2024), DOMINUM, led by mastermind and singer Felix Heldt—better known as Dr. Dead—stormed into the top 10 of the German charts. Together with his zombies, Tommy Kemp (guitars), Patient 0 (bass), and Victor Hilltop (drums)—DOMINUM has already taken this undead spectacle to major stages across Europe. Touring alongside icons such as Bruce Dickinson, Avantasia, Battle Beast, and Peyton Parrish, the band has proven its strength both at major festivals and during their own headline shows.
Dr. Dead comments on “Doctor Doctor”: “What if a doctor needs to go to the doctor? When the one who heals everyone else can’t heal himself anymore. ‘Doctor Doctor’ is my confession, wrapped in obsession. A story about a love that feels like a cure at first… but slowly becomes the disease. My pulse races, the symptoms worsen, and suddenly the medicine stops working. I know it’s killing me. But still, I crave another dose. Because some love won’t save you. Some love just eats you up alive. And when the fever rises and my heart won’t listen to reason, there’s only one question left: Is there anyone left who can save me? Yours, Dr. Dead”
DOMINUM open the next chapter of their dark, theatrical universe with their new full-length Night Is Calling. With their bombastic sound and outstanding stage presence, the band continues its rapid ascent on the international metal scene, without losing sight of its strengths: theatrical, melodic, and uncompromising modern metal—driven by the dark charisma of Dr. Dead and his zombies. One thing is certain: the Living Dead Squad continues to grow.
Night Is Calling is now available for pre-order, with selected formats including the bonus album Live at Wacken 2025.
Dr. Dead on Night is Calling: “They grow up so fast. – Ugh. It makes me sick. And now I feel it myself: my zombies have grown up. Our creation… has grown up too. But unlike the pitiful rest, we don’t mourn our childhood. No. We revel in who we are. Being a child, being an adult—what does that even mean? Anyway, the world lies at our feet, and we can do whatever we damn well please. Believe me from firsthand experience: an army of zombies makes everything a hell of a lot easier… and way more fun with every bit of trouble getting the punch it deserves. We have the power to reshape our world. And oh, we do. Night is Calling – this is our outlet. Stronger melodies, heavier riffs, sharper, unflinching lyrics—honesty as our deadliest weapon. We are who we are. And you… you’re in this whether you like it or not. The undead are on the march, more relentless than ever. Join us immediately, willingly… or a little later when we come to your neighborhood. Either way… we’ll be seeing you. Dr. Dead.”
Produced by Felix Heldt and mixed by renowned producer Jacob Hansen, Night is Calling expands the band’s sonic universe with even heavier riffs, bigger choruses and cinematic drama. The explosive opener “The Circus Is In Town” throws listeners straight into DOMINUM’s twisted carnival, while infectious anthems such as “Doctor Doctor” and “Dark Melodies” deliver massive hooks destined to echo across festival crowds. The powerful title track “Night is Calling” (feat. Battle Beast) further highlights the band’s growing presence on the international metal stage.
Night is Calling Tour 2026: w/ The Night Flight Orchestra 24.11.26 FR – Paris / La Machine du Moulin Rouge 25.11.26 DE – Frankfurt / Batschkapp 27.11.26 DE – Hamburg / Grosse Freiheit 36 28.11.26 DE – Leipzig / Hellraiser 01.12.26 HU – Budapest / Barba Negra 02.12.26 AT – Vienna / Szene 04.12.26 CH – Pratteln / Z7 05.12.26 DE – Saarbrücken / Garage 06.12.26 BE – Sint Niklaas / De Casino 08.12.26 UK – Manchester / O2 Ritz 09.12.26 UK – Bristol / Bristol Electric 10.12.26 UK – London / Electric Brixton 12.12.26 DE – Oberhausen / Turbinenhalle 13.12.26 DE – Utrecht / Tivoli Vredenburg 15.12.26 DE – Berlin / SO36 16.12.26 DE – Hanover / Capitol 18.12.26 DE – Stuttgart / LKA Longhorn 19.12.26 DE – Munich / Backstage 20.12.26 DE – Nuremberg / Hirsch
Festivals: 22.-23.05.26 CH – Cornaux / Corn’Rock Festival 05.-07.06.26 CZ – Pilsen / Metalfest Open Air 01.-04.07.26 DE – Ballenstedt / Rock Harz Festival 03.-06.07.26 SE – Knislinge / Time To Rock 24.-25.07.26 DE – Bissingen / Wisdom Tooth Festival 13.-15.07.26 DE – Sulingen / Reload Festival
23.08.26 DE – Sankt Goarshausen / Loreley Freilichtbühne (w/ Judas Priest, Thundermother) … more to be announced
DOMINUM are: Dr. Dead – Vocals Patient 0 – Bass Victor Hilltop – Drums Tommy Kemp – Guitars
THE ROCK ALCHEMIST – Italian Rock Band from Turin with a strong sonic identity that blends modern rock with progressive, hard, alternative, and pop elements!
Kimmo Kuusniemi’s SARCOFAGUS return with a Historic 2010 Concert Video Premiere on YouTube! Click image to watch the video
