BRAINSTORM on Tour with ANGUS McSIX + Release Cover Version of ‘Celebrate Youth’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on March 13, 2026
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Photo Credit: Markus Wolf Fotografie

Yesterday, German power metal force BRAINSTORM kicked off their upcoming tour run and celebrate the moment with a special release: their cover version of “Celebrate Youth” is now available digitally for the very first time! The track was previously only available as an exclusive CD bonus track on their latest studio album Plague Of Rats, released via RPM in 2025.

“With ‘Celebrate Youth,’ we chose a song that meant a lot to me personally in my early Youth,” Andy B. Franck reveals. “Yes, not a metal song—but a song that perfectly reflected that era and my feeling as a young person of wanting to achieve a lot. Listening to the younger generation, giving them a voice… I don’t think I’ve ever really matured that much deep down, I’ve retained that feeling and still think and feel like a young guy. This thing rocks, and we had a lot of fun recording it. The Youth, then and now, needs to be heard and understood. This song is the perfect statement about that topic.”

Stream the single here: https://brainstorm.rpm.link/youthPR

The digital release follows the overwhelming response to the band’s cover of Don Henley’s classic “Boys Of Summer”, which was released in August last year and quickly gained strong traction across streaming platforms.

Released in early 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music, Plague Of Rats marks another milestone in BRAINSTORM’s long career. The album combines the band’s trademark sound – powerful riffs, soaring melodies and gripping choruses – with a renewed intensity and modern production. With over nearly three decades of history, worldwide touring and numerous chart placements, BRAINSTORM remain one of the most consistent and respected acts in German metal. Order Plague Of Rats here: https://brainstorm.rpm.link/plagueofratsPR

BRAINSTORM Tour Dates
supporting ANGUS McSIX – Album Release Tour w/ Bloodbound

13.03.2026 (DE) Leipzig, Hellraiser 
14.03.2026 (DE) Regensburg, Eventhall Airport 
15.03.2026 (DE) München, Backstage 
16.03.2026 (DE) Nürnberg, Hirsch 
17.03.2026 (DE) Berlin, Lido 
18.03.2026 (DE) Saarbrücken, Garage
19.03.2026 (DE) Heidelberg, Halle 02 
20.03.2026 (DE) Oberhausen, Kulttempel 
21.03.2026 (DE) Andernach, Live Club 
22.03.2026 (NL) Eindhoven, Effenaar 

About BRAINSTORM

When it comes to metal “Made in Germany”, there is no way around BRAINSTORM. Since their debut album Hungry (1997), the band has continuously evolved while maintaining their unmistakable sound built on powerful riffs, driving rhythms and memorable choruses. Albums such as Metus Mortis, Soul Temptation and Liquid Monster helped establish the band internationally, followed by acclaimed releases like Midnight Ghost and Wall Of Skulls.

With their latest album Plague Of Rats, BRAINSTORM once again demonstrated their ability to combine classic power metal energy with fresh influences. Produced by Seeb Levermann, the record captures the raw intensity of their live performances and continues the band’s tradition of delivering uncompromising metal. After decades on the road and countless shows worldwide, BRAINSTORM remain a defining force in the international metal scene; and the best is yet to come!

BRAINSTORM is:
Andy B. Franck (Vocals)
Torsten Ihlenfeld (Guitars)
Milan Loncaric (Guitars)
Danij Perl (Bass)
Kevin Lütolf (Drums)

More on BRAINSTORM:
Website | https://www.brainstorm-web.net
Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/officialbrainstorm
Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/official.brainstorm/
X | https://www.twitter.com/Brainstorm_band

ROUGH GRIND Release First Video Single ‘Shotgun Bride’ from Upcoming Third Album “Neverending Night”

Posted by tarjavirmakari on March 13, 2026
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Photo by Rough Grind

Finnish Rough Grind woo metal-loving hard rock fans to ride shotgun in their vintage getaway car before the night falls. The first single Shotgun Bride from the band’s upcoming third album Neverending Night was released on all digital platforms yesterday on March 12. Lean into the headrest and enjoy the ride.

Listen to the song on music services (Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music etc.): https://push.fm/fl/roughgrind-shotgunbride

–ISRC: FI3FC2699403
–Composition & lyrics by Sami Haapasalo

Founded in 2011, Rough Grind’s resumé includes three EPs – “Son of a Gun” (2014), “Four for the Road” (2017) and “Trouble or Nothing” (2018). Their debut album “Pieces of Resistance” was released in 2020 and the sophomore full length “Hardened” in 2022. The releases have been well-received around the globe, getting airtime from radio stations in USA, Canada, UK and Germany, among others.

Web page: https://roughgrindband.wixsite.com/
Facebook: RoughGrindBand
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roughgrind/
Twitter: @RoughGrind

KINETIC DISSENT to Release “Controlled Reaction” Vinyl Anthology on April 10th

Posted by tarjavirmakari on March 13, 2026
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M-Theory Audio has announced a definitive vinyl reissue for Atlanta’s unsung progressive thrashers, KINETIC DISSENT. Titled ‘Controlled Reaction,’ this massive 2LP set compiles the band’s entire demo discography, meticulously remastered to capture the technical ferocity that nearly made them household names in the early ‘90s.

A Legacy of “What Could Have Been”
Emerging from the Atlanta scene in the mid-1980s, Kinetic Dissent stood apart from their peers by blending the aggressive “chugging” of thrash with thought-provoking, progressive songcraft. Their 1988 demo, Controlled Reaction, became a cult classic with much positive underground fanzine attention and college radio airplay, earning them a deal with the legendary Roadrunner Records.While the band released their landmark full-length, ‘I Will Fight No More Forever,’ in 1991, they never received the touring support necessary to break into the mainstream. Despite sharing stages with titans like Death Angel, Pantera, and Fates Warning, the group disbanded shortly after, leaving behind a legacy of “what could have been” that has only grown in stature among metal historians.

The Ultimate Demo Collection
The upcoming release on April 10, 2026, brings together 17 tracks spanning the band’s four key recording sessions:

  • 1987: The Fall of Individualism Demo
  • 1988: Controlled Reaction Demo
  • 1989: Roadrunner Records Sessions
  • 1992: Channel One Sessions

Originally compiled and released on CD by Divebomb Records in 20202 and remastered by the renowned Jamie King (Cynic, Between the Buried and Me), this first-time on vinyl package is on distorted blood colored 2LP vinyl limited to 250 copies. It includes an 8-panel zine-style insert featuring lyrics, original photos, and a deep-dive interview with the band. To preview the band listen to “Choose Your Fate” here:

“In the late ‘80s underground there were a few standout demos – Sindrome, Confessor, Bitter End, Forced Entry, Arcane… and KINETIC DISSENT – bands that wowed me and I felt were destined for brighter days. And while many were signed breakthrough success alluded them all which doesn’t take away the fact that these recordings still bring back memories and shine in their innocence and potential,” states label founder Marco Barbieri.  “I positively reviewed KINETIC DISSENT’s ‘Controlled Reaction’ demo and interviewed them for my fanzine, and even included them on a tape compilation. Almost 40 years later it’s an honor to reissue this collection onto a 2LP set and further the band’s legacy for old fans and intentionally new.”

Reflecting on the reissue and the band’s history, drummer Ed Reimer shared, “Our debut album came out at a time when vinyl production had just ended.  So to finally get KINETIC DISSENT music on vinyl is awesome!  We are so thankful to M-Theory for making this happen and to the fans out there that have kept our music alive for over 35 years.  You all are the best!”

Pre-Order Information

Fans can now pre-order the ‘Controlled Reaction’ 2LP HERE: www.m-theoryaudio.com/store via the M-Theory Audio webshop or it’s available at your local retailer April 10th.

For more information: www.m-theoryaudio.com

METATRONE Celebrate Release of New “Sangueacqua” Album with Lyric Video for ‘Stato Infame’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on March 13, 2026
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Italian Christian power-prog metal band Metatrone returns with the new single “Stato Infame”, alongside an official lyric video. The track is released together with their new album “SANGUEACQUA”, out today March 13th, from Rockshots Records, marking the group’s long-awaited return ten years after their acclaimed album “Eucharismetal“.

Following the previously released singles “Emmaus” and “Facsimile”, “Stato Infame” further reveals the musical and conceptual direction of the new record. Musically, the song combines Metatrone’s trademark blend of European power metal energy, progressive structures, and sharp thrash-driven riffing supported by the dynamic interplay between Jo Lombardo’s commanding lead vocals and the distinctive vocal contributions of keyboardist David Brown.

Lyrically, “Stato Infame” addresses the humiliation and oppression of collective identity under abusive political power. The song depicts a society where the dignity of an entire people is mocked, manipulated, and ultimately crushed by authority – a warning shaped by historical memory and moral responsibility. Within the broader concept of “SANGUEACQUA”, the track represents one of the album’s most direct and uncompromising statements about identity, freedom, and resistance.
​
The new album “SANGUEACQUA” stands as a manifesto of identity for the band – both human and artistic. Across its eight tracks, Metatrone explores different dimensions of identity: personal, spiritual, cultural, and collective. The result is a record that merges melodic power metal roots with a sharper, more aggressive sonic approach while preserving the band’s unmistakable stylistic signature.

After years marked by lineup changes, personal challenges, and the global pandemic, “SANGUEACQUA” represents a powerful statement of resilience and rebirth for the band.

Just one day after the album’s release, Metatrone will perform at the prestigious Elements Of Rock Festival in Uster, Switzerland, on March 14th, 2026, one of the most important events in the international Christian metal scene. The appearance will mark the band’s official return to the stage with the new material.

With “Stato Infame”, Metatrone delivers a fierce and uncompromising chapter in the story of “SANGUEACQUA”, reaffirming their identity as one of the most distinctive voices in European Christian metal.

For fans of: Theocracy, Stratovarius, Angra

DIGITAL: https://lnk.to/uvhvyy

New album “SANGUEACQUA” out March 13th, 2026 as CD / DIGITAL. Order it here: https://rockshots.eu/products/metatrone-sangueacqua-cd

Track Listing:​
1. Fuori dal tempio – 3:42
2. Stato Infame – 4:09
3. Emmaus – 4:19
4. Facsimile – 4:41
5. I Want Out (Helloween cover) – 4:44
6. Il mio dolore – 4:36
7. Un nome nuovo – 3:59
8. Anima Christi – 3:09

Metatrone Line-Up:​
Jo Lombardo: Lead Vocals, Keyboards
Stefano “Ghigas” Calvagno: Guitars, Bass
David Brown: Keyboards, Clean Vocals, Growl
Simone Alberti: Drums

More info:​
​https://www.rockshots.eu | https://www.facebook.com/metatroneband/ | https://www.facebook.com/metatroneband/

THE MEDICINE DOLLS Unleash Filthy New Single & Video ‘Tip The Waitress’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on March 13, 2026
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Cape Town’s glam-soaked punk provocateurs THE MEDICINE DOLLS return with a ferocious new single and music video, “Tip The Waitress” (out now on Just Music), a snarling slice of punk-splattered rock ’n roll that captures the band at their most unapologetic and unhinged.
 
Formed in 2018, The Medicine Dolls are a four-piece sonic riot hailing from Cape Town, South Africa. Founded by vocalist Gory Guttersnipe and bassist Bex Knickerless, the band later solidified its lineup with guitarist Slava Nikonov and drummer Callula Jane Clay-Smith. Together they’ve cultivated a reputation for fusing raw rock ’n roll energy with theatrical flair, delivering performances and visuals dripping in dark glamour, sleaze, and rebellious attitude.
 
Drawing influence from cult icons such as The Cramps, The B-52s, Nina Hagen and modern provocateur Ashnikko, the band blends punk grit with campy theatricality and biting attitude to create a unique visual and sonic cocktail. The result is music that feels both vintage and futuristic, equal parts trashy, glamorous and defiantly weird.

Buy and stream the track here: The Medicine Dolls – Tip The Waitress

Accompanying the release is a striking new music video directed by internationally acclaimed South African filmmaker Ryan Kruger. Known globally for his bold, surreal and unapologetically gritty visual style, Kruger gained cult recognition through projects like the boundary-pushing feature film Fried Barry. His work blends grindhouse aesthetics, dark humour and visceral storytelling, making him the perfect collaborator to bring The Medicine Dolls’ twisted rock ’n roll universe to life.
 
Kruger’s direction amplifies the band’s chaotic energy, leaning into the Dolls’ signature mix of punk sleaze, theatrical glamour and subversive imagery. The result is a visually explosive video that captures the spirit of the song while pushing the band’s aesthetic into even more daring territory.

With “Tip The Waitress”, recorded at Atomic Studios in Cape Town alongside long-time collaborator and producer Matthew Fink, The Medicine Dolls once again prove why they remain one of the most exciting and visually distinctive underground rock acts to emerge from South Africa’s alternative scene.
 
Turn it up. Let it get dirty.

More info: https://www.facebook.com/themedicinedolls

MALUMMEH Return After 19 Years with New Single + Music Video ‘Dethroned’

Posted by tarjavirmakari on March 13, 2026
Posted in: Int. News, News. Tagged: . Leave a comment
Photo by Jani Snellman

Finnish metal band MALUMMEH, founded in 2004, have released a new single and music video entitled ‘Dethroned’. It’s been 19 years since the release of their debut album Revival via Spikefarm Records. The band is now set to release a self-titled EP on 28 May 2026 via Inverse Records.

The band comments:
“The opening track of the EP was written for an authoritarian leader. The listener can decide who. This two-part composition leads the listener straight into the core of the band’s soundscape — from tense anticipation to relentless crushing force. Even though the song is old, the lyrics are more relevant than ever, and the track stays very close to its original version. It represents the band’s modern take on the best elements of early-2000s metal. Any djent that may appear here is purely coincidental.”

LISTEN to Dethroned on streaming services: https://push.fm/fl/malummeh-dethroned

–Composed by Mikael Kiikka, Jaakko Eskelinen, Valtteri Kallio, Jukka Vehkamaa, Marko Niemistö
–Lyrics by Mikael Kiikka
–Recorded & mixed by Valtteri Kallio
–Mastered by Janne Hakanen
–Single cover by Mikael Kiikka
–ISRC: FI3FC2699001

Malummeh -Track list:

  1. Dethroned
  2. Gone Too Far
  3. Misery
  4. October

–Recorded & mixed by Valtteri Kallio
–Mastered by Janne Hakanen
–EP cover by Mikael Kiikka

Malummeh is a metal band founded in 2004 and originating from the Helsinki metropolitan area. The band blends various metal subgenres into an aggressive, melodic, and explosive whole that stands firmly on its own with no apologies. The group was founded by guitarists Mikael Kiikka and Jaakko Eskelinen, with drummer Valtteri Kallio joining at a very early stage. Alongside the original trio, lineup changes eventually led to Jukka Vehkamaa becoming the band’s bassist and Marko Niemistö taking the role of vocalist. During the early 2000s, the band showed promising momentum, culminating in the release of their debut album Revival through Spinefarm (Spikefarm) in November 2007. However, internal dynamics within the band gradually began to fracture, and in 2011 the band disbanded.

The silence lasted until 2022, when old conflicts were laid to rest and the band rediscovered its drive. The idea for restarting initially came from the possibility of releasing older, unfinished songs, but working on those tracks quickly led to writing new material as well. In practice, the band continues from where it left off, but with a more focused approach and without the rigid absolutism that often comes with youth.

In its new era, Malummeh focuses on bringing the strongest elements of early 2000s metal into the present day while leaving behind the most worn-out clichés of that period. This is made possible through complete artistic independence: the band composes, records, and produces its music entirely on its own terms, maintaining a strong emphasis on musicianship and a direct yet emotionally varied style of expression.

The comeback is not built solely on nostalgia. The goal is also to push the band’s sound forward into a more versatile direction while preserving its recognizable core. With new material, Malummeh continues its story after a long hiatus, now with a clearer understanding among its members of what kind of music they want to create and why.

Line-up:
Marko Niemistö – Vocals
Mikael Kiikka – Guitars
Jaakko Eskelinen – Guitars
Valtteri Kallio – Drums
Jukka Vehkamaa – Bass

Jussi Saari – Trumpet on “October”
Aapo Salo – Orchestra on “Gone Too Far”

https://www.facebook.com/malummeh
https://www.instagram.com/malummeh
https://malummeh.bandcamp.com