Rugged Butcher, a heavy rock/metal band from the Helsinki metropolitan area, is emerging into the metal music scene. Everything starts with guitar riffs and builds straightforward, hard-hitting songs around them.
“We make music that we like ourselves and believe that listeners will dig as well” comments the singer-guitar player Mikko Aittola.
RB is a band led by two good friends, Mikko and Timo Vilén, who have played together in different lineups for over 30 years. Now it’s time to spread Rugged Butcher’s message to the world!
The first song to be released is called Payback. The song is about a person who has had enough of the people around him, bullies and persecution and now It’s time to settle the score. The song was mixed by Teemu Aalto, Teemu Aaltoo Productions, Finland and mastered by Tony Lindgren, Fascination Street Studios, Sweden.
Cape Town’s We Kill Cowboys return with the video for new single Cherry Lips — a track that snarls, bleeds, and won’t be tamed. The song marks their first creation as a full five-piece, with the expanded lineup igniting a heavier, more feral sound. Its punk grit soaked in grunge dirt, sharpened with post-hardcore venom — and it refuses to play nice.
Frontwoman Alex Muller has stepped out from behind the guitar to unleash her voice at full force: raw, untamed, and impossible to cage. Written as the band’s heaviest piece to date, Cherry Lips rejects the idea that anyone can save you or shape you into their fantasy. It’s a battle cry against being moulded or tamed — a feminist anthem drawn from personal experience but one that resonates far beyond: a reminder not to be anyone’s property, but your own.
The new lineup sees long-time ally Floris Le Roux lock in on second guitar, trading fire with Mornay’s razor riffs, while Andrew thrashes behind the kit and Miggs drops bass lines thick enough to rattle bones. Together, they’ve taken the chaos of We Kill Cowboys and turned it into something even bigger, meaner, and louder.
The chaos comes alive visually in the Cherry Lips video, filmed at District in Cape Town. Instead of polish or pretense, the video dives straight into the grit of the South African hardcore and metal scene — sweaty, unrelenting, and pulsing with community spirit. Shot and edited by Tithonia Roux with help from CPT Metal Realm, it’s a raw snapshot of what it feels like to be at a We Kill Cowboys show: the noise, the love, the fury.
Cherry Lips is taken from their upcoming album Back From The Dead, coming soon via Mongrel Records. This is no background playlist filler — it’s stomp-the-stage, scream-until-your-throat-tears rock ’n roll. A soundtrack for the untameable.
REVOCATION is pleased to unleash a video for “Dystopian Vermin,” the latest single from their savage new full-length New Gods, New Masters. The video comes on the eve of the record’s official release tomorrow, Friday, September 26th via Metal Blade Records.
On New Gods, New Masters, REVOCATION conjures nine potent and portentous songs of brutal lyrical and musical significance. Elaborates founding vocalist/guitarist Dave Davidson on “Dystopian Vermin.” “This one’s for the headbangers. It’s got a lot of driving momentum that morphs into some of the heaviest parts on the whole album. The video for this track was once again filmed by the MyGoodEye team who did an excellent job as always. I think they really captured the energy of this song and the location/set that they came up with perfectly fit the mood. I can’t wait to play this song live on our upcoming tour, I think it’s sure to get the circle pit churning.”
Watch the band’s previously released video for “Cronenberged” HERE and their lyric video for “Sarcophagi Of The Soul” HERE.
Additionally, the band will host a special live stream of New Gods, New Masters on YouTube TODAY at 4:00pm ET / 1:00pm PT where fans can chat live with Dave Davidson. Don’t miss it! Visit the Metal Blade Youtube channel HERE.
New Gods, New Masters was produced by Davidson and mixed and mastered by Jens Bogren (The Haunted, Spiritbox) with artwork by Paolo Girardi (Bell Witch, Mother Of Graves, Black Breath, Cryptopsy). The record includes guest appearances by Jonny Davy of Job For A Cowboy, Travis Ryan of Cattle Decapitation, Luc Lemay of Gorguts, and jazz guitarist Gilad Hekselman.
Following the release of New Gods, New Masters, REVOCATION will kick off a month-long North American headlining tour. The journey begins on October 16th in Leesburg, Virginia and runs through November 15th in Raleigh, North Carolina. Support will be provided by Judiciary, Inferi, and Vomit Forth (on select dates).
REVOCATION w/ Judiciary, Inferi, Vomit Forth: 10/16/2025 Tally Ho – Leesburg, VA 10/17/2025 Brooklyn Monarch – New York, NY 10/18/2025 Brighton Music Hall – Boston, MA 10/19/2025 Foufones – Montreal, QC 10/20/2025 Lee’s Palace – Toronto, ON 10/21/2025 Sanctuary – Detroit, MI 10/22/2025 Reggies – Chicago, IL * 10/24/2025 HQ – Denver, CO 10/25/2025 Ace’s High – Salt Lake City, UT 10/26/2025 The Shredder – Boise, ID 10/27/2025 El Corazon – Seattle, WA 10/28/2025 Rickshaw – Vancouver, BC 10/29/2025 Dante’s – Portland, OR 10/31/2025 Neck Of The Woods – San Francisco, CA 11/01/2025 Echoplex – Los Angeles, CA 11/02/2025 Brick By Brick – San Diego, CA 11/04/2025 Rosetta Room – Mesa, AZ 11/05/2025 Launchpad – Albuquerque, NM * 11/07/2025 RBC – Dallas, TX * 11/08/2025 Come And Take It Live – Austin, TX 11/09/2025 Scout Bar – Houston, TX * 11/11/2025 Orpheum – Tampa, FL 11/12/2025 Respectable Street – West Palm Beach, FL 11/13/2025 Conduit – Orlando FL 11/14/2025 The Radio Room – Greenville, SC 11/15/2025 Chapel Of Bones – Raleigh, NC *No Vomit Forth
More on REVOCATION: REVOCATION debuted with 2008’s Empire Of The Obscene and subsequently released seven critically acclaimed albums and toured over 25 countries, bringing their technically charged, high-energy extreme metal to North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. New Gods, New Masters follows up 2022’s critically-adored Netherheaven, where Davidson’s lyrics took hard looks at Catholicism, hypocrisy, politics, the occult and demonic symbolism.
That album set a high bar, but an even sharper musical and lyrical focus was achieved on New Gods, New Masters. The Boston-bred Davidson credits newest members Harry Lannon (rhythm guitar and backing vocals since 2023) and bassist Alex Weber with renewed energy and intensity both in the studio and onstage.
Titling the album New Gods, New Masters reflects Davidson’s belief about humans’ need to worship various gods. “It seems as if that desire is encoded in our DNA. As science and our understanding of nature and the universe as a whole increases, the religions of the old gods start to become obsolete,” he says. “However, I believe we’ve replaced our old gods with new ones, worshipping technology and creating a cult-like idolatry of innovators. I’ve been very fascinated with the development of Artificial Intelligence, and I’m deeply concerned where this could lead humanity whether it’s the slow march towards a technological dystopia or the all-out annihilation of our species.”
“I’ve been very fascinated with the development of Artificial Intelligence, and I’m deeply concerned where this could lead humanity,” he continues, “whether it’s the slow march towards a technological dystopia or the all-out annihilation of our species.”
The theme is deftly captured in the album artwork by Paolo Girardi. “He did an incredible job of bringing the lyrical themes of a bleak techno-nightmare to life,” Davidson says. “The ‘New God’ being birthed from the abyss of teeth and wires was even better than what I envisioned. I absolutely love the color palette he used. He even included some easter eggs from our first demo and first full-length album cover, which adds even more depth and meaning to the artwork for me.”
REVOCATION creates extreme music for extreme times.
REVOCATION: Dave Davidson – vocals, guitar Ash Pearson – drums Harry Lannon – rhythm guitar Alex Weber – bass
Destiny Inveiled is a metal band from Turku Finland founded in 2018. They combine different sub genres of metal in their music. Leaning towards modern metal and influenced by bands such as Stam1na and Vola, their songs will make the audience headbang while also including catchy choruses.
ENDLESS EP brings together the early stages of Destiny Inveiled into one collection. The EP reflects visions of the future and self-identity, challenges that everyone faces in life.
This band is an interesting, growly but melodic fusion that you should definitely check out.
Composers: Tuomas Kapuinen, Julius Pinomäki, Lassi Kriikkula, Leo Lintupuro Lyrics: Tuomas Kapuinen Arrangement: Tuomas Kapuinen, Julius Pinomäki, Lassi Kriikkula, Leo Lintupuro Production: Mark Bertényi, Tuomas Riihimäki Recording: Tuomas Riihimäki, Auran Panimo Mixing engineer: Aleksi Rintala Mastering: Jackson Shuudifonya, Southwest Mastering Catalog number: VRDIG347 ISRC: FIV2U2500034 Distributor: Playground Music Scandinavia.
Destiny Inveiled, founded in Turku in 2018, delivers modern metal that combines catchy choruses with riffs that make you headbang. The band draws influences from Stam1na and Vola, among others, but has a completely unique sound that engages the audience. Their four previous releases have gained widespread popularity, especially “Black And Hollow,” which has been streamed over 15,000 times! The releases were made in collaboration with Turku Rock Academy with producers Mark Bertényi and Tuomas Riihimäki. The band’s soundscapes have been shaped by professionals such as Joonas Parkkonen, Hiili Hiilesmaa, Jori Saloranta, and Aleksi Rintala. Destiny Inveiled has been actively gigging, and their energetic stage presence has been seen in nightclubs and festivals such as Logomo’s Kesäterassi, Metallivuori and Bloodstained Metal Fest in Tallinn.
ENDLESS EP brings together the early stages of Destiny Inveiled into one collection. The EP reflects visions of the future and self-identity, challenges that everyone faces in life. ENDLESS is a significant moment in the band’s career, and their hunger has only grown. It’s time to look towards the future, but in the meantime, it’s a great moment to listen to Destiny Inveiled’s music both on recording and live.
The band comments: With “Endless,” the band’s early journey is condensed into a five-track collection that sets the stage for the future. The song itself talks about the lack of prospects for the future and its distressing nature. On the other hand, the song also conveys a sense of hope, which in its own way speaks to the belief in the future amidst everything. Maybe everything will turn out alright after all.
Destiny Inveiled are: Tuomas Kapuinen – guitars, vocals Julius Pinomäki – guitars, vocals Lassi Kriikkula – bass Leo Lintupuro – drums
A brand-new and powerful international adventure begins, showcasing the most modern and hard-hitting metal!
AS WE STRAY, a band from Turin with deathcore roots and contemporary metalcore influences, announce the release of their new single “Fill the Distance”, available from November 14th, 2025 on all major digital platforms under Wanikiya Record/Promotion.
With a modern, powerful, and cutting-edge sound enriched by deep lyrics and existential themes, AS WE STRAY have already captured the attention of both audiences and critics thanks to their Project: IRIS, an artistic journey involving the release of singles up to February 2026. Following the success of “BRØKEN BØNES” and “THE REMEDY”, which quickly reached thousands of listeners, the band is ready to return with another explosive production.
At the same time, AS WE STRAY continue to stand out on the live front as well, with sold-out shows in their hometown, high-profile concerts alongside bands such as Crystal Lake, Meshuggah, Jinjer, Soilwork, and Nergal, and appearances at festivals like “We Are Deathcore.”
The release of “Fill the Distance” marks yet another crucial milestone in the band’s journey. Together with Wanikiya Record/Promotion, they aim to further expand their presence both nationally and internationally, through interviews, reviews, radio airplay, and collaborations with media, webzines, festivals, and global playlists.
“Fill the Distance” will be available on all digital platforms starting November 14th, 2025! Get ready for a sonic storm that takes no prisoners.
Follow AS WE STRAY on all social media, YouTube, and streaming platforms. Welcome to the future of metal. Welcome to the Wanikiya Record/Promotion family.
Italian doom metal outfit MESSA are pleased to unveil their new video for “Reveal.” The track comes off the band’s critically-adored new full-length, The Spin, released in April via Metal Blade Records.
Based in the band’s eclectic, self-defined “scarlet doom” sound, The Spin rises, falls, broods, bites, comforts, and destroys, all the while resounding with both instinctive magic and obsessive, concerted hard work. After lighting up the underground with a triptych of increasingly distinctive and wondrous records – 2016’s Belfry, 2018’s Feast For Water, and 2022’s Close – with The Spin, MESSA is audibly equipped for the proverbial big leagues.
Decibel Magazine championed, “… a sweeping statement that draws equally from doom and goth rock, with hefty doses of classic heavy metal and jazz thrown in.” Deaf Forever concurred, lauding the band’s, “…strongest album to date,” that, “definitively establishes MESSA as one of the most exciting and creative bands of the modern era.” Gushed New Noise Magazine, “…though all of their output makes for easy recommendations, it’s The Spin that finally shoulders MESSA out of the niche, best-kept-secret parameters they’ve been snagged in and onwards towards the oh, so elite, ‘many are called but few are chosen’ province of unequivocal, rock n’ roll preeminence. This is analogous to Soundgarden’s flight path from Badmotorfinger to Superunknown.” Added Metal Hammer Germany, “Anyone who appreciates the free-spirited combination of an exceptional voice with plenty of quiet moments and some blaring riffs will find MESSA to be the perfect band.”
Comments the band on their “Reveal” video, “The main riff in ‘Reveal’ manifested itself spontaneously. Our guitar player Alberto dreamed of it one night. He suddenly woke up at 4:00am and recorded it with his phone so he wouldn’t forget it. It was the most immediate song to write out of all those we wrote for The Spin and it features two key elements: the typical, ‘blues’ use of slide guitar and the ‘metal’ element of the blastbeats.
This video was entirely shot with analog equipment in a tire warehouse in our hometown. We chose the lo-fi aesthetic on purpose, using the dynamism of strobe and neon lights. We tried to make it as spontaneous as the songwriting process for the track.”
Watch MESSA‘s previously released video for “At Races” HERE, “The Dress” HERE, and “Fire On The Roof” HERE.
The Spin was partly recorded, produced, mixed, and mastered by Maurizio “Icio” Baggio and includes synth work by Andrea Mantione (Nuovo Testamento) on “Fire On The Roof” and cover art by Nico Vascellari (Uroboro, 2023. Nero Portoro marble, tire. 57 x 57 x 10 cm).
The record is available now on CD, vinyl, and digital formats at: metalblade.com/messa
Next month, MESSA will serve as direct support to Paradise Lost on a month-long European trek. The Ascension Of Europe Tour 2025 begins on October 9th in Manchester, United Kingdom and runs through November 6th in Antwerp, Belgium. Additional support will be provided by Lacrimas Profundere and High Parasite on select shows. See all confirmed dates below.
MESSA w/ Paradise Lost, Lacrimas Profundere: 10/09/2025 New Century Hall – Manchester, UK 10/10/2025 KK’s Steel Mill – Wolverhampton, UK 10/11/2025 University – Newcastle, UK 10/12/2025 Garage – Glasgow, UK 10/14/2025 Rescue Rooms – Nottingham, UK 10/15/2025 SWX – Bristol, UK 10/16/2025 The 1865 – Southampton, UK 10/17/2025 Islington Assembly Hall – London, UK 10/19/2025 Tyrant Fest – Lille, FR ** w/ Paradise Lost, High Parasite: 10/20/2025 Elysée Montmartre – Paris, FR 10/21/2025 La Rayonne – Lyon, FR 10/23/2025 Live Music Hall – Cologne, DE 10/24/2025 Rockhal – Luxembourg, LU ** 10/25/2025 Conrad Sohm – Dornbirn, AT 10/26/2025 Hall – Padova, IT ** 10/28/2025 Backstage Werk – Munich, DE 10/29/2025 Palac Akropolis – Prague, CZ 10/30/2025 Boogaloo – Zagreb, HR 10/31/2025 SiMM City – Vienna, AT 11/01/2025 Durer Kert – Budapest, HU 11/03/2025 PTR/L’Usine – Geneva, CH ** 11/04/2025 Z-Bau – Nürnberg, DE 11/05/2025 Pandora – Utrecht, NL 11/06/2025 Trix Hall – Antwerp, BE ** Paradise Lost, MESSA only
More on MESSA: MESSA‘s signature sound absorbs influences from jazz and blues, punk and prog, and black metal and dark ambient, but their restless experimentalism has extraordinarily smooth and assured results. The Spin incorporates another new element, interpolating an ’80s goth rock vibe in typically full-blooded fashion. “We don’t like to repeat ourselves and we constantly try to find a new language to express while keeping our identity,” stresses the band. “This time we delved into the decade of the 1980s. We are not part of the ‘dark scene’ in any way. The influence for this record looks back to the early goth rock/dark wave rather than the later emanations of the genre.” In addition to Sisters Of Mercy and Virgin Prunes, the band cites records by Killing Joke, Mercyful Fate, Jimmy Page, Journey, The Sound, Boy Harsher, and Vangelis as impacting significantly upon the creation of The Spin.
Something that seems to get both easier and harder at the same time are Sara’s remarkable vocals. With greater experience of stage and studio, her beguiling pipes continue getting stronger and more versatile; so the singing here is more assertive and confident, but the singer’s concerted push to new heights comes somewhat at the expense of a healthy mental equilibrium. “For this record I gave up parts of my own sanity,” reveals Sara. “I wore myself in so many different ways… You can’t lie when you’re singing. My aim was to record my parts in the most honest way possible. Mix-wise, the vocals are more on the spotlight, in true ’80s fashion. The lyrics touch on multiple topics throughout the record; destroying one’s ego, impossible cursed love, giving up on yourself, others’ expectations, self-sabotage, resurrection. While we were touring the US I reread some books by Cormac McCarthy. It was crucial to pave the way I wanted to express myself. I think the lyrics this time are more ‘straight in your face.’ I used metaphors like I always did, but I wanted to get more verbally naked and raw. I never spoke so clearly in our previous records about insecurity, misery, uneasiness, anguish and distress.”
MESSA: Sara – vocals Marco – guitars/bass Alberto – guitars Rocco – 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 ) 