Drakkar return with “INVASION”, a fast-paced speed/heavy metal anthem built on relentless rhythm and vivid battlefield imagery. The single drives forward with sharp riffs, driving percussion, and commanding vocals, capturing the chaos and momentum of a seaborne raid and its aftermath. Designed for impact on stage as much as in recording, “INVASION” delivers direct energy, tight songwriting, and a clear nod to classic heavy metal traditions while keeping a modern edge.
Founded in 1983, Drakkar built their reputation on the European metal circuit throughout the late 1980s and 1990s. Their 1988 debut albumX-Rated, released through New Musidisc (Paris), earned strong critical recognition and led to support slots on major European tours with Queensrÿche, Metallica, Overkill, and Slayer. The record has since become a touchstone of the Belgian metal scene.
After a period of inactivity, the band reformed in 2011 with a new lineup. X-Rated was remastered and reissued in 2012, produced by Simone Mularoni (DGM), with original vocalist Fab “Leni” Vanbellinghen returning to the fold in 2013. The reformed band recorded Once Upon a Time in Hell in 2014, featuring Jonas Sanders of Pro-Pain on drums, and went on to play over 80 dates across Europe, including the Power, Prog & Metal Festival in Mons. A live album, Once Upon a Time Hellive, followed in 2016.
The band suffered a significant loss when founding member Thierry Del Cane passed away shortly after. They chose to continue in his memory. Subsequent years brought further lineup shifts alongside new recordings, including three singles and a music video released between 2022 and 2025.
Invasion marks a new chapter: Leni Andersen returns on vocals, and founding member Guy Duvy is back on bass. The current lineup is completed by Thomas Vanhorebeek and Nico RR on guitars, and Adrien Delgambe on drums (member since 2015). Adrien is the son of former drummer and founding member Tim Delval, bringing the band back to its roots alongside Guy and Leni, and continuing to deliver their signature furious heavy/speed metal.
ESSEX is back! The singularly-named singer who made his debut earlier this year alongside Runaways legend Cherie Currie on the viral hit “When You’re Young,” returns today with his first ever solo single, a pounding reinvention of Killing Joke’s “Eighties” – a UK hit back in 1984, and a widely rumored influence on the Nirvana song “Come As You Are” a decade later.
The song certainly was an appropriate choice for Essex. Poised to land at the precise intersection of Duran Duran’s sleek pulse, Billy Idol’s swagger, and Joy Division’s shadow, Essex’s music draws from a time when guitars and synths hit hard, songs were built to last, and authenticity mattered more than trends, or being flashy and glammy – a bold, uncompromising sound custom built for today’s alternative landscape.
Producer Jürgen Engler, who worked with Killing Joke’s own Paul Raven (RIP), was certainly impressed. “Essex’s vocals add a raw energy to the old favorite Killing Joke track ‘Eighties’, the likes we haven’t heard in a long time! It perfectly fits the urgency of the song, deeply rooted in the 80s but with a very contemporary feel! I have the feeling Raven would have approved of it, and maybe he would have even played the bass on it… heaven only knows.”
Essex himself continues, ““Reimagining a cover while still respecting the original was important to me, and having collaborators like Marcus Nand [he tracked Essex’s vocals] and Vicente Cordero helped bring that vision to life. Even though the song is rooted in the ’80s, a lot of its themes still feel incredibly relevant today, and the video helped amplify that atmosphere.”
The accompanying video does indeed capture Essex in prime form, a dark night in the darkest niterie, Essex striding through in his signature red coat as the bright young things of the post-Rocky Horror demi-monde pose, preen and sway around him. It is both a glorious throwback to the titular decade, and a brilliant reminder that, no matter what is going on in the musical mainstream, the underground will always find its own way into the light.
“This was the first time I truly felt connected to the visual side of my artistry,” said Essex, “and working with Vicente and Marcus made that experience even more meaningful. Seeing so many talented people come together for the project was genuinely eye-opening — it felt like a creative dream coming to life.”
Essex himself is currently hard at work on his full length debut album. Scheduled for release later this year its dark-edged fulled guitars and synths, commanding melodies, and sharp, aggressive bite continue channeling the raw electricity of the MTV-era ’80s at their peak, even as they charge forward with modern grit and venomous danger.
This is music built on volume, emotion, and conviction, hooks you can shout, grooves you can feel, and a presence that refuses to be ignored.
Right now, though, “Eighties” – like “When You’re Young” – is the ideal introduction to him, a supercharged collision of eras, attitude, and influence, as momentous as it is memorable, and as unique as the talent that brings the song back to life.
After igniting excitement and anticipation across the world with the recent news of their return, Greta Van Fleet will take over New York City’s legendary Bowery Ballroom for an intimate, one-night-only performance on Wednesday, May 27.
A rare underplay from one of the world’s most electrifying live bands who last played in New York City to a sold-out crowd in Madison Square Garden. Tickets for the exclusive event will be available via in-person purchase only beginning Tuesday, May 26 at 9:00 AM at the Bowery Ballroom box office. With demand expected to be high, their performance is poised to become one of the most talked-about shows of 2026.
Following the last several years headlining arenas, topping charts, and carrying the torch for a new generation of rock and roll, the return to a room as intimate and storied as Bowery Ballroom signals something deeper than a concert — it’s a statement, igniting a new and exciting chapter for the GRAMMY® Award winning Nashville-based four-piece.
Since emerging from Michigan and exploding onto the global stage, Greta Van Fleet have become one of the defining rock bands of their generation: a group equally embraced by lifelong rock purists and a younger audience rediscovering the power, freedom, and spectacle of the genre. Their ascent has been marked by platinum-selling records, GRAMMY® wins, huge international arena and stadium tours, and a reputation for delivering live performances with the kind of musicianship and emotional release that plays into the history books and cultural mythology of the legendary bands before them.
Their upcoming Bowery Ballroom performance offers fans a rare chance to experience Greta Van Fleet up close and personal. In an era increasingly dominated by algorithms and disposable culture, Greta Van Fleet continue to stand apart as a band committed to the timeless ideals, transcendence, theatricality, musicianship, rebellion, and human connection that comes hand in hand with rock and roll.
Ticket Information: In-person sales only begin Tuesday, May 26 at 9:00 AM at the Bowery Ballroom box office. 6 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002. Age restrictions are 16+, with a parent or legal guardian needed for anyone under 16. Ticket prices are $20, including all fees. Bowery Ballroom is a Cashless venue. Physical Credit Cards and Debit Cards, along with Tap to Pay, are acceptable forms of payment. There is a 2-ticket limit per person on a strictly first come first served basis. Line cutting will not be permitted. Wristbands will be distributed to confirm your place in line when purchasing tickets. For more information, go to: https://gretavanfleet.com
German power metal force StormHammer have released the official music video for their brand-new single “Wrath Of The Hammer”, the title track of the band’s upcoming studio offering.
With “Wrath Of The Hammer”, StormHammer deliver a powerful first glimpse of their forthcoming album and once again prove why they remain one of the most consistent and exciting acts in the European power metal scene. The title track combines massive riffs, epic melodies and the band’s unmistakable energy into a modern metal anthem rooted in classic heavy metal spirit.
Phil Meyer (guitar, backing vocals) comments: “Tracks like Wrath of the Hammer perfectly represent the album’s direction — aggressive downstrokes, fast power chords and epic melodic moments coming together in a very classic yet modern Heavy Metal way.”
Drummer Ashley Guest confirms: “Wrath of the Hammer maintains the spirit of classic StormHammer while pushing the sound forward with a sharper and more aggressive edge.”
Following the acclaimed album “Seven Seals”, StormHammer open a new chapter with “Wrath Of The Hammer”. The album combines traditional heavy metal roots with thrash-driven guitars, epic melodies and progressive elements while staying true to the band’s unmistakable identity.
“Wrath of the Hammer reflects all generations of Heavy Metal,” Phil Meyer says. “The old school, the melodic, the anthemic and the modern. That’s exactly who StormHammer are as a band today. We didn’t want the album to be purely melodic power metal. StormHammer has always had a more raw side, and we wanted to push that further by bringing in thrash elements, modern metal and even some ’90s punk roots without losing the band’s heavy metal identity.”
Vocalist M.Nox adds: “We went into this album with the idea that we didn’t want to play it safe. We mixed in elements of Thrash, Symphonic and Classic Metal while keeping it true to StormHammer’s Power Metal roots. With this album, you will hear StormHammer in a way you have not heard before.”
Recorded at Mastersound Studio with producer Alexander Krull, the album delivers a massive production, atmospheric arrangements and renewed creative energy throughout, showcasing a band that continues to evolve while remaining a vital force in modern power metal!
Horst Tessmann (bass, backing vocals) reveals:
“Recording with Alex Krull was fantastic because we shared the same vision for how these songs should sound. He delivered a powerful and outstanding production. Wrath of the Hammer combines traditional Power Metal with Thrash Metal elements in a way that feels natural and energetic. The older I get, the faster and heavier I want the music to be.”
“This album feels honest and alive,” guitarist Christos Efstathiou states. “We challenged ourselves creatively while staying true to what StormHammer is about. There’s power, emotion and adventure in these songs.”
Tracklist:
Beware
Wrath Of The Hammer
Ashes Of The Throne
Light In The Dark
Wheels Of Eternity
Guardians Of The Night
Veil Of Fire
Scars Of The Abyss
Shattered Dominion
The Dune
About StormHammer:
German power metal band StormHammer have established themselves as a powerful force within the European metal scene for many years. Combining traditional heavy metal intensity with melodic power metal energy and epic songwriting, the band has created a distinctive sound that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Throughout their career, StormHammer have continuously evolved their sound while remaining true to their roots. Their music blends aggressive guitar work, soaring melodies and powerful rhythms with atmospheric songwriting and modern production. With “Wrath Of The Hammer”, the band once again underlines their status as one of Germany’s most important and enduring power metal acts.
Hard rock legends NIGHT RANGER are proud to announce their new ‘Best Of’ album, set for release on August 28th via Frontiers Music Srl. The album features newly remixed & remastered versions of classic hits spanning NIGHT RANGER’s illustrious career, alongside some standout tracks from the band’s more recent releases.
To give fans a taste of what’s to come, the band shares a fresh remaster of their 1982 hit, “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me (2026).” The track arrives alongside an official visualizer video, link below. This album will be released on both CD and Vinyl. The double LP is available in 3 different colors, black, gold, & orange splatter.
“The new “best of” is a celebration of not only our classic hits but also what we’ve created over the last 20 years. And we’re just gonna keep cranking it cause we’re having too much fun to stop! So enjoy the ride and see ya on the road!” – Jack Blades
Few bands have defined the sound of American melodic rock quite like NIGHT RANGER. From the soaring anthem of “Sister Christian” to the thunderous riffs of “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me”, and fan favorites like “You Can Still) Rock in America” this album’s ‘Best Of’ collection captures the very essence of their decades-long career — now refreshed for 2026.
Featuring the classic hits alongside and standout tracks from their more recent albums, this compilation spans the full spectrum of NIGHT RANGER’s signature sound: anthemic choruses, blazing guitar solos, and unforgettable melodies. Highlights include the power-pop perfection of “(You Can Still) Rock in America,” the heartfelt balladry of “When You Close Your Eyes,” and the cinematic sweep of “Four in the Morning.”
But the ‘Best Of’ is not just a look back. It also celebrates the band’s creative output over the last 20 years, spotlighting tracks like “Time of Our Lives,” “High Road,” “No Time to Lose,” “Somehow Someway,” and “Truth,” proving that NIGHT RANGER’s energy, songwriting, and musicianship have only grown stronger with time. These songs show that the band continues to innovate while staying true to the melodic rock roots that made them legendary.
The band — Jack Blades (bass and vocals), Kelly Keagy (drums and vocals), Brad Gillis (guitars), Eric Levy (keyboards), and Keri Kelli (guitars) — delivers every track with the energy and precision that have kept NIGHT RANGER at the forefront of rock for more than four decades.
This ‘Best Of” album also features two bonus tracks that make this collection of songs truly special: a fresh take on “Wasted Time” recorded live off the floor at Sweetwater Studios, also accompanied by an exclusive music video, and a festive live performance of “Feliz Navidad” that showcases the band’s playful side.
Perfectly timed ahead of their summer 2026 tour, this ‘Best Of’ album serves as both a definitive introduction for new fans and a must-have collection for longtime followers. Whether revisiting the classics or discovering the new 2026 remasters, NIGHT RANGER’s ‘Best Of’ is a celebration of enduring melodies, electrifying performances, and the unforgettable spirit of one of rock’s most iconic bands.
1. Don’t Tell Me You Love Me (2026) 2. (You Can Still) Rock in America (2026) 3. Sister Christian (2026) 4. When You Close Your Eyes (2026) 5. Four in the Morning (2026) 6. Breakout 7. Tomorrow 8. Growin’ Up in California 9. Time of Our Lives 10. High Road 11. No Time to Lose Ya 12. Somehow Someway 13. Truth 14. Don’t Let Up 15. Only for You Only 16. Wasted Time (Sweetwater Studios) (Bonus Track) 17. Feliz Navidad (Live) (Bonus Track) 18. Hole In The Sun (Bonus Track Japan)
NIGHT RANGER Live on Tour:
5/23/2026 – Berlin, MD @ Ocean Downs Casino 6/05/2026 – Baton Rouge, LA @ Event Center at L’Auberge Casino 6/06/2026 – Austin, TX @ ACL Live at the Moody Theater 6/17/2026 – Del Mar, CA @ San Diego County Fair 6/19/2026 – Reno, NV @ Silver Legacy Grande Exposition Hall 6/20/2026 – Wheatland, CA @ Hard Rock Live Sacramento 7/02/2026 – Dickinson, ND @ Legacy Square 7/11/2026 – Fort Morgan, CO @ Bobstock Music Festival 7/12/2026 – La Vista, NE @ The Astro Amphitheater 7/14/2026 – Mentor, OH @ Mentor Civic Amphitheater 7/17/2026 – Fond Du Lac, WI @ Fond Du Lac County Fair 7/18/2026 – St. Louis, MO @ Hollywood Casino 7/24/2026 – Mahnomen, MN @ Shooting Star Casino 7/25/2026 – Bay City, MI @ Veterans Memorial Park 7/26/2026 – Detroit, MI @ Sound Board inside Motorcity Casino 8/08/2026 – Lincoln City, IN @ Lincoln State Park Amphitheatre 8/14/2026 – Louisville, KY @ The Louisville Palace 8/15/2026 – Gibson City, IL @ Gibson City Summer Bash 9/04/2026 – Du Quoin, IL @ Du Quoin State Fair 9/06/2026 – Essex Junction, VT @ Champlain Valley Expo 11/13/2026 – Las Vegas, NV @ Kiss Kruise Landlocked in Vegas 2026
NIGHT RANGER is: Jack Blades: lead vocals, bass guitar Brad Gillis: lead guitars Kelly Keagy: lead vocals, drums Keri Kelly: lead guitars Eric Levy: keyboards
Season of Mist is proud to welcome Untitled With Drums.
To celebrate their signing, Untitled With Drums are releasing a new single. “Matter” pushes the band’s hybrid of alt. rock and ‘90s post-hardcore to greater heights. The song speaks to the almost irrepressible need to exist for oneself, to put oneself above everything else and dominate one’s own world. It calls out a reflexive tendency toward conflict and the relentless pursuit of superiority over others, as seen through a pathologically self-centered point of view—a satirical account of feelings we must each confront and tame within ourselves.
No strangers to the specialist press or the festival circuit, Untitled With Drums have been together since 2014. The band released their debut album Hollow in 2020, just days before France’s first COVID lockdown. Despite the timing, the record drew widespread praise before propelling the band to the stages of Hellfest 2022, the Nuits de Fourviere festival (opening for the Deftones and Baroness), and London’s Desertfest. Their signing to Season of Mist marks the next chapter for a band that has spent the intervening years consolidating around their current four-piece lineup and sharpening everything that makes them distinct.
More information about Untitled With Drum’s next album is coming soon.
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
Metal Shock Finland (World Assault ) 