A new chapter begins. German metal veterans BRAINSTORM have officially announced their brand-new studio album, Nightfall. The band’s forthcoming full-length will be released via Reigning Phoenix Music in Spring 2027, marking the next milestone in a career spanning more than three decades.
Following the critically acclaimed Plague Of Rats, BRAINSTORM continue to expand the lyrical universe inspired by Indian mythology while delivering the powerful songwriting, memorable hooks and unmistakable heaviness that have become the band’s trademark. At the same time, Nightfallwill see the band embracing an even rawer and more dynamic approach, reaffirming the qualities that have made BRAINSTORM one of Germany’s most enduring metal acts.
Nightfallalso introduces BRAINSTORM‘s current lineup, welcoming bassist Danij Perl and drummer Kevin Lütolf. Together with vocalist Andy B. Franck and guitarists Torsten Ihlenfeld and Milan Loncaric, the renewed lineup has forged an album that confidently looks ahead while staying true to the band’s unmistakable identity.
Andy B. Franck comments:
“It’s been a while since you last heard from me, right? Well, buckle up — because next year sees the release of our new album, Nightfall, which takes us even deeper into the realm of Indian mythology and more demonic realms.
Nightfall brings you to a world of beauty and grace, but also of death and despair. I’m so excited and can’t wait to drag you all down into these abysses with me, haha! I’m really keen to bring more of that raw, primal power back into the traditional sound. The result is going to blow your minds, and with my friend Seeb (Sebastian ‘Seeb’ Leverman | Orden Ogan) at the mixing desk, we can look forward to an awesome metal album in the spring of ’27! So, get ready for an incredible journey…”
Further details about Nightfall, including a first single and more info, will be revealed in the coming months.
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.”
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 Ratshere: https://brainstorm.rpm.link/plagueofratsPR
BRAINSTORM Tour Dates supporting ANGUS McSIX – Album Release Tour w/ Bloodbound
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)
Still riding on the wave of success caused by their 2025 album “Plague Of Rats” (February 28, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music; DE #13, SE #13, AT #41, CH #42, GR #50), Southern German heavy/power metallers BRAINSTORM use the final weeks of the warm season by having a creative stopover at the beach on their way back from the myth-enshrouded Indus world. Today, they present nothing but a metalled-up take on Don Henley’s classic track ‘The Boys Of Summer’ to their fans.
The track was recorded during BRAINSTORM’s “Plague Of Rats” sessions in 2024, and the timing of its release couldn’t be more fitting as the group have entered the final stages of this year’s festival season.
Vocalist Andy B. Franck adds: “Even though ‘The Boys Of Summer’ deals with rather nostalgic themes of ‘summer love’ and the memory of a past relationship, for me – at the time a 13-year-old – it was, beyond the metal anthems of the 80s, a great song that I associated with summer, girls and the corresponding feeling for many, many years. Don Hanley and the EAGLES are simply awe-inspiring. Even today, this song still evokes great memories for me, and since it’s also a song about questioning the past, this track fits perfectly into our times. I’m proud that we recorded it, and maybe it will be part of a show soon. People will love it and then share memories with this, our version!”
But the metal world doesn’t have to worry – the band are far from resting on their latest laurels: Behind the curtain, BRAINSTORM have been working on extending their 2025/2026 “Plague Of Rats” touring cycle, and the announcement of more live dates following their confirmation for the next edition of Summer Breeze Open Air (Dinkelsbühl, Germany) is really just a matter of time… Stay tuned!
BRAINSTORM remain a vital force in the metal scene, seamlessly blending traditional elements with modern influences in their latest work, “Plague Of Rats.” Drawing inspiration from the rich and mystical narratives of ancient Indian civilisation, this album delivers an energetic line-up of tracks devoid of slow songs or ballads, fully embodying the band’s dynamic and robust metal style. Expertly crafted with the collaboration of Sebastian “Seeb” Levermann (ORDEN OGAN, ANGUS McSIX) for mixing and mastering at Greenman Studios, and featuring striking artwork by Gyula Havancsák (DESTRUCTION, KREATOR, GRAVE DIGGER etc.) and photography by Alex Kühr, “Plague Of Rats” offers ten compelling new tracks that transport listeners to the captivating worlds of India and beyond.
24.08.2025 PT Pindelo dos Milagres – Milagre Metaleiro Open Air 30.08.2025 AT Graz – Metal on the Hill NEW 20.09.2025 DE Schrobenhausen – Metal im Woid NEW 29.11.2025 DE Bonn – Harmonie NEW 12 – 15.08.2026 DE Dinkelsbühl – Summer Breeze Open Air NEW
More dates to be announced very soon…!
About BRAINSTORM
BRAINSTORM look back on an unparalleled career: since their 1997 debut “Hungry,” the band have continued to develop and to consolidate their position in the international metal scene with albums like “Metus Mortis” [2001], “Soul Temptation” [2003], “Liquid Monster” [2005], and most recently “Midnight Ghost” [2018] and “Wall Of Skulls” [2021]. They have toured worldwide and achieved impressive chart positions in recent years, but instead of resting on their laurels, they are more determined than ever and setting new milestones with their current album “Plague Of Rats.”
BRAINSTORM are: Andy B. Franck | vocals Torsten Ihlenfeld | guitars Milan Loncaric | guitars Dieter Bernert | drums
Long-serving German metallers BRAINSTORM are starting the celebrations of their long-awaited new album “Plague Of Rats” (Reigning Phoenix Music) early! Tonight, the quintet are playing the first out of eight co-headline release shows with label mates ARION but they have also launched a lyric video for ‘Crawling,’ another track taken from their new record, which was highly praised by press throughout and will finally be unleashed tomorrow.
The song is based on strong synth leads entering one’s mind instantly – and there’s no chance to get rid of them anytime soon. Taken over by guitar duo Ihlenfeld/Loncaric, the melody settles even more, resulting in another new BRAINSTORM anthem while telling a critical story about expectations the society has from individuals and reminding fans of the importance of free speech.
“Another single on the album and perhaps the most melodic track on “Plague Of Rats.” ‘Crawling in’ and ‘crawling out’ suggest a feeling of being trapped and a desire for freedom. But what creeps in and where does it creep out? Having your own opinion has become very difficult in our world. In our society, we’re easily manipulated and lured with nice words to support or accept an opinion. For example, the line ‘I lured you with my sweet words’ is intended to clarify this somewhat. It’s good and important to represent completely contrary opinions sometimes. This is what today’s world has to endure. We don’t walk upright through a door but crawl through cracks to avoid attracting attention instead. If you don’t follow the instructions or – in this case – manipulation, you’re out. You fall off the grid and no longer belong. The message? Stand by yourself and your ideals…and don’t move like a skeleton or zombie,” states vocalist Andy B Franck.
BRAINSTORM remain a vital force in the metal scene, seamlessly blending traditional elements with modern influences in their latest work, “Plague Of Rats.” Drawing inspiration from the rich and mystical narratives of ancient Indian civilization, this album delivers an energetic line-up of tracks devoid of slow songs or ballads, fully embodying the band’s dynamic and robust metal style. Expertly crafted with the collaboration of Sebastian “Seeb” Levermann (ORDEN OGAN, ANGUS McSIX) for mixing and mastering at Greenman Studios, and featuring striking artwork by Gyula Havancsák (DESTRUCTION, KREATOR, GRAVE DIGGER etc.) and photography by Alex Kühr, “Plague Of Rats” offers ten compelling new tracks that transport listeners to the captivating worlds of India and beyond.
“Plague Of Rats” – Track Listing:
Beyond Enemy Lines
Garuda (Eater Of Snakes)
False Memories
The Shepherd Girl (Gitavoginda)
Your Soul That Lingers In Me [feat. Elina Siirala]
Masquerade Conspiracy
From Hell [feat. Alex Krull]
The Dark Of Night
Crawling
Celebrate Youth [RICK SPRINGFIELD Cover; excl. digipak/earbook bonus track]
“The Plague That Burns The Sky” BRAINSTORM + ARION Co-Headline Tour 2025 w/ STRANGER VISION Presented by Rock Hard, musix, metal.de, powermetal.de, Decibel-Touring & RPM
– 08.06.2025 DE Oettingen i. Bay. – Camping Battleground Festival
11.07.2025 BG Chirpan – Midalidare Rock In the Wine Valley
24.08.2025 PT Pindelo dos Milagres – Milagre Metaleiro Open Air
About BRAINSTORM
BRAINSTORM look back on an unparalleled career: since their 1997 debut “Hungry,” the band have continued to develop and to consolidate their position in the international metal scene with albums like “Metus Mortis” [2001], “Soul Temptation” [2003], “Liquid Monster” [2005], and most recently “Midnight Ghost” [2018] and “Wall Of Skulls”[2021]. They have toured worldwide and achieved impressive chart positions in recent years, but instead of resting on their laurels, they are more determined than ever to set new milestones.
BRAINSTORM are: Andy B. Franck | vocals Torsten Ihlenfeld | guitars Milan Loncaric | guitars Jim Ramses | bass Dieter Bernert | drums
BRAINSTORM, Southern Germany’s well-established metal powerhouse, will not only kick-off a European run with their label mates ARION in less than two weeks, but also unleash their long-awaited new album “Plague Of Rats” on February 28, 2025 via RPM. Like first single ‘Garuda (Eater Of Snakes),’ their new track ‘The Shepherd Girl (Gitagovinda)’ takes listeners back to ancient India and mythology, a major topic of the upcoming record.
Telling a story about a supernatural yet passionate relationship between Krisha, who’s mostly known as the god of love and joy but also as patron of shepherds, his wife as well as their playmates, the gopis aka ‘The Shepherd Girls,’ the single delivers uplifting traditional tunes which lead into a simply powerful, stomping track. Instrumentally it bethinks of the original heavy metal way with stripped down orchestrations compared to previous single ‘Beyond Enemy Lines.’‘The Shepherd Girl (Gitagovinda)’ is nothing but a must for BRAINSTORM’s next live sets based on its anthemic chorus alone! Its music video, once again directed by Mirko Witzki at Witzki Visions, complements the message of the song perfectly by delivering sceneries of shiny temples and other Indus culture elements.
Frontman Andy B Franck states: “‘Gitagovinda,’ our third single, is a Sanskrit poem written in the royal court of Bengal in the 12th century. It describes the love relationship between the Hindu god Krishna, his consort Radha and the gopis, the shepherd girls. Yes, I really like this mythology. That’s perhaps one of the cultures in the history of the world that deserves a little more attention. The original work combines influences from religious mysticism with eroticism. Seduction, love adventures and the devoted worship of the god are given great importance. A text full of deep melancholy and despair, but also a mirror of a soul with an insight into the deepest hopes and longings. It’s maybe a little unusual for us, but definitely worth reading.”
Pre-order “Plague Of Rats” in your preferred format [t-shirt+CD/vinyl bundle, CD+DVD earbook, CD+DVD digipak, coloured vinyl, digital] or pre-save the album on your favourite digital streaming provider (DSP): https://brainstorm.rpm.link/plagueofratsPR
BRAINSTORM remain a vital force in the metal scene, seamlessly blending traditional elements with modern influences in their latest work, “Plague Of Rats.” Drawing inspiration from the rich and mystical narratives of ancient Indian civilization, this album delivers an energetic line-up of tracks devoid of slow songs or ballads, fully embodying the band’s dynamic and robust metal style. Expertly crafted with the collaboration of Sebastian “Seeb” Levermann (ORDEN OGAN, ANGUS McSIX) for mixing and mastering at Greenman Studios, and featuring striking artwork by Gyula Havancsák (DESTRUCTION, KREATOR, GRAVE DIGGER etc.) and photography by Alex Kühr, “Plague Of Rats” offers ten compelling new tracks that transport listeners to the captivating worlds of India and beyond.
Artwork by Gyula Havancsák
“Plague Of Rats” – Track Listing:
Beyond Enemy Lines
Garuda (Eater Of Snakes)
False Memories
The Shepherd Girl (Gitavoginda)
Your Soul That Lingers In Me [feat. Elina Siirala]
Masquerade Conspiracy
From Hell [feat. Alex Krull]
The Dark Of Night
Crawling
Celebrate Youth [RICK SPRINGFIELD Cover; excl. digipak/earbook bonus track]
“The Plague That Burns The Sky” BRAINSTORM + ARION Co-Headline Tour 2025 w/ STRANGER VISION Presented by Rock Hard, musix, metal.de, powermetal.de, Decibel-Touring & RPM
27.02.2025 DE Aschaffenburg – Colos-Saal 28.02.2025 CH Solothurn – Kulturfabrik Kofmehl 01.03.2025 DE Essen – Turock 02.03.2025 DE Mannheim – 7er Club 03.03.2025 DE Munich – Backstage (Halle) 04.03.2025 DE Hamburg – Bahnhof Pauli 05.03.2025 DE Hanover – MusikZentrum 06.03.2025 DE Stuttgart – Im Wizemann
– 08.06.2025 DE Oettingen i. Bay. – Camping Battleground Festival 11.07.2025 BG Chirpan – Midalidare Rock In the Wine Valley 24.08.2025 PT Pindelo dos Milagres – Milagre Metaleiro Open Air
About BRAINSTORM
BRAINSTORM look back on an unparalleled career: since their 1997 debut “Hungry,” the band have continued to develop and to consolidate their position in the international metal scene with albums like “Metus Mortis” [2001], “Soul Temptation” [2003], “Liquid Monster” [2005], and most recently “Midnight Ghost” [2018] and “Wall Of Skulls”[2021]. They have toured worldwide and achieved impressive chart positions in recent years, but instead of resting on their laurels, they are more determined than ever to set new milestones.
BRAINSTORM are: Andy B. Franck | vocals Torsten Ihlenfeld | guitars Milan Loncaric | guitars Jim Ramses | bass Dieter Bernert | drums
BRAINSTORM, the acclaimed Southern German metal band, proudly present the lyric video for their thrilling second single, ‘Beyond Enemy Lines,’ from their highly anticipated album, “Plague Of Rats.” This new album is set to launch on February 28, 2025 via RPM. Continuing the momentum from their successful first single, ‘Garuda (Eater Of Snakes),’BRAINSTORM introduce ‘Beyond Enemy Lines.’ This track is sure to captivate not only the band’s fans but also lovers of high-octane metal music. Featuring intricate guitar tapping, powerful drumming, and majestic orchestration, the song perfectly encapsulates what a leading track in a heavy/power metal album should offer. Frontman Andy B. Franck brings a unique intensity to the song, with lyrics that explore themes of war on a deeply personal level.
“‘Beyond Enemy Lines’ combines many of our trademarks with recent, modern influences. The track has incredible power: it’s fast, goes straight into your neck and also deals with it a lyrical topic that concerns us all very much. Overcoming mental boundaries and trusting strangers or giving them a chance has become very difficult. Escaping into hatred and agitation is easier and promotes violence and wars. This is also a topic for BRAINSTORM that we would like to take up in order to draw attention. Of course, only a song that has power goes with it. We are very proud of that because this track has exactly that power!” add BRAINSTORM.
In exciting collaboration news, “Plague Of Rats” features two notable guest artists. Alex Krull of ATROCITY and LEAVES’ EYES lends his formidable growls to the track ‘From Hell,’ while LEAVES’ EYES lead vocalist Elina Siirala adds her ethereal vocals to ‘Your Soul That Lingers In Me.’
“Plague Of Rats” can be pre-ordered in your preferred physical format [earbook, digipak-cd, jewelcase-CD, coloured vinyl, ticket bundle], pre-saved on your favourite digital service provider (DSP) or pre-ordered digitally (incl. instant-grat tracks ‘Beyond Enemy Lines’ & ‘Garuda (Eater Of Snakes)’):https://brainstorm.rpm.link/plagueofratsPR
01. Beyond Enemy Lines 02. Garuda (Eater Of Snakes) 03. Fale Memories 04. The Shepherd Girl (Gitavoginda) 05. Your Soul That Lingers In Me [feat. Elina Siirala] 06. Masquerade Conspiracy 07. From Hell [feat. Alex Krull] 08. The Dark Of Night 09. Crawling 10. Celebrate Youth [RICK SPRINGFIELD Cover; excl. digipak/earbook bonus track] 11. Curtains Fall
To celebrate the album’s release, BRAINSTORM will embark on a tour through Germany, including a performance in Switzerland. Joining them on this tour will be Finnish melodic metal band ARION and Italian power progressive group STRANGER VISION. Further details on tour dates and ticket information are available below.
BRAINSTORM remain a vital force in the metal scene, seamlessly blending traditional elements with modern influences in their latest work, “Plague Of Rats.” Drawing inspiration from the rich and mystical narratives of ancient Indian civilization, this album delivers an energetic line-up of tracks devoid of slow songs or ballads, fully embodying the band’s dynamic and robust metal style. Expertly crafted with the collaboration of Sebastian “Seeb” Levermann for mixing and mastering at Greenman Studios, and featuring striking artwork by Gyula Havancsák and photography by Alex Kühr, “Plague Of Rats” offers ten compelling new tracks that transport listeners to the captivating worlds of India and beyond.
BRAINSTORM live:
“The Plague That Burns The Sky” BRAINSTORM + ARION Co-Headline Tour 2025 w/ STRANGER VISION Presented by Rock Hard, musix, metal.de, powermetal.de, Decibel-Touring & RPM 27.02.2025 DE Aschaffenburg – Colos-Saal 28.02.2025 CH Solothurn – Kulturfabrik Kofmehl 01.03.2025 DE Essen – Turock 02.03.2025 DE Mannheim – 7er Club 03.03.2025 DE Munich – Backstage (Halle) 04.03.2025 DE Hamburg – Bahnhof Pauli 05.03.2025 DE Hanover – MusikZentrum 06.03.2025 DE Stuttgart – Im Wizemann
08.03.2025 NL Harderwijk – Estrado 09.03.2025 NL Gouda – StudioGonz 05. – 08.06.2025 DE Oettingen i. Bay. – Camping Battleground Festival 11.07.2025 BG Chirpan – Midalidare Rock In the Wine Valley *NEW* 24.08.2025 PT Pindelo dos Milagres – Milagre Metaleiro Open Air
About BRAINSTORM
BRAINSTORM look back on an unparalleled career: since their 1997 debut “Hungry,” the band have continued to develop and to consolidate their position in the international metal scene with albums like “Metus Mortis” [2001], “Soul Temptation” [2003], “Liquid Monster” [2005], and most recently “Midnight Ghost” [2018] and “Wall Of Skulls” [2021]. They have toured worldwide and achieved impressive chart positions in recent years, but instead of resting on their laurels, they are more determined than ever to set new milestones.
BRAINSTORM are: Andy B. Franck | vocals Torsten Ihlenfeld | guitars Milan Loncaric | guitars Jim Ramses | bass Dieter Bernert | drums
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