Following the recent announcement of their fifth full-length album Stygian Conclave, set for release on September 19th, Ukrainian black/death metal duo DEF/LIGHT now unveil the album’s first single: “Book IX. Infernal Conclave”.
Watch the official music video for “Book IX. Infernal Conclave” here:
Infernal Conclave is the ninth chapter of the album Stygian Cathedral. A conceptual hell of heresy. No prophets. No gods. No masters.
The band was formed in 2001, in Dnipro, Ukraine. To date, the band has seven releases and several European tours. In 2017, the band transformed into an international studio project of two musicians. The eighth release, the full-length album Stygian Conclave, will be released on September 19, 2025 and is a continuation of the EP Eternal Reign, which was released in May of this year.
HEAVEN SHALL BURN announced “Heimat Over Europe Tour 2026” with The Halo Effect, The Black Dahlia Murder and Frozen Soul
After an intense festival season, HEAVEN SHALL BURN are returning to European clubs to present their new album, “Heimat”.
Numerous international top 10 rankings in official album charts just underline the overwhelming response to their latest work. The “Heimat Over Europe Tour 2026” will take the band on a small adventure, covering cities they have never played before such as Krakow, Brno and Dublin. Together with their fans the band will create more unforgettable moments, guitarist Maik Weichert comments: “We’re really excited to finally tour Europe with our new album ’Heimat‘ and unleash the new songs upon you! We’ve put together a great package with bands that we’re huge fans of ourselves. Don‘t miss it, it’s going to be a total blast!”
Support comes from The Halo Effect, The Black Dahlia Murder and their label mates Frozen Soul.
The tour is also part of the “Pay With Your Blood” campaign in cooperation with Wacken Open Air and regional blood donation services in Germany. Donate your blood for a ticket and help other people! Marcus Bischoff (vocals) elaborates: “Donating blood is a simple and safe act of solidarity that saves lives. You’re not only helping others, you’re also doing something good for yourself. I speak from my own experience as a long-time nurse, the topic of blood donation and saving lives is very close to my heart. When we heard about the ’Pay With Your Blood‘ campaign, we were immediately interested. We are looking forward to working with Wacken Open Air again and are happy to support this cause. In this spirit: blood for tickets!” Please note that this is only happening in Germany, but please consider donating blood regardless. Check https://www.wacken.com/ for more info that will be available come September.
Don’t miss out on this hot start to the new year 2026 and secure your limited-edition hard tickets in the band’s own shop before it’s too late. Tickets will be available as of Frida, head to: https://www.heavenshallburn.com/
Following all dates: 20.02.26 (UK) London – Electric Ballroom* 21.02.26 (UK) Bristol – Bristol Electric* 22.02.26 (UK) Glasgow – Garage* 23.02.26 (UK) Birmingham – XOYO* 24.02.26 (IRL) Dublin – The Academy* 25.02.26 (UK) Manchester – Academy* 27.02.26 (D) Hamburg – Inselpark Arena 28.02.26 (D) Köln – Palladium 01.03.26 (NL) Tilburg – 013 03.03.26 (F) Lyon – Transbordeur 04.03.26 (F) Paris – Elysee Montmartre 05.03.26 (B) Brussels – Ancienne Belgique 06.03.26 (D) Stuttgart – Porsche-Arena 07.03.26 (D) Wiesbaden – Schlachthof 08.03.26 (CH) Zürich – Halle 622 10.03.26 (IT) Mailand – Live Club 11.03.26 (LUX) Esch sur Alzette – Rockhal 13.03.26 (D) Berlin – Columbiahalle 14.03.26 (D) Jena – SPK-Arena Jena 15.03.26 (CZ) Brno – Sono Centrum 17.03.26 (HUN) Budapest – Barba Negra Red Stage 18.03.26 (PL) Krakow – Klub Studio 19.03.26 (AT) Wien – Gasometer 20.03.26 (D) Dresden – Messe Dresden 21.03.26 (D) München – Zenith *without The Halo Effect
We are proud to welcome WHITE TUNDRA to the Octopus Rising / Argonauta Records family. These visionary heavy voyagers channel the raw power of nature into their music, blending crushing riffs, groovy rhythms and a deep atmospheric sensibility.
Emerging from the northern marshes, WHITE TUNDRA creates sonic journeys that drift across icy tundras and into shadowy forests. Their sound is a thrilling mix of 70s heavy rock and 90s stoner vibes, enriched by elements of doom, black metal and Nordic folklore. With influences ranging from Red Fang to Witchcraft and Skraeckoedlan, they deliver a truly unique and heavy experience.
After making waves with their self-titled debut album in 2023, which earned a place on the Doom Charts and widespread praise throughout the underground scene, WHITE TUNDRA are now back in the studio. The band is currently working on their second full-length album at AutumnSongs Recording Studio, with producer Rhys Marsh behind the console.
The band states, “We’re stoked to be part of the Octopus Rising / Argonauta Records family. This partnership marks a new chapter for WHITE TUNDRA and we’re excited to share the powerful new material we’ve been creating.”
Formed in 2018, WHITE TUNDRA has already released a 7-inch single, an EP, and a debut album through the local label All Good Clean Records. With a solid and inspired lineup now in place, they are ready to reach new heights and captivate a wider audience.
Stay tuned for more news, sneak peeks and upcoming live shows.
Line-up Steven Kresin – Guitar and vocals Kjell Andres Nilsen – Lead guitar and vocals Øyvind Persvik – Bass Ola Fuglevaag – Drums
Death/Thrash Metal stalwarts AVENGER OF BLOOD released a new EP earlier this summer. Ripping and ruthless, ‘Revenge Is My Name’ takes no prisoners in an all-out assault as the band pummels and crushes everything in its wake. Now the group shine in darkness with the release of their first-ever music video “Unraveling,” which gives the impression of AVENGER OF BLOOD performing the tune.
Watch HERE:
“We had a great time filming the video and wanted it to represent what we are. We went with the black and white type format because it felt right, and since the song is quite dark it pretty much sticks to that formula,” explains drummer Shannon Frye.
Originally hailing from the Bay Area thrash scene, AVENGER OF BLOOD moved down to Las Vegas after recording a couple demos. Capturing a deal with JCM Records the group issued their debut ‘Complete Annihilation’ in 2005 which put AVENGER OF BLOOD on the map and conscience of thrash fans worldwide. Several opportunities presented themselves to perform at festivals like Minneapolis Mayhem, Millennium Music Conference, Monsters of Metal and the Northwest Deathfest. Two years later AOB appeared on the infamous ‘Speed Kills… Again’ compilation, which featured then unknown names like Warbringer, Toxic Holocaust, Enforcer and Merciless Death, setting the stage for the thrash revival. The same label, Heavy Artillery, signed AVENGER OF BLOOD and released the classic album ‘Death Brigade’ in 2008, which even featured cover art from Joe Petagno (infamous for Motorhead, in addition to works by Krisiun and Sodom). Momentum was halted when singer/guitarist Eric Greaney and bassist Shawn Loureiro left the group, but Shannon and guitarist Marc Flores have persevered by bringing in new musicians to keep the dream alive recording various releases, such as a split 7” with Witchaven, ‘Spawn of Evil’ EP (2012) and the ‘On Slaying Ground’ full-length (2016). Now having a stable line-up for the past years, rounded out by singer Sal Lalli, guitarist Chris Garcia, and bassist Corey Sorrenti, the group even re-recorded the band’s debut last year calling it ‘Completely Re-Annihilated’ and performing at Blades of Steel Fest, alongside Flotsam & Jetsam, Vio-lence, Exciter, Jag Panzer, Massacre, Artillery and Riot V, as well as supporting Death Angel and Ruthless on shows in NV and CA. AVENGER OF BLOOD is ready to punish you relentlessly on ‘Revenge Is My Name’ and are already starting to lay down a full-length for 2026.
Los Angeles-based metal rock force STRYFE return with a gripping new single, “Death of a Kin,” now streaming worldwide via Wormholedeath.
“Death of a Kin” channels the stark imagery of Chinghiz Aitmatov’s The Day Lasts More Than a Hundred Years— where “mankurts” are captives stripped of memory and self—into a hard-hitting, riff-driven track that’s both relentlessly upbeat and laced with brooding intensity, punctuated by flashes of Caucasus-inspired ethnic instrumentation.
Stryfe is a Los Angeles-based metal band known for their dynamic blend of heavy rock, progressive metal, and powerfully captivating vocals. With a sound that fuses intricate arrangements and cohesive songwriting, Stryfe delivers music that is as technically compelling as it is emotionally resonant. Drawing on influences ranging from progressive metal to Armenian classical and folk traditions, the band creates a rich sonic tapestry that feels both unique and deeply rooted. Each member of Stryfe contributes decades of experience and a diverse musical heritage,shaping a sound that is innovative and familiar. Stryfe continues to carve a distinct path in the metal scene, offering a bold and authentic voice that resonates with listeners around the world. Stryfe independently released their debut album, “Cursed Theatre,” in August of 2022, following it up with local performances at various venues in the greater Los Angeles area. Shortly after, they partnered with WormholeDeath Records to re-release the album with label support.
Stryfe Lineup Sergio Ochoa – Vocals Kar Khurshudyan – Guitars Karo Torosyan – Bass Derek Vardumyan – Drums
Australian death metal titans Monoliyth return with “He Who Kills”, a savage slab of heavy and raw brutality. This is death metal stripped to the bone — no gimmicks, no polish, just pure violent intent.
This is a rage anthem for the utterly broken — no redemption, no remorse, just violent catharsis. Whether seen as a story of vengeance, a dive into madness, or a metaphor for inner demons, “He Who Kills” delivers unapologetic extremity, both lyrically and thematically.
Formed in 1998 in Melbourne by guitarist Mick Barr, Monoliyth has carved a path from classic thrash into a focused force of brutal death metal. Known for their unrelenting live shows and uncompromising intensity, the band fuses old-school grit with technical precision — a signature that continues to evolve with each release.
Monoliyth: Andrew Parkinson – Vocalist Mick Barr – Rhythm / Lead Guitars Zakk Barr – Rhythm / Lead Guitars Jake Mackin – Bass Tim Wright – Drums
One of Quebec City’s rising metal forces, Unpunished, has dropped their emotionally charged new single, “As Water Fills My Lungs,” the second track to be unveiled from their upcoming EP, “Echoes of History,” set to arrive on September 5, 2025. The track marks a pivotal moment in the band’s evolution, blending melodic intensity with brutal honesty and setting the tone for what promises to be one of the most compelling underground metal releases of the year.
Originally tested live in 2023, Unpunished took an unconventional approach, refining the track based on fan feedback before heading into the studio. The result is a song that is a visceral journey through betrayal, anxiety, and despair. The opening track of the EP, “As Water Fills My Lungs,” weaves hauntingly melodic choruses with relentless, high-intensity verses, building toward a cathartic breakdown that grips listeners and refuses to let go.
The band adds:
“This song revolves around a very melodic chorus that carries a lot of emotions. The verses put emphasis on fast guitars and drums that carry a feeling of anger. The bridge section offers a moment of rest as a heart-wrenching guitar solo and highly melodic vocals take the lead. A breakdown then brings the emotional culmination of the song, followed by one last chorus and a pummeling end part.”
Listen to “As Water Fills My Lungs” at the following link:
Produced by drummer Justin Lefebvre, “Echoes of History” marks the band’s second release and a bold evolution in their sound, from richer guitar tones to intricately layered vocals. The album is the result of two years of intense craftsmanship, with every nuance reflecting their unwavering commitment to perfection and their resistance to formulaic songwriting. Each track delivers a unique blend of emotion and musical identity, making the record a deeply immersive experience.
“We wanted this record to reflect that emotional descent—melodic yet aggressive, technical yet raw. It’s a last cry for help from someone losing the battle against his demons,” adds vocalist Jean-Christophe Magnan.
Channeling pure precision, raw passion, and unrelenting energy that pulls fans into a collective frenzy of screams and sweat, Unpunished is recommended for fans of As I Lay Dying, The Black Dahlia Murder, Trivium, Parkway Drive, and Bleed From Within.
After marking their return with the spiritually-charged “Emmaus”, Italian Christian Catholic metal veterans Metatrone unveil their new single “Facsimile”, the second track from their upcoming fifth studio album set for release in 2026.
“Facsimile” is more than just a song – it’s a powerful manifesto against artistic conformity and imitation. Musically, the track blends razor-sharp riffs, progressive arrangements, and melodic choruses, channeling the band’s signature power-prog style with an aggressive thrash edge.
Written by founding duo David Brown and Stefano “Ghigas” Calvagno, the track openly challenges the rise of tribute culture and invites musicians to embrace their true selves, creatively and spiritually.
Keyboardist David Brown comments:
“This song challenges artists to invest in themselves with honesty and originality, without resorting to imitation. As Jesus says in John 8:32, ‘The truth will set you free.’ We believe that truth lies in embracing your uniqueness.”
Guitarist Ghigas adds:
“The tribute band phenomenon has gone from a fun curiosity to something grotesque. It’s strange – and sad – to see talented musicians devote so much effort to copying artists who are still active. Music is about truth, not imitation.”
“Facsimile” also reflects the band’s ongoing evolution. With Jo Lombardo back on vocals and Simone Alberti (drums) and Alex Palazzo (bass) solidifying the current lineup, Metatrone‘s sound has grown sharper, more dynamic, and emotionally charged — a balance of faith-driven lyrics, technical complexity, and metal intensity.
Wormholedeath is thrilled to welcome Polish alternative metal powerhouse SAUERKRAUT to its global roster for the release of their explosive new album, In Madness, due for release on 19 September, 2025.
Alongside the announcement, the band unleashes a powerful new statement with the official video for “Symbol of Death” — a crushing, high-impact track taken from the upcoming album. The video showcases the band’s dual-vocal ferocity and chaotic energy in full form, offering a glimpse into the intense world of In Madness.
Watch the video for “Symbol of Death” here:
Formed in 2019 by veterans of the metal and alt scenes, SAUERKRAUT wasted no time carving their place in the genre with their 2022 debut EP, Bloody Stew — a record that introduced their sharp identity: thunderous grooves, dynamic structures, and a livewire energy that translates both on stage and in the studio.The upcoming album, In Madness, represents the next evolution of their sound. With the addition of a second vocalist, the band has expanded their range, bringing deeper contrast, richer textures, and a more intense emotional spectrum. From brutal breakdowns to infectious hooks, In Madness is a bold, unflinching statement — metalcore and alt-metal done with both craft and conviction.SAUERKRAUT blend influences from modern metal, nu metal, and hardcore with fearless experimentation, but what defines them most is authenticity. Their music isn’t trend-chasing — it’s emotionally charged, fiercely executed, and built to resonate.This partnership with Wormholedeath opens the next chapter — one that will bring In Madness to a broader international audience and solidify SAUERKRAUT’s rising status in the heavy music world.
Band lineup: Łukasz Jakubus – vocals Łukasz Mularz – vocals Dawid Kiełtyka – bass/vocals Jakub Drzymała – guitar Janusz Surma – guitar Sławomir Miś – drums
Unleashing their self-titled debut album in 2023, Dead Fields Of Woolwich unveils their first single “Cult of The Cemetery” off their forthcoming sophomore album “Monarch of The Grave” due out late this year.
Dead Fields Of Woolwich has its beginnings going back to the autumn of 2020 in North Bay, Ontario, Canada, when multi-instrumentalist Kye Bell (Withing Nostalgia, Falamh) created a gloomy, doom metal project focused on dreary lyrics and a gothic-laden sound. Recruiting Alyssa Broere on vocals, the dark twosome began their musical journey. Now, for their next follow-up and second album, the duo has grown to a full-fledged band with the addition of guitarist Dave Strba, bassist Greg Meir, and drummer Kyle Taylor.
Band founder and guitarist Kye Bell explains further on the band’s evolution:
“The sound has evolved since the first release. When writing the first album, the focus was more on powerful chords and drudging riffs. Those things are still there in small doses, but this album is full of harder-hitting songs and much more memorable parts that stick with you after the listen is done. This album breaks away from the typical Doom formula and kind of takes on its own shape. The songwriting has become more refined over time as well, lyrics are more concrete with well-defined concepts. I feel like this particular single, Cult of the Cemetery, will be very well received due to the more rock-rounded nature of the song while still maintaining its heaviness and its foot firmly planted in the metal realm. It opens the doors to a different audience, yet still stays true to the dark nature of the band.”
With its very memorable riffs, this new single is catchy hell and dark as the grave it speaks of. Melodic and melancholic, it is recommended for fans of Paradise Lost, Type O Negative, and Katatonia.
Watch and listen to the music video for “Cult of the Cemetery” via its premiere on Doomed & Stoned HERE.
Metal Planet Media 