Category: Music News

0 Out Now! Edmonton’s FAMOUS STRANGERS Unveils Debut Self-Titled Album + New Video “Fire Inside”

August 21, 2026
by Asher
· Famous Strangers · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 21, 2026

Out Now! Edmonton’s FAMOUS STRANGERS Unveils Debut Self-Titled Album + New Video “Fire Inside”

L-R – Amanda Kiernan (Vocals), Brian “Beej” Jolly (Drums), Braden Sustrik (Bass, Vocals), Jeff Kittlitz (Guitar, Vocals)

Photo by J-Kiernen Photography

The wait is over. Famous Strangers have officially released their debut self‑titled album, a heavy, emotional, genre‑breaking first statement from one of Alberta’s most exciting new heavy rock acts. Built on themes of self‑worth, growth, vulnerability, and raw honesty, the album delivers a full‑spectrum listening experience that moves from explosive riffs to atmospheric introspection, always anchored by the band’s signature unpredictability and emotional depth.

At its core, the record is about knowing your worth, breaking free from what holds you back, choosing yourself, and emerging stronger on the other side. Across seven tracks, the band blends grunge, punk, blues, classic metal, and modern heaviness into something moody, haunting, old‑school, and intriguing. Every song lives in its own world, yet the journey feels unified, intentional, and deeply personal.

The debut album showcases the band’s evolution over three years of writing, rewriting, experimenting, and trusting their instincts. Some riffs lived on guitarist Jeff Kittlitz’s hard drive for over a decade before finally finding the right home. Some songs were born in a single jam session. One track, “Ghosts of Men,” was written just three days before entering the studio. The result is a record that pushes boundaries, breaks rules, and refuses to sit still.

“We feel like our first record will take them on a journey, evoking many different emotions that reflect the flow of this new album. Some may not understand what we are trying to do, but by the end, we hope they are surprised, refreshed, and inspired. We hope the lyrics dig deep into parts of them they didn’t know existed or had hidden away. Opening their hearts and souls, making them feel unstoppable and worthy. Whatever they may be doing while listening, we want our music to captivate them, drawing them deeper into themselves. Feeling the emotional pull through each track. Moments of inspiration and grit, leading to a complete surrender of self. With a touch of silliness and definitely some seduction,” adds the band.

To celebrate release day, Famous Strangers have shared a brand‑new rehearsal video for “Fire Inside,” giving fans a raw, behind‑the‑scenes look at one of the album’s most powerful tracks. The song began as a progressive metal riff and evolved in the studio, becoming a grounding anthem about embracing mistakes, honouring your journey, and discovering the light within yourself. The track has a special history with the band, as it was once performed live by asking the audience for lyrical ideas while Amanda freestyled the entire song, including a legendary dinosaur‑themed version during a show date in Drumheller, AB.

Watch and listen to “Fire Inside” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgEZ2BK1z44

Famous Strangers features Amanda Kiernan (vocals), Jeff Kittlitz (guitar), Braden Sustrik (bass), and Brian “Beej” Jolly (drums), formed after years of crossing paths in the Alberta music scene, with members with roots in Compromise, Pugnacious, This Is War, The Order of Chaos, Sleeping Girl, and more. With decades of Alberta heavy‑music experience, they built a project on trust, honesty, and complete creative freedom. What began as casual jams evolved into a full creative force once Amanda joined in 2023. The chemistry was instant. Lyrics poured out, old riffs found new life, and the band quickly realized they had something far bigger than a side project.

Recommended for fans of Halestorm, Nothing More, Sevendust, Godsmack, Evanescence, Butcher Babies, and Bad Omens, the self-titled album is available on all digital platforms (Vinyl pre-order to be announced at a later date) – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/famousstrangers/famous-strangers

Previous Videos:

“Ghosts of Men” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JllvDWc2AC4

“As Your Leader” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pH1WCv__EyY

Upcoming Show Dates:
Aug 21 – Album Release Show 1 – Rec Room – Edmonton, AB
Aug 22 – Album Release Show 2 – Temple at Starlite Room – Edmonton, AB

Track Listing:
1. Fire Inside – 4:06
2. Ghosts of Men – 4:54
3. Please Her – 4:34
4. As Your Leader – 3:49
5. Desires – 3:50
6. Far Away from Home – 4:18
7. Rain – 9:23
Album Length: 34:57

Album Band Line-up:
Jeff Kittlitz – Guitar, Back-up Vocals
Amanda Kiernan – Vocals, Lyrics
Braden Sustrik – Bass, Back-up Vocals
Brian “Beej” Jolly – Drums, Back-up Vocals

More info:

https://www.famousstrangersband.com/

https://www.facebook.com/FamousStrangersBand/

https://www.instagram.com/famousstrangersband

About: Famous Strangers is a heavy metal band from Sherwood Park, Alberta. Rooted in the classics and built for today, the band brings together four veterans of the Alberta music scene with over 20 years of collective experience. With four singles, a music video for every release, and a debut album on vinyl dropping in August 2026, Famous Strangers is all raw power, emotional depth, and a sound that refuses to sit still.

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“Amanda has a Lee Aaron vibe about her.” – Richard Amery – LA Beat

“The band wasted no time tearing into the tracks from the new album, which is set to be released everywhere on August 21. Blasting through an intro that sets a clear tone for the next 45 minutes, they blaze into “Fire Inside”and their latest single, “As Your Leader.” This track has been getting buzz in the metal scene since its release in July, a heavy wall of sound decorated with an undeniable vocal performance. It’s earned the group recent airplay around Europe and North America, and big recent gigs like Decimate Metalfest near their hometown.” – Loud Hailer Mag (Calgary Live Review – Aug 7 – Dickens)

“Serendipity and synchronicity are two key factors in securing the best factors for successful chemistry in any musical outfit. That’s the case for sure in the Canadian heavy rock outfit Famous Strangers. Veterans of the metal scene, they’ve come together at this point in their career to create an energetic heavy music platform surging with this emotional intensity from all angles that’s impossible to ignore. Their debut self-titled album contains all the ideal components to make a strong impact locally and abroad. ” – DeadRhetoric

““Famous Strangers” is an absolute belter of a debut album so don’t be a stranger, check it out! Very Highly Recommended. (5 / 5) – Metal Epidemic

“With plenty of material in the pipeline for future releases, Famous Strangers has a tremendous debut album that is a launching point for a hopefully productive career. Boundless opportunities exist, as these musicians came together at the right time to develop a heavy rock, alternative / bluesy-based cocktail of songs that all heavy music followers should treasure.”9/10 – DeadRhetoric

“It’s great to hear a modern hard rock band unafraid to get aggressive, from a vocalist that can unleash a scream as well as she can hit a crisp high note to the abundance of shredding guitar solos.” – Heavy Music HQ

“Famous Strangers have been dropping the hints at what the new album will be like with the previous singles ‘Ghosts of Men’ and ‘As Your Leader’. As the August 21st release date creeps closer this highly anticipated debut album is almost here and all we can say is get ready to be floored. The whole offering is a whiplash of modern metal. Signature razor sharp riffs, pulverizing bass and power percussion…lead by unforgettably edgy and furious vocals courtesy of lead singer Amanda Kiernan. Album cuts like ‘Please Her’ are insanely good and surprises like the eclectic ‘Rain’ showcase the bands ability to harness their aggression when a mood catches them for something else. An impressive debut not to be missed from a band fueled by fire, grit and a lot of talent. Catch Famous Strangers Band on your Home for the Best New Rock… W-J-O-EEEE” – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

“Canada’s Famous Strangers return with an incredible new single, a fierce one titled ‘Ghosts of Men’. Right out of the gate, the riffs are lethal and the vocals are up to the task with a mean disposition that fit perfectly. Famous Strangers is a seriously talented band and ‘Ghosts of Men’ is a shining example of their creativity at work with an extended jaw dropping 6-string solo, a wonderful slow down to catch our breath only to come out on the other side finding ourselves in a choke hold of epic proportions. This is modern metal done right, catch it on your Home for the Best New Rock…W-J-O-EEEE – WJOE – Findlay’s Home for Rock & Roll

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0 Icelandic Sorcerous Folk Metal HRAFNABLÓT Announces Debut Album “Guðlaugar Saga” Out Sept 2026 + New Video “Heljarhlíð”

August 21, 2026
by Asher
· Hrafnablót · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 21, 2026

Sorcerous Folk Metal HRAFNABLÓT Announces Debut Album “Guðlaugar Saga” Out Sept 2026 + New Video “Heljarhlíð”

Photo Credit: Þórgnýr Einar Albertsson

Sorcerous folk‑metal rising force Hrafnablót announces that their debut album, “Guðlaugar Saga,“ will be available on September 11, 2026.

A true epic, “Guðlaugar Saga” blends Icelandic folklore, Sagas, magick, and folk‑metal tradition into a cohesive narrative concept record. The story follows Guðlaug, a modern woman hurled into the settlement age with nothing but her clothes and a taser, as she navigates battles, celebrations, kidnapping, fate, and the choice between returning home and reshaping history.

Sonically, “Guðlaugar Saga” contrasts darkness and light, ugliness and beauty, past and present, weaving together Icelandic folk music, Nordic folk metal, NWOBHM, gothic influences, and extreme metal to create a sound that is sorcerous, folky, dramatic, melodic, and contrasting.

The album will feature seven full songs plus two spoken‑word pieces, including the seer’s prophecy in Spádómurinn and the chieftain’s post‑battle reflection in Kappar, meyjar, and komendur. Each track contributes to the overarching Saga, from the celebratory folk‑metal revelry of Fögnuður to the 11‑minute multi‑movement finale Örlagavegur.

“We want to give listeners a sonic journey inspired by Icelandic nature and folklore, harsh, fragile, intimate, and always beautiful,” adds the band.

After previewing tracks “Dísablót” and “Svartigaldur”, Hrafnablót is sharing their newest single and music video, “Heljarhlíð”, continuing the album’s narrative of Guðlaug, a modern‑day woman thrust back into Iceland’s settlement age with nothing but her clothes and a taser.

“Heljarhlíð” marks the first appearance of harsh vocals from keyboardist Ólafur Daði Jónsson, paired with the soaring clean vocals of Hugrún Hanna Stefánsdóttir. Musically, the track channels melodic death metal influences and closes with a powerful vocal harmony.

Watch and listen to the music video for “Heljarhlíð” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f4mEwniTdVA

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/5d5tsvnMNn38HrPFbwfd4h

Bandcamp – https://hrafnablot.bandcamp.com/

Hrafnablót was formed in Reykjavík, Iceland, in fall 2024 and channels the contrasting light and darkness of Icelandic magick, Sagas, and folklore. Their music merges heavy riffs, folk influences, haunting melodies, and both clean and harsh vocals, a sound deeply rooted in Icelandic myth and landscape.

Since forming, the band has become a striking presence in Iceland’s live scene, performing at Íslenski rokkbarinn, Lemmy, BIRD, and the Icelandic Sorcery Festival. Their shows are ritualistic experiences, rich with visuals, storytelling, and dramatic intensity.

Recommended for fans of Ensiferum, Nightwish, Wintersun, Skálmöld, and Eluveitie, “Guðlaugar Saga” will be available on all digital platforms on September 11th, 2026.

Digital Album Pre-Save – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hrafnablt/gulaugar-saga

CD and Vinyl Pre-Order – https://elasticstage.com/hrafnablot/releases/gudlaugar-saga-album

Previous Singles:

Music Video – “Svartigaldur” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDPpHb_Qf1s

Music Video – “Dísablót” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tI34l6OrGc

Track Listing:
1. Spádómurinn – 1:49
2. Dísablót – 5:44
3. Heljarhlíð – 6:22
4. Kappar, Meyjar, Komendur – 1:22
5. Fögnuður – 5:41
6. Nornarheimt – 5:21
7. Svartigaldur – 5:17
8. Heimþrá – 4:59
9. Örlagavegur – 11:23
Album Length: 48:02

Band Line-up:
Hugrún Hanna Stefánsdóttir – Vocals
Þórgnýr Einar Albertsson – Bass & Backing Vocals
Ólafur Daði Jónsson – Keyboards & Backing Vocals
Steingrímur Viðar Karlsson – Guitar & Backing Vocals
Andri Pétur Dalmar – Drums & Backing Vocals
Mara Birna Jóhannsdóttir – Guitar

For more info:

https://hrafnablot.is/

https://www.facebook.com/hrafnablot/

https://www.instagram.com/hrafnablot

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“Iceland’s Hrafnablót and debut single ‘Svartigaldur’ a heavy piece of pagan folk metal; for the tale of a time traveller lashed to Viking mast accused of being a witch. With symphonic metal richness, black metal energy, traditional melodies, theatrical vocal harmonies and soaring, clean female vocals, it’s quite a ride!” – Loud Enough Magazine

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0 Montreal Thrash Trio OMBRA New Single “Stitches” Is A Moshpit Bruiser! + Debut EP “Night Terror” Out Sept 2026

August 20, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Ombra

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 20, 2026

Montreal Thrash Trio OMBRA New Single “Stitches” Is A Moshpit Bruiser! + Debut EP “Night Terror” Out Sept 2026

Rising Montreal thrash trio OMBRA will release their debut EP, “Night Terror,” on September 14th, 2026, unveiling a raw, conceptual journey through fear, obsession, chemical collapse, and the darker corners of the human psyche.

Today, the band is presenting the EP’s second single, “Stitches,” to follow their explosive first track, “Hysteria.”

A haunting exploration of obsession, beauty, and the price of transformation. “Stitches” digs into the psychological spiral of chasing perfection, where flesh becomes a canvas, pain becomes currency, and identity fractures under the knife. Musically, the track blends groove‑driven speed and aggression, showcasing the band’s signature mix of raw emotion and razor‑sharp riffing.

Listen to “Stitches” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FimmvegfZ_M

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/56xkN49mwjkZwetnNN2T6M

Formed by lifelong friends Giuseppe “G” Criniti (vocals/guitar), Marco Sisti (guitar/bass), and Nico‑Angelo Sisti (drums), OMBRA emerged in late 2020 after G and Marco departed their hard‑rock/progressive project NRTH to pursue a heavier, more aggressive sound. Nico, Marco’s cousin and a well‑known drummer in the Montreal scene, joined shortly after leaving Hidden Pride. With all three members having grown up together in Lachine (a borough within the city of Montreal), the band’s formation felt natural, inevitable, and rooted in decades of shared history.

Written between 2021 and 2026, the band’s debut EP “Night Terror” reflects the band’s lived experiences and observations of a decade marked by upheaval, media distortion, obsession, chemical escape, and psychological unraveling. The EP is intentionally designed as a continuous front‑to‑back experience, culminating in the intense emotional climax of the title track.

“Our objective is to encourage people to explore their own minds, make their own opinions, and live true to themselves. This EP is our commentary on the major events and emotional weight of the last decade,” says Giuseppe “G” Criniti.

Across its five songs, “Night Terror” traces a rising arc of mental tension. Opening track “Hysteria” confronts societal panic and media‑driven chaos; “Stitches” plunges into obsession and the painful pursuit of transformation; “Blue Dream” captures chemical escapism collapsing into paranoia and possession; “Night Terror” delivers a visceral mental freefall where everything goes wrong; and “So It Goes” closes the experience with an instrumental moment of acceptance, peace, and forward motion.

Recommended for fans of Power Trip, High On Fire, Motörhead, Mastodon, Testament, and Rammstein, “Night Terror” will be available on all digital platforms on September 14, 2026.

First Single – “Hysteria” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7mDZ-4uXrY

Track Listing:
1. Hysteria (4:15)
2. Stitches (4:43)
3. Blue Dream (3:46)
4. Night Terror (5:44)
5. So It Goes (3:06)

Album and Live Band Lineup:
Giuseppe Criniti – Vocals / Lead Guitar
Marco Sisti – Rhythm Guitar / Bass
Nico-Angelo Sisti – Drums

More info:

https://ombra.band/

https://www.instagram.com/@abandcalledombra

https://www.facebook.com/people/OMBRA/61582909783052/

About:

OMBRA is a Montreal metal trio formed by lifelong friends Giuseppe “G” Criniti, Marco Sisti, and Nico‑Angelo Sisti. Rooted in old‑school thrash, sludge, groove metal, and psychedelic rock, the band blends heavy riffs with emotional honesty and modern storytelling. Their mission is to encourage listeners to think freely, explore their own minds, and express themselves without compromise.

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“OMBRA emerges in ‘Hysteria’ as a force that transforms social chaos into high-impact art. Advancing with the brutality of thrash metal and the structure of hard rock, the track shapes a sound that feels like both a siren and a sentence at the same time. Sharp and relentless, the riffs dialogue with drums that tear through the silence, while the vocals echo indignation and lucidity, a manifesto in the form of distortion. The band builds tension with precision: there is weight, but also clarity; fury, but control.” – Roadie Metal

“Delivering high-quality extreme metal that blends elements of thrash metal with other influences full of raw aggressiveness, a cinematic atmosphere with no soft edges, like a punch to the gut!” – Metal Junkbox

“From the moment we hear the sound of sirens, gunshots, and helicopters flying overhead, we know we’re going to encounter a strong track both in sound and lyrics, because the soundscape they create from the very first seconds already feels dense… the drums and guitar move between agility and the creation of a track full of suspense and tension.” – Poppunkers

‘STITCHES’, the new single from the Canadian trio OMBRA, arrives like an open cut: direct, intense, and impossible to ignore. The song crosses the border between hard rock and thrash metal with aggressiveness, transforming psychological tension into dense and precise sound.” – Roadie Music

“OMBRA is an incredible discovery! A band that shows us metal is more alive than ever… it is the perfect soundtrack to start a mosh and let out all our anger. It maintains brutal riffs worthy of any Metallica fan, an imposing guttural voice… it is 100% recommended!” – End Sessions

“I really felt it wasn’t a song made to sound pretty. It’s dark, heavy, and direct… The story it tells ,a woman who keeps reconstructing herself to fit in, hit me hard… It’s not a song that accompanies you in the background; it’s one that confronts you. It ends and leaves you with that knot in your chest.” – Rockola Indie

“Stitches’ hits hard with a dark and visceral vision of the oversexualization of women and the price of chasing perfection… It is raw, uncomfortable, and impossible to ignore.” – Poppunkers

“Stitches’ explores the limits between obsession, beauty, and self-destruction. The track dives into the mind of someone who seeks perfection at any cost… Musically, it combines aggressiveness and atmosphere, with a fast, dense, and confrontational sound… a sharp and suffocating sonority that amplifies the emotional tension. ‘Stitches’ transforms psychological horror into sonic impact.” – Metal Never Die

“The band delivers one of their darkest and most intense compositions to date. The last single before the release of the EP Night Terror, the track dives deeply into themes such as dependency, paranoia, and the destructive consequences of escaping reality. Combining dense and melodic passages with explosions of weight and aggressiveness, creating a sound experience that is as engaging as it is disturbing.” – Metal Junkbox

‘Blue Dream’ delivers suffocating, volatile metal with heavy riffs depicting psychological terror, chemical dependency, and mental collapse in a dense, cinematic sound.” – Whiplash

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0 Calgary’s GODFALL’s New Single “Default” Confronts Modern Burnout and Your Life On Autopilot!

August 19, 2026
by Asher
· Godfall · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 19, 2026

Calgary’s GODFALL’s New Single “Default” Confronts Modern Burnout and Your Life On Autopilot!

Calgary’s genre‑defying five‑piece Godfall return with their most introspective and hard‑hitting release, the single “Default”. A track that captures the suffocating repetition of living life on autopilot, the endless cycle of tasks, obligations, and burnout that leaves no room for surprise, growth, or self‑reflection. The band describes the song as a wake‑up call: a reminder that life is happening now, not after the to‑do list is finished.

As with all Godfall releases, “Default” was shaped through full‑band collaboration. Guitarist Omer Khan sparked the foundation of the track, bringing the initial riff and vibe that guided the vocal direction. Vocalists Karina Khristova and Abel Boban crafted lyrics that complement the music’s tension, choosing words, syllables, and melodies that highlight the emotional peaks of the instrumentation.

The band’s writing process remains fluid and democratic as their ideas are refined, reworked, and sometimes cut entirely if they don’t serve the song. This commitment to quality over quantity continues to define Godfall’s evolution.

Every member of Godfall comes from a different country and speaks a different first language, creating a melting pot of influences that shape their unique sound. Their music blends heaviness, melody, emotional storytelling, and raw grit, a mix fans often compare to Bad Omens and Evanescence, though the band prefers to let their own identity lead the way.

“Default” marks another step in Godfall’s ongoing refinement of their sonic identity, shifting between phases of anger, melancholy, and soaring melody while staying true to the heart‑first approach that defines their catalog.

“I think Default will be a pleasant surprise since we are constantly refining our sound and working on our songwriting skills. I think ultimately we want our fans to have a Godfall song for any kind of day: a day when you’re annoyed, sad, happy, motivated – you name it. We want them to be able to sing along and headbang at the same time,” says Karina Khristova (Clean Vocals).

Recommended for fans of Spiritbox, Evanescence, Bring Me the Horizon, Bad Omens, and Linkin Park, listen to “Default” at the following links:

Lyric Video – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWSqYEDvjb0

Add to your Spotify playlist – https://open.spotify.com/track/23PvFFwfFYQWtyugbsDXua

More info: https://linktr.ee/godfallband

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0 Italian Thrashers HELLMETALL Unleash New Video For Title Track “Mgla” From Upcoming Album Sept 2026

August 19, 2026
by Asher
· HELLMETALL (Rockshots Records) · Music News · Uncategorized

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 19, 2026

Italian Thrashers HELLMETALL Unleash New Video For Title Track “Mgla” From Upcoming Album Sept 2026

Italian Thrash/Death Metal band HELLMETALL has released the official video for “Mgła“, the title track of their forthcoming album, due out on September 4th, 2026 via Rockshots Records.

Originally released as a single on January 31st, 2026, “Mgła” introduced the darker direction of the band’s new material. Now, the song takes on a visual dimension through a video created and directed by Chiara Bettiga, translating its sombre atmosphere and historical subject into images. To date, “Mgła” is the only official video made for the record.

Meaning “fog”, “Mgła” draws inspiration from one of the darkest episodes of the First World War on the Italian-Austro-Hungarian front. The song recalls the gas attacks carried out by Austro-Hungarian and German forces against Italian soldiers during the battle near Plezzo, today Bovec in Slovenia.

The subject reflects the wider concept behind “Mgła“, an album built around events connected to the First and Second World Wars, including stories rooted in Val Resia and the surrounding borderlands, as well as memories handed down through generations. This historical dimension is closely tied to HELLMETALL‘s geographical and cultural background and to the band’s use of Resian, the local Slavic language.

Musically, “Mgła” represents the band’s move towards a darker blend of Thrash and Death Metal with elements drawn from Black Metal while retaining melodic references to the traditional music of Val Resia.

The new video brings the album campaign back to where it began with its title track. Since the release of “Mgła“, HELLMETALL has continued to reveal the record through “Gemona Btg. Doesn’t Exist Anymore” on May 18th and “Afrika” on July 3rd. Each track has offered a different perspective on the album and its historical narrative, with the focus now returning to “Mgła” as the full record approaches.

“Mgła” was written by HELLMETALL founder and vocalist Daniele Micelli, recorded, mixed, and mastered by Davide Zago, with drum engineering by Pablo De Biasi and cover artwork by Manuel Scapinello.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HsbC26sjaVA

Listen to “Mgła”: https://lnk.to/plXcDvIU

“Mgła” will be released on September 4th, 2026.

Album Release Party – Trieste Rock Camp – Sept 4, 2026

PRE-ORDER “MGLA“: https://rockshots.eu/products/hellmetall-mgla-cd

Track Listing:
1. Mgla – 5:38
2. Afrika – 3:41
3. Gemona Btg. Doesn’t Exist Anymore – 5:00
4. Vojussa’s Blood – 4:14
5. The Curse Cave-Foibe – 3:03
6. Canin’s Ghost – 6:38
7. Go To Die – 5:25
8. Lest We Forget – 3:50
9. Beograd – 5:16
Album Length: 41:25

HELLMETALL lineup (“Mgla” era / until October 2025):

Daniele Micelli: Vocals
Damiano Biasutto: Guitar
Matteo Cameran: Guitar
Luca Fumagalli: Bass
Gabriele Barbarino: Drums

Current lineup:

Daniele Micelli: Vocals
Damiano Biasutto: Guitar
Matteo Cameran: Guitar
Luca Fumagalli: Bass
Federico Zuin: Drums

More info:

https://www.rockshots.eu

https://www.instagram.com/hellmetall_official/

https://www.facebook.com/HellMetAll.Resia

About:
HELLMETALL is a Thrash/Death Metal band from Resia (Udine), a remote mountain valley located at the crossroads between Italy, Austria, and Slovenia. Since their formation, the band has developed a distinctive artistic identity by combining aggressive extreme metal with the cultural heritage and historical memory of their homeland. Their most recognizable trait is the use of Resian – the ancient Slavic language spoken in Val Resia – as the exclusive language for their lyrics, giving their music a unique and deeply authentic character.

Musically, HELLMETALL blends the violence and speed of Thrash Metal with the heaviness of Death Metal, enriched by dark melodic textures inspired by the blend of traditions of their valley. Originally featuring stronger folk elements and violin arrangements, the band has progressively evolved toward a heavier and darker sonic direction, incorporating stronger Death and Black Metal influences while preserving the melodic sensibility that has always defined their sound.

The lyrical concept behind HELLMETALL is deeply rooted in the history of Val Resia and the surrounding border territories. Their songs recount real events connected to the First and Second World Wars, drawing inspiration from local memories, stories passed down through generations, and the personal experiences of their ancestors. Through their uncompromising musical approach and the evocative power of the Resian language, the band transforms historical trauma and mountain folklore into a raw and visceral extreme metal experience.

HELLMETALL released their debut album “Sa Naso Semjo” in 2015, establishing the foundations of their aggressive and culturally distinctive sound. In early 2026, the band unveiled “Mgła“, the title track from their forthcoming second studio album “Mgla“, scheduled for release on September 4th, 2026. The new material marks a significant evolution in both songwriting and production, presenting a darker, more mature, and focused incarnation of the band.

Alongside an intense live activity throughout Italy, HELLMETALL has increasingly expanded its presence across Eastern Europe. Their 2026 schedule includes an Eastern European tour, an appearance at Austria’s Kaltenbach Open Air festival, and a dedicated Polish mini-tour later in the year, further strengthening the band’s growing reputation within the underground extreme metal scene.

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0 ESHTADUR Unleashes New Video “August’s Burdens” From New Album “In Darkness All Shadows Gone” Out Oct 2026

August 18, 2026
by Asher
· Eshtadur · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 18, 2026

ESHTADUR Unleashes New Video “August’s Burdens” From New Album “In Darkness All Shadows Gone” Out Oct 2026

Following the release of “Into The Woods“, Colombian melodic black/death metal outfit ESHTADUR returns with “August’s Burdens“, the second single from their upcoming fifth studio album “In Darkness All Shadows Gone“, scheduled for release on October 2nd, 2026 via Rockshots Records.

While the first single introduced listeners to the beginning of The Crow’s spiritual journey, “August’s Burdens” explores the consequences of that path. The song explores the weight, suffering, and spiritual afflictions carried by the human soul, expanding one of the central themes of the album’s narrative.

The title references the Augustus, a sacred and enlightened spiritual emperor whose wisdom transcends ordinary reality. Ancient traditions speak of the Three August Ones as primordial beings who brought forth sacred knowledge, including the I Ching, acupuncture, and other esoteric sciences. Within the composition, these burdens become both a curse and a path toward transcendence, reflecting the struggle between suffering and spiritual awakening.

Musically, “August’s Burdens” combines heavy riffs, catchy melodies, and a memorable chorus that intertwines vocal and guitar melodies throughout the song. Symphonic arrangements, melodic vocals, and a Tuvan chorus reinforce its shamanic atmosphere, while a guest guitar solo by Christopher Malmström (Darkane) adds another layer to the composition.

The accompanying lyric video offers another glimpse into the conceptual world of “In Darkness All Shadows Gone“, further expanding the narrative introduced with the album’s first single.

Jorg August comments:

“‘August’s Burdens’ represents the moment when knowledge becomes a responsibility. Every step taken by The Crow brings a deeper understanding but also a heavier burden to carry. The song reflects the idea that spiritual growth is inseparable from sacrifice.”

“In Darkness All Shadows Gone” follows a continuous conceptual narrative inspired by mysticism, philosophy, and personal transformation. “August’s Burdens” expands the story introduced by “Into The Woods,” revealing another chapter of the album’s symbolic journey.

Listen to “August’s Burdens”: https://lnk.to/dW18Ap

Watch the official lyric video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pSRUm_mjvE

“In Darkness All Shadows Gone” can be pre-ordered now from the Rockshots Records store at:
https://rockshots.eu/cuhb5ys9ncs1ndx

The album was produced by Jorg August, who also wrote the music, lyrics, compositions, and orchestral arrangements. The recordings took place at RockStar Studios Colombia, while the orchestra was recorded at Batuta’s Theater in Manizales, Colombia. The album was mixed and mastered by Tomasz “Zed” Zalewski, with additional mixing and mastering by Chris Clancy on “Fire Above Mountain Below” and “Umbra”. The cover artwork was created by Valesia Obscura.

For fans of: Septicflesh, Dissection, At The Gates.

Track Listing:
1. Age of Antumbra – 2:00
2. Into The Woods – 4:41
3. Umbra – 6:22
4. August’s Burdens – 4:59
5. Fire Above Mountain Below – 5:08
6. Old Shaman Blind – 5:08
7. Thunderground – 3:40
8. Ruler of the Lake – 5:14
9. A Black Winged Waltz – 9:23
10. Nebulae (Virgo) – 5:09
11. Omen of Millennia – 3:56
12. Soy Real – 5:11

ESHTADUR are:
Jorg August – Vocals, guitars
Camilo Barbosa – Lead guitars
Andres Gonzalez – Bass
David Lopez – Drums

More info:

https://rockshots.eu/

https://www.facebook.com/EshtadurOfficial/

https://www.instagram.com/eshtadur/

BIOGRAPHY:

Founded in Colombia and active since 2007, ESHTADUR combines Gothenburg-influenced death metal, black metal, and classical composition with an interest in poetry, mysticism, existence, and cosmogony. The band has toured extensively across Europe and North America, sharing stages with artists including Behemoth, Deicide, Vader, Hate and Exodus and appearing at events such as 70000 Tons of Metal, Rock al Parque and Grita Fest.

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0 SF Bay Area Thrashers ABSOLUTE DARKNESS Unveils New Banger “Attritional Warfare” From Sophomore Album “Witness To A Dying World” Out Oct 2026

August 18, 2026
by Asher
· Absolute Darkness · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 18, 2026

SF Bay Area Thrashers ABSOLUTE DARKNESS Unveils New Banger “Attritional Warfare”

Sophomore Album “Witness To A Dying World” Out Oct 2026

L-R- Orson Sojo – Bass, Ron Dorn – Rhythm Guitar/Lead Vocals, Scott Russell – Drums, Douglas Vetter II – Lead Guitar/Backup Vocals

Photo Credit by Eddie Granillo

San Francisco Bay Area death/thrash metal force Absolute Darkness unleashes their first single, “Attritional Warfare”, marking the beginning of the rollout for their highly anticipated sophomore album, “Witness To A Dying World,” due out on October 23, 2026. The album also features a faithful, modernized tribute to Bay Area legends Vio‑lence with a cover of their classic track “World In A World.”

Formed in 2015, Absolute Darkness blends the ferocity of Death, Cannibal Corpse, and Amon Amarth with the thrash roots of Testament, Vio‑lence, and Exodus. Their sound is defined by aggressive riffs, layered harmonies, memorable solos, and socially conscious storytelling that confronts corruption, war, propaganda, addiction, homelessness, and the decay of modern society.

The first single sets the tone for the album’s thematic weight and musical intensity. Written collaboratively by the full lineup, “Attritional Warfare” showcases Absolute Darkness at their most focused and explosive, fast, sharp, and unrelenting.

The track continues the band’s tradition of story‑driven lyricism, exploring the human cost of conflict through the eyes of those caught in the machinery of war. It’s a brutal, high‑energy introduction to the world the album inhabits.

“The war theme of this song is brought home by high-quality 2D traditional animation interjected with a live performance from the band. Be warned, the war footage can be very graphic and was inspired by anime such as Attack on Titan and Jin-Roh: The Wolf Brigade,” adds Ron Dorn (Guitar/Lead Vocals).

Listen and watch the animated video for “Attritional Warfare” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kbh5jvhBQtQ

Bandcamp – https://absolutedarkness1.bandcamp.com/track/attritional-warfare

The new record marks a major milestone for Absolute Darkness; it’s the first album written entirely by the current lineup from the ground up, with every member contributing meaningfully to the songwriting process. Musically, the album expands on the death/thrash foundation of their 2021 release “Failure Of State,” delivering aggressive riffs, fast, energetic structures, melodic guitar harmonies, layered solos, and story‑driven vocals. A standout moment on the album is Absolute Darkness’ tribute to Bay Area thrash icons Vio‑lence. Guitarist/vocalist Ron Dorn, who grew up attending their shows, approached the cover with deep respect, preserving the original’s raw energy while delivering vocals in his own death/thrash style. The band intentionally avoided a click track to maintain the natural tempo shifts of the original recording, resulting in a version that feels both nostalgic and freshly intense.

Lyrically, “Witness To A Dying World” explores unchecked power, propaganda, authoritarianism, war, addiction, homelessness, and societal collapse, told through characters and narratives rather than direct commentary.

“Witness To A Dying World is the album I’ve wanted Absolute Darkness to make for a long time. Not because it’s heavier or faster than our previous releases, but because it finally feels like a complete band effort. Everyone contributed to the songwriting in one way or another, and I think that made every song better. Some songs are straight-up thrash. Others lean more into melodic death metal. There are a lot of guitar harmonies, plenty of solos, and enough twists along the way to keep things interesting, but we always tried to make every change feel natural instead of complicated for the sake of being complicated.

At the end of the day, we’re doing this because we genuinely enjoy making music together. None of us are trying to become full-time musicians or make a living from the band. We all have careers, families, and lives outside of music, and that gives us the freedom to write the songs we want to write instead of chasing trends. If people come away remembering the songs, wanting to hear them again, and maybe even thinking about the stories they tell, then we’ve accomplished exactly what we set out to do,” adds Dorn.

Recommended for fans of Testament, Vio-lence, Exodus, At The Gates, The Crown, and Amon Amarth, “Witness To A Dying World” will be available on October 23rd, 2026. Album pre-sale will begin on October 1st.

Track Listing:
1. Above The Law – 3:56
2. Attritional Warfare – 3:50
3. World Decay – 3:28
4. Snake Oil – 4:14
5. Different Illegally – 3:33
6. Loyalty To Me – 3:32
7. I Guess I Die – 3:59
8. Big Lies – 3:51
9. Extreme Accountability – 3:34
10. World In A World (Vio-lence Cover) – 4:13
Album Length: 38:21

Band Lineup:
Ron Dorn – Guitar/Lead Vocals
Douglas Vetter II – Lead Guitar/Backup Vocals
Orson Sojo – Bass
Scott Russell – Drums

More info:

https://www.facebook.com/BandAbsoluteDarkness

https://www.instagram.com/absolutedarkness_band/

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“Combining death/thrash influences… stronger production values that hopefully will garner more buzz and attention.” – Dead Rhetoric (Failure Of State 2022)
“Part album, part call to arms… a rabble-rousing affair and a slamming indictment of modern-day society.” – The Headbanging Moose (Failure Of State 2022)

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0 AS OCEANS DIVIDE’s New Video “One of the Herd” Balances Technical Aggression, w/ Emotional Depth + New EP Out Now!

August 18, 2026
by Asher
· As Oceans Divide · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 18, 2026

AS OCEANS DIVIDE’s New Video “One of the Herd” Balances Technical Aggression w/ Emotional Depth

Debut Self-Titled EP in Memory of Late Bassist

L-R – Matt McGuire – Drums, Thomas Ireland – Guitar, Tom Emmans – Vocals, Eric Camilleri – Guitar, Mark Sorge – Bass

As Oceans Divide have released the lyric video for “One of the Herd”, a hard‑hitting new single that showcases the band’s signature blend of technical aggression, soaring melody, and emotional depth. The track arrives as the latest preview of their self‑titled debut EP, released July 9th, 2026, marking a major milestone for the Ontario metalcore outfit.

“One of the Herd” expands on the band’s defining contrast, balancing heaviness with atmosphere, intensity with reflection. The lyric video amplifies that tension visually, drawing listeners deeper into the track’s emotional weight. Built on dynamic vocals, driving rhythms, and harmonized guitars, the single reinforces As Oceans Divide’s commitment to crafting music that hits hard while remaining deeply personal.

Watch and listen to “One of The Herd” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDR5sifRSV0

The self‑titled EP is a five‑track journey through chaos and control, aggression and melody, atmosphere and intensity. Musically, it blends technical riffs with dynamic, melodic passages, creating songs that feel like complete emotional arcs rather than collections of parts. Lyrically, the EP dives into themes of loss, resilience, internal struggle, and confronting what lies beneath the surface, turning real experiences into something listeners can connect with.

“This record came from a very real place for all of us. It’s a reflection of everything we’ve experienced over the past while, personally and as a band, and that naturally shaped both the sound and the message. There was no interest in forcing a concept. It was more about being honest and letting the music speak for where we were at,” says the band.

Formed from years of friendship and shared history in Canadian metal, As Oceans Divide brings together seasoned musicians from respected acts including Bloodshoteye, Aquila, Odium, Battlesoul, and more. Their combined experience gives the band a sound rooted in authenticity rather than imitation. Their current lineup includes Tom Emmans (Vocals), Eric Camilleri (Guitar/Songwriting), Thomas Ireland (Guitar/Production), Matt McGuire (Drums), and Mark Sorge (Bass).

The band’s formation began with guitarist Eric Camilleri, whose desire for a more serious, technical, and emotionally driven project led him to reconnect with longtime friends. Early demos sparked immediate chemistry, and the lineup came together naturally. The band carries the memory of bassist Dale Burrows, who passed away in March 2026, forward in everything they create.

Their sound blends soaring melody with crushing rhythms, channeling early-2000s metalcore through a modern lens, with harmonized guitars, driving mid‑tempo anthems, and high‑intensity assaults anchored by Emmans’ dynamic vocal range.

Fans can expect live shows from As Oceans Divide soon, with the band preparing to bring their high‑intensity sound to stages throughout 2026. Their performances are built on raw emotion, connection, and sheer energy, leaning into heaviness when it needs to hit, while giving space for melodic moments to breathe. The result is a dynamic, immersive experience driven by chemistry, authenticity, and the band’s deep history together. As Oceans Divide aims to deliver shows that feel alive, powerful, and unforgettable.

Recommended for fans of Killswitch Engage, All That Remains, Unearth, and God Forbid, As Oceans Divide‘s self-titled EP is available on all digital platforms as of July 9th, 2026, at the following links:

Bandcamp – https://asoceansdivideband.bandcamp.com/

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/album/1oGSV62LAkxIw4JIP1cvYp

Track Listing:
1. Into The Dying Light – 4:04
2. White Noise – 3:31
3. World Collapse – 3:16
4. Cursed Oblivion – 3:59
5. One Of The Herd – 3:25
EP Length: 18:15

For more info:

https://asoceansdivide.com

https://www.facebook.com/asoceansdivide

https://www.instagram.com/asoceansdivide

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“All in all this is what I would consider a technically and musically perfect release! This is likely to end up in my Top Ten this year. If you like Killswitch, As I Lay Dying, All That Remains, Unearth, and God Forbid, then you’ll like As Oceans Divide. 10/10” – Ever Metal

“At 18 minutes and change, As Oceans Divide positions themselves in a great spot to make quite a splash because of this self-titled EP. The sum of parts in experience will pay handsomely, as this is yet another Canadian act to really champion in this early stage because the following will blossom as opportunities come knocking their way. 8.5/10” – Dead Rhetoric

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0 Out Now! Canada’s Corrosive Prairie Doom/Sludge DESTROY MY BRAINS Unleashes Fifth Album “WILT”

August 14, 2026
by Asher
· Destroy My Brains · Music News

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 14, 2026

Out Now! Canada’s Corrosive Prairie Doom/Sludge DESTROY MY BRAINS Unleashes Fifth Album “WILT”

Destroy My Brains – L-R – Rob – Bass, Jarret – Vocals, Guitar, Chase – Guitar, Jadan – Drums

From the frozen prairies of Lloydminster, Canada, corrosive doom/sludge quartet Destroy My Brains returns with “WILT”, their most vicious, emotionally ruinous, and musically sharpened album. Out as of August 14th, “WILT” marks the final chapter in the band’s long‑planned W.I.L.T. series (Worthless, InsignifiCan’t, Lifeless, Tormented), a five‑album descent into self‑destruction, trauma, and sonic corrosion.

Formed when vocalist Jarret and drummer Jadan decided to turn daily basement jams and a massive bong hit from the Green Spiritual Bastard into a real band, Destroy My Brains have spent years refining their brand of corrosive, melting, abhorrent, Crowbar‑worshipping sludge. Their music has always been a celebration of self‑destruction, a philosophy embedded in the band name itself, and “WILT” pushes that ethos to its bleakest extreme.

Recorded at Doom Tomb Recording Studio, “WILT” is the band’s most accomplished production yet. Every element has been pushed further with its pounding grooves and heavy‑as‑sin chugs. It unleashes soul‑removing drums from Jadan, thick, thunderous bass from Rob, fuzz‑soaked riffs from Chase, and ear‑scorching vocals from Jarret. Destroy My Brains didn’t reinvent their sound; they perfected it. “WILT” is the culmination of everything they’ve ever done, turned louder, darker, and more devastating.

Each track on “WILT” drags the listener deeper into Destroy My Brains’ signature world of ruin, trauma, and corrosive sludge. “OCI” erupts in a frantic OCD‑driven implosion, while “Burn the Virgin” descends into ritual sacrifice and infernal doom. “Decontribute” rejects societal expectations entirely, serving as a manifesto of degeneracy, and “Avulsion” uses the tearing of flesh as a metaphor for lifelong psychological torment. “Downgrade” blends punk and sludge into a tale of manipulation, overdose, and Satanic delusion, captured visually in a chilling ShadowScape Pictures video. “Spill” confronts childhood violence and emotional shutdown. At the same time, the 11‑minute title track “Wilt” stands as the tragic, devastating finale, tackling child abuse with some of the darkest sonic moments in the band’s history.

“As a whole, the album is an ode to pain, trauma, and hate so thick you can touch it. It’s riffs on top of riffs, and songs about ruin and degradation. This album is not lyrically for the average listener, but the music will pull people in without them knowing what the songs are about. I can’t wait to subliminally fuck with people’s minds,” adds Jarret.

Recommended for fans of Eyehategod, Crowbar, Buzzov*en, Acid Bath, and Electric Wizard, Destroy My Brains’ “WILT” is available on all digital platforms as of August 14th, 2026.

Bandcamp – https://destroymybrains.bandcamp.com/

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/album/0TIFsddpd2wrYazelG9H5M

YouTube (Album Stream) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0QDhuJ9Dxis

Music Video – Downgrade – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ul8Zku8Z4Y

Track Listing:
1. OCI (Obsessive Compulsive Imploder) – 4:32
2. Burn The Virgin – 10:30
3. Decontribute – 7:28
4. Avulsion – 7:08
5. Downgrade – 5:14
6. Spill – 9:30
7. Wilt – 11:40
Album Length: 56:03

More info: https://linktr.ee/destroymybrains

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“If it’s churning, caustic vibes you’re seeking, look no further than the frozen prairies of Canada for DESTROY MY BRAINS. Since 2014, founding members Jarret Beach (vocals, guitar) and Jadan Paluck (drums) have been punching out one roaring album after another, joined by second guitarist Chase Shorter and bassist Rob Hayman for yet another offering, ‘Wilt’ (2026). The the feisty 7 tracker presents a stark view of human nature, confronting the visceral horror of flesh and blood (“Avulsion”), a messed up home life (“Spill,” “Wilt”), Satanic ambitions (“Burn the Virgin”), obsessive thinking patterns (“OCI”), and degeneration framed as social revolt (“Decontribute”)… You may not always be in the mood to rage, but when you are you’ll definitely want Destroy My Brains on deck to lead the charge.” – Doomed and Stoned

““Downgrade,” a five-minute crawl through manipulation, intoxication and deliberate ruin. The track reconnects Destroy My Brains with their punkier instincts without sacrificing the suffocating riffs, corrosive tones and full-throated hostility at the center of their sludge attack.” – Decibel Magazine (Downgrade Premiere)

“Lyrically, this is a hateful and hopeless screed, the vicious and fatalistic thoughts of someone falling apart and drowning in intoxicants.” No Clean Singing (Decontribute single off Wilt – 2026)

“WILT is the perfect end to a massive and sprawling five part album saga which may allow Destroy My Brains to try different musical avenues in the future. You gotta say the guys ultimately deserve that. As they’ve spent a long time bleeding their emotions dry for their “ART” and providing their dedicated fan base with records of amazing quality which will leave you broken down, beaten, physically and mentally exhausted. However, you’ll be glad you’ve listened, survived and experienced a brutal audio experience such as this. As Destroy My Brains have solidified their status as one of the best bands to emerge from the Canadian Heavy Metal underground scene of recent years.” – Outlaws of The Sun

“Some of the most interesting metal exists far outside the usual channels, and Destroy My Brains has been grinding away in the shadows delivering uncut gems… Wilt brings a nine‑year creative arc full circle and promises to be as rife with hate, desperation, and hunger as the Wendigo on the cover… Wilt quickly establishes itself as a far more vicious beast than its predecessors.” – Angry Metal Guy

“My take on the album: The tracks on the album are hard hitting Doom/Sludge Metal at the next level. The band doesn’t fool around and they let the music do the talking. Brilliantly composed and performed songs that combine to create a special album. I am hugely impressed by the album. A massive yes from me.” – Project Metal Music

“‘Avulsion’ and ‘Downgrade’ demonstrate how well Destroy My Brains know how to pace their music compared to many of their peers. The first of them stretches despair in such a way that each new sustained chord physically exhausts the listener, while the second of them injects enough punk venom so that the album won’t just sink in its emotional weight. It’s still sludge, but this time it moves with purpose rather than just resting on your chest for seven minutes and hoping you won’t notice that numbness you feel.” – Ever-Metal

“Ahead of the record, the Lloydminster quartet has shared the video for “Downgrade,” a five-minute crawl through manipulation, addiction and ruin that reconnects the band with the punkier, more direct instincts of their early days without giving up an inch of the suffocating riffs and corrosive tone that built their name.” – See Rock Live Mag

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0 NARCOTIC WASTELAND’s New Single Battles The “Fentanyl Zombie Apocalypse” To Kick Off USA Tour w/ Visitant, Monochromatic Black, IATT, and Yotuma

August 14, 2026
by Asher
· Music News · Narcotic Wasteland

NEWS RELEASE

Montreal, QC – August 14, 2026

NARCOTIC WASTELAND’s New Single Battles The “Fentanyl Zombie Apocalypse” To Kick Off USA Tour w/ Visitant, Monochromatic Black, IATT, and Yotuma

Narcotic Wasteland, fronted by guitarist/vocalist Dallas Toler‑Wade of NILE fame, fires the first shot of their August tour with the release of their blistering new single “Fentanyl Zombie Apocalypse.” The track arrives as the band launches the “FENTANYL ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE TOUR,” featuring select dates with support from Visitant, Monochromatic Black, IATT, and Yotuma (dates listed below).

A ferocious blend of technical precision, social commentary, and unrelenting aggression, the single stands as one of Narcotic Wasteland’s most urgent works to date, an explosive warning siren aimed at the escalating fentanyl epidemic and the societal collapse surrounding it.

Dallas Toler‑Wade comments on the new single:

“I am very excited to release our new song, Fentanyl Zombie Apocalypse! The song is, of course, about the fentanyl epidemic and the overall impact it has on an already failing country. Musically, it really captures the mood of this very well. Fast and tricky, yet twisted and catchy! Kenji really brought some great bass and keys to the table. And Austin needs a drum set that won’t collapse under pressure! I am super proud of the work we have done together, and I cannot wait to show the world what we have been working on behind the scenes.”

Narcotic Wasteland continues to evolve into one of extreme metal’s most formidable units, featuring Dallas Toler‑Wade, former Nile guitarist, vocalist, and key songwriter; a defining force in technical death metal since the early ’90s. Austin Vicars, a high‑octane drummer known for blistering blast beats and commanding stage presence, and Kenji Tsunami, an inventive bassist whose depth, texture, and ferocity amplify the band’s overwhelming sonic assault.

Together, they deliver a live experience that is both punishing and surgically precise, an unrelenting wall of sound that has packed venues and earned critical acclaim throughout recent tours. Narcotic Wasteland has cemented its position as a dominant force in modern death metal, unleashing a volatile blend of razor‑sharp technicality, feral aggression, and raw intensity. Their music confronts addiction, corruption, and societal collapse with unflinching honesty, powered by musicianship that continually pushes the boundaries of extreme metal. Expect a barrage of new material, explosive performances, and the full force of Narcotic Wasteland’s latest evolution.

Recommended for fans of Nile, Suffocation, Dying Fetus, Incantation, Cannibal Corpse, Dark Funeral, Immolation, and Gorguts, listen to “Fentanyl Zombie Apocalypse” at the following links:

Spotify – https://orcd.co/fentanylzombieapocalypse

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5D7ruAX63c

FENTANYL ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE TOUR
Narcotic Wasteland – August 2026 Tour Dates
Select dates with support from Visitant, Monochromatic Black, IATT, and YOTUMA

August 12 – Columbus, OH – Spacebar With Visitant
August 14 – Akron, OH – Afterlife Nightclub
August 15 – Battle Creek, MI – Michigan Metal Fest With Monochromatic Black
August 16 – Chicago, IL – Liars Club With Visitant
August 18 – Saint Paul, MN – Amsterdam Bar & Hall With Visitant
August 19 – Cudahy, WI – X-Ray Arcade With Visitant and Yotuma
August 21 – Scranton, PA – The Ritz Theater With Visitant and IATT
August 22 – Wallingford, CT – Cherry Street Station With Visitant
August 23 – Lowell, MA – Taffeta Music Hall With Visitant
August 25 – Louisville, KY – Portal With Visitant
August 26 – Atlanta, GA – 529 With Monochromatic Black and Visitant
August 27 – Nashville, TN – The Cobra With Monochromatic Black and Visitant
August 28 – Raleigh, NC – Chapel of Bones With Monochromatic Black and Visitant
August 29 – Salisbury, MD – Lurking Class Skate Shop With Monochromatic Black and Visitant
August 30 – Charleston, WV – Live at the Shop With Monochromatic Black and Visitant

More info: https://linktr.ee/narcoticwasteland

– 30 –

“”Narcotic Wasteland dropped a caustic, pissed off new single titled “Barbarian” off their forthcoming album Digital Cordyceps. Though we don’t know too much about said album, Toler-Wade explained that the new track was essentially one big middle finger to the ruling class.” – Metal Sucks

“We’ve got the latest and greatest from drug-themed death dealers Narcotic Wasteland, the new video for “Victims of the Algorithm.” The song takes on lightning-fast and heavy riffs, in the tradition of the band, and the lyrics tackle our dependence on social media in the modern age.” – Decibel Magazine

“Narcotic Wasteland have hit us with another dark, campy gem in the form of “Sex, Lies & DNA.” The thrashy, aggressive new single is the latest from the band led by Dallas Toler-Wade of Nile fame. This track features guest vocals from Andrea_N_Black and takes on the beloved death metal fodder of true crime.” – Decibel Magazine

“Narcotic Wasteland showcases Toler-Wade’s penchant for writing killer riffs, which he did for a decade as a member of Nile, in a manner that’s reminiscent of early 1990s metal — when the lines between the “thrash” and “death” tags weren’t as rigidly defined, and everything just sounded fast and heavy as all hell.” – Denver Westword (NW Headlines Denver DeathFest 2023)

“Delirium Tremens is just pummeling, non-stop death metal that covers a ton of ground.” – Metal Injection

“More often than not, death metal bands have a tendency to stick to the familiar topics. Death, gore, killing – that sort of thing. There’s always exceptions, or bands that have a different take on the subject, but as they say, dark music demands dark themes. Narcotic Wasteland does, for one of its lyrical slants, face a slightly different (yet still suiting) take – that of addiction. Plenty of grim to still go around with such a concept, and Narcotic Wasteland hits just as hard sonically as any other death metal act to come through the pipeline.” – Dead Rhetoric

“another incredible death metal album that has the potential to end itself up on the year end top album lists.” – Metal Nexus (2017 – Delirium Tremens)

“On the track, Toler-Wade furiously rails against “expectations,” “silly rules,” and “fucking filters,” and victoriously celebrates being “totally free” with a repeated battle cry of “Let the music flow!” In case there was still any remaining doubt as to the meaning of the song, the track is as magnificently brutal an old school death metal song as you’re likely to hear this season. It gallops, it lacerates, it uses the listener’s skull as a battering ram. There can be no doubt that this truly is Toler-Wade, undiluted and free of limitations. We hope he lets this music flow for a long time to come.” – Metal Sucks (single Return to the Underground off 2017 album Delirium Tremens)

“Narcotic Wasteland have released a fantastic album in ‘Delirium Tremens’. It is not easy to thrust the listener consistently into an aural landscape orchestrated by the band and make them stay put for the entire length of the album. Narcotic Wasteland does it brilliantly as they take you through the nightmarish journey of Delirium Tremens.” – Metal Wani (2017 – Delirium Tremens)

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