News

• DUST New Single “Bodyless” From Upcoming Album "Thoughts Of A Falling Man" Out April 2026

  Jan 20, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Rockshots Records announces the release of “Bodyless”, the brand-new single by Italian metal act Dust, out now on all digital platforms.

  “Bodyless” is taken from Dust’s upcoming second full-length album, "Thoughts Of A Falling Ma", scheduled for release on April 3rd, 2026, and represents a pivotal chapter within the record’s overarching concept. The song delves into a stark, uncompromising vision of judgment and damnation, portraying a liminal space where souls, stripped of identity and status, await their final sentence beyond life and time.

  Lyrically, “Bodyles” explores the idea that, at the end of earthly existence, wealth, power, and social distinction lose all meaning. What remains is the weight of one’s actions and the inescapable confrontation with guilt, memory, and consequence. The track embodies one of the album’s central themes: a near-death journey in which the main character is forced to face unresolved sins and inner demons in a realm suspended between eternity and oblivion.

  Commenting on the single, the band states:

  “‘Bodyless’ represents a moment of total suspension. It’s the point where every mask falls away, and nothing can be hidden anymore. We wanted to describe a place where there is no time, no memory, and no privilege - only judgment. It’s one of the most direct and unsettling tracks we’ve written, both lyrically and emotionally.”

  Musically, “Bodyless” highlights Dust’s evolved, more cohesive sound, combining aggressive death and groove metal foundations with sharp riffing, oppressive atmospheres, and tightly controlled dynamics. The band’s approach is raw and uncompromising, reinforcing the song’s sense of suffocation and inevitability while maintaining a strong sense of structure and impact. This sonic direction reflects the broader evolution of "Thoughts Of A Falling Man", which marks a significant step forward in terms of heaviness, focus, and expressive depth compared to the band’s debut.

  Expanding on the album’s vision, the band adds:

  “This new record is heavier, darker, and more introspective than anything we’ve done before. Each track represents a spiritual stage of a single journey, and ‘Bodyless’ is one of the moments where the listener is forced to stop and confront the consequences of a life lived without escape.”

  “Bodyless” stands as a key chapter within "Thoughts Of A Falling Man", a concept-driven album conceived as a near-death experience unfolding between life and eternity. Through its relentless sound and uncompromising narrative, the single offers a clear glimpse into Dust’s renewed artistic direction and the darker, more mature identity shaping this new era.

  For fans of: Parkway Drive, Jinjer, Trivium

  DIGITAL: https://lnk.to/M2crIo​
  ​
  

  New album “Thoughts Of A Falling Man” out April 3rd, 2026.

  PRE ORDER - "Thoughts Of A Falling Man": https://rockshots.eu/products/dust-thoughts-of-a-falling-man​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Intro – 1:49
  2. Before Your Awaken – 5:23
  3. Death's Ashes Upon Me – 3:52
  4. Contemptus Mundi – 3:58
  5. Fragments of Mirror – 4:26
  6. Thoughts of a Falling Man – 6:40
  7. Bodyless – 3:44
  8. The Reaping of the Scythe – 3:56
  9. Beyond the Void – 6:06
  Album Length: 39:54
  ​
  ​Dust Line-Up:​
  Riccardo Pirozzi: Vocals
  Stefano D’Angelo: Guitars
  Federico Ignini: Guitars
  Francesco D’Elia: Bass
  Eric Di Donato: Drums

  More info:​
  ​https://rockshots.eu​
  ​https://www.instagram.com/dust__band/

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• CANDOR ZEALOT (ft. ex-members of Annihilator, The Slyde) Make Their Debut w/ Single "Lie For Country"

  Jan 20, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Canadian (Ottawa, ON) progressive metal newcomers Candor Zealot are set to make their explosive debut with “Lie For Country”, the first in a series of singles to be released throughout 2026. With a sound that fuses the melodic intricacy of Rush and Dream Theater with the raw energy of Megadeth, Billy Talent, and Killswitch Engage, Candor Zealot are poised to deliver a fresh yet nostalgic take on modern progressive rock and heavy metal.
  ​
  Formed by frontman Nate Silva after the disbandment of his previous project, The Slyde, in 2019, Candor Zealot emerged from years of creative exploration, pandemic delays, and solo ventures. Recruiting many of the same musicians from The Slyde, Silva describes the band as a “spiritual successor” to his earlier work, only this time with a sharper name and a renewed focus on honesty and intensity.
  ​
  ​“‘Lie For Country’ is our debut single, and we wanted to introduce ourselves with breakneck speed, musical intensity, and a poignant political message. There are influences of Megadeth, Killswitch Engage, Billy Talent, and even System of a Down in this track, and it’s a song about being manipulated and politically indoctrinated without thinking critically. We are proud of this track, and we are pumped to release it!” – Nate Silva, Candor Zealot
  ​
  Rather than releasing a traditional full-length album, Candor Zealot will roll out six singles across 2026, each designed to capture attention in today’s fast-paced listening culture. Fans can expect melodic hooks, technical proficiency, and thought-provoking lyrics that tackle both politics and relationships, two universal themes that resonate deeply.
  ​
  ​Candor Zealot is comprised of seasoned musicians with deep roots in Canada’s metal scene, including ex-members of Annihilator and The Slyde. Frontman Nate Silva (vocals/guitar), formerly of The Slyde, is an international touring artist and academic researcher on chiptune music. Guitarist Chris Gagnon, based in Ottawa, is a versatile performer active in eight tribute bands covering acts from Queen to Rage Against the Machine. Drummer Dino Soares, a longtime collaborator with Silva since their teenage years, continues to freelance in Kingston’s music scene. On bass, Alberto Campuzano, formerly of Annihilator, also performs with Toronto’s Metallica tribute act Sandman. Collectively, the band brings decades of experience and a proven pedigree, highlighted by Silva, Soares, and Campuzano’s performance at Wacken Open Air in Germany after winning the 2019 Wacken Metal Battle Canada with The Slyde.
  ​
  With “Lie For Country” as their fiery introduction, Candor Zealot plans to release five more singles throughout 2026, followed by additional recordings in 2027.

  Listen to “Lie For Country” at the following links:

  Add yo your Spotify playlist - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/candorzealot/lie-for-country-2​

  ​

  For more info:

  ​http://candorzealot.com/​

  ​https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582854735079​

  ​https://www.instagram.com/candorzealot​

  ​https://www.tiktok.com/@candorzealot​

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• ANTHEA Unveils First Single “Phantom In The Masquerade” From New Album "Beyond The Dawn" Out April 2026

  Jan 16, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Rockshots Records announces the release of “Phantom in the Masquerade”, the brand new single by Los Angeles symphonic metal act Anthea, out now on all digital platforms.

  “Phantom in the Masquerade” is the first single taken from Anthea’s upcoming third full-length album, "Beyond The Dawn," and serves as an introduction to the band’s most ambitious and theatrical chapter to date. The song explores the feeling of being invisible while surrounded by others, translating emotional isolation into a powerful and evocative musical narrative.

  Commenting on the track, the band states:
  ​
  “‘Phantom in the Masquerade’ is one of the most theatrical songs we’ve written. We wanted it to feel both catchy and haunting, with lyrics that capture the experience of being surrounded by people yet completely unseen. It sets the stage for the dramatic direction we’ve been embracing, both musically and visually.”

  Musically, the single highlights Anthea’s evolved sound, blending symphonic metal foundations with strong melodic hooks, driving guitar work, and layered orchestrations. The balance between immediacy and atmosphere reflects the broader identity of "Beyond The Dawn", an album conceived as a dynamic journey where each song offers a distinct mood while remaining part of a cohesive whole.

  Expanding on the vision behind the album, the band adds:
  ​
  “This record pushed us to explore every corner of our sound - from fast and heavy tracks to more emotional and melodic moments. ‘Phantom in the Masquerade’ introduces that range and gives listeners a clear sense of the dramatic and expressive path the album follows.”

  An official music video accompanies the release, transforming the song’s themes into a symbolic visual narrative centered on identity, isolation, and transformation. Set within a masquerade ball, the video reinforces Anthea’s strong theatrical aesthetic, a defining element of both their music and live performances.

  “Phantom in the Masquerade” marks the opening step toward "Beyond The Dawn", an album shaped by themes of growth, transition, uncertainty, and renewal, representing a significant evolution in Anthea’s songwriting and artistic vision.

  For fans of: Dynazty, Kamelot, Powerwolf

  DIGITAL SINGLE: https://lnk.to/sIZl8W​
  ​

  ​New album “Beyond The Dawn” out April 17th, 2026.

  PRE ORDER "Beyond The Dawn": https://rockshots.eu/products/anthea-beyond-the-dawn​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Beyond The Dawn – 4:13
  2. Phantom in the Masquerade – 3:32
  3. The Lost Soul – 3:44
  4. Awakening (Song for Spring) – 4:16
  5. Bygone Age (Chicxulub) – 4:03
  6. From Shadows to Light – 4:40
  7. Crystal Moon – 4:11
  8. Wanderer’s Quell – 3:53
  9. Whispers of the Heart – 4:46
  10. Duality of Gaia – 4:12
  11. Burnin’ in the Third Degree (Tahnee Caine and Tryanglz cover) – 3:38
  Album Length: 45:08
  ​

  More info:​
  ​https://rockshots.eu​
  ​https://www.facebook.com/antheametal​
  ​https://www.instagram.com/antheametal

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• DOLL Shares New Single “Bear Claw” To Follow 2025 Comeback Album "Better Days, Better Times"

  Jan 16, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Ottawa alternative rock band DOLL launches into 2026 with the release of their explosive new single “Bear Claw,” premiering today exclusively via New Noise Magazine alongside a brand‑new lyric video. The track serves as the next chapter in the band’s creative resurgence following their 2025 comeback album "Better Days, Better Times."​
  ​
  ​“Bear Claw” continues DOLL’s evolving “Animal Crackers” trilogy, which began earlier this year with the fan‑favourite single “Shark Bait,” featured on "Better Days, Better Times."​
  ​
  ​“We had such an amazing response to our first ‘Animal Crackers’ concept with ‘Shark Bait. We always planned to release three animal‑themed songs, but that positive feedback really propelled us as we finalized the next piece of the trilogy, Bear Claw,” the band explains.
  ​
  The band believes fans will connect strongly with this new installment:

  “I think it’s safe to say this is our best effort yet. We brought back some of that legacy DOLL riffing, mixed in the hardcore elements we toyed with in ‘Shark Bait,’ and really pushed ourselves creatively with the vocals and lyrics. We hope this one is just as well received, if not better. I guess it depends on whether you’re more of a land or sea animal lover.” ​
  ​
  The single’s artwork pays homage to classic Smokey the Bear posters, reimagined through DOLL’s gritty, tongue‑in‑cheek lens. Artist Mark Kidd once again brought the concept to life with bold character design and a nostalgic yet rebellious aesthetic.
  ​
  ​“We wanted to revive some of the artwork we grew up with. We went heavy on that Smokey‑the‑Bear look, but added our own comedic twist, putting Doll on the hat and rebranding Smokey as Grungey. He’s got a chip on his shoulder, some attitude,” the band adds.
  ​
  Musically, “Bear Claw” taps into the band’s classic sound while pushing into new territory. The track features signature leads, heavy wah‑wah pedal work, Christina’s unmistakable bends, and bursts of rapid‑fire strumming. The chorus hits with a hardcore‑infused punch from Pete, driven by drop‑tuned guitars that add weight and urgency.
  ​
  The band also leaned into atmosphere and tension, crafting a breakdown recorded through a low‑fi head and amp setup to create a spooky, suspenseful moment before slamming back in with the crunch of the PRS MT100. The result is a dynamic blend of old‑school grit and modern heaviness, achieved without relying on keyboards, instead letting raw instrumentation carry the emotion.
  ​
  With “Bear Claw,” DOLL continue to build on their renewed momentum, delivering a track that’s fierce, fun, and unmistakably their own.

  “This song is definitely our most creative vocally. Christina changed up the delivery in ways we haven’t done before. We wanted the song to be fun, with some light‑hearted lyrics, but still true to the raw rock vocal and lyrical style that DOLL has always been about.”​
  ​
  Watch the “Bear Claw” lyric video via its premiere on New Noise Magazine HERE.

  Add to your Spotify Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/track/1BGF0Pec0KtHMKPFUaOIPY

  More info: https://www.facebook.com/dollband | https://www.instagram.com/dollbandmusic/

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• SIEGE PERILOUS Unveils First Single "As the Dragon Falls" ft. Fabio Lione From the Concept Album "Becoming the Dragon" Out March 2026

  Jan 16, 2026 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Colorado power metal storytellers Siege Perilous ignite the next chapter of their musical saga with the release of their first single and music video, “As the Dragon Falls”, featuring legendary vocalist Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra). The track serves as the first glimpse into the band’s sweeping debut concept album, "Becoming the Dragon," out March 27, 2026.
  ​
  Forged from the camaraderie of live‑action roleplay and a shared love of epic storytelling, Siege Perilous has built a reputation for crafting cinematic, narrative‑driven metal that blends myth, history, and high‑fantasy adventure. Their upcoming full‑length album marks the culmination of years of collaborative writing, world‑building, and musical evolution.
  ​
  ​“As the Dragon Falls” is more than a single; it’s a milestone for the band, especially for vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel, who has been a devoted Rhapsody fan since his teens.

  “As the Dragon Falls represents a true heavy metal dream come true for all of us, but especially for Shaughnessy. Working with Fabio far exceeded anything we could have hoped for. His classic soaring vocals combined with Shaughnessy’s lower register create a really unique and cool power metal sound,” adds the band.
  ​
  The song’s narrative twist, where slaying the dragon becomes a metaphor for the double‑edged nature of achieving one’s goals, adds a bittersweet emotional core to the track. Lione himself was drawn to the story and, according to the band, “really gave it his all.”
  ​
  Musically, the single fuses Siege Perilous’ signature melodic power with the symphonic grandeur of classic Rhapsody, delivering a heroic anthem that darkens into something far more ominous by its final moments.

  Watch and listen to the music video for “As the Dragon Falls” featuring Fabio Lione via its premiere on MetalAddicts HERE.

  Add to your Spotify Playlist - pre-save - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/siegeperilous/as-the-dragon-falls-feat-fabio-lione​

  "Becoming the Dragon" is a ten‑part epic chronicling the rise, fall, and metamorphosis of the “Child of Prophecy,” a hero who must confront fate, tragedy, and ultimately his own transformation into the titular dragon. The album features guest performances from both Fabio Lione and powerhouse vocalist Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance), who also serves as McDaniel’s vocal mentor.
  ​
  ​“Creating a massive, sweeping power metal epic has been a dream since before we even formed this band. This album represents our collective experience, skill, hopes, and dreams as musicians,” says the band.

  The record showcases the band’s evolution since their earlier EPs, with more complex arrangements, expanded vocal range, and orchestration that heightens the album’s cinematic scope. Each track stands alone as a powerful metal anthem, yet together they form a cohesive narrative journey.

  Their writing process is uniquely collaborative; every member contributes to the story and the music, resulting in songs that carry the DNA of the entire band. This approach, while unconventional, has become one of their greatest strengths.

  Recommended for fans of Wind Rose, Hammerfall, Sabaton, Blind Guardian, and Iron Maiden, "Becoming the Dragon" is due out on March 27, 2026 and available for pre-order / pre-save at the following link:

  ​https://siegemetal.bandcamp.com/album/becoming-the-dragon​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Overture (Instrumental) - (2:37)
  2. Ancient Rite - (4:37)
  3. As the Dragon Falls (feat. Fabio Lione) - (4:33)
  4. Child of Prophecy - (4:05)
  5. Shattered Mirage - (4:07)
  6. Chieftain - (4:03)
  7. Cut Down - (3:01)
  8. Echoes of Home (feat. Kristin Starkey) - (4:48)
  9. Becoming the Dragon - (5:09)
  10. Eschaton - (7:50)
  Album Length: 44:54

  More info: Siegemetal.com | Facebook.com/siegeband | Instagram.com/siegeperilousmetal | Tiktok.com/@siegemetal

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