Search Results: 2025

• Check Out This Festival Spotify Playlist! Aug 16th - Denver's MILE HIGH POWER FEST 2025 w/ POWERGLOVE, GLYPH, OWLBEAR, EMPRESS, GREYHAWK, CELESTIAL WIZARD and more!

  Aug 12, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  As we count down to this year’s Mile High Power Fest on August 16th at The Oriental Theater in Denver, CO (4335 W 44th Ave), the festival invites you to crank up the volume with a sneak peek of the lineup!

  Featuring epic acts like POWERGLOVE, GLYPH, OWLBEAR, EMPRESS, GREYHAWK, CELESTIAL WIZARD, and many more, immerse yourself in the sound of MHPF with their Spotify playlist.

  Mile High Power Fest 2025 Spotify Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZOTgQVburG34RYN5Aub1C

  [embed]https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3ZOTgQVburG34RYN5Aub1C[/embed]

  Deeply rooted in Denver’s vibrant culture, Mile High Power Festival champions local talent and businesses while providing a stage for rising power metal bands to unleash their sound and seize the spotlight. Like the thunderous clash of steel against the Rocky Mountains, this festival delivers an unforgettable experience, forging connections and showcasing the future of power metal.

  "After an incredible debut in 2024, we’ve taken everything we learned from last year to make 2025 even more exciting. Expect a weekend filled with electrifying performances, an unbeatable atmosphere, and the energy that only power metal can deliver. Whether you’re a devoted fan or new to the scene, this festival is your chance to be part of something truly special. Don’t miss out on the energy, the excitement, and the chance to be part of Denver's next great tradition. Get your tickets now and experience the power for yourself at The Mile High Power Festival 2025—where metal and steel collide with the cold, untamed spirit of the Rocky Mountains!" adds festival co-founder Lucyfer - BiteSize Productions.

  General Admission Tickets ($45 USD) are available at the following link: https://tickets.holdmyticket.com/tickets/444811​

  Featuring headliner Boston's PowerGlove, the very beloved instrumental power metal cover band will present a night of nostalgic tributes to retro video game and television themes. The band released their latest EP, "The Super Smash Bros," in August 2024. Listen at https://spoti.fi/4b2wcvJ​

  They are joined by the Pacific Northwest's Glyph, which is not just a heavy metal band; they are a crew of intergalactic mercenaries escaping a dying planet in their spaceship, the VSS Dragonlord. Clearly, Glyph isn’t just writing songs; they’re building worlds, and they bring it forth in their latest album "Honor, Power, Glory," released in March 2024.

  ​

  Formed in 2020 during a time in which plague stalked the land and time lost all meaning, the core of Owlbear is comprised of North American scene veterans Katheryn Scary (vocals), Jeff Taft (guitars), and Leona Hayward (bass), all of whom hail from different corners of the continent. The band made their live debut at the sold-out Legions of Metal festival in Chicago in 2024 in support of their debut album "Chaos to the Realm" (2023) (Alone Records). Musically, Owlbear draws influence from classic heavy and speed metal and roots their lyrics in the media its members love, from the famous role-playing game that inspired the band’s namesake to the Final Fantasy franchise. Dynamic vocals, frenetic riffing, and bass that are equal parts pummeling and acrobatic drive the band’s relentless approach, and with the imminent release of their sophomore album "Feather & Claw" on February 28th, 2025 via Alone Records, Owlbear aims to continue to carve out its niche within the heavy metal community with a savage swipe of a plumed talon. 

  ​

  Hailing from Philadelphia, Empress is a symphonic power metal quintet that loves weaving grand tales over catchy and triumphant symphonic soundscapes. Their critically acclaimed debut album, titled “Fateweaver,” released in August 2022, which renowned mixing and mastering engineer Dan Swanö has characterized as one of his best works in melodic metal, carefully entwines musical universes and invites you to follow your imagination and fantasy. Among Empress’ remarked past live performances, it is worth mentioning their album release show at Mad With Power Fest in Madison, WI, on the release day of “Fateweaver”, as well as having shared the stage with bands such as Oceans of Slumber, Seven Spires, and Grim Reaper on their journey to conquering the symphonic metal stronghold with sophistication.

  ​

  GREYHAWK, with new singer Anthony Corso at the helm, is ready to bring the power with what will surely be their best performance at Mile High Power Fest! Anyone who has seen this traditional heavy metal titan knows they are in for an incredible set. Their newest album, "Thunderheart," released in April 2024 on Fighter Records, a division of Xtreem Music, has been making waves across the heavy metal and power metal scenes worldwide. 

  ​

  Local hometown heroes, Denver's Celestial Wizard brings a mix of fantasy and heavy metal to the table, giving you a front-row seat to a sci-fi experience unlike any other! The band has been blazing new trails with their aggressive, powerful sound. Pulling from both power metal and death metal, they achieve a melodic, high-intensity mix that hits just right. Their third studio “Regenesis,” was released on July 11th by Scarlet Records. Check out the album's opening track, “Pale Horse”. The song teases the concept of endings and beginnings that is ever present throughout the record. 

  ​

  Also supporting the lineup will be Denver's blackened pagan power metal Oak, Ash & Thorn, who released their latest album "Our Grief Is Thus" in April 2024 on Lost Future Records. The album is a powerful, unique sound that is fully their own, as melodic and memorable as it is heavy and crushing. Now, Oak, Ash & Thorn are taking the next step in their journey by signing with Season of Mist. As they continue to tour in support of their latest album, the band will begin writing what’s bound to be a highly anticipated follow-up. 

  ​

  To open the festival's night, the winners of the 2024 Battle of the Bands for the festival will be Denver locals Viperwitch and Signs of Tranquility. Make sure to come early to the fest to cheer on the local winners!

  In addition to the primary festival night, Mile High Power Fest hosts a pre-party that puts Denver’s local talent in the spotlight. But this isn’t your average showdown—it’s a platform for rising Denver local metal bands to showcase their passion and skill, with the chance to earn a coveted spot on next year’s MHPF lineup. Industry pros from across the country join the fun, offering feedback, mentorship, and networking opportunities that can launch careers. It’s a night of powerful performances, community connections, and metal excellence that sets MHPF apart from every other festival out there.

  Mile High Power Fest 2025 Lineup:​
  Powerglove
  Glyph
  Owlbear
  Empress
  Greyhawk
  Celestial Wizard
  Oak, Ash, & Thorn
  Viperwitch
  Signs of Tranquility

  More info:​
  Website: https://www.bitesizeevents.com/mile-high-power-fest​

  FAQ - https://www.bitesizeevents.com/mhpf-2025-press-release​
  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556641145956​
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milehighpowerfest

  Read more

• MOURNING HIGH Wins WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA 2025 To Play Wacken Open Air!

  Jun 25, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  One Band To Conquer Them All! The final six bands from this year's 2025 battles for Wacken Metal Battle USA gathered in Clifton, NJ, for the national final on June 21st at Dingbatz. Only one unsigned American band can walk away and be crowned champion to move on to perform at one of the world's most prestigious and largest already sold-out metal festivals, Wacken Open Air (July 30th – August 2nd) (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).

  Conquering the crown as this year's 2025 national champion is Southern California and Arizona-based MOURNING HIGH (West Coast Winner), who, after their performance, a panel of industry judges that included Jeff Buttermark (FM Management), Shawn Quinn (Napalm Records/FM Management) and Rob Caggiano (ex-Anthrax/ex-Volbeat), voted as the USA's top band to play at the International Wacken Battle at Wacken Open Air. They performed alongside PRIME PROPHECY (New Jersey Winner), WHAT’S WRONG (Pacific Northwest Winner), PONTIFEX (Florida Winner), FIREHAZE (East Coast Winner), and BROKEN TIME (Texas Winner).

  "Thank you to all the bands for making this a spectacular battle in 2025. Big congrats to all the bands who made it to the National Final. I'm always blown away by the talent we have here in the US. Thank you to our media partners. Especially BraveWords, Metal-Rules, and DEAN Guitars. Special thanks to Jon Asher at Asher Media Relations. Finally, a huge thank you to all the supporters who bought tickets to the Battles. We can't do this without you!

  I also like to add that I want to congratulate Mourning High for their impressive run that ultimately led to representing the United States in the Battle at the Holy Ground. This is a young and energetic band that defines grit and hard work. With members living in Coachella Valley and one member living in Arizona, it is quite impressive to see their devoted fan base follow them to Orange County, San Diego, and then Clifton, New Jersey. If you are unaware of Coachella Valley, let me fill you in. There is no metal scene. There are only Casinos, Coachella Music Fest (no thank you), and the American Hockey League affiliate of the Seattle Kraken. These boys and their fans have to travel. And now they travel to Wacken Open Air!" comments WMBU national organizer Eric Dow.

  Mourning High comments on their win:

  "The band is so thankful that we met Eric and the Wacken Metal Battle team on the West Coast and in the USA. We were blown away at the professionalism and expertise of the judges at all of the battles, as well as the other talented bands we played with at each stage of the competition. We are proud of our hard work and so thankful that we have fans who have supported us on this journey. We have been manifesting playing in Europe for more than two years, and finally our hard work has paid off. This wouldn't be possible without the support of the Wacken team, fans, and our crew. It's time to get rowdy in Germany."

  The 2025 WMBU champion will receive the following:
  - A slot at the 2025 Wacken Open Air Festival.
  - Full professional backline provided.
  - $1,000 USD towards flights to Germany.
  - VIP camping at the festival.

  ​

  List of previous WMBU national winners: Cascade Effect (2024 - San Diego), Fadrait (2023 - San Diego), Mythraeum (2022 - San Diego), Monarch (2019 - San Diego), Voices of Ruin (2018 - Anaheim), and Corpse Hoarder (2017 - Philadelphia).

  Spotify - 2025 WMBU National Finalists Playlist - https://spoti.fi/4kDedzW​

  In addition to the National Final battle, Dean Guitars donated a DEAN MDX QM TBB, raffled off to one lucky attendee. (pictured below)

  ========================================

  About the WMBU 2025 Final Six:

  Formed in 2021, Broken Time is a modern metalcore band based in Temple, Texas. Known for their fusion of heavy riffs, melodic elements, and progressive structures, their music features complex guitar work, dynamic rhythms, and emotionally charged vocals. The band has been actively contributing to the Texas metal scene, performing at various venues and collaborating with other local acts.

  ​https://www.facebook.com/Brokentime254/

  ​

  ========================================

  FireHaze is a Cuban-American metal band known for blending melodic death and thrash metal with groove and core influences. The band was formed in 2009 by three Cuban musicians—Yunior, Carlos, and Hector—who had migrated to West New York, New Jersey.
  ​
  The story began in 2007 when Yunior arrived from Havana and sought out fellow musicians to form a band. He connected with Carlos, a guitarist from Bayamo, and later with Hector, a drummer who had also recently moved from Havana. Their chemistry was immediate, and after experimenting with different sounds and names—including a brief stint as “Illuminated By The Fire”—they officially became FireHaze during a jam session on a hot August night overlooking the New York City skyline.
  ​
  From the start, FireHaze aimed to stand out. They incorporated unusual percussion and string instruments, and often collaborated with guest musicians to shape their live sound. Their influences include heavyweights like Lamb of God, Dimmu Borgir, Sepultura, Megadeth, and Children of Bodom.
  ​
  Though unsigned, FireHaze has remained active in the North Jersey and New York metal scenes, performing live and working toward a full-length album. They proudly identify as a Cuban-American band, rooted in their heritage while forging a path in the U.S. metal underground.

  ​https://www.facebook.com/FireHaze

  ​

  ========================================

  Mourning High is a rising thrash metal band that hails from Southern California and Arizona. Formed in 2023, the band quickly gained traction through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where their raw energy and nostalgic thrash sound struck a chord with fans of classic metal.
  ​
  Their music is heavily influenced by legendary acts like Megadeth, and they’ve been praised for bringing back the gritty, high-octane spirit of 1980s thrash. What sets Mourning High apart is not just their sound, but their chemistry—these guys have been friends since preschool, and that bond fuels their performances and touring life.
  ​
  They’re currently unsigned and independent, but their momentum is undeniable. With over 50,000 followers on TikTok and a growing fanbase across streaming platforms, Mourning High is carving out a name for itself in the modern metal scene.

  ​https://mourninghigh.com/home

  ​

  ========================================

  Pontifex is a symphonic black/death metal band based in Orlando, Florida, formed in 2024. Known for their theatrical soundscapes and intense live performances, they blend the ferocity of black metal with symphonic elements, creating a dark, cinematic experience.
  ​
  The band was founded by guitarist and flutist Kaleb Daniels, whose classical training and love for extreme metal shaped Pontifex’s unique sound. Despite being relatively new, they’ve already made waves by winning the Florida Wacken Battle, earning them a spot on the radar of metal fans nationwide.
  ​
  Pontifex is currently unsigned but gaining momentum with an upcoming album titled Covenant, set to release in Fall 2025. Their music explores themes of mysticism, inner conflict, and spiritual decay, often delivered through layered instrumentation and haunting melodies.

  ​https://www.facebook.com/pontifexmetal

  ​

  ========================================

  Prime Prophecy is a six-piece progressive metal band based in Brooklyn, New York, blending European influences with symphonic, melodic, and modern metal elements. Known for emotionally driven soundscapes and vivid storytelling, the band creates music that resonates with both heart and mind, bridging genres and pushing the boundaries of contemporary metal.

  Drawing from real-life experiences and deep introspection, Prime Prophecy’s signature sound combines layered arrangements, intricate lyrics, and powerful melodies that invite listeners to explore the human experience from new angles.

  Over the course of two decades, Prime Prophecy has earned a reputation for both studio excellence and high-impact live performances. Their visual storytelling comes to life through music videos such as “End of the Beginning” and “Memories From the Past.” In 2011, their single “Viking”—commissioned for heavyweight boxer Mariusz Wach ahead of his world title fight—highlighted the band’s versatility and cultural reach.

  2025 marks Prime Prophecy’s 20th anniversary—a milestone celebrating their creative evolution and lasting impact on the metal scene. Career highlights include a finals appearance at the Emergenza Festival (Webster Hall, NYC), and a strong run through the 2024 Wacken Battle of the Bands, where the band earned second place in the U.S. National Finals.

  Looking ahead, Prime Prophecy is preparing to compete once again in Wacken Battle 2025, with the opportunity to take the stage at Germany’s legendary Wacken Open Air Festival.

  Fueled by passion, innovation, and a relentless drive to connect, Prime Prophecy continues to forge new paths with a progressive, symphonic, and deeply human approach to metal.

  ​https://www.primeprophecy.com/

  ​

  ========================================

  What's Wrong is a Seattle-based metalcore band that emerged in early 2018. Their music blends elements of post-hardcore and progressive metal, delivering a dynamic and intense sound. The band's lineup has evolved over time, but they have consistently been active in the local music scene, performing at venues like El Corazon, The Funhouse, and Real Art Tacoma. Their live performances have featured collaborations with bands such as Sleep Signals, Fauvism, and Groundfeeder.

  ​https://solo.to/whatswrongband

  ​

  About WMBU:

  For the last 6 years of battles (2017-2019, 2022, 2023, 2024), Wacken Metal Battle USA has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival, Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to COVID, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2025 will be the 34th edition of the festival and will be held from July 30th – August 2nd. The 2025 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Machine Head, Saltatio Mortis, Papa Roach, Gojira, Apocalyptica, Saxon, Within Temptation, Dimmu Borgir, Ministry, and many more. Details here.

  Wacken Metal Battle USA is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among 30 other countries’ champions, and represent the USA in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade and give independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience, along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

  How it works:​
  ​Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promoter, where one band will move forward to the American national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2024 and compete against the winners of 30 other countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

  Links:​
  ​Metal-Battle.com​
  ​MetalBattleUSA.com​
  ​Facebook.com/metalbattleusa​.official​
  ​X.com/MetalBattleUSA​
  ​Instagram.com/metalbattleusa.official

  Read more

• WACKEN METAL BATTLE USA 2025 National Final w/ PRIME PROPHECY, WHAT'S WRONG, PONTIFEX, FIREHAZE, MOURNING HIGH, BROKEN TIME

  Jun 12, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  One Band To Conquer Them All! Wacken Metal Battle USA 2025 national final will be held on Saturday, June 21st, in Clifton, USA, at Dingbatz where one unsigned American band will be crowned champion and perform at one of the world's most prestigious and largest already sold-out metal festivals Wacken Open Air (July 30th – August 2nd) (Attendance of over 80,000 people in Wacken, Germany for over 30 years).

  After multiple battles across the country that began in January of this year, the final six American bands will bring their onslaught of metal and be judged by a panel of music industry judges that include Jeff Buttermark (FM Management), Shawn Quinn (Napalm Records), and more TBD.

  "Another successful battle is nearing its conclusion. I can't wait to see which band wins and represents the US in the Wacken Metal Battle this year at the Holy Ground. I want to give a special thanks to Jon Asher and Chris Cannella. Thanks to all of our promoters, venues, judges, media partners, fans, and of course...the bands for all their hard work. Close to 200 bands and 40 battles across the country, and we are down to the final 6 at the Legendary Dingbatz in New Jersey!" comments WMBU national organizer Eric Dow.

  The 2025 WMBU champion will receive the following:
  - A slot at the 2025 Wacken Open Air Festival.
  - Full professional backline provided.
  - $1,000 USD towards flights to Germany.
  - VIP camping at the festival.​

  List of previous WMBU national winners: Cascade Effect (2024 - San Diego), Fadrait (2023 - San Diego), Mythraeum (2022 - San Diego), Monarch (2019 - San Diego), Voices of Ruin (2018 - Anaheim), and Corpse Hoarder (2017 - Philadelphia).

  Winning their territorial battles respectively, the final six are the following:

  Spotify - 2025 WMBU National Finalists Playlist - https://spoti.fi/4kDedzW​

  Formed in 2021, Broken Time is a modern metalcore band based in Temple, Texas. Known for their fusion of heavy riffs, melodic elements, and progressive structures, their music features complex guitar work, dynamic rhythms, and emotionally charged vocals. The band has been actively contributing to the Texas metal scene, performing at various venues and collaborating with other local acts.

  ​https://www.facebook.com/Brokentime254/

  ​

  ========================================

  FireHaze is a Cuban-American metal band known for blending melodic death and thrash metal with groove and core influences. The band was formed in 2009 by three Cuban musicians—Yunior, Carlos, and Hector—who had migrated to West New York, New Jersey.
  ​
  The story began in 2007 when Yunior arrived from Havana and sought out fellow musicians to form a band. He connected with Carlos, a guitarist from Bayamo, and later with Hector, a drummer who had also recently moved from Havana. Their chemistry was immediate, and after experimenting with different sounds and names—including a brief stint as “Illuminated By The Fire”—they officially became FireHaze during a jam session on a hot August night overlooking the New York City skyline.
  ​
  From the start, FireHaze aimed to stand out. They incorporated unusual percussion and string instruments, and often collaborated with guest musicians to shape their live sound. Their influences include heavyweights like Lamb of God, Dimmu Borgir, Sepultura, Megadeth, and Children of Bodom.
  ​
  Though unsigned, FireHaze has remained active in the North Jersey and New York metal scenes, performing live and working toward a full-length album. They proudly identify as a Cuban-American band, rooted in their heritage while forging a path in the U.S. metal underground.

  ​https://www.facebook.com/FireHaze

  ​

  ========================================

  Mourning High is a rising thrash metal band that hails from Southern California and Arizona. Formed in 2023, the band quickly gained traction through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where their raw energy and nostalgic thrash sound struck a chord with fans of classic metal.
  ​
  Their music is heavily influenced by legendary acts like Megadeth, and they’ve been praised for bringing back the gritty, high-octane spirit of 1980s thrash. What sets Mourning High apart is not just their sound, but their chemistry—these guys have been friends since preschool, and that bond fuels their performances and touring life.
  ​
  They’re currently unsigned and independent, but their momentum is undeniable. With over 50,000 followers on TikTok and a growing fanbase across streaming platforms, Mourning High is carving out a name for itself in the modern metal scene.

  ​https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090975589433

  ​

  ========================================

  Pontifex is a symphonic black/death metal band based in Orlando, Florida, formed in 2024. Known for their theatrical soundscapes and intense live performances, they blend the ferocity of black metal with symphonic elements, creating a dark, cinematic experience.
  ​
  The band was founded by guitarist and flutist Kaleb Daniels, whose classical training and love for extreme metal shaped Pontifex’s unique sound. Despite being relatively new, they’ve already made waves by winning the Florida Wacken Battle, earning them a spot on the radar of metal fans nationwide.
  ​
  Pontifex is currently unsigned but gaining momentum with an upcoming album titled Covenant, set to release in Fall 2025. Their music explores themes of mysticism, inner conflict, and spiritual decay, often delivered through layered instrumentation and haunting melodies.

  ​https://www.facebook.com/pontifexmetal

  ​

  ========================================

  Prime Prophecy is a six-piece progressive metal band based in Brooklyn, New York, blending European influences with symphonic, melodic, and modern metal elements. Known for emotionally driven soundscapes and vivid storytelling, the band creates music that resonates with both heart and mind, bridging genres and pushing the boundaries of contemporary metal.

  Drawing from real-life experiences and deep introspection, Prime Prophecy’s signature sound combines layered arrangements, intricate lyrics, and powerful melodies that invite listeners to explore the human experience from new angles.

  Over the course of two decades, Prime Prophecy has earned a reputation for both studio excellence and high-impact live performances. Their visual storytelling comes to life through music videos such as “End of the Beginning” and “Memories From the Past.” In 2011, their single “Viking”—commissioned for heavyweight boxer Mariusz Wach ahead of his world title fight—highlighted the band’s versatility and cultural reach.

  2025 marks Prime Prophecy’s 20th anniversary—a milestone celebrating their creative evolution and lasting impact on the metal scene. Career highlights include a finals appearance at the Emergenza Festival (Webster Hall, NYC), and a strong run through the 2024 Wacken Battle of the Bands, where the band earned second place in the U.S. National Finals.

  Looking ahead, Prime Prophecy is preparing to compete once again in Wacken Battle 2025, with the opportunity to take the stage at Germany’s legendary Wacken Open Air Festival.

  Fueled by passion, innovation, and a relentless drive to connect, Prime Prophecy continues to forge new paths with a progressive, symphonic, and deeply human approach to metal.​

  ​https://www.primeprophecy.com/

  ​

  ========================================

  What's Wrong is a Seattle-based metalcore band that emerged in early 2018. Their music blends elements of post-hardcore and progressive metal, delivering a dynamic and intense sound. The band's lineup has evolved over time, but they have consistently been active in the local music scene, performing at venues like El Corazon, The Funhouse, and Real Art Tacoma. Their live performances have featured collaborations with bands such as Sleep Signals, Fauvism, and Groundfeeder.​

  ​https://solo.to/whatswrongband

  ​

  ​

  About WMBU:

  For the last 6 years of battles (2017-2019, 2022, 2023, 2024), Wacken Metal Battle USA has hosted battles across the country to send one independent metal band to perform at the world’s largest metal festival, Wacken Open Air in Wacken, Germany. 2019 saw the festival celebrate its 30th anniversary, but due to COVID, the 2020 and 2021 editions were both canceled. As the metal community regains its strength, Wacken Open Air 2025 will be the 34th edition of the festival and will be held from July 30th – August 2nd. The 2025 event is already sold out with a line-up that includes Machine Head, Saltatio Mortis, Papa Roach, Gojira, Apocalyptica, Saxon, Within Temptation, Dimmu Borgir, Ministry, and many more. Details here.

  Wacken Metal Battle USA is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among 30 other countries’ champions, and represent the USA in an international battle of the bands at the world’s largest outdoor metal festival: Wacken Open Air. The battles have been hosted at the festival for over a decade and give independent bands the opportunity to showcase their talents to an international audience, along with the chance to win multiple prizes.

  How it works:​
  ​Participating cities will host qualifying rounds plus a city final organized by a local city concert promote,r where one band will move forward to the American national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2024 and compete against the winners of 30 other countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

  Links:​
  ​Metal-Battle.com​
  ​MetalBattleUSA.com​
  ​Facebook.com/metalbattleusa​.official​
  X.com/MetalBattleUSA​
  ​Instagram.com/metalbattleusa.official

  Read more

• SANDNESS New Video "Not Your Dog" Off New Album "Vertigo" Out May 2025 + Limited Edition Purple Vinyl

  Mar 25, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Taken from Sandness' upcoming album "Vertigo," out May 16th, 2025, via Rockshots Records.
  ​
  Watch the official video for "Not Your Dog", the brand new single by Italian hard rock power trio SANDNESS. The track is the first preview from their fifth studio album "Vertigo", an energetic mix of hard rock and power pop with anthemic choruses, driving riffs, and a strong message of self-empowerment.

  ​
  Produced, recorded, mixed, and mastered by Alessandro Del Vecchio at Ivorytears Music Works Recording Studio, the new album "Vertigo" marks a new creative chapter for the band. Written during a time of personal and professional change, the record embraces a new songwriting approach while staying true to the band’s signature sound.
  ​
  ​"Not Your Dog" is a powerful and catchy anthem about independence and breaking free from control and expectations. With gritty guitars, punchy rhythms, and bold vocals, the track is perfect for fans of UFO, D-A-D, The Darkness, Y&T, and classic melodic hard rock.

  "Vertigo" will be available on CD and limited edition purple vinyl.
  ​
  Pre-order the album: https://lnk.to/ZtUHJ1​
  ​
  Listen/save the single "Not Your Dog": https://lnk.to/hzXlUT​

  SANDNESS will present the new album live on May 20, 2025, at Alcatraz – Milan, opening for Eclipse and Gotthard in their only Italian show.

  Tracklist – Vertigo:
  ​1. Per Aspera Ad Astra
  2. The Match
  3. Draw The Line
  4. From Zero To Hero
  5. Back For More
  6. Midnight Dance
  7. Rock’n’Roll High
  8. Not Your Dog
  9. Neverending Road
  10. Train Of Time
  ​
  ​Sandness Line-Up:
  ​Mark – Bass, lead and backing vocals
  Metyou – Drums and backing vocals
  Robby – Lead and rhythm guitar, lead and backing vocals

  For more info:​
  ​Rockshots.eu​
  ​Sandnessofficial.com
  ​​Facebook.com/Sandnessband/​
  ​Instagram.com/sandness_official

  Read more

• 15 Years of Mountain Moshing! ARMSTRONG METALFEST Unveils 2025 Lineup w/ BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM and more!

  Mar 4, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Celebrating 15 Years of mountain moshing in British Columbia's Okanagan Valley, Armstrong MetalFest unveils its conquering 2025 lineup with BORN OF OSIRIS, HAVOK, GLYPH, RIOT CITY, THE BROWNING, VIRVUM and lots more from across Canada and beyond.

  Hosted on July 11th and 12th in Armstrong, BC at the Hassen Arena, this year's two days of moshing, headbanging, and camping is a very special one as festival council members comment:

  "The band council worked hard on this year's lineup. I am so excited to have the Browning back. They were amazing on stage. I have been wanting to see Born of Osiris play live for years. I love them, and now I get to see them in my own little town." - Heather Valstar, Vice President of West Metal Entertainment Society

  "I'm really excited about the diversity of this year's line-up. The selection team has really put in the work. There's sure to be something for everyone: a great mix of trusted favorites and new additions to your playlist for the rest of the year!" - Kate Kutzner, President of West Metal Entertainment Society

  "This year's festival is a work of art! I can't believe we are on the 15th year already. Time flies when you're setting up a festival full of crushing riffs, soaring vocals and down right nasty beats. Life rules, bring on the summer!" - Festival Co-Founder / General Manager - Jessie Valstar.

  AMF Weekend Passes are available at https://armstrongmetalfest.ca/tickets​

  All tickets provide general admission and grant access to the festival grounds, camping area, and arena from 9:00 AM on Friday, July 11, 2025, until 10:00 AM on Sunday, July 13, 2025. Free camping is included.

  ​(Tickets will be mailed starting after March 1st if you have chosen the "Ticket Mailed" option.)

  Headlining opening night, Friday, July 11th, Denver thrashers HAVOK are no strangers to the mosh pits, these veterans have unleashed five studio albums – Burn (2009), Time Is Up (2011), Unnatural Selection (2013), Conformicide (2017), V (2020) – and recently surprised fans this past November with the EP "New Eyes".

  ​

  Also supporting the Friday night stage, the Pacific Northwest's Glyph (ft. members from Gatekeeper, Greyhawk, Hjelvik), which is not just a heavy metal band, they are a crew of intergalactic mercenaries escaping a dying planet in their spaceship, the VSS Dragonlord. Clearly, Glyph isn’t just writing songs, they’re building worlds and they bring it forth in their latest album "Honor, Power, Glory" released in March 2024.

  ​

  Another highlight for Friday is the screaming heavy metal from Calgary's speed demons Riot City, who bring forth their steel, spikes and leather! A youthful band that represent the new face of Canadian metal. An amalgam of ripping and hot heavy metal, created in pure and youthful madness, they're bullet belts feature two full lengths "Electric Elite" (2022), "Burn The Night" (2019) and their latest live album "Live in Newcastle" (2023).

  ​

  Saturday, July 12th will be headlined by international tour de force, progressive deathcore titans, Chicago's BORN OF OSIRIS. The group is signed to Sumerian Records and has released seven full lengths and two EPs. Their album, A Higher Place, reached number 73 on the Billboard 200. Their second full-length album, The Discovery, debuted at 87 on the Billboard 200. The band unveiled their latest single "In Desolation" this past August.

  ​

  Also featured on Saturday is AMF alumni Kansas City's THE BROWNING who will be unleashing their unique eclectic blend of electronicore and deathcore. This past November, they released their sixth album "OMNI" that features 10 powerful tracks, including collaborations with Nik Nocturnal and the eponymous song with THE DEFECT.

  ​

  Performing for the first time at AMF and adding to the nostalgia of Saturday night, VIRVUM, progressive / technical death metal all the way from Zürich, Switzerland that many in Canada have been waiting a long time to witness. There's no better place to see them along with the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies than at AMF 2025. 

  Other to be treasured highlights of this year's fest not to miss is Montreal, QC up and coming thrashers DROWNING IN BLOOD, who are notorious pit mongrels and have made quite a name for themselves in Eastern Canada. Vancouver's GRAVEMASS, they might be a new band, but they feature some serious experienced metalheads from Zimmers Hole, West of Hell, The Golers, Punch Drunk, 3 Inches of Blood and Revocation. Switzerland's technical death/black metal Stortregn, they deliver a mix of charging riffs, blast beats and brutality that leaves the listener begging for more. The Defect is an electronic rock/metal project created by husband and wife duo – Jonny McBee (The Browning) and Moon McBee. Their debut album "Death X Destiny" was recently released on Feb 7th, 2025 under record label FiXT. From the Salish lands of Spokane, WA, Hísemtuks Hími•n introduce their Indigenous melodic black metal of hard hitting riffs, fast paced drumming and a lot of melody. This project has strong roots in the Spokane Tribe/Nez Perce. Most songs are about Native American mythology, history, and folklore.

  AMF 2025 Lineup:​
  Havok (Denver, CO)
  Born of Osiris (Chicago, IL)
  Glyph (Seattle, WA)
  Riot City (Calgary, AB)
  The Browning (Kansas City, KS)
  Virvum (Zürich, Switzerland)
  Atavistia (Vancouver, BC)
  Drowning In Blood (Montreal, QC)
  Convictions (Fremont, OH)
  Scalding (Vancouver, BC)
  Syryn (Calgary, AB)
  Stortregn (Geneva, Switzerland)
  The Defect (Kansas City, KS)
  Gravemass (Vancouver, BC)
  Lover (Calgary, AB)
  Yegg (Vancouver Island, BC)
  Hísemtuks Hími•n (Spokane, WA)
  The Spruce Moose (Edmonton, AB)
  Volt (Fort McMurray, AB)
  Jisei (Vancouver, BC)
  Nomad (Okanagan Valley, BC)
  Planetkiller (Kelowna, BC)
  Shackled To The Throne (Edmonton, AB)
  The Cadavor Dog (High River, AB)
  Famous Strangers (Edmonton, AB)
  Valley of Despair (Edmonton, AB)
  Naitaka (Kelowna, BC)
  FloodGate (Kelowna, BC)

  In addition to the performing bands, Armstrong Metal Fest will be bringing back the following on-site activities: Yeti Games, Metal Madness Market, and Thrash Wrestling.

  Please Note: Camping - RV / Non-Hookup RV / Vehicle Passes: Make sure to reserve your vehicle spot to get the best location on the grounds. A fee is required for a weekend pass per vehicle in addition to your day or weekend pass. RV hookups include water and power. If you choose to park your vehicle outside the camping area in the main parking lot, then a vehicle pass is not required.

  For more info:​
  ​Armstrongmetalfest.ca
  ​​Facebook​
  ​Instagram​
  ​Twitter

  Read more