Search Results: heavy-metal

• AITTALA Unveils Second EP of 2025 "Ill-Gotten Gains" + Welcome New Bassist Dane Taylor

  Nov 21, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Metal visionaries AITTALA (pronounced EYE-tah-la) are returning with their second EP of 2025 via Exitus Stratagem Records, "Ill-Gotten Gains," along with introducing their newest member, bassist Dane Taylor, marking a bold new chapter in the band’s evolution.

  True to their reputation for defying genre boundaries, AITTALA weave together threads of traditional heavy metal, doom, groove, and progressive elements to create a cohesive yet unpredictable sonic journey. Lyrically, "Ill-Gotten Gains" explores the darker corners of human ambition, chaos created for personal gain, the inevitable consequences, and the fragile hope of redemption.

  The EP opens with “Isolation,” a doomy, heavy piece that confronts the fallout of past decisions, setting a dark and reflective tone. The title track, “Ill-Gotten Gains,” follows with a riff-driven intensity that shifts into a crushing interlude, lyrically exploring the exploitation of chaos for personal benefit. “Blacklisted” brings groove and sludge to the forefront, exposing manipulators and serving as a counterpoint to the themes of the earlier songs. The mood softens with “Ever After,” a modern metal ballad that wrestles with internal conflict and the elusive promise of redemption. Closing the EP, “Ashes” channels classic heavy metal energy, telling the story of someone in over their head, dragging others down in their descent.
  ​
  The EP’s artwork resurrects AITTALA’s infamous mascot Frank, a cartoon pig head in a pentagram, first conceived in 2014 for the album "Effigy". This updated interpretation of Frank embodies the record’s central theme: the shady figure who thrives in chaos, ready to deliver “ill-gotten gains” for the right price. It’s a fitting visual for a release steeped in stories of exploitation, downfall, and the elusive search for redemption.
  ​
  With the addition of bassist Dane Taylor, AITTALA’s lineup now features founding member Eric Aittala (guitars/vocals) and drummer Gary “Zeus” Smith (THE FIFTH, ex-MR BLACKWELL). Taylor’s arrival injects fresh energy into the band’s dynamic, reinforcing their commitment to pushing boundaries while staying true to their unique sound.

  Formed in 1991 in the Netherlands, AITTALA quickly became a fixture of the Dutch metal scene, sharing stages with The Gathering and Sadist before disbanding in 1993. Resurrected in 2008, the band has since released six full-length albums and multiple EPs, each showcasing growth while retaining their distinctive voice. With "Ill-Gotten Gains," AITTALA continues their journey of evolution, proving once again that their sound is impossible to confine to a single genre.

  EP pre-save (out Nov 21) via Exitus Stratagem Records - https://hypeddit.com/aittala/illgottengains​​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Isolation - 4:22
  2. Ill Gotten Gains - 4:20
  3. Black Listed - 3:35
  4. Ever After - 4:29
  5. Ashes - 3:50
  EP Length: 20:37

  For more info: Exsrmusic.com | Aittala.com | Facebook.com/aittalamusic | Instagram.com/aittalamusic

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• Out Now! SECRET RULE's New Album "X" + Music Video “Collapse" + UK Tour Dates

  Oct 24, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  10th Studio Album "X" Out October 24th, 2025

  Marking the final step before the release of their new album "X", out the same day via Rockshots Records, Secret Rule return with “Collapse”, a high-energy, hard-hitting modern metal anthem that blends unstoppable grooves with a sharp message about a world on the brink.

  Driven by Angela Di Vincenzo’s fierce vocal performance and Andy Menario’s razor-edged production, “Collapse” captures the tension between chaos and resilience, translating global turmoil into pure musical adrenaline. The track is released together with a striking official video, perfectly reflecting the song’s urgency and visual intensity.

  Angela comments:

  “It’s the kind of song that gets your body moving while your mind wakes up. The energy is pure fire, but underneath, it’s a wake-up call about the world we’re losing.”

  Andy adds:

  “With ‘Collapse’ I wanted a sound that could hit hard in a live show — something you feel in your chest. It’s aggressive, melodic and super jumpy… a real crowd-mover.”

  “Collapse” follows the recent singles "Just a Sacrifice", "Echoes of the Earth", "In the Silence", and "Silent Pain" — each exploring different emotional and existential layers of "X", an album that celebrates the band’s tenth anniversary with a renewed modern edge and fearless experimentation. The record also features a special collaboration with Marco Pastorino (Temperance) on the track “Lost In Paradise”.

  Self-produced by guitarist Andy Menario and frontwoman Angela Di Vincenzo, "X" combines symphonic power, electronic textures and metalcore-inspired breakdowns into a cohesive and vibrant sound that redefines Secret Rule’s identity for a new decade.

  For fans of Amaranthe and Within Temptation, "X" is an album that bridges melody and power — and “Collapse” is its explosive warning shot.

  Digital single "Collapse" - https://lnk.to/x1YSaG​

  ALBUM PRE-ORDER:
  ​
  ​from Rockshots Records store / Digipack​
  ​https://rockshots.eu/products/secret-rule-x

  Secret Rule celebrates 10 years of music with a special 10th Anniversary Tour! Don’t miss the chance to experience their powerful live show across the UK and Europe this fall.

  Full Tour Dates:​
  20 OCT – Glasgow | Ivory Blacks
  21 OCT – Edinburgh | Bannerman’s
  22 OCT – Manchester | Aatma
  23 OCT – Newcastle | Trillians
  24 OCT – Birmingham | Asylum 2
  25 OCT – London | Cart & Horses
  26 OCT – Treforest | The Green Rooms
  07 NOV – DE | Mörlenbach | Live Music Hall
  08 NOV – BE | Bree | Ragnarok

  Tickets → https://lnk.bio/secretruleontour

  Bundle from Secret Rule Official Store​
  ​https://www.secretrule.it/store/

  ANGELA DI VINCENZO: Vocals​
  ​ANDY ‘MENARIO’ MENARINI: Guitar​
  ​SOFIA BASILI: Bass​
  ​ANDREA MIAZZETTO: Drums

  More info: ​
  ​​https://www.rockshots.eu

  Website: https://www.secretrule.it​
  ​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/secretruleband​
  ​Instagram: https://instagram.com/secret_rule_official

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• ​WACKEN METAL BATTLE CANADA Opens Band Submissions For 2026 - One Band To Rule Them All! and Play Wacken Open Air!

  Oct 23, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  One band to rule them all! Wacken Metal Battle Canada returns for 2026 battles across the country to send one independent metal band to play at Wacken Open Air, one of the world's most prestigious and largest metal festivals.

  Band submissions for Canada are now open until November 30th.

  "Canadian metal bands, this is your chance once again. This is the first step to a world of opportunity waiting for you. We invite you to play some great shows, expand your audience, and ultimately have your shot at playing Wacken Open Air," adds WMBC organizer JJ Tartaglia.

  Canadian bands interested in participating can apply at https://www.metal-battle.com/countries/ (please select Canada as your country)

  The national final for 2026 battles will be held in Montreal, QC.

  Canadian Battle Cities:​
  Vancouver, BC
  Vancouver Island, BC
  BC Interior
  Edmonton, AB
  Toronto, ON
  Hamilton, ON
  Ottawa, ON
  Montreal, QC
  Quebec City, QC

  Watch - Wacken Metal Battle 2025 - Aftermovie | Have You Heard the Future of Metal? - https://youtu.be/nCulXiLlaSw

  The 2026 WMBC champion will receive the following:
  - A slot at the 2026 Wacken Open Air Festival.
  - Full professional backline provided.
  - $1,000 CAD towards flights to Germany.
  - VIP camping at the festival.

  List of previous WMBC national winners: Killotine (Hamilton, ON - 2025), Beguiler (Toronto, ON – 2024), Strigampire (Trois-Rivières, QC – 2023), The Slyde (Toronto, ON – 2019), Centuries of Decay (Toronto, ON – 2018), Profaner (Hamilton, ON – 2016), Vesperia (Toronto, ON – 2015), Mutank (Montreal, QC – 2014), Crimson Shadows (Toronto, ON – 2013).

  The 2025 Canadian Battle Final took place on May 31st at Vancouver’s Rickshaw Theatre, where Hamilton, Ontario’s KILLOTINE, the Ontario regional winner, delivered a standout performance that earned them the top national title. A panel of industry judges selected KILLOTINE to represent Canada at the prestigious International Wacken Battle, held during Wacken Open Air from July 30th to August 2nd in Wacken, Germany, where over 85,000 metal fans from around the globe gathered.
  ​
  Joining KILLOTINE on stage at the Canadian final were fellow regional champions: SOULTHIEF (Eastern Canada Winner – Ottawa, ON), BEYOND SUFFERING (Alberta Winner – Calgary, AB), and YEGG (British Columbia Winner – Nanaimo, BC). The event also featured a special guest headliner: Vancouver’s Arrow In The Quiver, the 2024 BC Final winner.
  ​
  The national judging panel included a lineup of respected figures from the Canadian metal and music industry: Brittney Slayes (Unleash The Archers), JJ Tartaglia (Canadian Organizer of Wacken Metal Battle Canada), JJ Caithcart (Founder of SCRAPE Records and Host of Different Stages Radio), Kris Schulz (Founder of Empower Through Music and Owner of Horizon School of Music), Abelardo Mayoral (Founder and Operator of The Invisible Orange and OrangeTickets), Stan Schinners (Owner of Broken Neck Radio), Justin Dobbin (Owner and President of Main Stage Rehearsal Studios).

  For the last 9 years of battles (2013-2016, 2018-2019, 2023-2025), Wacken Metal Battle Canada 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 2026 will be the 35th edition of the festival and will be held from July 29th to August 1st. The 2026 event is nearly sold out with a line-up that includes Def Leppard, Lamb Of God, In Flames, Savatage, Powerwolf, Emperor, Sepultura, and Running Wild, among others. Details here.

  Wacken Metal Battle Canada is part of an international competition that sees bands from across the country battle each other for the chance to win their spot among over 55 other countries’ champions, and represent Canada 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 Canadian national final (date and city to be determined). The winner of the national final will move on to perform at the Wacken Open Air 2026 and compete against the winners of other participating countries in a final global battle. All bands will be judged during battle rounds by respected local music industry representatives.

  Rules for participation: https://www.metal-battle.com/rules/

  Links:​
  ​Metal-Battle.com​​
  ​Facebook.com/WMBCanada.official​
  ​X.com/MetalBattleCan​
  ​Instagram.com/wmbcanada.official

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• QUEMASANTOS Teams Up With Guitarist Chris Irarrazábal of Chilean Thrash Legends NIMROD for “The Oneironaut”

  Oct 22, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  L-R - Ignacio Orellana (Bass/Guitars/Drums) | Nelson Diaz (Vocals)

  The international metal project Quemasantos returns with a haunting new visual experience: the official lyric video for “The Oneironaut”, a track inspired by the 19th-century writings of Allan Kardec on “journeys of the soul.” In this modern reinterpretation, the band transforms those spiritual ideas into a nightmarish, inter-dimensional voyage that unfolds within the realm of dreams. The track features guest guitarist Chris Irarrazábal of Chilean thrash metal band Nimrod.
  ​
  Add to your Spotify Playlist - https://open.spotify.com/track/0zVokpdf0F0YfK7gsixH9z

  Nelson Díaz comments:

  “It’s a song inspired by the 19th-century writings of Allan Kardec on what he called ‘journeys of the soul.’ Today, we could interpret it as a nightmarish vision of an interdimensional journey experienced during sleep.”

  Ignacio Orellana adds:

  “As we’ve been releasing one track after another, the sound has been evolving in search of what we truly want it to be. As the musician behind the music, it’s been challenging to balance the instruments so that each one shines — because each represents a part of the creator’s soul. I feel that this one leans a little more toward the drums’ side… but the bass, the bass. We’re preparing a few more surprises — stay tuned and be ready to be surprised.”

  Formed in the relentless underground of Santiago, Chile, NIMROD stands as one of the country’s pioneering thrash metal forces. Blending speed, aggression, and precision, the band has forged a sound rooted in classic ’80s thrash while pushing forward with a distinctly South American intensity. Known for their explosive live shows and powerful songwriting, NIMROD has shared stages with both national legends and international acts, earning a loyal following across Latin America. With a catalog that captures decades of fury and evolution, the band continues to deliver pure, uncompromising metal, a testament to Chile’s enduring heavy scene.

  Credits & Production Details

  • Vocals: Nelson Díaz
  • Music: Ignacio Orellana
  • Lead Guitar: Chris Irarrazábal (Chilean thrash metal band Nimrod)
  • Vocals Recorded At: Ultrasonico Studios — Santiago, Chile
  • Music Recorded At: Oily Sound Studios — New York, USA
  • Visuals & Lyrical Concept: Nelson Díaz
  • Produced, Mixed & Mastered By: Ignacio Orellana

  Video edited By: Promusicvideo.com​
  ​
  ​More info:

  https://quemasantos.com

  http://quemasantos.bandcamp.com

  http://instagram.com/quemasantos1

  http://www.facebook.com/quemasantos

  http://www.twitter.com/quemasantos1

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• AITTALA Announces Second EP of 2025 "Ill-Gotten Gains"; Unveils Music Video "Isolation"

  Oct 14, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Genre-blurring metal duo AITTALA (pronounced “EYE-tah-la”) returns with their latest and second EP of 2025, "Ill-Gotten Gains," dropping November 21, 2025, via Exitus Stratagem Records. The EP’s lead single, “Isolation,” is accompanied by a gripping music video that captures the emotional weight and sonic depth of the track.

  “Isolation” sets the tone for the EP with its doomy atmosphere, heavy guitars, and unexpected time signature shifts. Lyrically, it explores the consequences of past decisions, a theme that runs throughout the entire release.

  Watch and listen to the music video via its premiere on Doom & Stoned HERE.

  Single pre-save - https://hypeddit.com/aittala/isolation

  "Ill-Gotten Gains," AITTALA’s second EP of 2025 following Machines, marks a bold step forward in the band’s evolution. Retaining their core sound while pushing deeper into lyrical vulnerability and songwriting complexity, the EP continues their tradition of defying genre boundaries — weaving together elements of traditional metal, doom, groove, and progressive styles into a cohesive and immersive experience. Thematically, it explores the darker side of the human psyche, from chaos and exploitation to the consequences of those actions and the search for redemption, offering a cathartic journey for fans of genre-fluid metal.
  ​
  The EP cover features an updated rendering of AITTALA’s long-standing mascot Frank, a cartoon pig head in a pentagram, first introduced in 2014’s "Effigy" album. Frank is the kind of character who’ll help you acquire "Ill-Gotten Gains" no questions asked, as long as you’ve got the cash.
  ​
  Formed in 1991 in the Netherlands by guitarist/vocalist Eric Aittala, the band quickly became a fixture in the Dutch metal scene, sharing stages with acts like The Gathering and Sadist. After a long hiatus, AITTALA was resurrected in 2008 and has since released six full-length albums and multiple EPs, each showcasing a unique blend of classic heavy metal, doom, progressive, power, thrash, and hard rock. Now based in the U.S., AITTALA’s current lineup features Eric Aittala and powerhouse drummer Gary “Zeus” Smith (THE FIFTH, ex-MR BLACKWELL). Together, they continue to push boundaries with music that’s as technically sharp as it is emotionally resonant.

  EP pre-save (out Nov 21) - https://hypeddit.com/aittala/illgottengains

  Track Listing:​
  1. Isolation - 4:22
  2. Ill Gotten Gains - 4:20
  3. Black Listed - 3:35
  4. Ever After - 4:29
  5. Ashes - 3:50
  EP Length: 20:37

  For more info: Exsrmusic.com | Aittala.com | Facebook.com/aittalamusic | Instagram.com/aittalamusic

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