Search Results: new-ep

• 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

  Read more

• 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

  Read more

• “Poems By a Poltergeist” Materializes as Juliet Ruin’s Most Haunted Creation Yet

  Sep 25, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Canadian modern metal band Juliet Ruin returns with their most vulnerable and sonically ambitious release to date: the five-track EP "Regime," their fourth studio offering, available this October 24th, 2025. Leading the charge is the haunting first single “Poems By a Poltergeist,” accompanied by a gripping lyric video (created by vocalist Jess Felming) that dives deep into themes of depersonalization, mental health, and emotional isolation.
  ​
  ​“This song came straight from the pages of Jess’ journal. It’s about feeling like a ghost in your own life, angry, disconnected, and searching for meaning,” the band shares.
  ​
  Formed in 2015, Edmonton, AB's Juliet Ruin has evolved into a genre-fluid powerhouse known for its chunky, groovy, pretty, powerful, and catchy sound. With influences ranging from Spiritbox and Jinjer to Alexisonfire, the band blends metalcore, pop, and progressive elements into a style that’s both emotionally raw and technically sharp.
  ​
  "Regime" is a sonic double-edged sword, balancing pop-infused vulnerability with bone-crushing breakdowns and the heaviest subject matter the band has ever tackled. From the introspective "Chrysalis" to the socially charged title track "Regime," each song is a collaborative effort shaped by personal experience and collective passion.
  ​
  ​“We wanted this EP to feel empowering but also understanding,” says vocalist Jess, whose scream vocals, honed during the COVID lockdown through YouTube tutorials and lucid dreaming, now anchor the band’s evolving sound.
  ​
  The album artwork, created by longtime collaborator Feen Murray, uses abstract imagery of skulls and hearts to reflect the tension between emotionality and overthinking, a visual metaphor for the EP’s lyrical core.

  "Regime" is more than just a record. It’s a statement. A safe space. A scream in the silence. And with “Poems By a Poltergeist,” Juliet Ruin invites listeners to confront their shadows and find strength in the echo.

  Add Single to your Spotify playlist (Sept 26th) - https://open.spotify.com/artist/54QrxuOJkvabZgah6SA4qv​
  ​
  EP pre-order (out Oct 24th) - https://julietruin.bandcamp.com/​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Reactance Theory (4:03)
  2. Chrysalis (4:01)
  3. Poems By a Poltergeist (3:02)
  4. The Art of Being Wise (4:09)
  5. Regime (5:02)
  EP Length: 20:18​

  More info:

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

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

  Read more

• STELLVRIS Unleashes Ferocious Single “Silence After Violence” from Upcoming EP "Shatter and Bloom" Out Nov 2025

  Sep 19, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  European (Prague, CZ) modern metal band Stellvris has dropped their latest single, “Silence After Violence,” a searing anthem from their upcoming EP "Shatter and Bloom," set to release on November 7. Produced by Christoph Wieczorek (Annisokay, Caskets) at Sawdust Recordings, the track delivers a visceral punch, confronting the rising aggression in society and channeling it into a cathartic, high-voltage experience.
  ​​
  “We see violence and frustration creeping into younger generations, and it’s terrifying. This song is a wake-up call — a cry for awareness and action,” says vocalist Nicol Hofman.
  ​
  Founded in 2019, Stellvris has built a reputation for turning pain into power. Their music speaks directly to those battling anxiety, toxic relationships, bullying, and the weight of everyday struggles. With past releases "Upside Down" (2022) and "Persistence" (2023), the band carved out a sound that’s crushingly heavy yet hauntingly melodic, winning fans across Europe and the UK.
  ​
  But Stellvris is more than just a band; they’re an experience. Known for electrifying live shows that include circle pits, walls of death, and stage dives, they’ve shared stages with Megadeth, Jinjer, The Ghost Inside, and more, and have lit up festivals like Summer Breeze, Brutal Assault, and Basinfirefest.
  ​
  ​“Silence After Violence” is the fourth single from "Shatter and Bloom," a five-track EP that explores destruction, rebirth, and the emotional chaos of modern life. Each song is rooted in real stories, from the scars of toxic relationships to the emptiness of digital escapism, and crafted to empower listeners who need it most.
  ​
  ​“Our lyrics come from personal experiences and stories our fans share with us. We want people to feel seen, heard, and stronger after listening,” Hofman explains.
  ​
  Musically, Stellvris blends metalcore, nu-metal, pop, and electronic elements into a sound that’s as catchy as it is brutal, drawing in even non-metal listeners with melodic choruses and bone-crushing breakdowns. During the recording of the EP, the band even captured a viral studio moment when their guitarist used phone vibrations to create a unique sound, leading to the now-infamous “WAKE UP MOTHERF***ER” breakdown.
  ​
  With "Shatter and Bloom," Stellvris continues to push boundaries, both musically and emotionally. The EP closes with a metal reimagining of Nicki Minaj’s “Starships,” proving that even amidst heavy themes, there’s room for joy, release, and celebration.
  ​
  ​“It’s never just about the sound. It’s about creating a safe space where pain turns into resilience, and where the silence after violence is shattered by music,” says Hofman.

  Recommended for fans of Jinjer, Spiritbox, Holy Wars, Arch Enemy, and I Prevail, listen to "Silence After Violence" at the following links:

  Add to your Spotify playlist - https://open.spotify.com/track/2cnmO3deE3ZCcgfH3gCHZx

  ​

   

  Previous Videos:

  ​

  ​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Shatter and Bloom - 3:18
  2. Silence After Violence - 3:14
  3. Monster - 4:16
  4. Time’s Up - 3:32
  5. Starships (Nicki Minaj Cover)
  EP Length: 18:27

  More info: https://linktr.ee/stellvris.band

  Read more

• MARGANTHA Debut EP “Blood Moon Sacrifice” + New Music Video "Miriam And The Endless Night (ft. Andy LaRoque)"

  Jun 27, 2025 Fistoffreedom 0 Comments

   

  Rockshots Records proudly announces the official release of “Blood Moon Sacrifice”, the debut EP from Finnish-Italian black metal act MARGANTHA, available today on all digital platforms.

  Rooted in myth, fear, and ritual, “Blood Moon Sacrifice” is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a narrative journey steeped in dark folklore and haunting atmosphere. The EP unfolds around the legend of a werewolf that terrorizes a secluded hunters' village beneath a remote mountain range, channeling the emotional tension, primal fear, and descent into hysteria that defines the story.

  Each track serves as a chapter in this tale:

  • “Blood Moon Sacrifice” opens the story with a dark waltz-like cadence, evoking the atmosphere of an ancient forest. During a solitary hunt, the protagonist is bitten, sealing the origin of the curse. Two instrumental interludes—bass and drums—heighten the track’s unsettling tone, making it feel like the soundtrack to a twisted fairy tale.
  • “Wolves at the Door” marks the creature’s approach to the village. This is no pack—but a lone, primordial predator whose thirst rivals that of many. Opening with a dark yet exotic riff and evolving through a melodic death metal core, the track balances blackened aggression, speed, and melody in a cinematic, dynamic form.
  • “Miriam and the Endless Night” (feat. Andy LaRocque) shifts perspective. Told through the eyes of a woman trapped in an endless night of terror, the song moves from eerie, unorthodox harmonies into a vortex of riffs and violence. Andy LaRocque (King Diamond) adds his signature touch where bloodlust and survival collide.
  • “Curse of the Full Moon” concludes the cycle with a hypnotic 6/8 ballad that depicts the protagonist's full transformation. With elongated tempos, obsessive rhythms, and oppressive harmonies, the track channels the ritualistic core of classic black metal—slow, relentless, and introspective.

  Driven by evocative riffs, atmospheric layering, and a primordial vocal delivery, MARGANTHA’s music balances black metal’s raw essence with moments of melody, tension, and dynamic pacing. As the band explains:

  “We start from the story. Every riff, every rhythm is designed to serve the narrative. We’re not interested in technical excess—our focus is atmosphere, cohesion, and emotion.”

  The entire EP was mixed and mastered by Andy LaRocque (King Diamond) at Sonic Train Studio, giving the record a powerful and precise sound while preserving its shadowy intensity.

  Influenced by the cinematic dread of Mgła, the emotional fire of Uada and Gaerea, and the timeless aggression of Venom, Behemoth, and Celtic Frost, MARGANTHA builds a sound that is immersive, urgent, and steeped in meaning.

  With “Blood Moon Sacrifice”, MARGANTHA mark their official debut—a work that merges ancient horror with the raw force of contemporary black metal. For fans of narrative-driven metal, hypnotic atmospheres, and unrelenting darkness, this is a first chapter worth embracing.

  Digital EP - https://lnk.to/V1c7Fn​

  CD ORDER the EP "Blood Moon Sacrifice": https://bit.ly/3Yz60nn​

  Track Listing:​
  1. Blood Moon Sacrifice
  2. Wolves at the Door
  3. Miriam and the Endless Night (ft. Andy LaRoque)
  4. Curse of the Full Moon

  Band Members:​
  • Nocturnus I – Vocals and Bass (FIN)
  • Nocturnus II – Guitars (ITA)
  • Nocturnus III – Drums (FIN)

  More info: https://www.rockshots.eu | https://www.instagram.com/margantha_the_band/

  Read more