Metal Mix Tape 14
Let there be metal! Have a look to see who made Metal Mix Tape Volume 14:
“This song is this record,” exclaims vocalist Ethan Harrison on single Echoes Of War out now. “The keystone that holds the entire thing together. The culmination of everything we took into the studio and of everything we hoped to accomplish with Tragedy Of The Commons creatively. This is the foundation of the new Great American Ghost.”
A strong statement that fits the intense track, serving as the final preview of Tragedy Of The Commons out January 31st on SharpTone Records. Screeching and squealing guitars pierce the barrage at the center of Echoes Of War, and Harrison carries a hauntingly hypnotic hook. Great American Ghost’s metalcore roots push through industrial influence to create pure chaos, lined with lyrics about about disbelief in the concept of free will.
PROFILER have released the video for their latest single Depth Perception, taken from the upcoming deluxe edition of their debut album A Digital Nowhere that’s set to release on Friday 17 February on SharpTone Records.
Mike Evans from the band comments on the new track: “The track delves into how trauma healing can allow us to reconnect to those around us that we’ve lost touch with due to past negative experiences. It’s talking about letting go of negative past events.”
CYHRA, the champions of melodic metal, have unleashed their latest single Superman, heralding a new era since the release of their third album, The Vertigo Trigger.
The track explodes with headbang-inducing riffs, as vocalist Jake E teases its epic, melody-rich chorus against a backdrop of sharp instrumentals. The almost spoken verses escalate to a larger-than-life chorus, culminating in irresistible, sing-along choirs that emphatically signal CYHRA’s trajectory is set to soar above and beyond at breakneck speed!
“Sometimes, life tests our limits, but when we choose to rise, to dream, and to believe, we find the strength to be unstoppable. Because deep down, we all have a ‘Superman’ within us,” comment CYHRA the song’s meaning.
BRAINSTORM, the acclaimed Southern German metal band, proudly present the lyric video for their thrilling second single, Beyond Enemy Lines, from their highly anticipated album, Plague Of Rats. This new album is set to launch on February 28, 2025 via RPM. Continuing the momentum from their successful first single, Garuda (Eater Of Snakes), BRAINSTORM introduce Beyond Enemy Lines. This track is sure to captivate not only the band’s fans but also lovers of high-octane metal music. Featuring intricate guitar tapping, powerful drumming, and majestic orchestration, the song perfectly encapsulates what a leading track in a heavy/power metal album should offer. Frontman Andy B. Franck brings a unique intensity to the song, with lyrics that explore themes of war on a deeply personal level.
“‘Beyond Enemy Lines’ combines many of our trademarks with recent, modern influences. The track has incredible power: it’s fast, goes straight into your neck and also deals with it a lyrical topic that concerns us all very much. Overcoming mental boundaries and trusting strangers or giving them a chance has become very difficult. Escaping into hatred and agitation is easier and promotes violence and wars. This is also a topic for BRAINSTORM that we would like to take up in order to draw attention. Of course, only a song that has power goes with it. We are very proud of that because this track has exactly that power!” add BRAINSTORM.
DIRKSCHNEIDER are thrilled to announce the release of the first single from the highly anticipated anniversary re-recording of ACCEPT’s landmark Balls To The Wall album. The legendary title track, now reimagined, marks a monumental collaboration between Udo Dirkschneider, the iconic voice of ACCEPT, and Joakim Brodén of SABATON, one of today’s most influential figures in metal. This powerful rendition not only bridges the gap between generations but also showcases the enduring impact of ACCEPT’s 1983 masterpiece on the global music scene.
Udo states: “To re-record ‘Balls To The Wall’ with SABATON’s Joakim Brodén was definitely a highlight! This man has an incredibly powerful voice which makes the song sound even more explosive. It’s a huge amount of energy lifting this classic track to unknown heights. Joakim has simply delivered – and together we managed to revitalise the song, resulting in a brute new version!”
Melbourne metalcore outfit Windwaker have announced the deluxe version of their sophomore album, HYPERVIOLENCE: Expansion Pack, out Friday February 14 via Civilians & Fearless Records. HYPERVIOLENCE: Expansion Pack features three new songs plus a new version of SIRENS featuring TSS — the band share their new track, Arcane.
“‘Arcane’ encapsulates the emotions and inner battles when faced with moments of uncertain change,” vocalist Liam Guinane shares. “Written early on in my journey joining as Windwaker’s vocalist, the song explores the push and pull of self-doubt and determination, resulting in an anthemic track embracing the weight of new beginnings and forging a path forward.”
It’s a fearlessly dynamic track that steadily builds its tension throughout, leading to a colossal breakdown and a torrent of riffs and screams. The song also highlights the band’s effortless incorporation of synths and hip-hop cadences into its ballistic hard rock acrobatics. It also features a singalong chorus that will bellow in the crowds of all future Windwaker gigs.
In the final countdown to the release of their highly anticipated studio album The World Was Never Enough, Swedish alternative metal band DAYS OF JUPITER are ramping up the excitement with a new music video. The album, set to be released on February 7, 2025 through RPM, promises to be a pivotal moment for the band.
DAYS OF JUPITER released the music video for Parazite, the last single from their upcoming album. The track showcases the band’s signature sound with revelling guitar tones and the raw, unmistakable vocals of lead singer Janne Hilli. The music is underpinned by straightforward yet powerful riffing and drumming, setting the stage for a hard-hitting exploration of toxic relationships. ‘Parazite’ not only narrates an intense personal struggle but also offers a cathartic release with its captivating chorus, resonating deeply with listeners.
Lyricist Robert Hilli comments: “Embrace yourselves for a hard-hitting and contagious song called ‘Parazite.’ It has fantastic melodies and is an incredibly catchy song with world-class vocals that explore the issues of manipulation, loyalty, betrayal and relationships, where the feeling of melancholy and abandonment is always present.”
Death metal gladiators EX DEO, the Juno-nominated project of KATAKYLSM frontman Maurizio Iacono, have unleashed their highly anticipated new EP Year Of The Four Emperors on Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM), via its partnership with Distortion Music Group. The album is out now digitally and on CD, with a limited edition vinyl to follow on March 14, 2025.
To celebrate, the band have unveiled the EP’s focus track Vitellius. The lyrics reveal a man driven by bloodlust, yet powerless to escape his fate. Vitellius’ violent end is portrayed with haunting finality, a reminder of Rome’s volatile power.
Australia’s new force VALHALORE conquer the world with a unique blend of Melodic Death, Power, and Symphonic Metal, infused with epic folk influences! The band announces their signing with ROAR (Grave Digger, Mystic Prophecy, Crematory a.o.) as well as the release of their upcoming new album, called Beyond The Stars, which will be out on April 11th, along with the reissue of their self-released debut album Voyage To Eternity.
To celebrate the occasion they have released a music video for first single, Horizon. Since their formation in 2013, VALHALORE conquer the world with their unique blend of Melodic Death, Power, and Symphonic Metal, infused with epic folk influences.
Swedish power metal champions MAJESTICA invite fans to embark on an electrifying journey with their second single, ‘A Story In The Night,’ from their highly anticipated album, Power Train, set for release on February 7th, 2025.
A blistering showcase of speed, melody, and storytelling, A Story In The Night is a power metal anthem that captures the heart-pounding essence of the genre. The track, clocking in as one of MAJESTICA’s most dynamic works to date, is accompanied by an epic music video that brings the song’s vivid narrative to life with striking visuals and cinematic flair.
Frontman Tommy Johansson comments:
”Fast, extreme, melodic and fast – 4 words that really describes the new single ’A Story In The Night’ perfect. The fastest song on the new album, filled with guitar solos, glorious melodies and epic power metal vocals that tells a tragic story…in the night”.
During a packed autumn touring schedule of over 30 dates across Europe as part of the Nordic Invasion and Faces of Death tours, CABAL introduced fans to their latest album material. Now, in 2025, the band returns with their powerful new single Unveiled, featuring Matthi, frontman of beatdown legends NASTY. The new album Everything Rots will be released on 11th April via Nuclear Blast Records. In spring 2025 CABAL will support CALIBAN on their “Back From Hell Tour”.
Singer Andreas Bjulver comments: “If you’ve ever had your trust horribly betrayed this track is for you. This is CABAL at it’s most furious, it’s pure anger distilled into sound and it features none other than Matthi from Nasty, which only adds to the aggression.”
Creators of power metal super-track Heartless Madness, DYNAZTY release their third single Call of the Night. The new album Game of Faces will be released on February 14th, 2025 via Nuclear Blast Records.
Singer Nils Molin comments:
“Night-time. A time for calm and tranquility or a time for fears, deceit and villainousness? When light shifts so does the mind of man. ‘I have seen the depths of the dark well. I know the stories it can tell. The allure of danger, strangers and the promises they sell.’ We’re proud to present you with the opening track and one of my personal favourites of the album – Call of the Night. Enjoy and don’t forget to place your pre-order of Game of Faces, out on February 14!”
Following the success of their first single Silver Linings, German metal act OBSCURA return with their second single, Evenfall, from the highly anticipated album A Sonication, set to release on February 7, 2025, via Nuclear Blast Records.
This standout track showcases OBSCURA’s ongoing evolution, masterfully blending their signature technical prowess with a more melodic approach. The result is a fresh yet unmistakably Obscura sound that promises to both surprise longtime fans and captivate new listeners.
Accompanying the release is a visually striking music video, bringing the song’s intensity and emotion to life. Once again, the video has been directed by Mirko Witzki (Arch Enemy, Powerwolf, Eskimo Callboy). Fans can expect an immersive audiovisual experience that underscores OBSCURA’s artistic depth.
Mastermind Steffen Kummerer comments: “With Evenfall we look into the most anticipated song by the band to perform in a live setting on our upcoming tours. The dynamics, groove and pace falls perfectly into place. One of my personal highlights of the new album, showcasing a rather cinematic sound scape within the Obscura universe.“
Marko Hietala, the iconic vocalist and bassist, makes a triumphant return with his powerful new single ‘Rebel of the North’. This high-energy classic rock anthem is a perfect showcase of Marko’s talent for crafting timeless, hard-hitting music. The single serves as another taste of his highly anticipated upcoming album, Roses from the Deep, which is set to release on February 7, 2025, and is eagerly awaited by fans worldwide.
Accompanying the release is a unique and visually striking music video. Filmed against the breathtaking backdrop of a picturesque Spanish village, the video captures the band’s electrifying performance, seamlessly blended with the song’s bold and inspiring lyrics. The stunning contrast between the rugged rock sound and the tranquil Mediterranean setting makes this release a feast for the senses.
Marko Hietala comments: “This one is a rocker. The main riff will put you into the Nordics with a slam. And the story is about reimagining, reinventing, and then gathering yourself into a better new being. We should never take ourselves for granted. It leads to becoming jaded and boring. Your inner kid wants to learn and apply anything and everything. Just don’t get in the way of yourself.”
SoCal metalcore behemoth BLEEDING THROUGH is gearing up for the release of their long-awaited, ninth full length album, NINE, on February 14th via SharpTone Records, and have revealed an explosive new single called I Am Resistance featuring COMEBACK KID vocalist Andrew Neufeld. The band kicks off the new year with an unrelenting onslaught of blistering heavy riffs as they prepare for one of the most brutal releases of 2025.
Commenting on the meaning behind the lyrics, vocalist Brandan Schieppati says: “I Am Resistance is a song about self reflection. It’s the times in your life that you come close to rock bottom and lose yourself. This song is about the battle of self medication and self destructive behaviors that sometimes grip your throat in life. This is a pledge to what you love and what you are truly devoted to.”
The ground quakes, the surface fractures, and a colossal force rises from the abyss: GATES TO HELL have returned to deliver their undeniable truth—Death Comes to All. The Louisville natives charge onto the heavy music scene with their second full-length which will be released March 21st via Nuclear Blast Records. Blurring the lines between death metal, hardcore, and every brutal sound in between, GATES TO HELL bring a monstrous energy to the studio and an unmatched ferocity to their live performances.
The band unveil the brutal first track entitled, Next to Bleed, The song showcases the band’s growth as songwriters, demonstrating a refined maturity while retaining their signature aggression. The accompanying music video directed by Errick Easterday features a striking visual concept: the band encircling a tilting table, where a tortured figure lies bleeding out—a dark, visceral representation of the track’s themes. Next to Bleed is now available to order as a limited edition 7-inch red vinyl.
GATES TO HELL comments, “We’ve been working real hard and we’re excited to share with you all the next chapter for Gates to Hell starting with our first single ‘Next to Bleed’. This is our most diverse and well-rounded collection of songs we’ve made and we’re stoked to finally be able to release this record to the world soon.”
Nuclear Blast America’s Label Manager & Head of A&R Tommy Jones comments, “The time has finally come and the Gates to Hell are opening wide. Line up and step through, for you are the ‘Next to Bleed’! I’m proud to be the gatekeeper to usher in the next era of brutality for the Louisville natives via the largest metal record label in the world, Nuclear Blast Records. Death Comes To All on March 21, 2025. You have been warned.”
About one month ago ELUVEITIE released Premonition, the first new music after two long years. The band announce their new album Ànv, which will be released on April 25th, 2025 via Nuclear Blast Records. ELUVEITIE also shares the second song The Prodigal Ones from the upcoming album. After their own headliner tour ‘ÀNV RISING – EUROPE’, which starts in January 2025, the band will hit the road again together with ARCH ENEMY, AMORPHIS and GATECREEPER in October 2025. All dates are listed below.
ELUVEITIE frontman Chrigel Glanzmann comments: “Hard to express how excited we are to share this one with you all! Musically combining the heavy pounding Elu classics like “Luxtos”, “Inis Mona” or even “King” with some new, maybe unexpected ideas, we feel that this song most of all comes like a punch in the face and we hope you’ll enjoy it as much as we do! Lyrically it actually opens the big theme of ÀNV – these ancient words, several thousands of years old, our upcoming album is based on…”
Fresh off a monumental tour supporting genre greats SLIPKNOT across the UK and Europe, BLEED FROM WITHIN have released the video for their new single A Hope In Hell. The latest cut from new album Zenith, that’s set for release on the 4th April via Nuclear Blast Records, is a brooding, anthemic slab of the kind of cutting edge, modern metal than BLEED have become synonymous with.
On the new single, the band comment: “A Hope In Hell” is one of the more melodic cuts from our latest album and one that we all connected with early in the writing process. The evolution of this song is a great indicator of what we’ve explored on our latest release; we’ve pushed ourselves melodically, but also found a dark and heavy groove that really underpins our sound. Looking at the lyrics, life doesn’t get any easier and everyone you know is dealing with its challenges. We are caught in repeating cycles of adversity and hardship, but our perception can change once we accept that growth is on the other side of such things. Take from that what you will, just know that we’re rooting for you. Enjoy.”
Swiss hard rock legends GOTTHARD have kicked off the new year with the release of their second single, Thunder & Lightning, from their upcoming 12-track studio album Stereo Crush. As the world remains blanketed in snow, this new track spreads spring fever with its uplifting leads and emotionally charged storyline about love, quickly capturing the hearts of fans and heightening anticipation for the band’s eagerly awaited new album.
Secure your copy [digipak-CD, jewelcase-CD, red marbled vinyl, digital] or pre-save Stereo Crush now, here: https://gotthard.rpm.link/stereocrushPR
Alongside the worldwide launch of pre-orders, GOTTHARD are also excited to reveal the cover artwork for Stereo Crush set to hit the shelves on March 21, 2025 via RPM. The artwork, designed by Thomas Ewerhard, who has previously collaborated with the band, perfectly encapsulates the album’s themes of honesty, rawness, and a broad spectrum of emotions.
“Freddy [Scherer; guitars] came to my house with the musical idea for this song. We started there and came up with the structure and the vocal melodies together and recorded the demo there. I then spent quite some time figuring out lyrics. The sound of the chorus riff somehow sounded electric to me, and I was thinking of words like ‘lighting,’ ‘thunder’ etc…and then I thought of the concept of how lighting never strikes twice but in this case it does, using this as a metaphor for love. Also in French, which I’m fluent in, you can say that ‘love at first sight’ is like getting hit by a bolt of lightning,” singer Nic Maeder sheds light on the track’s creation.
The pioneers of melodic death metal are back, and they’re ready to redefine the genre they helped create. THE HALO EFFECT, a band formed by some of the most iconic names in the Gothenburg metal scene, today proudly announces the release of their highly anticipated new album, March Of The Unheard.
More than just a nod to their iconic roots, March Of The Unheard boldly announces that melodic death metal is still evolving. Thirty years after their members first propelled the Gothenburg sound to global prominence, THE HALO EFFECT proves there’s no shortage of fresh ideas and electrifying energy in the genre.
As a testimony of the album’s ferocity, THE HALO EFFECT has released a stunning video for the lead single What We Become. A quintessential display of the Gothenburg sound, the track is a masterclass in melodic aggression, featuring razor-sharp guitar leads, driving percussion, and shout-along hooks that have kept metalheads enthralled for generations. The video perfectly captures the song’s intensity and the band’s vision.
Frontman Mikael Stanne comments: ‘’The wait is over! Our second album drops today and we could not be more proud of this one. The level of confidence, experience and love of the craft is beyond evident in these songs and to finally be able to share it with all you feels amazing. First up though, just to make sure that you get the album on day one, is our brand-new video for the song ‘What We Become’! This song is all about how our emotions can break us down and transform our very being through depression, self-doubt and insecurity. The video which we shot in an ice cold barn in the middle of nowhere with director Johan Carlén gives the song the right kind of mystique and sense of being forgotten or silenced. Enjoy!”
Rising Finnish alt-metal force LUNA KILLS is making waves with the announcement of their highly anticipated debut album DEATHMATCH, set for a worldwide release on April 4, 2025, via SharpTone Records. DEATHMATCH is a powerful collision of vulnerability and aggression that captures the chaos and conflict within the mind with unflinching honesty. The album’s raw and electrifying tracks delve into the complexities of mental health and the longing for escapism. Pre-orders available here.
Following the success of their crushing debut single slay ur enemies, LUNA KILLS is keeping the momentum alive with the release of their second single, sugar rush. This electrifying track balances ferocious riffs with haunting melodies, capturing the exhilarating highs and devastating lows of chasing fleeting thrills.
The band explains, “sugar rush captures the drive to pursue happiness in the face of persistent self-doubt. Centered around the struggle to find happiness despite a constant sense of never measuring up, the song delves into the pressures of a world that demands overachievement and monetization of everything, ultimately draining the joy from passions that once gave life meaning.”
Reflecting on the song’s creation, the band adds: “At the time, before we started writing “sugar rush”, we had been working on other songs for a long period of time and we felt really exhausted and after multiple failed attempts of trying to force ourselves to focus, we felt that we needed to reset our brain and mindset.
“sugar rush became a powerful outlet for all that we were going through, a way to channel exhaustion and frustration with the pressures of perfectionism and constant productivity. The creative process itself almost became a form of catharsis, a reset, allowing us to confront those feelings directly and then transform them into something meaningful.”
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