Dave Mustaine Says He’s An Independent: “I Vote For Whoever’s The Least Of Two Evils” MEGADETH Frontman Clarifies Political Views in 2026 Interview MEGADETH founder and frontman Dave Mustaine has once again addressed his political beliefs,... More

Dave Mustaine Says He’s An Independent: “I Vote For Whoever’s The Least Of Two Evils” MEGADETH Frontman Clarifies Political Views in 2026 Interview MEGADETH founder and frontman Dave Mustaine has once again addressed his political beliefs, stating that he does not align with either major U.S. political party and considers himself an independent voter. In a new interview with Roisin O’Connor’s Good Vibrations, the podcast hosted by The Independent music editor Roisin O’Connor, Mustaine explained why he avoids publicly endorsing political parties and why he believes musicians are better off keeping their personal politics private. “The world has developed into a place where if you’re somebody offering a product, it’s best for you not to talk about your political persuasion,” Mustaine said. “People never used to say who they voted for. It’s none of your goddamn business. People think I’m a right-winger. I’m not. I’m an independent. I’ve voted for Democrats, I’ve voted for Republicans. I vote for whoever’s the least of two evils, sometimes three.” Dave Mustaine Responds to Political Labels Mustaine also addressed the long running narrative that paints him as a right wing political figure. According to the MEGADETH leader, much of that reputation stems from former band members or associates who left the group on bad terms and later spoke negatively about him. He added that fans who meet him in person often come away with a very different impression. “When we’re down in South America, we’ll sit out on the steps of the hotel and serenade the fans,” Mustaine said. “That’s how we really are. That’s how we live. We love our fans.” “I’m Spiritual, Not Religious,” Says Mustaine In a recent interview with The New York Times, Mustaine further clarified his beliefs, saying that while he identifies as a Christian, he does not view himself as a right wing political figure. He also described himself as spiritual rather than religious, noting that his worldview does not neatly fit into modern political boxes. Mustaine has repeatedly emphasized that his involvement in political initiatives has historically focused on encouraging civic participation rather than pushing a specific party agenda. He previously took part in the “Rock The Vote” campaign in the early 1990s, aimed at getting young people registered to vote, regardless of party affiliation. Dave Mustaine on Politics and Heavy Metal Over the years, Mustaine has drawn both praise and criticism for speaking openly about political and social issues. He has said that heavy metal musicians should not be assumed to be disconnected from civic life and that artists have the right to hold independent views without being forced into partisan categories. “I don’t try and tell people in my songs what to do,” Mustaine has said in past interviews. “I try to show both sides and let people decide for themselves.” While some of Mustaine’s past comments have sparked controversy, he has maintained that media outlets have often taken his remarks out of context and amplified narratives that do not reflect his actual political stance. MEGADETH’s Ongoing Legacy As one of the founding figures of thrash metal, Dave Mustaine remains a central voice in heavy metal culture more than four decades into his career. MEGADETH continues to tour and release new material, and Mustaine remains outspoken not only about music, but about the cultural space metal occupies in modern society. Whether fans agree with his views or not, Mustaine’s comments continue to fuel discussion around the intersection of heavy metal, politics, and free expression in 2026. Less

KISS Co-Founder Talks Hip-Hop, Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, and the State of Music in 2026 KISS co-founder and bassist Gene Simmons has once again sparked conversation in the rock and metal world after explaining why rap and hip-hop music do not... More

KISS Co-Founder Talks Hip-Hop, Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, and the State of Music in 2026 KISS co-founder and bassist Gene Simmons has once again sparked conversation in the rock and metal world after explaining why rap and hip-hop music do not resonate with him the way classic rock and roll does. In a recent interview on the Legends N Leaders podcast with host Ben Weiss, Simmons shared his thoughts on musical relevance, the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, modern pop culture, and the future of the music industry. Gene Simmons on Rap Music vs Rock And Roll During the interview, Simmons made it clear that while he respects the success and influence of hip-hop artists, the genre does not connect with him personally. Simmons explained that rap music is largely rooted in spoken-word performance over beats, whereas rock and roll is built around melody, songwriting, and musical arrangement. He added that music speaks differently to people based on background and life experience, and hip-hop simply does not speak his language in the same way rock music does. The KISS frontman has previously made headlines for questioning whether hip-hop belongs in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, and he revisited that topic during the podcast. Simmons pointed to IRON MAIDEN’s continued exclusion from the Hall despite selling out arenas and stadiums worldwide, while artists from non-rock genres have already been inducted. Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Debate Continues Simmons argued that the name “Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame” should mean exactly that. He questioned why hip-hop artists are honored in an institution built around rock music, while legendary rock bands have yet to be recognized. The long running debate over what qualifies as “rock and roll” remains one of the most controversial topics in modern music culture. This discussion reflects a wider conversation among rock and metal fans who feel that heavy metal bands such as IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST, and others have been historically overlooked by mainstream music institutions. The Decline of the Music Business and Record Labels Beyond genre debates, Simmons also spoke about what he sees as the collapse of the traditional music business model. According to Simmons, modern artists face enormous challenges due to streaming platforms, lack of label investment, and the disappearance of artist development. He argued that future generations are unlikely to produce another band with the cultural impact of THE BEATLES, Elvis Presley, or LED ZEPPELIN because record companies no longer provide financial backing for new artists to grow, tour, and fail before finding their identity. Simmons also criticized the short lived fame created by reality TV talent shows, noting that many gifted singers and musicians achieve brief exposure without building sustainable careers in the music industry. Why Classic Rock Still Dominates Live Music According to Simmons, the reason classic rock continues to dominate live music culture is simple. The songs last. Cover bands still play “Free Bird,” “Satisfaction,” and other timeless rock anthems because those songs are built on strong songwriting, melody, and emotional connection. While modern pop hits and viral songs generate massive streaming numbers, Simmons believes they lack the long term cultural impact needed to influence new musicians to form bands, pick up instruments, and create original music rooted in tradition. KISS Legacy, Farewell Tour, and Future Projects KISS officially ended its touring career with two final shows in full makeup at Madison Square Garden in December 2023. The band’s “End Of The Road” farewell tour began in 2019 and concluded after delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In early 2024, KISS sold its music catalog, likeness, and brand rights to Swedish entertainment company Pophouse Entertainment. Multiple projects are currently in development, including a KISS biopic, an avatar-based concert experience, and an immersive KISS-themed attraction. Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley remain directly involved in shaping these projects and preserving the band’s legacy for future generations. Less

Heavy metal and punk rock legend Ross “The Boss” Friedman, founding guitarist of MANOWAR and THE DICTATORS, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. According to a statement from Friedman’s publicist,... More

Heavy metal and punk rock legend Ross “The Boss” Friedman, founding guitarist of MANOWAR and THE DICTATORS, has revealed that he has been diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. According to a statement from Friedman’s publicist, the 72 year old musician received the diagnosis after months of unexplained physical symptoms, including weakness in his hands and legs. Doctors initially believed a series of minor strokes may have been responsible, but changes in diet, exercise, and physical therapy did not slow the progression of symptoms, leading to further testing and the eventual ALS diagnosis. Friedman shared his own words with fans following the news: “It’s difficult to know what lies ahead, and it crushes me not to be able to play guitar, but the outpouring of love has been so, so strong. I’m absolutely blown away by the love and support from family, friends, and fans. I love you all.” Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease that attacks motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventual loss of voluntary muscle control. There is currently no cure. Ross “The Boss” is widely regarded as one of the true architects of classic heavy metal guitar. As a founding member of MANOWAR, he recorded six studio albums with the band, including genre defining releases such as Battle Hymns (1982), Into Glory Ride (1983), Hail To England (1984), and Kings Of Metal (1988). His riff driven, no frills approach helped shape MANOWAR’s signature sound and influence generations of metal guitarists. Before his time in MANOWAR, Friedman was already a trailblazer in punk rock with THE DICTATORS. The band’s 1975 debut Go Girl Crazy! predates landmark releases by RAMONES, THE CLASH, and the SEX PISTOLS, cementing Ross as a pioneer at the ground floor of the punk movement. Albums like Manifest Destiny (1977) and Bloodbrothers (1978) further solidified the band’s cult status. Throughout the decades, Friedman continued to bridge the worlds of punk and metal. He reunited with fellow DICTATORS members in MANITOBA’S WILD KINGDOM, collaborated with Albert Bouchard of BLUE ÖYSTER CULT in BRAIN SURGEONS, and later returned fully to heavy metal with projects such as DEATH DEALER and his solo band ROSS THE BOSS. His career stands as a rare example of an artist who helped shape two major underground movements from the inside out. News of Friedman’s diagnosis has prompted an outpouring of support from fans, musicians, and members of the global metal community. While the road ahead is uncertain, his legacy is carved into the foundations of heavy music itself. Ross “The Boss” is not just a guitarist. He is part of the DNA of metal and punk, and his impact will continue to roar long after the final chord fades. Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE GRAVEMASS UNLEASH NEW SINGLE “THIS IS THE WAY” — OUT FEBRUARY 13, 2026 West Coast Canada — Black metal wrecking crew Gravemass drop their debut album title track “This Is The Way” on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 12:00 AM... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE GRAVEMASS UNLEASH NEW SINGLE “THIS IS THE WAY” — OUT FEBRUARY 13, 2026 West Coast Canada — Black metal wrecking crew Gravemass drop their debut album title track “This Is The Way” on Friday, February 13, 2026 at 12:00 AM via End Game Records Inc. Genre: Black MetalFor Fans Of: Slayer, Venom, Morbid Angel, Watain, Napalm DeathISRC: QZHN82628805 Emerging from the depths of the West Coast metal scene, Gravemass is a sonic war machine built from the combined fury of veteran players. The lineup reads like a who’s who of West Coast metal, featuring members and alumni of Zimmers Hole, Punch Drunk, 3 Inches of Blood, Revocation, Just Cause, West of Hell, Savannah, Process, and The Golers. This is true Canadian black metal, sharpened by decades in the trenches. On “This Is The Way,” Gravemass deliver a punishing blend of sinister, heavy riffs and savage vocal power, channeling the raw hostility of black metal with the blunt-force trauma of death metal. The result is a track that hits hard, stays mean, and does not apologize for it. This is the opening salvo from their debut album and it sets the tone loud and clear. Known for an unrelenting live presence, Gravemass bring that same intensity to the studio. No polish for the sake of polish, no soft edges, just disciplined brutality from musicians who know exactly how to weaponize sound. This is not a hobby band. This is a unit of seasoned operators doing what they do best. Label: End Game Records Inc.Production: Produced and Mastered by Tim Creviston If you like your metal hostile, uncompromising, and forged by players who have already paid their dues, “This Is The Way” is your wake up call. Turn it up and brace for impact. Check out the premiere and subscribe:[jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="sR9gy-AD8-E"] Connect with the band: https://gravemass.com/gravemass-epk/ Contact:  ashley@endgamerecords.com info@gravemass.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Stonewielder Unleash Crushing Doom With The Suffering Ritual EP | New Single “Burning Fire” Out Now Rising doom and sludge metal force Stonewielder return with their soul-crushing EP The Suffering Ritual, originally... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Stonewielder Unleash Crushing Doom With The Suffering Ritual EP | New Single “Burning Fire” Out Now Rising doom and sludge metal force Stonewielder return with their soul-crushing EP The Suffering Ritual, originally released on September 6, 2025, now receiving renewed attention with the release of the single “Burning Fire” on January 5, 2026. Forged in slow-moving heaviness and emotional weight, Stonewielder specialize in massive riffs, brooding atmospheres, and cinematic doom-laden songwriting. Drawing influence from High On Fire, Electric Wizard, Eyehategod, Candlemass, and early sludge metal, the band balance classic doom foundations with modern production and a dynamic, immersive sound. The EP delivers a punishing yet hypnotic experience, weaving seismic low-end grooves with gritty, soulful vocals and crushing mid-tempo rhythms. Tracks like “Bury Me,” “Suffering,” and the title cut “The Ritual” showcase Stonewielder’s ability to channel raw emotion through towering fuzz, thunderous percussion, and dense sonic weight. The result is a record that feels ritualistic, oppressive, and strangely cathartic, capturing the spirit of doom metal at its most primal. “The Suffering Ritual” has been praised for its massive riffs, haunting atmosphere, and spellbinding moments of melody, blending Sabbath-worship doom with sludge-soaked aggression and hints of early Mastodon energy. The EP stands as a fully realized statement from a band that understands how to let heaviness breathe without losing intensity. With the release of “Burning Fire,” Stonewielder continue to push their sound deeper into the abyss, offering another slow-burning slab of doom that reinforces their growing presence in the underground heavy scene. Genre: Doom / Sludge MetalFor Fans Of: High On Fire, Electric Wizard, EyehategodRelease Dates:• The Suffering Ritual EP: September 6, 2025• “Burning Fire” single: January 5, 2026 Production Credits:Mixed and Mastered by Gabe Usery at Encapsulated Studios About Stonewielder:Formed with the intention of crafting slow-moving, emotionally heavy music, Stonewielder quickly established an identity defined by seismic riffs and brooding, cinematic soundscapes. What began as a small creative project evolved into a fully realized force within the doom scene. Their live performances are marked by dense sonics, controlled intensity, and an atmosphere that pulls listeners into the depths of each narrative. For interviews, reviews, and coverage, contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com Connect with the band:  https://stonewielder.bandcamp.com/track/burning-firehttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578694970762https://www.instagram.com/stonewielderband/https://open.spotify.com/artist/75VmUMBz5tnAxoMZ57CUJ5https://music.apple.com/us/artist/stonewielder/1820707701 Contact: thedistortionprinciple@gmail.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Patriarchs in Black Unleash “Completely Covered in Black” – Full Album Out February 13, 2026 via NoLifeTilMetal Records NoLifeTilMetal Records kicks off 2026 with a full-on sonic assault as Patriarchs in Black return with... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Patriarchs in Black Unleash “Completely Covered in Black” – Full Album Out February 13, 2026 via NoLifeTilMetal Records NoLifeTilMetal Records kicks off 2026 with a full-on sonic assault as Patriarchs in Black return with their newest full-length album, Completely Covered in Black. Set for release February 13, 2026, this album delivers 11 high-voltage tracks, including stunning covers of rock and metal classics alongside bonus original material. Ahead of the album, fans can stream the standalone single Left Behind, co-written by Dan Lorenzo and former Sixty Watt Shaman vocalist Daniel Soren, released on all digital platforms February 5, 2026. Listen here: [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="tlHY4NpA0IQ"] Formed in late 2021 by Dan Lorenzo (Hades, Non-Fiction) and Johnny Kelly (Type O Negative), Patriarchs in Black has released four full-length albums and a 6-song EP prior to this release, with each album featuring a different lineup of singers and bassists. Their previous records include Reach for the Scars (2022), My Veneration (2023), Visioning (2024), Home (2025), and Covered in Black EP (2025). Completely Covered in Black showcases the band’s love for the classics with covers of iconic acts including Kiss, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Peter Gabriel, Twisted Sister, Motorhead, and Queen. The album also features guest appearances from Mark Sunshine (Unida), Karl Agell (ex-Corrosion of Conformity), Kyle Thomas (Exhorder), Rob Dukes (Exodus), and Bobby Jensen (Hairball). Fans will find exclusive content on each format: the vinyl pressing includes a bonus track of a Patriarchs in Black original titled Show Them Your Power, while the CD version adds two bonus cuts—Led Zeppelin’s Kashmir and another original, Dead and Dying. Guitarist Dan Lorenzo reflects on the album’s concept: "Johnny and I both love recording cover songs. If you haven’t noticed, we REALLY love Kiss. As I write this, it’s only been a week since the death of Ace Frehley. Like many musicians my age, I started playing guitar because of Kiss. On New Year’s Eve, 1978, I had yet to pick up a guitar. My friends and I wanted to play ‘air guitar’ to Kiss Alive! I immediately said, ‘I want to be Ace.’ Three months later, I was playing guitar. Johnny suggested the Peter Gabriel track, and Mark Sunshine’s vocal performance on ‘Games’ really blew people away." The album is pressed on heavyweight opaque orange vinyl, featuring a 12” x 12” insert with photos, liner notes, and credits. The CD comes in a jewel case with an 8-page booklet. Only 200 vinyl copies will be pressed, making this a must-have collector’s item for fans of heavy music. Track Listing – Completely Covered in Black 1.Supertzar (Black Sabbath)2.Strange Ways (Kiss)3.Destroyer (Twisted Sister)4.Immigrant Song (Led Zeppelin)5.Hotter Than Hell (Kiss)6.The Chase (Motorhead)7.Snowblind (Black Sabbath)8.Dragon Attack (Queen)9.The Ocean (Led Zeppelin)10.Almost Human (Kiss)11.Games Without Frontiers (Peter Gabriel) VINYL ONLY BONUS TRACK: Show Them Your Power (Patriarchs in Black)CD ONLY BONUS TRACKS: Kashmir (Led Zeppelin), Dead and Dying (Patriarchs in Black) Pre-orders are live now at www.nolifetilmetalrecords.com. Check out a sample of the new album here: [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="lFsp9iDeN1U"] Patriarchs in Black are ready to take 2026 by storm. Don’t miss it. Connect with the band and label:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559097640883https://www.instagram.com/patriarchsinblackhttps://roxxrecords.com/collections/nltm-2019-releases/patriarchs-in-black Contact: bill@roxxproductions.com Less

IATT Unleashes First Single “Drift Away” From Upcoming Album and Film Etheric Realms of the Night Philadelphia’s extreme metal innovators IATT are back, and they’re pulling listeners into a cinematic nightmare with the first taste of their... More

IATT Unleashes First Single “Drift Away” From Upcoming Album and Film Etheric Realms of the Night Philadelphia’s extreme metal innovators IATT are back, and they’re pulling listeners into a cinematic nightmare with the first taste of their forthcoming full-length, Etheric Realms of the Night, due May 8 via Black Lion Records. The new single, “Drift Away”, serves as the entry point into IATT’s ambitious fusion of extreme metal and narrative film. Each track of the upcoming album acts as a chapter in this immersive experience, exploring dreams, sleep, and the liminal space between consciousness and the subconscious. With Drift Away, IATT sets the tone for the journey ahead. The track moves with deliberate restraint and emotional weight, capturing the uneasy calm of falling asleep—where comfort and fear intertwine. The accompanying visuals deepen this sense of foreboding, drawing inspiration from Greek tragedy and mythos to craft a visceral, cinematic landscape. This is not just a song, it’s a chapter in a larger story. Etheric Realms of the Night is IATT’s fourth full-length album, designed as a cohesive film where music and storytelling blur into a singular, immersive experience. [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="cNma-OUnRRE"] Tracklist for Etheric Realms of the Night01. Drift Away02. To Lie Beneath03. Somniphobia04. Pavor Nocturnus05. Quietus06. Walk Amongst07. Hypnos IATT continues to push the boundaries of progressive and extreme metal, creating a world where music, narrative, and the subconscious merge into a symphony of shadows. Etheric Realms of the Night drops May 8 via Black Lion Records and is available for pre-order https://merchbooth.net/iatt/. For more info visit:https://www.instagram.com/iatt_official/ https://www.facebook.com/iamthetrireme/ https://iamthetrireme.bandcamp.com https://www.facebook.com/blacklionrecordsswe https://www.instagram.com/blacklionrecordsswe https://blacklion.nu/  Less

OR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Metal Devastation PR Clients Featured & Reviewed in Latest Issue of Rock Hard Magazine (Metallica Cover Issue) The latest issue of Rock Hard Magazine, with Metallica gracing the cover, shines a spotlight on the global... More

OR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Metal Devastation PR Clients Featured & Reviewed in Latest Issue of Rock Hard Magazine (Metallica Cover Issue) The latest issue of Rock Hard Magazine, with Metallica gracing the cover, shines a spotlight on the global underground metal scene—and several Metal Devastation PR clients are making serious waves with featured interviews, spotlights, and rave reviews. From melodic death and thrash to progressive, doom, and industrial, this issue highlights the diversity and technical prowess of today’s underground metal, with multiple Metal Devastation PR artists earning praise for both their music and visionary approaches. Featured & Reviewed Artists: STELLAGEN – A Fraction of Infinity (Score: 8.5)Australian powerhouse Stellagen earned acclaim for their epic, cinematic take on melodic death metal. Rock Hard praised the album’s blend of aggression, melody, and technical precision, noting that the music “evokes profound emotions and emphasizes both the technical component and the immediacy of the individual compositions.” The album continues the evolution from their 2022 debut, From Dying Stars, cementing Stellagen’s reputation for theatrical, earth-shaking songwriting. BALISTIC – The Parson’s Tale (Score: 7.5)Veteran progressive metal act Balistic returned with an ambitious concept album exploring philosophical and existential themes. The review spotlighted their complex storytelling, technical precision, and the band’s ability to rival giants of the genre while remaining relevant today. BRAINMAZE – When Your Demons Come (Score: 7)Bulgarian composer Ivan Shishkov’s Brainmaze project was celebrated for its edge, groove, and experimental flair. The review highlighted the album’s driving bass lines and Rob Davies’ commanding vocal work, calling it “a work that certainly deserves applause for its originality.” NECKBREAKER – Mental Void (Score: 7)Chilean thrashers Neckbreaker made an impression with their fierce, no-compromise approach rooted in Bay Area and Teutonic thrash traditions. The review emphasized the band’s political and social commentary, noting that songs like Crush Zionism “demonstrate the band’s ability to manage speed and aggressiveness without sacrificing groove.” BLACK MOON CULT – Ophidian Future (The Children Of Yig) (Score: 7)Ohio trio Black Moon Cult impressed with their psychedelic doom/stoner hybrid, incorporating instruments like electric sitar and pipe organ. The review called the album “a sonic journey that does not bore,” with influences ranging from Black Sabbath to Kyuss and Hawkwind. DOOMHERRE – Plaguelords (Score: 7.5)Swedish doom veterans Doomherre built on their strong debut, blending monolithic riffs, enveloping melodies, and commanding vocals to deliver a heavy, epic experience. Additional Features & Interviews: ILLUSIONS OF GRANDEUR – In a feature titled The Myth of the Siren, the band shared, “Choreographies, facial expressions, and the interpretation of the songs take the live show to another level… it’s a literally unforgettable experience.” The interview also revealed their myth-inspired Siren Saga, a blend of Greek and Norse legends given a theatrical twist. TÁLTOS – Discussing their album Országrák, the Hungarian band delved into cultural critique: “Society has always been sick… we must continue to oppose it. Shamanism can be learned, while that of the táltos is innate,” they explained. WAVES WITHOUT SOUND – Composer Phil Brown described his debut Escape as “an inner journey through isolation, fleeing toxic situations, and finding peace in nature and the ocean… each song is a connected chapter of this exploration.” ACERBIC – Death metal veterans spoke about the brutal realism behind Abhorrent Atrocities Against All Humankind: “We write about real horrors… everyday evil… and aim to create emotional conflict with our music.” GRAVEWITCH – Returning after five years, the US blackened thrash band noted that their self-titled album reflects “heavier aggressiveness and versatility, blending various subgenres of extreme metal… every song is a unique story.” CRUENTUS (Sweden) – Discussed nearly three decades of underground evolution and the creative cohesion on their latest album End Without End, balancing traditional black/death/thrash influences with new musical explorations. OBVURT (Canada) – Philippe Drouin shared how personal perseverance shaped his technical death metal project: “Ten years ago, a car accident risked compromising my career… today, I explore new sounds and techniques with the double guitar.” MONASTERY DEAD (Russia) – On Seeds of Apostasy, the band said, “The music represents a state where the ‘I’ is purified through a psychological eruption, leaving only the choice to accept a deeper fall.” TOTAL ANNIHILATION (Switzerland) – Their album Mountains of Madness confronts human cruelty and societal repetition: “It seems almost as if humanity is incapable… or simply refuses, to learn from its own mistakes.” THE TROUSERS (Hungary) – Zoltán Kőváry reflected on freedom and artistic evolution: “Freedom is a heavy burden, it always goes hand in hand with anxiety… many people flee from their own freedom. We want our music to be timeless.” This issue of Rock Hard not only celebrates legendary acts like Metallica but also elevates the next generation of underground heavy music, showcasing the innovation, technicality, and passion of Metal Devastation PR’s roster. For press inquiries, interviews, or promotional support: zach@metaldevastationradio.com Grab a copy here: https://www.rockharditaly.com/ Check out the bands at these links: https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28437/stellagen-releases-new-album-a-fraction-of-infinity-out-now https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28054/taltos-unleashes-second-full-length-black-metal-assault-orszagrak-nation-cancer https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28458/balistic-unleash-ambitious-concept-album-the-parsons-tale https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28415/bulgarian-visionary-ivan-shishkov-unleashes-his-debut-metal-album-when-your-demons-come-under-the-project-name-brainmaze https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28386/neckbreaker-unleashes-debut-album-mental-void-out-december-12-via-witches-brew https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/27829/black-moon-cult-unleashes-official-video-for-ophidian-future-the-children-of-yig-a-serpentine-descent-into-cosmic-doo https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28423/doomherre-reign-supreme-with-new-album-plaguelords-as-global-press-praise-pours-in https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/26488/new-promo-illusions-of-grandeur-announces-new-single-spine-out-november-7-2024 https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/27528/waves-without-sound-releases-debut-album-escape-a-progressive-metal-journey-from-the-shores-of-sydney https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28342/acerbic-unleashes-death-thrash-masterpiece-abhorrent-atrocities-against-all-humankind-out-february-2026 https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28302/gravewitch-unleash-self-titled-album-out-now https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28210/sweden-rock-magazine-hails-cruentus-and-their-new-album-end-without-end https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28256/obvurt-ignite-minds-with-artificial-consciousness-a-technical-death-metal-guitar-playthrough-that-redefines-precision https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28383/monastery-dead-drop-ferocious-new-guitar-playthrough-for-sick-absolution-as-their-latest-ep-seeds-of-apostasy-continues-to https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28588/total-annihilation-unleash-fourth-album-mountains-of-madness-out-now https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28343/the-trousers-unleash-new-album-necessary-evil-budapests-hard-rock-heavy-hitters-are-back-with-their-most-explosive-reco Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Interceptor Unleashes Savage New Track “Blood On The Kudzu” Featuring Brandon Barker Streaming everywhere: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/interceptor/blood-on-the-kudzu Charleston, South Carolina — Rising from the... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Interceptor Unleashes Savage New Track “Blood On The Kudzu” Featuring Brandon Barker Streaming everywhere: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/interceptor/blood-on-the-kudzu Charleston, South Carolina — Rising from the smoldering underground of US black/speed/heavy metal, Interceptor returns with their latest destructive assault, “Blood On The Kudzu,” released January 30th, 2026. This single marks the band’s first release featuring the ferocious guitar work of Brandon Barker (Crazy Mad Ride, Rails to Roads), adding even more venom to their already blistering sound. Since their formation in 2022, Interceptor has been tearing through the metal scene with unrelenting fury, culminating in their critically acclaimed debut album, Tales of Mayhem. Known for their raw, first-wave black metal energy fused with NWOBHM-inspired riffing, savage punk undertones, and a pure Venom-worshipping spirit, the band has established themselves as true torchbearers of extreme metal. “Blood On The Kudzu” continues Interceptor’s mission to channel chaos and aggression into every riff, drum blast, and guttural scream. Fans can expect the same relentless intensity, but now with Brandon Barker’s signature shredding adding fresh fire to the sonic onslaught. The track is a testament to the band’s evolution while staying true to the barbaric spirit that has defined their rise. Whether you’re a die-hard first-wave black metal devotee, a fan of NWOBHM’s gritty glory, or just hungry for music that hits like a sledgehammer, Interceptor delivers again with uncompromising ferocity. Listen to “Blood On The Kudzu” now and witness the next chapter of chaos from Interceptor. For press, interviews, and booking inquiries, contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com Connect with the band:  https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/interceptor/blood-on-the-kudzuhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558678774418https://www.instagram.com/interceptorbandofficial/ Contact: officialinterceptor@gmail.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Red Vinter Return to Iconic 14:59 Studios to Record New Album Ghost In The Fog St. Paul, MN – Doom/death metal heavies Red Vinter have officially returned to the acclaimed 14:59 Studios in Minneapolis, MN to begin recording... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Red Vinter Return to Iconic 14:59 Studios to Record New Album Ghost In The Fog St. Paul, MN – Doom/death metal heavies Red Vinter have officially returned to the acclaimed 14:59 Studios in Minneapolis, MN to begin recording their second full-length album, Ghost In The Fog. The studio, renowned for hosting brutal sessions from underground standouts like Impaler, Thor, Plague of Stars, and Glutton for Punishment, makes a fitting lair for Red Vinter’s next sonic descent. The upcoming album will feature the highly anticipated tracks “Cryptic Site” and “The Cell Inside,” and once again pairs the band with the same production team behind their debut Lumbering Menace. The record is being co-produced by Red Vinter’s own Mike Bullock alongside 14:59 Studios engineer Will Maravelas, continuing the partnership that helped establish the band’s crushing, emotionally weighted sound. While the band forges ahead with new material, momentum around their previous releases continues to build. Fan favorites “Ashes” and “Insurgent” have been steadily gaining listeners and were recently added to the Screamin’ Eman Underground Metal show on the legendary WXAX. The tracks have also received spotlight rotation on KFAI, KMSU, and a growing list of online metal shows and podcasts, further cementing Red Vinter’s place in the modern doom and death underground. “With everything going on in Minneapolis lately, ‘Insurgent’ is more relevant now than ever,” says vocalist and bassist Mike Bullock. “Meanwhile, the message of ‘Ashes’—getting back on your feet no matter how hard life burns you to the ground—is a much-needed, daily reminder to never give up.” Fans can revisit “Ashes” here:[jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="Ap-46mYJiBA"] With Ghost In The Fog now underway, Red Vinter are doubling down on their mission to deliver slow-burning heaviness, bleak atmosphere, and hard-earned catharsis. More recording updates and release details are expected soon. For Fans Of: Godflesh, Celtic Frost, Crowbar About Red Vinter:Hailing from St. Paul, Minnesota, Red Vinter have carved out a reputation for punishing doom/death metal steeped in grit, weight, and raw emotional force. Their debut album Lumbering Menace marked them as a band to watch in the underground heavy music scene. With a new record in progress and growing radio and podcast support, Red Vinter are poised to take their next major step forward. Listen / Buy Lumbering Menace: Bandcamp: https://redvinter.bandcamp.com/album/lumbering-menace Everywhere Else: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/redvinter/lumbering-menace-2 For press, interviews, or media requests: zach@metaldevastationradio.com   Follow the band at these links: https://linktr.ee/redvinterhttps://redvinter.bandcamp.com Contact: redvintermetal@gmail.com Less