THE BEAST

Kenosha, Wisconsin’s old-school death metal stalwarts Jungle Rot are back to remind the world why they’ve been a cornerstone of the underground scene for over three decades. The band will release their 12th full-length album, Cruel Face Of War , on May 15th via Unique Leader Records, and fans can get a first taste with the lead single and video, “Apocalyptic Dawn,” streaming now https://orcd.co/CRUELFACEOFWAR. Artwork for the album comes courtesy of Gyula Havancsak.

Frontman Dave Matrise reflects on the milestone: “Let's start off by saying what an amazing accomplishment it is to hit 12 releases in my career. Never would I think I'd still be doing this 30+ years later. I guess be careful what you wish for. I'm very grateful to all of our fans that have supported us for so many years and for never giving up on us. 'Cruel Face Of War' will not disappoint. It's full of crushing grooves and violent hooks that will surely break anyone's neck.”

The album, produced once again by Chris Djuricic at Bell City Sound Company and mixed/mastered by Dan Swanö at Unisound Studio, continues Jungle Rot’s signature blend of old-school death metal, thrash, crossover, and punk-infused grooves. Track highlights include the title track, “Suffer in Silence,” “Blade of Betrayal,” and a special collaboration on “Horrors Vile” featuring David Ingram of Benediction.

Jungle Rot’s style has never been about maximum gore or flashy technicality—it’s about efficiency, infectious grooves, and songs that hit hard and stick in your head. With Cruel Face Of War , they continue this tradition, crafting a punishing, relentless album that old-school death metal fans will devour.

To celebrate the album, Jungle Rot will hit Europe this summer for their “Back to the Old School Tour,” sharing the stage with KHNVM and Rats of Gomorrah while playing festivals and clubs across the continent.

Selected Dates – “Back to the Old School Tour” 2026

June 5 – Karpaty Festival, Salvin, CZ

June 6 – Pitfest Festival, Emmen, NL

June 7 – Freihafen, Göttingen, DE

July 3 – Obscene Extreme Festival, Trutnov, CZ

Aug. 1 – DortmundDeathfest, Dortmund, DE

For the full lineup, pre-orders, and more, check out https://orcd.co/CRUELFACEOFWAR

Lineup for Cruel Face Of War :

Dave Matrise – Vocals, Guitars

James Genenz – Bass

Geoff Bub – Guitars

Spenser Syphers – Drums

Three decades deep, Jungle Rot are still grinding, still grooving, and still showing the new generation how old-school death metal is done.