THE BEAST

LOUDWIRE FEATURES MATT ZANE IN COVERAGE OF ONGOING STATIC-X LAWSUIT Metal Devastation PR client Matt Zane has been featured by Loudwire in recent coverage of the ongoing legal dispute surrounding his documentary about Wayne Static and Tera Wray.... More

LOUDWIRE FEATURES MATT ZANE IN COVERAGE OF ONGOING STATIC-X LAWSUIT Metal Devastation PR client Matt Zane has been featured by Loudwire in recent coverage of the ongoing legal dispute surrounding his documentary about Wayne Static and Tera Wray. The coverage comes as Zane continues to defend his position in a lawsuit involving Static-X. Zane has stated that the case seeks more than $1 million and centers in part on disputed ownership of footage he personally filmed while working with the band. Zane has also maintained that he never signed a work-for-hire agreement transferring ownership of his footage and that his work involved two separate documentary projects, including his own film about Wayne Static and Tera Wray. In a recent video update, Zane discussed the case, the footage at issue, and his plans to continue moving forward with the documentary. Metal Devastation PR would like to thank Loudwire for covering the story and providing its readers with an opportunity to learn more about the ongoing case and Zane's position. The lawsuit remains ongoing, and the allegations and legal positions of the parties have not been finally determined by the court. Read the Loudwire coverage and follow Matt Zane's ongoing story. https://loudwire.com/static-x-sue-matt-zicari-zane/ More details here: https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29405/matt-zane-provides-update-on-1-million-static-x-lawsuit-over-wayne-static-documentary Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MATT ZANE PROVIDES UPDATE ON $1 MILLION+ STATIC-X LAWSUIT OVER WAYNE STATIC DOCUMENTARY Filmmaker says ongoing legal dispute centers on ownership of footage, an alleged two-film agreement, and his efforts to complete an... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MATT ZANE PROVIDES UPDATE ON $1 MILLION+ STATIC-X LAWSUIT OVER WAYNE STATIC DOCUMENTARY Filmmaker says ongoing legal dispute centers on ownership of footage, an alleged two-film agreement, and his efforts to complete an unauthorized documentary about Wayne Static and Tera Wray LOS ANGELES, CA — September 15, 2026 — Filmmaker Matt Zane has released a new video providing an update on the ongoing legal dispute between himself and Static-X concerning his planned documentary about the late Static-X frontman Wayne Static and his wife, Tera Wray. According to Zane, the lawsuit seeks more than $1 million in damages and centers primarily on copyright claims involving footage he personally filmed during his work with Static-X. Zane disputes the band's claims regarding ownership of that footage. He says he never signed a work-for-hire agreement or another contract transferring ownership of his footage to Static-X. "I never signed a work for hire agreement or any other contract to relinquish my ownership of the footage," Zane says in his latest video update. A central part of Zane's position is his claim that his work with Static-X involved two separate documentary projects. According to Zane, one project was intended to be a film involving Static-X, while the second was his own documentary focusing on Wayne Static and Tera Wray. Zane says he repeatedly attempted to formalize the arrangement through a written agreement but that those efforts were postponed. He also says communications with Static-X management support his account that the second documentary project was known to members of the band's organization. "The facts are the facts, and I can back them up," Zane states. Zane also addresses the scope of the copyright dispute. He says his documentary has not yet been released and that the current dispute involves less than 15 minutes of footage that he has publicly posted online. According to Zane, the completed documentary has not been made available to the opposing side, and he believes the litigation is also an effort to prevent him from completing and releasing the film. While confident in his position, Zane acknowledges that the outcome of the case remains uncertain. "I don't necessarily think that it's an open and shut case," he says. "But obviously I have to try because the facts are the facts and I can back them up." The case is expected to proceed to a jury trial. Zane says he intends to continue defending his position and moving forward with the documentary. "Full steam ahead," Zane says. The lawsuit remains pending, and the allegations, defenses, and legal positions of the parties have not been finally determined by the court. The statements above regarding the dispute represent Zane's account and position in the litigation. Watch Matt Zane's full video update:https://www.instagram.com/reel/DdPN34VvOp2/ ABOUT MATT ZANE Matt Zane is a filmmaker, musician, photographer, and longtime figure in the industrial metal and alternative music scene. His current documentary project examines the life and legacy of Wayne Static and his relationship with Tera Wray. MEDIA CONTACT Metal Devastation PRZach Moonshinezach@metaldevastationradio.comhttps://metaldevastationradio.com/ Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MYHRDING RETURN WITH NEW EP “ECHOES FROM THE PAST” SEPTEMBER 25 THROUGH DOWNFALL RECORDS Swedish black metal veterans draw from Nordic tradition, history, darkness and melancholy on their latest release Swedish black metal... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MYHRDING RETURN WITH NEW EP “ECHOES FROM THE PAST” SEPTEMBER 25 THROUGH DOWNFALL RECORDS Swedish black metal veterans draw from Nordic tradition, history, darkness and melancholy on their latest release Swedish black metal veterans Myhrding will return on September 25, 2026, with their new EP, “Echoes from the Past,” through Downfall Records. Nearly two decades after forming in the deep, dark woods of Sweden, the band continues to forge a distinctly Nordic form of black metal rooted in Swedish history, folklore, anger, sorrow and melancholy. Formed in 2006, Myhrding have spent the past 20 years developing their own interpretation of the Nordic black metal tradition. Rather than simply looking toward the past, the band channels the atmosphere and spirit of Sweden's darker history into music that feels both ancient and fiercely alive. “Echoes from the Past” features five tracks that explore themes of death, history, destruction, humanity and the inevitable darkness that surrounds it all. The EP opens with “The Genesis of Death”, followed by “Småland,” “Echoes from the Past,” “Ruins of Mankind,” and “Den Slutgiltliga Striden.” The new release continues a discography that stretches back to the band's 2008 debut demo, followed by the 2011 Myhrding Mini-CD, 2012's “A Legacy Of Shadows,” 2014's “Nordens Mörkaste Kapitel,” and 2016's “1350.” With “Echoes from the Past,” Myhrding add another chapter to a catalog built on the raw, atmospheric spirit of Swedish black metal. At its core, Myhrding's music is driven by a combination of anger, sadness, melancholy and folklore, creating a sound and atmosphere aimed squarely at listeners who appreciate black metal with deep roots in Nordic tradition. “Echoes from the Past” Track Listing: The Genesis of DeathSmålandEchoes from the PastRuins of MankindDen Slutgiltliga Striden Myhrding: T. Bergström – Drums, VocalsJ. Thelander – BassA. Green – GuitarsD. Jonasson – Guitars Myhrding – “Echoes from the Past”Release Date: September 25, 2026Label: Downfall RecordsCatalog Number: FALLCD065Origin: SwedenStyle: Black Metal For nearly 20 years, Myhrding have remained connected to the darker side of Sweden's musical and historical heritage. With “Echoes from the Past,” that tradition continues. Listen, follow, and learn more about Myhrding through Downfall Records: https://www.downfallrecords.com/myhrding-swe/https://www.facebook.com/Myhrding/ Less

🔥 Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands? 🔥And who will dominate next month as Band of the Month on Metal Devastation Radio? Last month’s winners, OKL'S FRUITLOOPS, crushed... More

🔥 Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands? 🔥And who will dominate next month as Band of the Month on Metal Devastation Radio? Last month’s winners, OKL'S FRUITLOOPS, crushed the competition with a staggering 5,083,542 VOTES, claiming the title of Band of the Month on Metal Devastation Radio! You can check them out HERE! This is the weekly championship edition of the Band Of The Month – Battle Of The Bands that we host every month on MDR! How does it work?Every Monday, we launch a new poll featuring bands that submit music each week on metaldevastationradio.com. Voting runs until Friday at 9PM EST. Each Friday night, at the start of The Zach Moonshine Show, I’ll be spinning the Top Six weekly winners, and announcing the #1 band of the week live on air — getting thousands of listens on Mixcloud! At the end of the month, all weekly votes are added up, and the band with the highest total votes becomes our Band of the Month! Winning Band of the Month gets: A featured post on our Facebook page, reaching thousands of fans A front-page spotlight on metaldevastationradio.com, which pulls in hundreds of thousands of views every month A free PR email blast from Metal Devastation PR, hitting 40,000+ contacts including labels, zines, stations, and more Airplay every hour during general rotation Tons of social media shares and exposure across our network If you want the world to know who your band is, this is the easiest way to make it happen! 💥 Want in on the next battle?Comment below with your band name and we’ll add you to next week’s poll — or email me at zach@metaldevastationradio.com with “Battle Submission” in the subject line. Bands can compete as many times as they want, and if you enter multiple weeks in the same month, your votes combine toward the Band of the Month title! 👇 Click on the bands below to vote as many times as you like, or add your own! Poll closes Friday, September 18th at 9PM EST! Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands? 09/15/26 - 09/18/26 Less

BLIND ILLUSION’S MARK BIEDERMANN LOOKS BACK ON FIVE DECADES OF BAY AREA METAL, LES CLAYPOOL, CLIFF BURTON, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT AND THE NEW STAGE FLIGHT LIVE ALBUM Guitarist Mark Biedermann joins The Zach Moonshine Show for a wide-ranging... More

BLIND ILLUSION’S MARK BIEDERMANN LOOKS BACK ON FIVE DECADES OF BAY AREA METAL, LES CLAYPOOL, CLIFF BURTON, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT AND THE NEW STAGE FLIGHT LIVE ALBUM Guitarist Mark Biedermann joins The Zach Moonshine Show for a wide-ranging conversation covering The Sane Asylum, David White, Les Claypool, Kirk Hammett, Cliff Burton, Sandy Pearlman, Blue Öyster Cult, the Bay Area metal scene, Hectic Records, Crushing the Universe, and the upcoming STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre By Metal Devastation Radio Few bands can claim a history as strange, unpredictable, and deeply connected to the roots of the Bay Area metal scene as Blind Illusion. Formed in 1978, the band has spent nearly five decades moving through progressive metal, technical thrash, psychedelic experimentation and everything in between. At the center of that history is guitarist Mark Biedermann, whose career has crossed paths with some of the most important musicians and bands in heavy music. During a recent appearance on The Zach Moonshine Show, Biedermann opened up about Blind Illusion's upcoming live album, the return of original vocalist David White, the band's younger current lineup, his work with Les Claypool, Kirk Hammett, Sandy Pearlman and Blue Öyster Cult, and one particularly remarkable story involving his longtime friend Cliff Burton. The conversation also offered a glimpse into the next chapter of Blind Illusion, with the studio album Crushing the Universe already recorded and the band looking toward future European and U.S. festival appearances. “THIS, I GUARANTEE YOU, IS 100% LIVE” The immediate subject of the conversation was Blind Illusion's upcoming live release, STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre. The album originated during preparations for what became the band's reunion performance with Exodus. Biedermann explained that David White, Blind Illusion's original vocalist, contacted him while the band was working on pre-production for Crushing the Universe. “Dave White contacted me,” Biedermann recalled. “Lee contacted him and said would we do a reunion show with Exodus?” The band quickly shifted gears and began revisiting material from its early years, including songs from the Trilogy of Terror era, the Blind Sun demo and “Smash The Crystal,” one of the final songs White performed before leaving Blind Illusion to join Heathen. Rather than attempting to recreate the band's past with a lineup made entirely of former members, Biedermann chose to bring his current musicians into the equation. That lineup includes guitarist Martine Lacour, drummer Phil Costantini and bassist Avery Thurman. “I've got the band of young crazies that are just amazing,” Biedermann said, praising the musicians for capturing the spirit of Blind Illusion's early years despite their age. The UC Theatre performance was recorded by engineer Ivan Garcia, who connected the band's stage microphones to Pro Tools and captured the performance from the board. Biedermann subsequently handled the mixing, working with Costantini on the drum and bass tones before blending the guitars and vocals himself. And Biedermann was emphatic about one thing: there were no studio overdubs used to fake the performance. “So it's a pure live album,” he explained. He later put it even more directly: “This, I guarantee you, is 100% live.” That old-school approach is clearly important to Biedermann, particularly in an era where live records can sometimes be heavily altered after the fact. DAVID WHITE RETURNS One of the most significant elements of STAGE FLIGHT is the presence of original Blind Illusion vocalist David White. Biedermann explained that White's involvement made the performance something of a historical anomaly, particularly because “Smash The Crystal” was among the last songs White sang with the band before departing for Heathen. Biedermann said he would love to perform the material with White again, even discussing the possibility of a short European run built around the reunion. For now, however, Blind Illusion will continue forward with its current lineup while White continues his work with Heathen. THE NEXT CHAPTER: CRUSHING THE UNIVERSE While STAGE FLIGHT looks backward, Blind Illusion is already looking forward. Biedermann revealed that the band's next studio album, Crushing the Universe, has already been recorded. The album is being produced, engineered and mixed by former Blind Illusion bassist Tom Gears, who Biedermann says has played a major role in shaping the sound of the new record. “He's the whole reason why we are sounding like this on this new album, Crushing the Universe,” Biedermann said. Gears also co-wrote “Automatic Man” with Biedermann, a track featuring what Biedermann describes as one of Martine Lacour's most outrageous guitar performances. Biedermann compared Lacour's playing to John McLaughlin, Uli Jon Roth and Al Di Meola, saying the young guitarist is capable of taking the material into territory even Biedermann himself cannot always follow. “If you call what I do shredding,” Biedermann joked, “there's got to be another word for what Martine does.” He also revealed that the new version of “Concerto” will appear on Crushing the Universe, this time without keyboards. LES CLAYPOOL WAS BLIND ILLUSION'S FIRST BASS PLAYER Perhaps one of the most fascinating portions of the conversation centered around Les Claypool. Long before Primus, before Frizzle Fry, before the massive bass-playing reputation, Claypool was a young musician learning the instrument in Blind Illusion. According to Biedermann, Claypool became one of the band's first bass players in 1978. “He didn't know how to play,” Biedermann explained. The arrangement was simple: Claypool would get a bass, join the band and Biedermann would teach him the material. “The deal was you get a bass, you join my band, I will teach you how to play my songs, and then you will be the greatest bass player in the world someday.” That prediction didn't exactly age badly. Claypool eventually left to pursue jazz and fusion, but the relationship between the two musicians continued. Claypool later contacted Biedermann looking for someone to play fusion guitar with him, leading to a project called Sons of Illusion. Biedermann also pointed to Blind Illusion recordings as containing some of the earliest known recordings of Claypool. The Ultimate Anthology material includes the “Deathbed Kamikaze” demo, with Biedermann stating that the first two tracks feature Claypool on bass. “And that is the earliest recordings you will ever get of Les Claypool,” Biedermann said. Claypool eventually returned to Blind Illusion for The Sane Asylum, helping reconnect the band's original history with its 1988 debut. KIRK HAMMETT AND THE SANE ASYLUM The history surrounding The Sane Asylum is equally remarkable. Biedermann confirmed that Kirk Hammett was involved with the album's production. According to Biedermann, Hammett produced the record through the mixing stage, although the production arrangement ultimately prevented him from completing the mixing process with the band. “Kirk Hammett produced The Sane Asylum up to the mixed point,” Biedermann said. The result was an album that captured Blind Illusion's unique place in the Bay Area scene, while featuring musicians who would go on to become major figures in metal. THE LOST YEARS AND BLIND ILLUSION'S WEIRD SIDE Blind Illusion's history wasn't always about straight-ahead thrash. Biedermann discussed a period when the band moved into considerably stranger territory, incorporating keyboards, psychedelic influences and experimental material. He explained that the Bay Area scene had begun changing dramatically after thrash exploded, with funk metal and alternative sounds gaining ground. Bands such as Primus, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jane's Addiction, Testament, Exodus and Death Angel all came up during the conversation. Biedermann described a period when Blind Illusion's musicians were essentially caught between worlds. “The players that wanted to play couldn't play the stuff and the players that could play it didn't want to play,” he explained. “That is how that weird ass hippie the lost years Blind Illusion came about.” That experimental side of Blind Illusion remains part of the band's DNA, with Biedermann planning to revisit “Concerto” on Crushing the Universe. SANDY PEARLMAN, BLUE ÖYSTER CULT, JOE SATRIANI AND ROBBIE KRIEGER Biedermann's history extends well beyond Blind Illusion. During the interview, he discussed his involvement with Sandy Pearlman and the world surrounding Blue Öyster Cult, including work connected to Imaginos. That experience also brought him into contact with legendary musicians including Robbie Krieger of The Doors and Joe Satriani. Biedermann recalled playing rhythm guitar and guitar parts on the Imaginos material, including the Imaginos material surrounding ‘Magna Evolution,’ with Robbie Krieger also contributing to the recording. He also discussed playing on “The Siege and Investiture of Baron von Frankenstein's Castle at Sea,” a song that later generated an amusing misunderstanding online. When Biedermann discovered a fan had praised what they believed was Joe Satriani's guitar work as some of Satriani's best playing, he eventually revealed that the solo being praised was actually his. “And I should know because I'm Mark Biedermann,” he recalled. Rather than taking offense at the mistake, Biedermann took it as a compliment. “That's the greatest compliment that you would think my work was Joe's best work,” he said. “I AM NOT AI” The conversation eventually turned toward modern music culture and the changing relationship between musicians and their audiences. Biedermann talked about social media, younger metal fans and the increasingly strong backlash against artificial intelligence-generated artwork. He pointed out that his own song “Automatic Man” contains the line: “I am the automatic man. I am not AI.” According to Biedermann, the line was written years before the current AI debate exploded, but now carries an entirely different weight. His young bassist Avery Thurman also sings the line with him. Biedermann praised the younger generation for being outspoken and unapologetic about what they expect from metal. He also highlighted Thurman's social media presence, noting that the young bassist regularly posts performances of songs by Metallica, Megadeth and other major metal acts, sometimes pulling in thousands of views. For Biedermann, that connection between the old guard and the new generation is one of the most encouraging things happening around Blind Illusion. “WE'RE LIKE ONE OF THE LAST MEN STANDING” Biedermann acknowledged that Blind Illusion doesn't occupy the same commercial tier as Metallica, Exodus, Testament or Death Angel. But he also made it clear that the band's place in Bay Area metal history cannot simply be erased. “I'm almost like one of the last men standing,” Biedermann said, pointing to the surviving bands from that original scene. He sees the current generation of Blind Illusion musicians as carrying that history forward. “As far as I'm concerned, you know, I'm going to be around for another 20 years playing this stuff,” he said. “But if I kick the bucket, I expect them to carry on.” That philosophy seems to define the band's current era. Blind Illusion isn't simply attempting to recreate 1988. The goal is to keep moving while preserving the spirit that made the band unique in the first place. THE CLIFF BURTON STORY Then came perhaps the most unexpected story of the interview. Biedermann recalled a conversation with Cliff Burton outside Ruthie's in the Bay Area. According to Biedermann, Burton approached him with an unusual proposition. “Hey, Biedermann, I want to play some Southern rock with you.” Burton had apparently heard the country-influenced guitar lines in Biedermann's playing and wanted to form a Southern rock project influenced by bands such as Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top. Biedermann said Burton wanted to return to smaller clubs and play Southern rock when Metallica was off the road. The two musicians actually jammed together several times, including a performance at Ruthie's where they played “Am I Evil?” Biedermann also recalled another jam involving Burton, including Southern rock material and “Give Me Three Steps.” But then Burton left on tour with Metallica. “He took off on that tour and he never came back,” Biedermann said. “So that was a bummer.” Years later, Biedermann formed Ghost Kings, a Southern rock, blues and bluegrass project that he considers partially inspired by Burton's unrealized idea. The description? “It's like Johnny Cash meets Led Zeppelin.” The project even featured original Blind Illusion drummer Brett Hearn at one point. FROM THE BEATLES TO BRUCE LEE Biedermann's influences aren't limited to metal. He cited The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Deep Purple, Black Sabbath, Blue Öyster Cult, Steve Morse, John McLaughlin, Uli Jon Roth, Al Di Meola, Jerry Reed and Roy Clark among his musical influences. But perhaps more unusual is the influence of martial arts. Biedermann began studying Kung Fu at the age of eight and described Bruce Lee as being as important to his development as his musical heroes. He eventually performed Shaolin Kung Fu on the Great Wall of China and explained that Chinese philosophy and martial arts have also influenced his songwriting and Blind Illusion's music. Biedermann specifically connected the title Crushing the Universe to a movement within a Taiji set, explaining that elements of ancient Chinese Kung Fu philosophy and mysticism have found their way into his music and lyrics. “Bruce Lee was as big an influence to me as Uli Roth,” Biedermann said. It's another example of why Blind Illusion has never fit neatly inside one box. HECTIC RECORDS AND THE BAY AREA CONNECTION Blind Illusion's current relationship with Hectic Records also represents a return to the band's Bay Area roots. Biedermann described the connection as essentially a “no brainer,” particularly after seeing friends and other Bay Area musicians working with the label. Will Carroll of Death Angel has been heavily involved with Hectic Records, and Biedermann praised Carroll's hands-on approach to promoting the label's artists. Rather than relying solely on traditional distribution, Carroll has been personally taking Hectic releases into record stores while touring with Death Angel. Biedermann said that personal connection is one of the things that makes Hectic special. For a band with nearly five decades of history in the Bay Area, it is fitting that the next chapter is once again being built alongside musicians and people from the same community. EUROPE, U.S. FESTIVALS AND WHAT COMES NEXT Blind Illusion has already toured Europe multiple times, and Biedermann made it clear that the band wants to return. Former Blind Illusion bassist Harold is now interested in helping with management and European festival bookings. Biedermann specifically named Alcatraz, Headbangers Open Air and Storm Crusher among the festivals he'd love to return to. But Europe isn't the only target. Biedermann also issued a direct invitation to American festival promoters. “We want to play some festivals in the US,” he said, specifically mentioning events such as Hell's Heroes and Milwaukee Metal Fest. And with STAGE FLIGHT arriving first and Crushing the Universe expected to follow, the timing couldn't be better. KEEPING THE MACHINE MOVING Toward the end of the interview, Biedermann reflected on longevity and the strange idea of an “overnight success” arriving after decades of work. He compared his situation to Willie Nelson, describing the possibility of a “60-year overnight success.” The money isn't what motivates him. Keeping the music alive is. “As long as we get that success and there's money to be, there's money that they want to cry about, that's OK,” Biedermann said. “Because I'm not worried about the money as much as getting, keeping the product going.” That may be the best description of Blind Illusion's current position. Nearly five decades after the band began, Biedermann is still writing, recording, performing and looking ahead. The history is enormous. The stories are even bigger. But Blind Illusion isn't finished making history. STAGE FLIGHT: LIVE AT THE UC THEATRE Blind Illusion's STAGE FLIGHT: Live At The UC Theatre is scheduled for release October 16, 2026, featuring original vocalist David White. The live album captures the band's UC Theatre performance and, according to Biedermann, is a completely live recording with no studio overdubs. The band is also preparing the next studio chapter with Crushing the Universe, produced, engineered and mixed by former Blind Illusion bassist Tom Gears. After nearly 50 years, Mark Biedermann isn't looking backward. He's still cranking the amps, still writing songs, still pushing his guitar players to the limit and still planning the next show. As he put it during the interview: “I intend to be one of those guys.” And if Blind Illusion's history is any indication, there's probably a hell of a lot more story left to tell. Full Show Track List: Battle Of The Bands Top Six Winners: 1 - Another Demon - Reduced to Ash - (16,323,137 votes)2 - Virya - Technophobia - Live from FLSS 2026 - (6,562,524 votes)3 - Persephore - All That Is Left - (1,166,799 votes)4 - Soul Of Sheol - Paradise Is Not For Us - (13,191 votes)5 - Sharp n' Loud - Armored sexy girl - (12,895 votes)6 - Mistress - Terrified eyes - (4,589 votes) The Zach Moonshine Intro 7 - Ozzy Osbourne - Believer - Live From Blizzard Of Ozz Tour8 - MURDERY - KILLING GRANDMA9 - Infestation - Mother Of All Bombs10 - BEHEMOTH - In League with Satan Blind Illusion - Interview featuring Smash the Crystal/Blood Shower/Night Blade 11 - CIRITH UNGOL - All The Shadows12 - Smoulder - Shadow Of The Vulture/Warrior Witch Of Hell/Cage Of Mirrors [Manilla Road cover]13 - Netherdred - Necrodancer14 - Dee Calhoun - Kill a Mother Fucker15 - CREEPER - Big Bad Wolf16 - Ophiolatry - Revenge17 - The Red Mountain - When The Hammer Drops/The Color Greed18 - Demon Christ - Curse You All19 - Slipknot - Arsenal20 - Antania - 3321 - Craig Neill - Baloo Ka Toofaan22 - In Spite of Thunder - Collateral Damage23 - PS:23 - The Angel They Call Evil24 - Titan Blood - Unite Them Streaming now in full on Mixcloud! The interview is also available via YouTube, Spotify, Apple etc: [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="6W6t331iBAA"] Super massive thanks to the 289,486 metal maniacs from all over the world that tuned in for the live broadcast Friday! Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CULAK UNVEILS ECLECTIC METAL ODYSSEY TWELVE GATES Experimental Metal Project Channels Suffering, Bliss, Wonder, Escape, and Gnosis Into a Twelve-Part Journey Within There are albums that tell a story, and then there are... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CULAK UNVEILS ECLECTIC METAL ODYSSEY TWELVE GATES Experimental Metal Project Channels Suffering, Bliss, Wonder, Escape, and Gnosis Into a Twelve-Part Journey Within There are albums that tell a story, and then there are albums that take the listener somewhere. Culak enters the latter territory with Twelve Gates, an ambitious and eclectic metal album set for release December 12, 2026, through independent imprint Song & Silence. Conceived as a journey through twelve trials within a single being, Twelve Gates explores an unpredictable landscape of darkness, revelation, suffering, bliss, perseverance, quietude, escape, and gnosis. Rather than confining itself to a single stylistic lane, Culak embraces the uncertainty of the journey itself. The result is an album built around contrast, atmosphere, experimentation, and emotional catharsis, with each passage serving as another doorway into the larger narrative. Originally established as an experimental project in January 2013, Culak has evolved into a lifelong vessel for processing and expressing the extremes of human experience. Over the years, the project has developed a discography defined by its willingness to follow inspiration wherever it leads, leaving listeners with one question after each release: what comes next? Twelve Gates continues that philosophy. The album's twelve-trial concept follows a being moving inward, confronting the obstacles and experiences that exist within itself. Rather than presenting a straightforward linear narrative, Culak uses metal as the language through which those experiences can be explored and interpreted. “Twelve Gates is an eclectic metal album that conveys a being's journey through twelve trials within itself.” The album's accompanying narrative expands upon that concept and will be available as a bonus item with the album's Bandcamp pre-order, offering listeners another way to experience the world behind the music. Entirely written, recorded, mixed, and mastered by Christian Culak, Twelve Gates represents a deeply personal and self-contained creative vision. The album's artwork comes courtesy of Xenoyr, adding another dimension to the atmosphere surrounding the release. For listeners drawn to adventurous, progressive, experimental, and boundary-pushing metal, Culak's Twelve Gates offers an experience that refuses to reveal all of its secrets at once. For Fans Of: So Hideous, Uneven Structure, and Mastodon TWELVE GATES Culak Release Date: December 12, 2026Release Type: Full-Length AlbumGenre: MetalLabel: Song & SilenceWritten, Recorded, Mixed & Mastered by: Christian CulakArtwork by: Xenoyr ABOUT CULAK Originating as an experimental project in January 2013, Culak has blossomed into a lifelong vessel for catharsis. Through an ever-evolving approach to metal, the project channels an extensive range of experiences including suffering, bliss, wonder, escape, perseverance, quietude, and gnosis. The result is an unpredictable discography that continually challenges the listener to embrace the unknown and wonder what will come through the next gate. Twelve Gates by Culak CONNECT WITH CULAK Linktree:https://linktr.ee/culak Pre-Save / HyperFollow:https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/culak/twelve-gates Bandcamp:https://culak.bandcamp.com/album/twelve-gates Press Contact:Christian Culakcculak@protonmail.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BLIND ILLUSION FEATURED BY BRAVEWORDS AHEAD OF STAGE FLIGHT: LIVE AT THE UC THEATRE RELEASE Progressive Thrash Metal Pioneers Prepare to Unleash Historic Live Album Featuring Original Vocalist David White Progressive... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BLIND ILLUSION FEATURED BY BRAVEWORDS AHEAD OF STAGE FLIGHT: LIVE AT THE UC THEATRE RELEASE Progressive Thrash Metal Pioneers Prepare to Unleash Historic Live Album Featuring Original Vocalist David White Progressive thrash metal pioneers Blind Illusion have been featured by BraveWords in a new article spotlighting the band's upcoming live album, Stage Flight: Live At The UC Theatre, arriving October 16 through Hectic Records / Bleeding Priest Records. The album captures a historic 2025 performance at the UC Theatre in Berkeley, California, featuring the return of original Blind Illusion vocalist David White during a special celebration surrounding Exodus' 40th anniversary of Bonded By Blood. BraveWords highlights Blind Illusion's unique progressive approach to thrash metal and the band's nearly five-decade history, describing Stage Flight: Live At The UC Theatre as a release that connects the group's legendary past with its continuing evolution. Founded in 1978 and led by mastermind Mark Biedermann, Blind Illusion continues to carry the legacy of its landmark 1988 debut, The Sane Asylum, while pushing its sound and history forward with a new generation of performances. Stage Flight: Live At The UC Theatre will be released October 16 as a limited-edition 12-inch vinyl LP, with only 500 copies being pressed through Hectic Records / Bleeding Priest Records. Digital pre-orders are also available. Blind Illusion is:Mark Biedermann – Lead Guitar / VocalsMartin Lacour – Lead GuitarAvery Thurman – BassPhil Cosentini – Drum Check out the feature here: https://bravewords.com/news/blind-illusion-announces-stage-flight-live-at-the-uc-theatre-featuring-original-vocalist-david-white/ Check them out on YouTube:  [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="MaMW_k7Xmy8"] Connect:  https://blindillusion.bandcamp.com/album/stage-flight-live-at-the-uc-theatrehttps://www.instagram.com/blindillusionofficialhttps://www.facebook.com/officialblindillusionhttps://ffm.to/bclink1https://www.hectic.com/product/blind-illusion-live Contact: David HechtHectic Recordsdavid@hectic.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE INFESTATION UNLEASHES THRASH METAL ASSAULT WITH “MOTHER OF ALL BOMBS” New Single Explores the Devastating Reality of Modern Warfare Through Relentless Thrash Metal Release Date: August 28, 2026Genre: Thrash Metal... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE INFESTATION UNLEASHES THRASH METAL ASSAULT WITH “MOTHER OF ALL BOMBS” New Single Explores the Devastating Reality of Modern Warfare Through Relentless Thrash Metal Release Date: August 28, 2026Genre: Thrash Metal Infestation has unleashed its latest sonic assault, “Mother Of All Bombs,” a punishing new thrash metal single that confronts the destructive power of modern warfare head-on. Centered around the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast, commonly known as the “Mother of All Bombs” (MOAB), the track examines the sheer scale of destruction associated with one of the largest conventional bombs ever used by the United States. Rather than treating its subject as distant military history, Infestation brings the devastating reality of modern warfare directly into the music. Driven by aggressive riffs, relentless rhythms, and the uncompromising intensity that defines thrash metal, “Mother Of All Bombs” delivers a soundtrack to destruction while forcing listeners to consider the human reality behind the headlines, military hardware, and staggering numbers. The result is a track built for maximum impact, combining the raw aggression of classic thrash with a subject that remains deeply relevant in an increasingly volatile world. “Mother Of Bombs” is available now. LISTEN NOW https://open.spotify.com/track/7jEV6rjvoHMxKUTOHyBY9C WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="qjMYi_9eToU"] ABOUT INFESTATION Infestation delivers unapologetic thrash metal built around aggression, intensity, and subject matter that refuses to pull punches. With “Mother Of All Bombs,” the band turns its attention toward one of the most devastating weapons ever deployed in modern warfare, transforming the subject into a relentless metal statement about destruction and the consequences of humanity's continued pursuit of greater firepower. For fans of thrash metal that comes with teeth, Infestation is bringing the devastation. “Mother Of All Bombs” is out now. FOLLOW INFESTATION Linktree:https://linktr.ee/InfestationThrash Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THRENODY RETURNS TO THE FILTH WITH NEW SINGLE “FLASHLIGHT OVER FILTH” Old-School Death Metal Veterans Unleash the First Taste of Upcoming EP They Looked Better Dead Release Date: August 19, 2026Genre: Old-School Death... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE THRENODY RETURNS TO THE FILTH WITH NEW SINGLE “FLASHLIGHT OVER FILTH” Old-School Death Metal Veterans Unleash the First Taste of Upcoming EP They Looked Better Dead Release Date: August 19, 2026Genre: Old-School Death Metal / GrindcoreFor Fans Of: Bolt Thrower, Carcass, Death READING, PA — Some bands form. Some bands disappear. And some refuse to stay dead. Old-school death metal veterans Threnody have unleashed “Flashlight over Filth,” the first single from their forthcoming EP They Looked Better Dead. Released August 19, 2026, the track marks the latest chapter in a story that began nearly four decades ago in the underground of Reading, Pennsylvania. In 1988, five young musicians from Berks County, Pennsylvania, joined forces with a singular purpose: to create music capable of devastating everything in its path. Todd handled the microphone, Rich took command of the drums, Bill and Sean wielded guitars, and Dave held down the bass. Together, they became Threnody. Initially influenced by underground gods including Carcass, Entombed, and Obituary, the band quickly moved beyond imitation, developing its own identity and establishing itself as a formidable force in the Reading metal scene. For nearly two years, Threnody sharpened its attack from the top of the local underground, eventually unleashing the six-song EP Internal Infestation in late 1990. The release ignited a demand for live performances, sending the band into a relentless campaign of shows and further honing its lethal sound. Their proving ground was Unisound, Reading's only all-ages club at the time, where Threnody continued building its reputation among the underground faithful. The band began writing more material and recorded another EP, but before that next chapter could be released, fate intervened. The record remained unreleased, and the original members eventually went their separate ways. Then came 2020. During the global pandemic, guitarist Bill set out to reignite the torch and reunite Threnody's original members. Founding members Sean and Dave returned, while vocalist Todd and drummer Rich were unable to participate. With the world locked down and distance becoming little more than a technical obstacle, Harry from the UK and David from Ecuador joined the resurrected lineup on vocals and drums. Rather than simply dusting off the past, Threnody took eight songs originally written more than 30 years earlier and re-visioned them for a new era. The result was the band's first full-length album, Rid of Flesh. Now Threnody is moving forward once again. “Flashlight over Filth” serves as the first single from the upcoming EP They Looked Better Dead, delivering another dose of the band's old-school death metal and grindcore attack. The track was produced by Threnody, with mixing and mastering handled by Steve Perrino. This isn't nostalgia dressed up as death metal. This is a band that was there when the underground was being built, disappeared, came back decades later, and decided it still wasn't finished. The riffs are still loaded. The filth is still there. And the torch is still burning. Let it rip. STREAM “FLASHLIGHT OVER FILTH” https://linktr.ee/threnody ABOUT THRENODY Formed in 1988 in Reading, Pennsylvania, Threnody emerged from the formative underground death metal scene of the late 1980s. Influenced initially by Carcass, Entombed, and Obituary, the band quickly forged its own identity and became a force in the local scene. In 1990, Threnody released the six-song EP Internal Infestation and built a reputation through relentless live performances, including shows at Reading's legendary all-ages venue Unisound. A second EP was recorded but never released before the original members eventually went their separate ways. Three decades later, guitarist Bill began the process of resurrecting the band. With Sean and Dave returning and Harry from the UK and David from Ecuador joining on vocals and drums, Threnody transformed eight songs originally written in the early 1990s into the 2020 full-length Rid of Flesh. Now the band continues that resurrection with its forthcoming EP They Looked Better Dead and its first single, “Flashlight over Filth.” Threnody isn't looking to recreate the past. They're bringing it back to life. PRESS / CONTACT Bill HylandThrenodythrenodyusgrindgore@gmail.com https://linktr.ee/threnody Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE IN SPITE OF THUNDER UNVEILS “COLLATERAL DAMAGE,” A HAUNTING NEW EP OF SYMPHONIC GOTHIC DOOM AND GOTHIC FOLK French Gothic Composer and Classically Trained Soprano Cathy Isot Explores Grief, Fear, Consequences, and Lingering... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE IN SPITE OF THUNDER UNVEILS “COLLATERAL DAMAGE,” A HAUNTING NEW EP OF SYMPHONIC GOTHIC DOOM AND GOTHIC FOLK French Gothic Composer and Classically Trained Soprano Cathy Isot Explores Grief, Fear, Consequences, and Lingering Shadows on New Three-Track Release Release Date: November 6, 2026Genre: Symphonic Gothic Doom / Gothic FolkFor Fans Of: Theatre of Tragedy, Draconian, Evanescence French Gothic composer and classically trained soprano Cathy Isot, the creative force behind In Spite of Thunder, will release her new EP “Collateral Damage” on November 6, 2026. Blending delicate piano melodies, haunting vocals, symphonic Gothic doom, and acoustic Gothic folk, the three-track release offers a deeply atmospheric journey through heartbreak, political disillusionment, fear, and grief. Drawing inspiration from nature, Gothic architecture, and her travels, In Spite of Thunder creates music where classical elegance meets the darker emotional landscapes of Gothic and doom metal. “Collateral Damage” showcases the breadth of Isot’s songwriting, moving between crushing symphonic darkness and intimate acoustic vulnerability. The EP features two Symphonic Gothic Doom tracks, “Collateral Damage” and “Ancient Wounds,” alongside the acoustic Gothic Folk song “Beyond the Shadows.” Together, the three songs present different sides of Isot’s musical identity while remaining connected by a common thread of emotional intensity. The title track, “Collateral Damage,” has its origins in an unreleased song from Isot’s former band, Spell of Enchantress. Rather than simply revisiting the past, Isot completely rewrote and re-recorded the piece, with production handled by Sermilion and Kublai Kapsalis. The song’s lyrics deliberately leave room for interpretation, functioning both as a deeply personal breakup song and as a broader statement about political greed and the human consequences of decisions made by those in power. “Collateral Damage is about being fed up with the greed of politicians not caring about the consequences of their actions on civilians,” explains Isot, while acknowledging that listeners may also interpret the song through the lens of a fractured personal relationship. “Ancient Wounds” continues the EP’s darker journey through a collaboration between In Spite of Thunder and Kublai Kapsalis. The song examines the way deeply rooted fears can become obstacles, preventing people from moving forward and fully embracing their lives. The EP closes with “Beyond the Shadows,” an acoustic Gothic Folk reimagining of a Spell of Enchantress single. Stripped back from the heavier material surrounding it, the song explores lingering grief and the emotional weight of what remains after loss. Production for the acoustic version was handled by Daniel Francis. “Collateral Damage” represents another step forward for an artist whose musical journey has continually crossed the boundaries between Gothic, classical, folk, and metal. Isot first introduced In Spite of Thunder in 2022 with the Symphonic Metal single “Drama Queen.” She subsequently spent four years performing as the soprano and manager of Gothic Doom band Spell of Enchantress, gaining experience that would ultimately feed into the development of her solo work. Since 2025, she has also released three Gothic Folk singles: “Ships in the Dark,” “The Downward Spiral,” and “Drowning.” With “Collateral Damage,” In Spite of Thunder brings those various influences together into a release that is both atmospheric and personal, balancing the grandeur of Symphonic Gothic Doom with the fragile intimacy of acoustic songwriting. For listeners drawn to the dramatic Gothic metal of Theatre of Tragedy, the melancholic doom of Draconian, or the atmospheric accessibility of Evanescence, In Spite of Thunder offers a distinctly personal take on the darker side of music. PRODUCTION CREDITS Collateral DamageVocals: Cathy IsotMusic & Lyrics: Cathy Isot, SermilionProduction: Sermilion, Kublai Kapsalis Ancient WoundsMusic, Lyrics & Vocals: Cathy IsotProduction: Kublai Kapsalis Beyond the ShadowsVocals: Cathy IsotMusic & Lyrics: Cathy Isot, SermilionProduction: Daniel Francis [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="4viTar8ToHc"] CONNECT WITH IN SPITE OF THUNDER Pre-Save “Collateral Damage” EP:https://ffm.to/collateraldamageep Linktree:https://linktr.ee/inspiteofthunder Bandcamp:https://inspiteofthunder.bandcamp.com/ PRESS CONTACT Cathy Isotcathy@inspiteofthunder.com Less

ANTANIA Unleash Official Video For “33” California Experimental Duo Deliver A Dark Collision Of Industrial Black Metal, Electronics And Psychological Horror California-based experimental extreme metal duo ANTANIA have unveiled the official video... More

ANTANIA Unleash Official Video For “33” California Experimental Duo Deliver A Dark Collision Of Industrial Black Metal, Electronics And Psychological Horror California-based experimental extreme metal duo ANTANIA have unveiled the official video for “33,” the first track from their forthcoming album The Unholy 33, arriving digitally October 16, 2026 via Argonauta Records. Originally premiered by VerdamMnis Magazine on September 10, “33” offers a first glimpse into the twisted sonic world ANTANIA have created, where industrial black metal, electronic experimentation, crushing bass frequencies and sinister sound design collide. Led by Dr. Luna and Karli Mortem, ANTANIA have developed a sound that deliberately exists outside traditional genre boundaries. Built around synthesizers, distortion, oppressive low frequencies and mechanical rhythms, the duo's music strips extreme metal down to its most abrasive and atmospheric elements while injecting it with the cold, unsettling character of industrial electronics. ANTANIA draw inspiration from pioneering and boundary-pushing acts including Dødheimsgard, Mysticum and Thorns, as well as industrial innovators Skinny Puppy and Ministry. Rather than simply combining those influences, the duo uses them as a foundation for something distinctly their own. The result is an immersive form of extreme music that can feel simultaneously mechanical, hypnotic, violent and deeply unsettling. With ANTANIA, there are no conventional genre restrictions. The project embraces experimentation and complete artistic freedom, creating an environment where distorted electronics, extreme metal, bass-heavy production and atmospheric sound design can exist as one entity. That philosophy extends into the lyrical and conceptual world of ANTANIA. The duo explores true crime, psychological horror, violence and the darkest corners of the human condition, using their music as a vehicle to examine the disturbing realities of the world around us. “33” The first track from The Unholy 33, “33” immediately establishes ANTANIA's uncompromising approach. Mechanical rhythms and crushing bass frequencies provide the foundation while distorted electronics and extreme metal textures create an atmosphere that feels less like a conventional song and more like an unsettling sonic ritual. The accompanying video was directed by Matt Zane, adding a visual dimension to the track's disturbing atmosphere. “33” is not designed to fit neatly into a single category. It is industrial. It is extreme. It is electronic. It is black metal. Most importantly, it is unmistakably ANTANIA. Following the release of “33,” attention now turns toward The Unholy 33, which will introduce listeners to an even deeper exploration of the duo's experimental and uncompromising artistic vision. The Unholy 33 will be released digitally on October 16, 2026 via Argonauta Records, with CD and vinyl editions to follow. ANTANIA is built for listeners willing to step outside the boundaries of conventional extreme music. WATCH “33” NOW! [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="h9AXCFSJhdY"] The Unholy 33 arrives October 16, 2026 via Argonauta Records. ABOUT ANTANIA ANTANIA is a California-based experimental extreme metal duo led by Dr. Luna and Karli Mortem. Drawing from industrial black metal, dark electronics, experimental music and psychological horror, the project exists without conventional genre or creative limitations. Inspired by artists ranging from Dødheimsgard, Mysticum and Thorns to Skinny Puppy and Ministry, ANTANIA create immersive and unsettling soundscapes centered around synthesizers, distortion, mechanical rhythms and powerful low-end frequencies. Their work explores the darkest aspects of human nature while embracing absolute artistic freedom and sonic experimentation. The Unholy 33 arrives October 16, 2026 through Argonauta Records. ANTANIA have entered the machine. Photo credit : Anabel DFlux Less