Metal Devastation PR Clients Featured And Reviewed In Latest Issue Of Necromance Magazine Metal Devastation PR is proud to announce that clients Helldrifter, Infest (Serbia), Outburst, and VULNIFICUS are featured in the latest issue of the... More

Metal Devastation PR Clients Featured And Reviewed In Latest Issue Of Necromance Magazine Metal Devastation PR is proud to announce that clients Helldrifter, Infest (Serbia), Outburst, and VULNIFICUS are featured in the latest issue of the legendary Necromance Magazine, with all four bands receiving strong critical praise for their recent releases. Helldrifter’s Shell of Inexistence (Violent Creek Records) earned an 8/10 score, praised for blending the melodic ferocity of old At The Gates with the technical brutality of late era Death. The album was highlighted for its visceral songwriting, strong production, and immersive artwork that pulls listeners into a dark, nightmarish world. VULNIFICUS’ Inclination (Comatose Music) also scored an 8/10, with Necromance spotlighting the band’s swampy, putrid death metal attack, devastating heaviness, and surprising technical depth beneath the surface. Tracks like “Bacteria Backlash” and “Involuntary Incapacitated” were noted for their balance of brutality, speed, and intricate riff work. Serbian death thrash veterans INFEST received an 8/10 for Ambassadors of Aggression (Violent Creek Records), with the album described as a savage and dynamic release rooted in classic influences such as Kreator, Slayer, and Sepultura. The review praised the album’s aggressive songwriting while also highlighting adventurous moments like the semi acoustic “Requiem for the Balkans.” Outburst’s Devouring The Masses (Violent Creek Records) earned a solid 7.5/10, recognized for its raw, old school blend of thrash and speed metal in the true 80s tradition. The record was praised for its direct songwriting, energetic riffing, and stripped down production that stays true to the genre’s roots. The latest issue of Necromance Magazine also features UNDEAD on the cover, along with in depth coverage of Demiurgon, The Medea Project, Infrahumano, Vanir, 3000 A.D., Eldfödd, Blood Red Throne, Shadow Rebels, Enragement, Heads For The Dead, and more. With its continued dedication to real metal culture and underground credibility, Necromance Magazine remains a vital voice for the extreme metal scene worldwide. Check it out here: https://necromancemagazine.aflip.in/necromancedigimag012026.html#page/1 Check out the bands at these links: https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28417/vulnificus-unleash-their-debut-full-length-inclination-a-surgical-strike-of-brutal-death-metal-extremity-out-now-on-comatose https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28097/loudwire-features-helldrifters-new-album-shell-of-inexistence-via-violent-creek-records https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28149/outburst-unleashes-debut-album-devouring-the-masses-hits-the-road-on-european-typhus-fate-weaver-tour https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/27949/infest-unleash-new-single-video-bolje-da-umrem-a-black-anthem-of-defiance-and-despair Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Metal Devastation PR Clients Featured In Bathory Magazine Metal Devastation PR is proud to announce that several of its clients have been featured in the latest issue of Bathory Magazine, spotlighting a diverse cross... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Metal Devastation PR Clients Featured In Bathory Magazine Metal Devastation PR is proud to announce that several of its clients have been featured in the latest issue of Bathory Magazine, spotlighting a diverse cross section of the underground metal scene. The featured artists include Helldrifter, Relentless Aggression, Girlzeroth, Evil Age, Aittala, Night Attack, Vaulderie, Hegeroth, and Concrete. The coverage highlights the continued rise of independent heavy music and the hard work of bands pushing their sound beyond the local circuit. “This kind of recognition matters,” said Metal Devastation PR. “Bathory Magazine has long supported underground metal, and we are stoked to see our artists getting well deserved exposure.” Fans are encouraged to check out the latest issue of Bathory Magazine and support the bands by streaming, sharing, and showing up to live shows. About Metal Devastation PRMetal Devastation PR is an independent metal promotion agency focused on helping underground and established artists gain exposure through media coverage, radio, and digital campaigns. For press inquiries or promotional support, contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com Download and read it here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rVE8z12K2Wzj0VTeCm40IoNoWWNKkf0V/view More details on each band at these links: https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28493/concrete-unleashes-relentless-old-school-death-metal-on-fifth-album-absent-mortality https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28533/hegeroth-unleash-you-may-call-me-a-witch-first-taste-of-upcoming-album-soaked-in-rot https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28554/vaulderie-unleashes-occult-black-thrash-devastation-with-new-album-sanguinoctum https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28430/night-attack-conjure-old-school-chaos-on-new-ep-necromancer https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28184/doomed-stoned-premieres-aittalas-gritty-new-single-isolation-ahead-of-second-2025-ep-ill-gotten-gains https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28536/evil-age-signs-with-cdn-records-debut-single-evil-never-sleeps-unleashed https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28537/girlzeroth-unleashes-ferocious-death-metal-assault-with-new-album-fight-against-stigma https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28290/relentless-aggression-unleashes-new-single-mindbolted-featuring-blodhemns-invisus https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/27888/helldrifter-announce-european-inexistence-tour-2025-supporting-sinister-on-iberian-dates Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Crymwav Unleash Hard-Hitting New Album Speak No Evil — Out Now Listen Here: https://crymwav.bandzoogle.com/ Electric Pudding Recordings is proud to announce that Speak No Evil, the explosive new hard rock album from... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Crymwav Unleash Hard-Hitting New Album Speak No Evil — Out Now Listen Here: https://crymwav.bandzoogle.com/ Electric Pudding Recordings is proud to announce that Speak No Evil, the explosive new hard rock album from Crymwav, is officially out now. Blending gritty riffs, soaring melodies, and classic rock attitude, Crymwav delivers a modern sound rooted in rock’s rebellious past. Drawing inspiration from Thin Lizzy, The Damned, and Hawkwind, Crymwav retools the classic rock sound for today’s world while keeping its raw edges intact. With keyboards contributed by Roman Jugg (ex-The Damned), the album provides a perfect soundtrack for those waking up to the big tech, big brother, billionaire-fueled authoritarianism moving across our lives at a dizzying pace. "The natural successors to the classic rock sound, they have retooled the style for the modern age, left the raw edges, and given us a perfect soundtrack to those waking up to the big tech, big brother, billionaire benefiting authoritarianism that is moving over our lives at a fantastic pace." — Big Takeover Magazine Produced by Crymwav, mixed by Hunter Crowley, and mastered by Mark Cheliki, Speak No Evil hits hard while keeping every note crisp and powerful. Genre: Hard RockFor Fans Of: The Damned, Thin Lizzy, HawkwindLabel: Electric Pudding RecordingsManagement: Nordeast Management For interviews, press assets, or more information, contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com Check out the video and subscribe: [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="6dHh3ubj_tM"] Connect with the band:  https://crymwav.bandcamp.com/track/speak-no-evilhttps://www.facebook.com/crymwav/ Contact: flyingdutchboy72@yahoo.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BLACK REUSS ANNOUNCES FOURTH ALBUM DEATH Melodic Gothic Metal Visionary Returns with Dark, Emotional Journey Swiss one-man melodic gothic metal project Black Reuss is set to unveil its fourth full-length album, Death, on... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE BLACK REUSS ANNOUNCES FOURTH ALBUM DEATH Melodic Gothic Metal Visionary Returns with Dark, Emotional Journey Swiss one-man melodic gothic metal project Black Reuss is set to unveil its fourth full-length album, Death, on February 27, 2026, via Golden Robot Records. The album follows the release of the first single, “Oblivion,” with the second single, “Endgame,” arriving February 13. Black Reuss, the artistic vehicle of Maurizio Dottore, has long translated life’s inevitable currents into sound. Inspired by the Swiss river Reuss, the music flows through themes of transformation, darkness, resilience, and renewal. Death represents the next chapter in this ongoing journey—a sonic exploration of dissolution, judgment, rebirth, and the fragile spark of hope that persists even in darkness. Death continues Black Reuss’ signature blend of melancholic, melodic gothic metal, with heavier, deeper, and more atmospheric textures. Dottore wrote, composed, performed, and produced the album, supported by Diego Rapacchietti (drums, Coroner). The album was shaped sonically by Roberto Macis (mixing, Solid Twin Studio), Giovanni Versari (mastering, La Maestà Mastering Studio), with vocals recorded by Roberto De Luca and drums captured by Tommy Vetterli. “This album dives into the place where identity dissolves, and truth becomes quiet,” says Dottore. “Death isn’t an ending—it’s a passage. It’s a continuation, a deeper flow beneath the surface. I want listeners to feel that current, to connect with it, and eventually bring it to life on stage.” The Black Reuss Journey Metamorphosis (2021): the turbulent birth of transformation. Journey (2022): navigating the path to self-understanding and reflection. Arrival (2023): achieving clarity, acceptance, and inner strength. Death (2026): the descent into deeper, unseen currents—a rebirth of the river itself. For fans of Type O Negative, Katatonia, and Black Sabbath, Black Reuss continues to deliver music that is intimate, heavy, and universally resonant, reflecting life’s burdens, losses, and moments of quiet strength. Pre-save the first single “Oblivion” here: https://orcd.co/black-reuss-oblivion More info: https://goldenrobotrecords.com/pages/black-reuss Press Contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com Check them out on YouTube and subscribe! [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="5DMcwWKyRlc"] Connect with Black Reuss: https://linktr.ee/blackreussmusic Contact: contact@blackreuss.com  Management: EMG.Paul.Andrejack@gmail.com Less

Photo Credit: Metal Injection / Derek Tobias FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Metal Injection Spotlights Lost Legacy’s Explosive Anaheim Performance with Metal Allegiance New York Power Metal Veterans Continue Their Comeback Momentum After Pandemic... More

Photo Credit: Metal Injection / Derek Tobias FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Metal Injection Spotlights Lost Legacy’s Explosive Anaheim Performance with Metal Allegiance New York Power Metal Veterans Continue Their Comeback Momentum After Pandemic Setbacks Streaming: https://linktr.ee/lostlegacyny New York-based power metal force Lost Legacy are back in fighting form and gaining serious traction, following their recent high-profile performance alongside Metal Allegiance, Red Reign, and Chained Saint at the House of Blues in Anaheim. The January 22, 2026 show was captured by Metal Injection photographer Derek Tobias, with the outlet featuring Lost Legacy as part of their coverage of the night’s explosive performances. Metal Injection praised the stacked bill and the intensity of the show, spotlighting Lost Legacy as they shared the stage with Metal Allegiance during a night that tore through Anaheim’s House of Blues and reminded fans why live metal still hits different when it is done right. For Lost Legacy, the Anaheim appearance marks another major step forward in a long, hard-earned comeback story. Their 2020 album In the Name of Freedom, released via Pure Steel Records, arrived just days before the global pandemic shut the world down, abruptly halting touring plans that included dates with Doro and other major acts. “Everything changed overnight,” says guitarist and executive producer Jorge Pulido. “It was crushing. But we never gave up.” Since 2022, Lost Legacy have steadily rebuilt their momentum, navigating lineup changes and a battered live scene while remaining selective about performances. The Metal Allegiance show, now backed by coverage from Metal Injection, stands as a clear signal that the band is back on serious footing. Capturing Chaos: The Live Video That Almost Wasn’t Determined to document the Anaheim performance, the band brought five cameras, including three shooting in 4K. Technical issues nearly killed the project when one camera broke during transport, another failed mid-show, and the venue’s soundboard recording was accidentally stopped by the audio engineer. With no professional audio track to rely on, the band reconstructed the performance using camera mic audio alone. “It wasn’t ideal,” Pulido admits. “But we blended what we had and made it work. It’s raw, but it is honest. That night meant a lot to us, and we wanted to preserve it.” About the Album In the Name of Freedom was produced, mixed, and mastered by Tom Tullota, with executive production by Jorge Pulido. The album delivers classic power metal energy with heavy riffs and melodic storytelling rooted in themes of resilience, freedom, and perseverance. Fans of Metal Church, Fates Warning, Metal Allegiance, and Testament will feel right at home. What’s Next for Lost Legacy With a new album slated for release this fall and more live appearances in the works, Lost Legacy are entering their next chapter with renewed momentum. The band is currently booking interviews and seeking new performance opportunities as they reconnect with longtime supporters and bring in new fans worldwide. Follow and stream Lost Legacy:https://linktr.ee/lostlegacyny For media inquiries, interviews, or promotional opportunities:zach@metaldevastationradio.com Check it out here: https://metalinjection.net/photos/photos-metal-allegiance-lost-legacy-red-reign-chained-saint-in-anaheim Follow the band at these links: linktr.ee/lostlegacynywww.lostlegacyny.comwww.facebook.com/lostlegacynywww.instagram.com/lost_legacy_nyhttps://youtube.com/@lostlegacyny_https://open.spotify.com/artist/4DLkslsqbW4fH93HgF9qqE Contact: lostlegacyny@gmail.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Zero Tolerance Earn 8/10 Praise from Headbangers Australia for New Album A Test of StrengthOut Now via Witches Brew Records Metal Devastation PR clients Zero Tolerance are gaining serious traction following a strong new... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Zero Tolerance Earn 8/10 Praise from Headbangers Australia for New Album A Test of StrengthOut Now via Witches Brew Records Metal Devastation PR clients Zero Tolerance are gaining serious traction following a strong new review from Headbangers Australia, who awarded the band’s latest album A Test of Strength an 8/10 and praised the record for its discipline, focus, and pure thrash metal impact. In their review, Headbangers Australia highlights Zero Tolerance’s no-nonsense approach to modern thrash, stating: “Zero Tolerance’s A Test of Strength arrives with no pretense and no disguise. It is a straight line document of intent with eight tracks, thirty minutes, and no deviation from their mission… The Canadian quartet operates inside thrash’s classic framework, but they refuse to reenact it. They sharpen it, condense it, and strip it down to the core mechanics of velocity, articulation, and impact.” The review goes on to spotlight standout tracks such as “Hexengeist,” “Leather Lung,” “Point Blank,” and “Breach for Terror,” noting the band’s understanding of momentum, tight execution, and controlled yet aggressive production. The title track “A Test of Strength” is praised as the album’s hinge point, while “Kill the Colony,” “N.O.Y.C.” and closing track “Incendiary” push the record to a focused, blistering finish. “A Test of Strength succeeds because of its refusal to excess. Zero Tolerance knows the lineage they’re entering, and they answer it with discipline, clarity, and complete impact.”— Headbangers Australia (8/10) With A Test of Strength out now via Witches Brew Records, Zero Tolerance continue to prove that modern thrash does not need gimmicks or nostalgia to hit hard. This is pure intent, pure aggression, and pure metal. Check it out here: https://www.headbangersaustralia.com/reviews/zero-tolerence---a-test-of-strength Label: Witches Brew RecordsPR: Metal Devastation PRFFO: Slayer, Exodus, Kreator, Testament Press Contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com Get it here: https://witchesbrewthrashes.bandcamp.com/album/a-test-of-strength A Test Of Strength by ZERO TOLERANCE Follow ZERO TOLERANCE on: https://witchesbrewthrashes.bandcamp.com/album/a-test-of-strengthhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557628406269https://www.instagram.com/zerotolerancethrash/http://www.witchesbrew.eu/ Contact: zerotolerancetheband@gmail.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CYANATE Release New Single and Official Music Video “Fade Away” – Out Now https://hypeddit.com/cyanate/fadeaway Reno, Nevada — Progressive metalcore bruisers CYANATE have dropped their latest single and official music... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CYANATE Release New Single and Official Music Video “Fade Away” – Out Now https://hypeddit.com/cyanate/fadeaway Reno, Nevada — Progressive metalcore bruisers CYANATE have dropped their latest single and official music video, “Fade Away,” available now on all major platforms as of February 4, 2026. The track continues the band’s forward momentum, blending technical precision with crushing heaviness and emotionally charged atmospheres. Hailing from Reno’s high desert metal underground, CYANATE have carved out a sound rooted in progressive aggression, intricate timing, and modern metalcore intensity. “Fade Away” leans hard into that formula, pairing layered guitar work and dynamic shifts with a raw, urgent vocal delivery that hits where it hurts. Serving as a new standalone release and visual statement, the “Fade Away” music video captures the band’s darker edge and cinematic vision, matching the track’s emotional weight with striking imagery. It is a bold snapshot of where CYANATE are headed next, sharper, heavier, and more focused than ever. CYANATE have previously shared the stage with Fear Factory, Orbit Culture, Rivers of Nihil, and Cradle of Filth, earning their stripes alongside some of the most respected names in modern heavy music. With momentum building, the band is actively preparing for a busy run of regional and international touring in 2026. For Fans Of: Periphery, Between the Buried and Me, Rivers of Nihil Watch / Listen:[jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="vOFpfPuy34o"] With “Fade Away,” CYANATE continue to prove they belong in the conversation when it comes to the next wave of progressive metalcore. This is a band refining their weapons and aiming higher with every release. Keep your eye on them. Connect with the band: https://linktr.ee/cyanateband Contact: cyanateband@gmail.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Vicar Blood Added to Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival 2026 LineupMetal Devastation PR Clients Join Massive Multi Day Bill at Historic Ohio State Reformatory Mansfield, OH | July 17–19, 2026 Metal Devastation PR... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Vicar Blood Added to Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival 2026 LineupMetal Devastation PR Clients Join Massive Multi Day Bill at Historic Ohio State Reformatory Mansfield, OH | July 17–19, 2026 Metal Devastation PR is proud to announce that their clients Vicar Blood have been officially added to the lineup for Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival 2026, one of North America’s premier rock and metal destination festivals. The event takes place July 17–19, 2026 at the legendary Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio. Inkcarceration 2026 features a stacked lineup of some of the biggest names in heavy music, including Disturbed, Limp Bizkit, Gojira, Bad Omens, Motionless In White, Ice Nine Kills, Lorna Shore, A Day To Remember, Papa Roach, Machine Head, and many more. With Vicar Blood now joining the bill, the band steps onto one of the largest stages of their career to date. Known for their relentless energy and hard-hitting sound, Vicar Blood have been steadily building momentum through touring, new releases, and a growing fanbase. Their inclusion on the Inkcarceration lineup marks a major milestone and places them alongside some of the most respected and influential acts in modern heavy music. “This is a huge opportunity for Vicar Blood and a well-earned spot on one of the most stacked festival lineups of the year,” said Metal Devastation PR. “Inkcarceration has become a landmark event for heavy music fans, and seeing our clients represented on this stage is exactly what the grind is about.” Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival is produced by Danny Wimmer Presents and continues to be a key destination for rock and metal fans, blending music, tattoo culture, and the unique atmosphere of one of the most iconic venues in the United States. Fans attending Inkcarceration 2026 are encouraged to catch Vicar Blood live and experience the next wave of heavy music rising through the ranks. Event Details:Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival 2026July 17–19, 2026Ohio State ReformatoryMansfield, Ohio More information and full lineup:https://inkcarceration.com For press, interviews, and promo inquiries: zach@metaldevastationradio.com Streaming everywhere: https://ditto.fm/vicar_blood-when_war_comes Cleveland, OH – Rising from the depths of Ohio’s metal underground, Vicar Blood strikes with their debut single, “When War Comes,” released September 12th, 2025. Delivering a ferocious mix of modern and classic death metal, the track is a relentless assault on the senses, perfect for fans of Dying Fetus, Suffocation, and Sanguishsugabogg. Formed in 2025, Vicar Blood blends brutality, powerful melodies, explosive vocals, and crushing, chug-heavy riffs, rooted in the traditions of classic death metal. Their mission is simple: create music that hits as hard as it does fast while keeping the old-school death metal spirit alive. The official music video for “When War Comes” premiered exclusively on The Circle Pit, delivering a visual punch as brutal as the track itself. Fans can watch the full video and experience the band’s intense energy firsthand. “When War Comes” showcases the band’s mastery of dynamic riffing, guttural vocals, and tight rhythmic brutality, cementing Vicar Blood as a rising force in the modern death metal scene. Fans and media can learn more about the band, stream demos, and access press materials at vicarblood.com. Management Contact: Vieda Boss Producer: Dan Gates  Press Inquiries, Interviews, Promo Requests: zach@metaldevastationradio.com Check out the video and subscribe [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="YHmW_AuWdyU"] Follow Vicar Blood:  https://ditto.fm/vicar_blood-when_war_comeshttps://www.vicarblood.com/https://www.instagram.com/vicarblood/https://vicarblood.bandcamp.com/music Contact: vicarblood@gmail.comvicarblood@gmail.com Less

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Decibel Magazine Premieres New Beltfed Weapon Lyric Visualizer “Digital Genesis” Metal Devastation PR Client Delivers Sci-Fi Dystopian Thrash/Death Assault Seattle, WA — Metal Devastation PR is proud to announce that... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Decibel Magazine Premieres New Beltfed Weapon Lyric Visualizer “Digital Genesis” Metal Devastation PR Client Delivers Sci-Fi Dystopian Thrash/Death Assault Seattle, WA — Metal Devastation PR is proud to announce that legendary heavy music outlet Decibel Magazine has premiered the brand new lyric visualizer for Beltfed Weapon’s latest single, “Digital Genesis.” Decibel praised the track as a speed-fueled thrash/death assault, driven by dystopian sci-fi themes exploring tech addiction, the erosion of free will, and humanity’s surrender to a machine-driven future. The song hits with old-school aggression while delivering razor-sharp modern execution, pairing relentless momentum with precision riffing, dynamic vocal shifts, and tightly wound rhythmic punches. Anchored by founding guitarist Frank Hetzel, Beltfed Weapon’s current lineup brings serious firepower with Stu Block on vocals, Kragen Lum on lead guitar, Mike LePond on bass, and Bryan Newberry on drums. The result is a crushing blend of veteran intensity and modern extreme metal precision. The lyric visualizer amplifies the track’s bleak digital narrative without overshadowing the music, reinforcing the themes of technological domination and spiritual collapse while keeping the focus on the song’s raw power. Frank Hetzel comments on the creative process behind the single: “When I started structuring this song, I envisioned lots of vocals and solos going on, which was a new approach to my writing. Giving Stu the reins to come up with a concept and write the lyrics paid off big time. He did an amazing job with the diversity in styles. Kragen added these well-thought-out, tasteful solos that gave the song exactly the feel it needed between the verses. Mike’s bass lines are throat-punching and sit so solid with Noobs and his fierce drumming. Together, they made this song everything and more than what I originally pictured. This song is about the end of humanity being overtaken by a digital world of machines and destruction tied to religion. It was cool to do something different, and with the mixture of musical styles and the different vocal approaches, it all blended really well.” The band’s merchandise store is temporarily offline, but fans can directly support Beltfed Weapon by streaming and sharing the track, and by purchasing the single via Bandcamp. Watch the Decibel Magazine premiere:https://www.decibelmagazine.com/2026/02/04/video-premiere-beltfed-weapon-digital-genesis/ Stream and purchase “Digital Genesis” via Bandcamp:https://beltfedweapon.bandcamp.com/track/digital-genesis For press inquiries, interviews, or additional promo opportunities: zach@metaldevastationradio.com About Beltfed Weapon:Formed in 1999, Seattle’s Beltfed Weapon have built a reputation for uncompromising heaviness, blending thrash and death metal with dystopian lyrical themes and relentless energy. With a powerhouse lineup of seasoned veterans, the band continues to push their sound forward while honoring the brutality of classic extreme metal.  Connect with the band: www.beltfedweapon.nethttps://www.facebook.com/beltfedweapon/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTHXH8qSCYmPVVqQK2oXxFAhttps://beltfedweapon.bandcamp.comhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/29UmL3qkm2Evn8gOZmC8kc Contact Frank Hetzel beltfedweapon.net@gmail.com Less

The intersection of heavy metal history and high-profile legal scandals just took a bizarre turn. Newly leaked documents from the Jeffrey Epstein files have reportedly named Andres Serrano, the controversial artist behind some of Metallica’s most... More

The intersection of heavy metal history and high-profile legal scandals just took a bizarre turn. Newly leaked documents from the Jeffrey Epstein files have reportedly named Andres Serrano, the controversial artist behind some of Metallica’s most polarizing album covers. While the band itself has no connection to Epstein’s activities, the revelation has sparked a fresh wave of conversation about the 1990s Load and Reload era. The Connection: Andres Serrano and the Epstein Files In late 2025, a massive cache of emails belonging to the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein was released as part of a House Oversight Committee document drop. Among the names discovered was Andres Serrano, the photographer famous for his "transgressive art" involving bodily fluids. What the Emails Reveal The leaked correspondence, dating back to 2012 and 2016, suggests a professional relationship between the artist and Epstein. Key details include: Art Sales: Serrano reportedly offered Epstein "signature pieces"—specifically works involving bodily fluids similar to those used for Metallica’s covers. A "Museum Worthy" Installation: In one exchange, Serrano discussed creating a unique art installation for Epstein’s home, mentioning that the pieces Blood and Semen and Piss Picture (the foundations for the Load and Reload covers) were admired by Metallica. A Final Portrait: It was later revealed that Serrano photographed Epstein in 2019, just months before his death in a Manhattan jail. Serrano famously stated he traded the portrait for a 16th-century statue of the Madonna that Epstein owned. The Controversy Behind the Covers: Load and Reload To understand why this name drop is hitting the metal community so hard, you have to look back at Metallica’s most experimental era. 1. Load (1996) – "Semen and Blood III" The cover of Load isn't a picture of lava or a sunset. It is a photograph of bovine blood and Serrano’s own semen pressed between two sheets of Plexiglas. Band Reaction: While Lars Ulrich and Kirk Hammett were fans of Serrano’s "shock art," frontman James Hetfield was famously disgusted by it, later calling the era's image-heavy focus "stupid." 2. Reload (1997) – "Piss and Blood" Following the same theme, the Reload cover features a mixture of urine and blood. The visceral nature of these covers mirrored the band's shift away from thrash toward a bluesier, "hard rock" sound—a move that remains polarizing to this day. Does This Affect Metallica? It is important to emphasize that Metallica has zero known ties to Jeffrey Epstein. The band’s connection is strictly to Serrano as a hired artist from over 25 years ago. However, the news has reignited a debate among fans: The "Cursed" Artwork: Some fans on platforms like Reddit have joked that the albums are "literally tainted," while others argue that an artist’s personal or professional associations shouldn't diminish the music. A Re-evaluation of the Era: With the Load Deluxe Remaster recently announced for 2025, the timing of this leak adds a dark, modern layer to the "Load-era" lore. "I'm not here to slander anyone... but it's just kind of interesting. Mark [from Electrocutioner] was like, 'Maybe they'll change the album covers now.' I don't think they'd do anything like that." — Ian Scott, Ian Scott Rocks What’s Next for the "Load" Legacy? As the 30th anniversary of Load approaches, the "Semen and Blood" artwork remains one of the most discussed covers in music history. Whether you view it as high art or a "piss-take," its inclusion in the Epstein files ensures that the controversy isn't going away anytime soon. What do you think of the Serrano connection? Does it change how you look at the Load era, or is it just more "rock and roll pneumonia"? [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="gzozG2hAUmI"] Less