FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Metal Devastation PR Client The Trousers Featured in Metal Hammer Magazine February 12, 2026 — Hungarian hard rock stalwarts The Trousers are turning heads across Europe and beyond, now featured and interviewed on the... More

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Metal Devastation PR Client The Trousers Featured in Metal Hammer Magazine February 12, 2026 — Hungarian hard rock stalwarts The Trousers are turning heads across Europe and beyond, now featured and interviewed on the highly trafficked Metal Hammer website. This month’s issue, hitting stands now with legendary AC/DC on the cover! The interview showcases the band’s latest album, Necessary Evil, and delves into their philosophy of staying free, independent, and uncompromising in a changing music landscape. Since their formation in Budapest in 2008, The Trousers have forged a reputation as one of the most solid and noisy names in European underground rock. Their sound fuses visceral garage rock, 70’s hard rock muscle, and the alternative darkness of the ’90s and early 2000s. Their seventh album, Necessary Evil (Music Fashion Records), is a direct and unflinching statement of identity, packed with incendiary riffs and a stage-ready attitude honed over years of touring Europe. In the interview with Metal Hammer, the band reflects on their evolution, independence, and the challenges of breaking out from Hungary’s underground scene: “The Trousers have never depended on music as a livelihood; it was a necessary choice to remain free and independent. Existing against the mainstream gives you strength, healthy anger, and determination.” The feature highlights the band’s DIY ethos, international recognition, and their ability to remain authentic while embracing influences from classic rock and modern hard rock alike. Standout tracks like Second Hand Suicide have been praised internationally as true rock classics, reinforcing the band’s commitment to albums as full artistic statements in an era dominated by streaming and singles. The Metal Hammer feature cements The Trousers’ place as ambassadors of Hungarian rock on the European stage and a band that continues to push boundaries while staying true to their roots. Fans can read the full interview here:  https://www.metalhammer.it/interviste/2026/02/11/thetrousers-necessary-evil-e-larte-di-restare-liberi/ For booking, interviews, or more information, contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com About Metal Devastation PR:Metal Devastation PR is a global metal and hard rock promotional company dedicated to amplifying the voices of underground and established artists alike. We specialize in media placement, press coverage, and connecting bands with audiences worldwide. More details on the band at this link: 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

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 Check them out on YouTube and subscribe: [jrEmbed module="jrYouTube" youtube_id="69nMOi2Xelw"] 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