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Album Review – Mental Cruelty / Echoes of a Forlorn Land (2026)

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Inspired by Northern mythology and ancient folklore, this relentless German Symphonic and Blackened Deathcore horde returns with their most ambitious work to date, exploring the darker, mystical aspects of forgotten legends.

For Karlsruhe, Germany-based Symphonic/Blackened Deathcore band Mental Cruelty, it all changed with a trip to the library after a visit to Hel(l). After purchasing books on Norse Mythology, those Teutonic warriors took the inspiration from the standalone single “Helheim” (based on the ruler of the titular realm of the dead) to a full-album affair on Echoes of a Forlorn Land, following up on their critically acclaimed 2023 opus Zwielicht. Produced, mixed and mastered by the legendary Jens Bogren at Fascination Street Studios, the new opus by frontman Lukas Nicolai, guitarists Nahuel Lozano and Marvin Kessler, and drummer Danny Straßer captures the band at the height of their creative powers inspired by Northern mythology and ancient folklore, deliberately moving away from familiar clichés, instead exploring the darker, mystical aspects of forgotten legends, hence fans hoisting upon the band the banner of “Viking Deathcore.” Authentic traditional instruments from across Europe and Asia add depth and atmosphere to the album, while crushing riffs, relentless blast beats, haunting orchestrations, soaring melodies and ferocious vocals create an intense yet emotionally rich journey.

The epic, dark and enfolding intro Weltennacht transports us to Hel together with Mental Cruelty before the sonic storm titled Fenrir hits us majestically, with the bestial drumming by Danny offering Lukas exactly what he needs to roar like a demonic entity, kicking off the album on a beyond electrifying mode. Then we have Blood for Blood, blending their Deathcore essence with the epicness of Folk Metal, with the guitars by Nahuel and Marvin breathing fire like dragons; followed by The Serpent of Midgard, where Lukas roars the song’s venomous lyrics rabidly (“A colossus born from chaos / Guarding the realm of the deep / A bite that murders immortals / No soul will ever escape / Escape / No soul will ever escape / No cure for his venom / Guarding the realm of the deep”) while the music is a powerhouse of Symphonic Deathcore insanity. And Helheim is as heavy as it is epic and imposing, with the wall of sounds crafted by the entire band crushing our bodies and souls mercilessly.

Draugar alternates between absolute metallic madness, ethereal passages, and thunderous breakdowns, while also presenting elements from an array of styles from Death to Atmospheric Black Metal; whereas in Raise the Raven Banner all traditional instruments make it feel like we’re in the middle of a Viking battle. Moreover, Lukas keeps screaming nonstop supported by Dany, who pounds his drums like the hammer of Thor. Cry of Batariel keeps the atmosphere dense, ritualistic and visceral, once again presenting the scorching melodeath riffs by Nahuel and Marvin, while Frost invests in a more Atmospheric Doom and Folk Metal vibe, with its Stygian lyrics (“Every night, I hope for redemption / And for this darkness may come to an end / Every god remains in silence / No sunlight dares to descend”) adding even more epicness to the music. And finally, after the piano interlude Dämmerbruch, we face Ride of the Valkyries, a masterpiece of Viking Deathcore with all band members giving all they got, turning it into a stunning musical voyage led by the cryptic vocals by Lukas and their always scorching riffs.

With Echoes of a Forlorn Land, Mental Cruelty have crafted a sound vast enough to stand alongside all of them and more, while remaining unmistakably their own, entering a bold new chapter and delivering their most ambitious album to date. Expanding far beyond the boundaries of modern Deathcore, the band forges a distinctive sound that masterfully blends Blackened Death Metal with elements of Black, Folk and Power Metal, creating an immersive and cinematic listening experience unlike anything in their catalogue. “We already wrote about Satan on ‘Obsessis a Daemonio,’ I already wrote about Hades in a previous band, and I was curious about more rulers of the Underworld,” explained vocalist Lukas Nicolai. “Hel just made sense as our sound has increasingly become more influenced by Scandinavian music. The books we bought expanded our knowledge of Nordic folklore, and the stories kept ringing in our ears until they became the Echoes of a Forlorn Land.” Needless to say, you can find more details about those German metallers, including their tour dates, on Facebook, on Instagram and on YouTube, stream their music on Spotify, and of course purchase their new album by clicking HERE or HERE. Because Echoes of a Forlorn Land is not just the next Mental Cruelty album. It is the sound of a band redefining its own genre.

Best moments of the album: Fenrir, The Serpent of Midgard, Raise the Raven Banner and Ride of the Valkyries.

Worst moments of the album: None.

Released in 2026 Century Media

Track listing
1. Weltennacht 2:06
2. Fenrir 4:21
3. Blood for Blood 3:14
4. The Serpent of Midgard 4:50
5. Helheim 3:53
6. Draugar 2:49
7. Raise the Raven Banner 6:19
8. Cry of Batariel 4:02
9. Frost 4:13
10. Dämmerbruch 1:26
11. Ride of the Valkyries 6:45

Band members
Lukas Nicolai – vocals
Nahuel Lozano – guitars
Marvin Kessler – guitars
Danny Straßer – drums

Album Review – Servant / Lux Ex Inferis (2026)

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Balancing tradition and progression, this German Black Metal horde returns with their fourth studio offering, bringing the light from hell into our blackened hearts.

Balancing tradition and progression, German Black Metal horde Servant delivers a sound that feels both familiar and forward-thinking, uncompromising, powerful, and darkly captivating. Two years after their critically acclaimed third album Death Devil Magick, the band formed of vocalist and guitarist Farago, guitarist Samael, bassist Thanatos, and drummer Apophis returns with Lux Ex Inferis (a Latin phrase that means “light from the netherworld” or “light from hell”) offering more of their authentic-yet-modern approach to Melodic Black Metal. Recorded at Katzbach Studio, produced and Mixed by Farago, mastered by Dennis Poschwatta at Katzbach Studio, and showcasing a stunning artwork by Misanthropic-Art, Lux Ex Inferis sees the band once again combine intensity, atmosphere, and passion into a distinctive sound, turning it into a must-listen for admirers of the darkest side of music.

The whimsical, ethereal intro In Noctem will captivate our souls before we’re crushed into pieces to the sound of Tabula Rasa, a beautiful Melodic Black Metal aria by the quartet with the anguish and pain flowing from Farago’s scorching vocals sounding stunning, also featuring guest vocals by the one and only P.G. of Groza, followed by Glorification, spearheaded by the demonic drums by Apophis while Thanatos keeps hammering his bass in the name of absolute darkness. Thanatos, Embrace of the Night again presents the band’s trademark fusion of aggression, obscurity and harmony, leaning towards the Blackened Death Metal played by Behemoth, whereas De Profundis, or “from the depths” from Latin (a letter written by Oscar Wilde during his imprisonment in Reading Gaol, to his friend and lover Lord Alfred “Bosie” Douglas) showcases a phenomenal guitar work by Farago and Samael from start to finish, featuring guest vocals by Lethian.

Lux Fulget, which translates from Latin to English as “the light shines,” already starts in full force to the pounding drums by Apophis while Farago continues to vociferate like a creature from the abyss; and the strident guitars by Farago and Samael ignite another bestial Black Metal feast titled Of Stones, Sleep and Death, sounding enfolding, grim and vile, all at the same time. Then we face The Accuser, blending the obscurity of classic Black Metal with the depth and ferocity of modern-day Melodic Black Metal, with Thanatos and Apophis once again sounding thunderous armed with their respective bass and drums; while their last breathe of Black Metal magic comes in the form of Hypnos I See You, carrying a poetic name for an overdose of Stygian, sharp riffs and devilish roars, putting a beyond climatic and devilish ending to their black mass.

Expanding on the band’s established style, Lux Ex Inferis merges epic structures and haunting melodies, creating a multi-layered sonic landscape where passion meets grandeur, pointing to an even brighter (or maybe I should say darker) future ahead of those servants of the dark arts. You can get in touch with the band and stay up to date with their news and tour dates via Facebook and Instagram, stream their caustic music on any platform like Spotify, and of course, put your damned, dirty hands on their scorching new opus by purchasing it from the AOP Records’ BandCamp or webstore (or click HERE for all things Servant). After all is said and done, these German black metallers are among us to spread absolute darkness armed with Lux Ex Inferis, bringing the light from hell into our blackened hearts.

Best moments of the album: Tabula Rasa, De Profundis, Lux Fulget and Hypnos I See You.

Worst moments of the album: None.

Released in 2026 AOP Records

Track listing
1. In Noctem 2:14
2. Tabula Rasa 5:30
3. Glorification 4:38
4. Thanatos, Embrace of the Night 5:06
5. De Profundis 4:35
6. Lux Fulget 4:51
7. Of Stones, Sleep and Death 4:52
8. The Accuser 4:06
9. Hypnos I See You 5:47

Band members
Farago – vocals, guitars
Samael – guitars
Thanatos – bass
Apophis – drums

Guest musicians
Lethian – vocals on “De Profundis”
P.G. – vocals on “Tabula Rasa”

Album Review – Ruynor / Metal To The Punk (2026)

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This German Heavy Metal and Punk Rock trio returns louder, sharper, and more dangerous than ever, delivering twelve hard hitting, no compromise tracks that tear down genre boundaries without mercy.

Officially founded in Geislingen, Germany in January 2013 by vocalist and guitarist Twisted-Felix Ruyn and his best buddy, bassist Dome Ruyn, being later joined by drummer Sammy Ruyn in 2015, Heavy Metal/Punk Rock outfit Ruynor returns louder, sharper, and more dangerous than ever after a five-year silence with a new album titled Metal To The Punk, the follow-up to their 2021 opus Here We Go. Mixed and mastered by none other than singer Michelle Darkness of End of Green, Metal To The Punk delivers twelve hard hitting, no compromise tracks that tear down genre boundaries without mercy. As stated in the title of the album, brutal metal clashes head on with raw, filthy punk without filters and safe zones.

The trio ignites their Motörhead-inspired feast with the excellent Bring Bakk The Balls To Punk, with the inebriate vocals by Twisted-Felix being nicely boosted by the song’s rebellious backing vocals; and Dome’s bass and Sammy’s drums will make you bang your head like a maniac in 10 Years, followed by the also rockin’ tune Your Threats Don’t Sway Me, presenting darker, more sinister elements that end up giving it an old school Heavy Metal vibe. Then of course a name like Metal Punk Commando would carry with it a frantic, heavy-as-hell sound, a true Metal N’ Roll hymn led by Twisted-Felix’s piercing riffs, while Fear Is A Strategy keeps the momentum going with its high dosage of heaviness and rebelliousness, followed by Date Of Death, one of the songs with the strongest Punk Rock vein, again showcasing their striking combination of raspy vocals and insurgent backing vocals.

Twisted Daze / Hellfire Nites is clearly inspired by the Rock N’ Roll and Hard Rock sound from the 80’s, as if it was taken from an afternoon adventure movie; and let’s raise our horns and praise the rock gods to the sound of Hail Rock’N’Roll, led by the pounding drums by Sammy while Dome hammers his bass nonstop. Misanthropic Tendencies is by far the weakest of all songs. It doesn’t work at all, in special if compared to the electricity flowing from all other tunes; whereas back to a more ferocious, faster sonority we face Into The Mosh, which will drag you to the mosh pit without you even noticing. Then inspired by the sound of the mighty Misfits they bring forward Nightmare (Horrific Scenes Of Days Past), offering a nice twist to the album, and there’s nothing better than a wild fusion of Rock N’ Roll and Punk Rock, just like what they offer in P.C. Scum, to conclude any rock album, again showcasing the sharp, incendiary riffs by Twisted-Felix.

Still rooted in real life, still unapologetically diverse, but this time with a level of songwriting and sonic power Ruynor have never reached before, Metal To The Punk will inspire you to slam into the mosh pit like there’s no tomorrow, keeping the adrenaline flowing inside your metallic veins. Hence, you can get in touch with such a talented Teutonic trio by following them on Facebook and on Instagram, including their highly energetic live performances, stream their killer creations on Spotify, and of course grab a copy of Metal To The Punk from BandCamp or Big Cartel, as well as from Metalapolis Records. With the release of Metal To The Punk, the trio is more than ready to rock your world, or as they like to say… TRIGGA TRIGGA PENG!

Best moments of the album: Bring Bakk The Balls To Punk, Metal Punk Commando, Hail Rock’N’Roll and Into The Mosh.

Worst moments of the album: Misanthropic Tendencies.

Released in 2026 Metalapolis Records

Track listing
1. Bring Bakk The Balls To Punk 4:08
2. 10 Years 3:46
3. Your Threats Don’t Sway Me 2:45
4. Metal Punk Commando 1:53
5. Fear Is A Strategy 3:40
6. Date Of Death 4:00
7. Twisted Daze / Hellfire Nites 3:33
8. Hail Rock’N’Roll 2:46
9. Misanthropic Tendencies 2:42
10. Into The Mosh 2:48
11. Nightmare (Horrific Scenes Of Days Past) 5:27
12. P.C. Scum 2:58

Band members
Twisted-Felix Ruyn – vocals, guitar
Dome Ruyn – bass
Sammy Ruyn – drums

Album Review – Old Ruins / Mount Arreat (2026)

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This German horde continues their darkened path by offering their own blend of Heavy, Black, Doom and Melodic Metal in their sophomore studio album.

Having created their own highly distinctive style by drawing on numerous influences from Heavy, Black, Doom and Melodic Metal, Gelsenkirchen, Germany’s own Post-Black Metal outfit Old Ruins is back with their sophomore full-length offering, entitled Mount Arreat (a major fictional location in the Diablo video game franchise), following up on their 2023 debut full-length album Always Heading East. Displaying a dystopian artwork by Timon Kokott, the new album by Christian Krajewski on vocals and guitars, Ersin Kara also on the guitars, Oliver Krajewski on bass, and Mike Gelnar on drums sees the band continue the darkened path which stated with their self-titled debut EP from 2020, sounding tighter, heavier and more dynamic than ever.

The strident guitars by Christian and Ersin ignite the band’s dark and heavy feast in Once There Was Light, with Christian’s deep vociferations sounding haunting yet captivating, followed by Gates Of Harrogath, even heavier and more dynamic, offering a wild fusion of Melodic Death and Doom Metal led by Mike’s thunderous beats and fills, always supported by Oliver’s rumbling bass. Call To Arms is a more cadenced and sluggish tune, with its Sludge Metal elements adding a visceral vibe to their core sound before their classic Heavy Metal vein pulses through their dual guitar attack; and a serene intro morphs into another massive metal onrush by the quartet titled Uileloscadh Mor, with the guitars by Christian and Ersin once again cutting our flesh mercilessly.

Nihlathak flirts with old school Black Metal, hence its dirtier, rawer and more aggressive sound, while Mike dictates the song’s pace with his spot-on beats and fills, whereas Mount Arreat, the song that carries the name of the album, is just as grandiose as the location that inspired it, offering a solid fusion of Death and Doom Metal with the epicness of Heavy Metal. Then we’re treated to Lord Of Destruction, the heaviest and darkest of all songs, where Mike’s drums sound immense while Christian roars like a demonic creature until the song’s very last second; and they conclude the album with an overdose of epicness and rage in the form of Tyrael’s Despair, with their guitars once again breathing fire.

In a nutshell, Old Ruins offer in the excellent Mount Arreat their unique blend of melodic, catchy and gripping Black and Death Metal for fans of In Flames, Children Of Bodom, Arch Enemy, and Tribulation, inspiring us all to join them in their darkened quest, while also fueling the band to continue fighting for extreme music in their upcoming releases. Those talented German metallers are waiting for you on Facebook and on Instagram, and don’t forget to also stream their music on Spotify and to purchase Mount Arreat from their own BandCamp or from Sick Taste Music. In other words, it’s time to climb the mount of extreme music together with Old Ruins while listening to their new album, keeping your blood running wild through your veins as you face such a demanding and exciting challenge.

Best moments of the album: Gates Of Harrogath, Uileloscadh Mor and Lord Of Destruction.

Worst moments of the album: Call To Arms.

Released in 2026 Sick Taste Music

Track listing
1. Once There Was Light 5:48
2. Gates Of Harrogath 4:52
3. Call To Arms 5:02
4. Uileloscadh Mor 7:27
5. Nihlathak 5:15
6. Mount Arreat 6:25
7. Lord Of Destruction 5:37
8. Tyrael’s Despair 6:16

Band members
Christian Krajewski – vocals, lead guitars
Ersin Kara – guitars
Oliver Krajewski – bass
Mike Gelnar – drums

Album Review – Mad Max / Stories Of Destiny (2026)

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These German Heavy Metal veterans are celebrating 45 years on the road with their sixteenth studio album, reflecting their long history while opening a new chapter in their career.

Founded in Münster, Germany in the distant year of 1981 by guitarist, songwriter and leader Jürgen Breforth, Mad Max have been a constant name in the European Heavy Metal and Hard Rock scene for more than four decades, always showcasing their powerful guitar driven sound, strong melodies and classic Hard Rock attitude. Now in 2026 the band formed of the aforementioned Jürgen Breforth on the guitar alongside vocalist Alan Clark (known to many fans from Dark Heart), guitarist Wilfried Schneider, bassist Thomas Hoffmann, and drummer Uwe Starck is celebrating 45 years on the road with their sixteenth studio album, titled Stories Of Destiny, following up on their 2022 opus Wings of Time. Built around songs that Jürgen had the honor to co-write with respected names from the rock and metal world, including Sascha Gerstner of Helloween, David Readman of Pink Cream 69, Andreas Broon of The Sister of Mercy, and Michael Voss, known from his work with Michael Schenker, the album showcases the unmistakable Mad Max style from start to finish, an absolute delight for all fans of their old school style.

Jürgen and Wilfried ignite their rockin’ machine in Silver, a very melodic tune that will work brilliantly if played live, and then we have the first of the two previously unreleased Mad Max songs from 1991, Weapons Of Love, where Thomas and Uwe make the earth tremble, offering pure 80’s Hard Rock to our metallic hearts. Keep You Alive is a mid-tempo tune that takes some time to take off, although Uwe keeps the rhythm flowing behind his drums, followed by Far Behind, an amazing Hard Rock extravaganza by the band with Alan kicking some serious ass on vocals. The newly recorded version of Piece Of Candy, based on the very first guitar riff Jürgen ever wrote for Mad Max in 1981, is now performed as a duet between Alan and guest Andreas Baesler (their original vocalist, back after 45 years), and it will certainly inspire you to bang your head nonstop at a rock pub.

‘Til The End Of Time, the second unreleased song from 1981, keeps the album at a high level of electricity with its 80’s inspired sonority, with their guitars breathing Hard Rock magic; whereas in Bullet, just like a Rock N’ Roll bullet, the music will penetrate inside your mind with Alan stealing the spotlight with his soaring vocal lines. Mad Gone Blind is another song tailored to be played live, with Jürgen and Wilfried being in absolute sync from start to finish; whereas She Was Mine continues from where the previous song left off, again showcasing the striking combination of Alan’s classic vocals and Uwe’s hammering beats. It’s then time to slow things down and deliver the introspective, emotional ballad Wings Of Freedom, or in other words, simply raise your lighters together with Mad Max; and closing the album we face Dulces Falsos, their first song ever recorded with Spanish lyrics, serving as a tribute to the band’s fans in Latin America, a no shenanigans Heavy Metal and Hard Rock feast for lovers of the golden years of heavy music.

Not only that, the visual world of Stories Of Destiny also connects to the Mad Max comics created by Mexican comic artist Maestro Arturo Said, telling the story of the band from its founding days in 1981 through the 80’s and up to their first shows in Colombia in 2023, making the album both a musical and visual celebration of the band’s legacy. You can get more information about such an important band in the world of heavy music via Facebook and Instagram, stream their music on any platform like Spotify, and purchase Stories Of Destiny by clicking HERE. Reflecting the band’s long history while opening a new chapter in their career, therefore creating a direct link between their earliest days and their present, Stories Of Destiny points to a bright future ahead of them, always loyal to the foundations of our good old Rock N’ Roll.

Best moments of the album: Silver, Far Behind and Bullet.

Worst moments of the album: Keep You Alive.

Released in 2026 ROAR! Rock of Angels Records

Track listing
1. Silver 4:10
2. Weapons Of Love 3:23
3. Keep You Alive 4:02
4. Far Behind 4:37
5. Piece Of Candy 3:22
6. ‘Til The End Of Time 4:29
7. Bullet 4:51
8. Mad Gone Blind 3:48
9. She Was Mine 4:42
10. Wings Of Freedom 4:31
11. Dulces Falsos 3:22

Band members
Alan Clark – vocals
Jürgen Breforth – guitar
Wilfried Schneider – guitar
Thomas Hoffmann – bass
Uwe Starck – drums

Guest musician
Andreas Baesler – vocals on “Piece of Candy” and “Dulces Falsos”

Album Review – Iron Kobra / Eternal Dagger (2026)

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The Cult of the Snake returns to action with their incendiary third studio offering, bringing Heavy Metal back to its unpolished, rough, and weird roots.

Formed in 2008 in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, the unrelenting Heavy Metal squad known as Iron Kobra began with a noble mission – to bring Heavy Metal back to its unpolished, rough, and weird roots, influenced by heroes of old like Iron Maiden, Cirith Ungol, Living Death, Manowar, and Tank with a sprinkle of punk.  Produced, recorded and mixed by Stefan Castevet (with drums recorded by Konrad aka Goat Primator), mastered by Patrick W. Engel at Temple of Disharmony, and showcasing an old school artwork by by Mario Lopez, Eternal Dagger is the third studio album by Iron Kobra, following up on their 2015 sophomore Might & Magic and exploding with excitement at every turn of its nine songs of raging Speed Metal, all carefully brought into being by Ela on vocals and guitars, Steffen also on the guitars, Matze on bass, and Björn on drums.

The band doesn’t waste a single second and takes us on a wild metal journey right from the start in Trembling Dungeons, with the Thrash Metal beats by Björn adding an extra dosage of rebelliousness to their sound. Then the Iron Maiden-infused guitars by Ela and Steffen will invite you to slam into the pit in Forbidden Fruits, followed by Fliehen, another classic Speed and Heavy Metal feast by the quartet, with Ela’s vocals taking us back to the glory of the 80’s. And adding elements of old school Hard Rock to their core insanity we’re treated to Shibuya Nights, where the guitars by Ela and Steffen transpire electricity; whereas with a name like Silver Strings and Iron Wings it was obvious it was going to be an overdose of pure Heavy Metal madness, led by Björn’s unrelenting drums.

It’s time to hit the dance floor, but of course holding your sword and shield, in the inspiring title-track Eternal Dagger, with the rumbling sounds crafted by Matze and Björn  clashing beautifully with the strident riffage by Ela and Steffen. Unchained & Untamed is even faster and sharper, like a razor blade of Heavy and Speed Metal cutting through our headbanging minds, with their riffs and solos once again breathing fire; and the band still has a lot of fuel to burn as you can see in the high-octane beast titled Treacherous Tyrant, with Björn again stealing the spotlight behind his drums. Last but not least, Ela’s soaring vocals will invite you for an epic voyage through metallic lands in Mountains of Madness, ending the album on a killer NWOBHM style.

It goes without saying that the band’s arsenal throughout the entire album offers a wide variety of pure Heavy Metal gold, evoking the likes of Exciter, Brocas Helm, Diamond Head, and early Running Wild but, of course, with their undeniable personality and panache. If you want to join those amazing German metallers in the battlefield, you can find them on Facebook, stream their music on any platform such as Spotify, and of course purchase a copy of the incendiary Eternal Dagger from their own BandCamp, from the Dying Victims Productions’ BandCamp, or simply by clicking HERE. In summary, at very long last, Iron Kobra return to stake their claim as kings of swords and sorcery metal music with Eternal Dagger, so strap yourselves to your seats as the Cult of the Snake is back, bringing you heavy hymns that will pierce your eardrums like a Heavy Metal drill.

Best moments of the album: Trembling Dungeons, Eternal Dagger and Unchained & Untamed.

Worst moments of the album: None.

Released in 2026 Dying Victims Productions

Track listing
1. Trembling Dungeons 4:03
2. Forbidden Fruits 3:36
3. Fliehen 3:17
4. Shibuya Nights 3:44
5. Silver Strings and Iron Wings 4:29
6. Eternal Dagger 3:39
7. Unchained & Untamed 3:26
8. Treacherous Tyrant 3:58
9. Mountains of Madness 5:04

Band members
Ela – vocals, guitars
Steffen – guitars
Matze – bass
Björn – drums

Guest musicians
Stefan Castevet – additional guitar solos on “Eternal Dagger” and “Shibuya Nights”, additional vocals on “Treacherous Tyrant” and “Trembling Dungeons”, additional electronic soundscapes
Rike – additional vocals on “Treacherous Tyrant” and “Trembling Dungeons”
Chantal – additional vocals on “Treacherous Tyrant” and “Trembling Dungeons”

Album Review – Fleshcrawl / Epitome of Carnage (2026)

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These ruthless Death Metal veterans will satiate your hunger for thunderous extreme music with their demolishing tenth full-length opus.

Founded in the spring of 1987 in Illertissen, Germany, by Stefan Hanus and Bastian Herzog, the ruthless Death Metal brigade known as Fleshcrawl will satiate your hunger for thunderous Death Metal with their forthcoming full-length opus, entitled Epitome of Carnage, following up on their 2019 offering Into the Catacombs of Flesh. Recorded at Scumlight Studio, produced and mixed by the band itself, and mastered by Peter In de Betou at Tailor Maid Production, the newborn spawn by Borisz Sarafutgyinov on vocals, Apu Justin Reisch and Christian Kalbrecht on the guitars, Manu Markowski on bass, and Bastian Herzog on drums will please all fans of rotten, old school Death Metal, decimating everything and everyone that crosses the path of a band that has been living and breathing pure extreme music for almost 40 years.

Their level of brutality already goes through the roof in the opening track Blood Dominion, led by the demented blast beats by Bastian while their guitars transpire Death Metal, followed by Chapel Of Guts, as gruesome as it can be thanks to the deep vociferations by Borisz, supported by another round of Stygian riffs by Apu and Christian. They keep shredding their axes in Grave Messiah while Bastian goes full Brutal Death Metal on drums; whereas in Embers Of Wrath the band continues to make everything tremble with their groove-infused Death Metal attack, with Borisz’s guttural reaching a new slab of vileness. Committed To Suffer offers pure 90’s Death Metal magic flowing from all instruments, in special from the devilish riffs by Apu and Christian, while Reign Forever lives up to the legacy of European Death Metal the likes of Vomitory, with Bastian once again stealing the show with his inhumane beats and fills.

The second part of the album kicks off with the Stygian interlude Chronicles Of Bloodshed, warming us up for the demolishing Rebuilt From Flesh, where their slashing riffage will cut our flesh into pieces. It’s absolutely harsh, brutal and heavy, with Borisz barking like a demonic entity until the very end, and there’s no time to breathe to the frantic riffs blasted by the band in Orphan God, again offering an overdose of their deep, visceral sounds. Then get ready to break your neck headbanging with Path Of Thorns, as evil as it can be due to another demonic vocal performance by Borisz, followed by Heralds Of Death, not as exciting as its predecessors albeit still showcasing a solid guitar work by Apu and Christian. Lastly, there’s no better way to end a Death Metal album than with a slamming tune like Of Fire And Flesh, bringing forward the band’s characteristic guttural roars, vile riffs and demented bass and drums.

After listening to each and every track from Epitome of Carnage, you’ll easily realize why Fleshcrawl refuse to die, continuing to spread their Death Metal madness to all four corners of the earth with the same intensity and rage from their early days. And if Death Metal is your business, and business is good, you can find those deadly German creatures on Facebook and on Instagram, including their killer live concerts, stream their visceral tunes on Spotify, and of course grab a copy of their new album from the Reigning Phoenix Music’s webstore in the EU, US or UK, or simply click HERE for all available versions of the album. But you better be warned as once you hit play on the new album by Fleshcrawl, there will be carnage.

Best moments of the album: Chapel of Guts, Grave Messiah, Reign Forever and Of Fire And Flesh.

Worst moments of the album: Heralds Of Death.

Released in 2026 Distortion Music Group (DMG)

Track listing
1. Blood Dominion 3:49
2. Chapel Of Guts 5:44
3. Grave Messiah 4:01
4. Embers Of Wrath 3:26
5. Committed To Suffer 3:55
6. Reign Forever 3:50
7. Chronicles Of Bloodshed 1:08
8. Rebuilt From Flesh 3:54
9. Orphan God 3:51
10. Path Of Thorns 5:22
11. Heralds Of Death 4:08
12. Of Fire And Flesh 4:44

Band members
Borisz Sarafutgyinov – vocals
Apu Justin Reisch – guitars
Christian Kalbrecht – guitars
Manu Markowski – bass
Bastian Herzog – drums, additional vocals

Album Review – Elder / Through Zero (2026)

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The leaders of Heavy Psychedelic Rock take their years of experience and form their most engaging record to date, allowing seeds from outside the sphere of rock music to take root and bloom within their progressive framework.

Consisting of frontman and lead guitarist Nick DiSalvo, bassist Jack Donovan, guitarist and keyboardist Michael Risberg, and drummer Georg Edert, formed in Massachusetts, in the United States, but currently located in Berlin, Germany, Heavy Psychedelic Rock band Elder is back with their seventh studio album, titled Through Zero, the follow-up to their 2022 opus Innate Passage. Two decades into their existence, Elder remain an anomaly in the underground rock scene, a rare band with the ability to absorb and shed influences from a myriad of genres without falling into pastiche or losing their own identity, and their new record is a strong reaffirmation of a commitment to pushing boundaries in the world of Heavy Rock and cements the group’s status as leaders of the pack in Heavy Psychedelic Rock. Recorded in Berlin across several months between tours in 2025, and the first album which the band not only produced but also co-mixed together with longtime collaborator Richard Behrens, Through Zero sounds more like a full extension of the band’s creative intentions than ever before.

It’s always a bold move to kick off an album with a ten-minute song like Sigil To Ruin, I mean, will the listener stay hooked? Well, in this case I can guarantee you won’t get bored at all, with the bass by Jack hammering your heads mercilessly while Nick delivers delicate yet piercing vocals nonstop. Capture & Release is another very detailed and enfolding aria by those guys, with its whimsical start morphing into a feast of Progressive Rock and Metal led by the intricate beats and fills by Georg; while the title-track Through Zero brings to our avid ears an overdose of psychedelia flowing from the riffs by Nick and Mike, alternating between atmospheric passages and sheer progressive madness. Strata, the longest song of the album, kicks off to the classy bass by Jack while also presenting multiple layers and nuances, with Nick’s vocals overflowing energy and passion; and it’s time for the most psychedelic of all songs, titled Sight Unseen, while still presenting their Heavy Metal vein. Furthermore, Jack and Georg are relentless with their respective bass and drums. And lastly, we’re treated to the introspective outro Blighted Age, turning the ambience into fields of serenity thanks to the song’s soothing guitars and minimalist beats.

In their new album, Elder takes their years of experience and forms possibly their most immediate and engaging record to date, while allowing seeds from outside the sphere of rock music to take root and bloom within their progressive framework, being therefore highly recommended for fans of Earthless, Truckfighters, Electric Wizard, The Sword, Sleep, Kylesa, Pallbearer, Monolord, and YOB, among several others. If you want to join them in their unique journey through the lands of psychedelia and progressiveness, you can find them on Facebook and on Instagram, stream their music on Spotify, and put your hands on their new album via BandCamp or by clicking HERE. Rock N’ Roll has never been heavier and crazier, and we must thank bands like Elder for releasing albums like Through Zero and, therefore, for making our world a much more pleasant place.

Best moments of the album: Sigil To Ruin and Strata.

Worst moments of the album: None.

Released in 2026 Blues Funeral Recordings

Track listing
1. Sigil To Ruin 10:34
2. Capture & Release 8:48
3. Through Zero 9:06
4. Strata 10:48
5. Sight Unseen 8:51
6. Blighted Age 5:49

Band members
Nick DiSalvo – vocals, guitars
Mike Risberg – guitars, keyboards
Jack Donovan – bass
Georg Edert – drums

Album Review – Caught In A Mirror / Neoncore (2026)

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These unstoppable German rockers will put you to dance with their debut album, a metallic party that is Metalcore at the core, then EDMcore and Hardstyle pushed right up front.

Having spent the past year moving fast, dropping a new single every month while building their sound live and letting their audiences grow with it, Hemer, Germany’s Neoncore outfit Caught In A Mirror is ready to get the party started with their debut album, titled Neoncore. Handling the project with a hands-on, DIY mindset and a clear focus on impact, with a big visual setup built around lights and crowd reaction during their live concerts, the band formed of Giu on vocals, Fabi and Kristian on the guitars, Dario on bass, and Julian on drums delivers a thrilling album that is Metalcore at the core, then EDMcore and Hardstyle pushed right up front, being therefore recommended for fans of Electric Callboy, Bring Me The Horizon, 100 gecs, and Yungblud, among others.

Let’s get this party started with the upbeat opening tune C.I.A.M., where Giu’s smooth clean vocals quickly explode into his harsh growls supported by the mechanized drums by Julian, whereas in I’m Okay we see the band add elements of electronic and rap music to their Neoncore while Fabi and Kristian make sure there’s enough heaviness flowing from their instruments. Immer Schneller (Speeding German Version) is a Metalcore tune made for hitting the dance floor together with Caught In A Mirror, with its background keys bringing even more electricity to their sound; and Julian dictates the pace in the hard hitting core feast entitled Party Ganze Nacht, with Giu’s vocals transpiring rebelliousness, in special his devilish breakdowns. On the other hand, So Sorry is by far the weakest of all songs, a bit too bland and generic compared to the rest of the album.

Speeding brings the band back to a heavier, more festive sonority led by the massive riffs by Fabi and Kristian, presenting elements from classic Metalcore while also keeping the band’s party vibe intact, while Summer Vibes // Neon Lights continues from where the previous song left off, offering a well balanced fusion of Metalcore with neon sounds, again presenting the pounding drums by Julian. Tornado might the most catchy song of the entire album, hence it should sound fantastic live, with Giu delivering his strongest, deadliest vocals of all while his bandmates generate a true tornado of upbeat Metalcore. Then featuring guest vocalist Ben Zimmermann, Down is a radio-friendly Metalcore song showcasing more of their killer fusion of heavy riffs and background electronic sounds; and last but not least, let’s slam into the “neon pit” to the sound of Club Night,  featuring guest Morgana on vocals, putting a beyond electrifying end to the album.

“Neoncore is like a hall of mirrors. You recognize yourself, but distorted. That’s exactly what we wanted. We didn’t just want to deliver, we wanted to challenge”, says vocalist Giu, while bassist Dario also had a few nice words to say about the band’s unique style. “We make music for everyone who wants to scream, laugh, and dance. Ideally all at the same time.” If you want to join the band’s undisputed, metallic and colorful party, you can find those Teutonic rockers on Facebook and on Instagram, staying up to date with their breathtaking live performances, stream their electric madness on any platform like Spotify, and of course purchase the thrilling Neoncore by clicking HERE or HERE. Furthermore, don’t forget to get in really good shape for when you start listening to Neoncore, because you WILL dance like there’s no tomorrow together with Caught In A Mirror, a band that definitely knows how to unite the words “Metalcore” and “party” with tons of passion, energy, and neon.

Best moments of the album: Immer Schneller (Speeding German Version), Party Ganze Nacht and Tornado.

Worst moments of the album: So Sorry.

Released in 2026 Independent

Track listing
1. C.I.A.M. 3:44
2. I’m Okay 3:09
3. Immer Schneller (Speeding German Version) 3:19
4. Party Ganze Nacht 3:00
5. So Sorry 3:17
6. Speeding 3:21
7. Summer Vibes // Neon Lights 3:16
8. Tornado 3:26
8. Down 3:15
10. Club Night 3:02

Band members
Giu – vocals
Fabi – guitar
Kristian – guitar
Dario – bass
Julian – drums

Guest musicians
Ben Zimmermann – vocals on “Down”
Morgana – vocals on “Club Night”

Album Review – Timeless Rage / My Kingdom Come (2026)

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This powerful German Symphonic Metal ensemble is back with their sophomore album, revolving around the major themes of power, freedom, rebellion, love, guilt, war, and the cycle of life and death.

Having carved out their own niche with an unmistakable blend of catchy Power Metal, detailed Melodic Metal, symphonic influences, and dark, mystical tones since their inception in 2012, Villingen-Schwenningen, Germany-based Symphonic Power Metal ensemble Timeless Rage is back with their sophomore effort My Kingdom Come, the follow-up to their 2022 album Untold. Currently formed of vocalist Nicolaj Ruhnow, guitarists Christian Pirch and Michael Benk, bassist Daniel Wengle, keyboardist Anna Keil, and drummer Klaus Buchfink, Timeless Rage have created an album with five chapters that range from orchestral opulence to uncompromising metal power, with its content revolving around the major themes of power, freedom, rebellion, love, guilt, war, and the cycle of life and death. Theological, mythological, and human perspectives are interwoven, questioning moral certainties as well as religious and social structures.

My Kingdom Come is simply epic and imposing from the very beginning, with Nicolaj stealing the spotlight with a powerful vocal performance while Christian and Michael deliver sheer adrenaline from their axes. Then Daniel’s bass and Klaus’ drums are boosted by the striking keys by Anna in The Seed Of Fear, resulting in a bold, multi-layered Symphonic Metal aria tailored for admirers of the genre; whereas investing in a more direct Power Metal sound led by the hammering drums by Klaus we have The Devil’s Masquerade, perfect for their live concerts. Conquistadores feels like an epic adventure on unruly waters, alternating between fast and heavy Power Metal moments and ethereal passages; and Moonbite Serenade offers us all six minutes of absolute heaviness in the form of Symphonic Metal led by the crushing drums by Klaus while Anna’s keys add an extra touch of epicness to their music.

A Vampire’s Legacy continues their symphonic adventure, perfect for admirers of the music by Kamelot, with Nicolaj once again delivering a striking vocal performance for our total delight. After the serene interlude Regrets, we’re treated to The Enemy Is You, where the band puts the pedal to the metal and brings forward the heaviest sound of all songs, in special the demolishing beats and fills by Klaus supported by Daniel’s rumbling bass, followed by We All Shall Fall, which despite its nice atmosphere and the haunting keys by Anna sounds a bit generic in the end compared to the rest of the album. Lastly, blending elements from Melodic Rock and AOR to their core sonority the band fires The Pale Death, also presenting another excellent riff attack by Christian and Michael to properly conclude the album.

In a nutshell, Timeless Rage deliver in My Kingdom Come a work that appeals to genre fans as well as listeners who value storytelling, atmosphere, and musical class, and you can join those talented Teutonic metal warriors on Facebook and Instagram (or simply by clicking HERE), staying up to date with all things surrounding the band, including their breathtaking live performances, as well as stream their music on Spotify, and purchase a copy of their thrilling new album from BandCamp or from Metalapolis Records. In a sea of never-ending gimmicks, Timeless Rage focus on what really matters, which is first-class heavy music with a strong background story, and I’m sure My Kingdom Come will be featured among the top Symphonic Metal albums of the year all across the world.

Best moments of the album: The Seed of Fear, Moonbite Serenade and The Enemy Is You.

Worst moments of the album: We All Shall Fall.

Released in 2026 Metalapolis Records

Track listing
1. My Kingdom Come 5:09
2. The Seed Of Fear 5:19
3. The Devil’s Masquerade 3:54
4. Conquistadores 4:56
5. Moonbite Serenade 6:16
6. A Vampire’s Legacy 4:20
7. Regrets 1:07
8. The Enemy Is You 5:06
9. We All Shall Fall 5:24
10. The Pale Death 4:21

Band members
Nicolaj Ruhnow – vocals
Christian Pirch – guitars
Michael Benk – guitars, backing vocals
Daniel Wengle – bass, backing vocals
Anna Keil – keyboards, backing vocals
Klaus Buchfink – drums