Headbangers Australia

20/12/2025

Symphonic Metal Masters Meteora Unleash Stunning New EP Dissonance

In July of 2025 Hungarian symphonic metallers, Meteora, embarked on the ambitious project of releasing a trilogy of EPs that together would form their new album. The journey began with the release of In this Silence and was followed in October by Broken Mind. Both EPs garnered great critical acclaim and really opened people’s hearts and minds to the unique and powerful music that Meteora were creating. Now, as we reach the ending of this year and the beginning of the new, it is time to raise the curtain on the final act in this grand play, with Dissonance.

Beginning with ‘Darkest Light’, Dissonance immediately sweeps us up into its world of gothic drama and intense emotion. The band’s trademark array of distinct vocal styles weaves characterful depth, creating a unique and enthralling layered tapestry of sound – a guest guitar solo from Sirenia’s Nils Courbaron adding an extra touch of magic. The beautifully pure tones of Noémi Holló and sublime keyboards from Atilla Király help to make first single, ‘Shadows Of Ignorance’ one of the most engaging songs from across the entire triptych of EP releases, while Máté Fülöp’s harsh, imposing voice brings a delicious darkness to the driving, riff-driven ‘Dissonance – My Reality Pt.4’. However, even all these treasures combined cannot prepare the listener for the EP’s concluding track, ‘Witch Hunt – Tragedy Of Delusion’, which is an absolute tour de force of symphonic metal. This song explores every facet of Meteora’s sound, pushing the boundaries of symphonic metal with its power, atmosphere and imagination. Even as they conclude their latest creative endeavour, Meteora have torn open the pathway to their future. The potential possibilities unveiled here will have fans hungry for what the future may bring, before Dissonance has even become a hallowed part of Meteora’s past.

Once again recording engineer Balázs Pálfi (Türböwitch etc) and the mixing and mastering team of Nino Helfrich (Thrash Cult, Traces Of A Life etc), Dmitry Kim (Khors, Arhat etc) and Joel Wanasek (Machine Head, Carnation, Dååth etc) have worked their magic, infusing Dissonance with a vibrancy and dynamism that shines revealing light onto every element of Meteora’s outstanding songs. With cover art designed by Dronicon Films (Swallow The Sun, Katatonia, October Tide etc), Dissonance will be released by H-Music on January 23rd – and on the same day Darkest Light, the full length album that comprises all the songs from In this Silence, Broken Mind and Dissonance in one stunning collection will be unveiled as well.

This incredible adventure is over, but the future for Meteora looks brighter than ever before.

20/12/2025

FEUERSCHWANZ And LORD OF THE LOST Unveil Live Version of Their Joint Hit “Lords Of Fyre”

FEUERSCHWANZ and LORD OF THE LOST are bringing live energy to the Christmas period with a new version of their shared song, “Lords Of Fyre”. The powerful live rendition of the 2024 hit single was recorded at the closing show of their impressive co-headline tour, also named LORDS OF FYRE, in Düsseldorf, Germany in October of 2025. The crowd’s enthusiasm adds to the single that connected two of Germany’s biggest metal bands shortly after the releases of their successful albums, Knightclub ( #2 on the Official German Album Charts) and OPVS NOIR Vol. 1 ( #3 on the Official German Album Charts). Both albums were released in August and both featured the studio version of “Lords Of Fyre”. LORD OF THE LOST have even followed up with another album since: OPVS NOIR Vol. 2 was revealed just last week, again via Na**lm Records.

FEUERSCHWANZ and LORD OF THE LOST on “Lords Of Fyre”:

“LORDS OF FYRE – the anthem of friendship between two bands, forged on stage and now unleashed in an epic live version!

Watch the official live video for “Lords Of Fyre”
https://youtu.be/0mgmV0gsSQc

TOURING Australia 2026
19.02.26 AU - Brisbane / Crowbar
20.02.26 AU - Melbourne / Max Watts
21.02.26 AU - Sydney / Crowbar
22.02.26 AU - Adelaide / Lion Arts

tickets at www.hardlinemedia.net

Listen to "Lords Of Fyre" now: https://lnk.to/LOF-LordsOfFyreLORDS OF FYRE - die Hymne der Freundschaft zweier Bands, zusammengeschweißt auf der Bühne, jetzt...

17/12/2025

VISIONS OF ATLANTIS and WARKINGS Join Forces For New Single “Pirates & Kings”

Prepare for a fight! VISIONS OF ATLANTIS and WARKINGS unite for a mighty shared single, “Pirates & Kings”, forging their weapons for the upcoming co-headline tour of the same name. With a sweeping double vocal force and uplifting lyrics, the track showcases both the symphonic pirates’ and the power metal warriors’ strengths. Instantly opening with the impelling chorus, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS and WARKINGS craft an unmatched battle hymn. “Pirates & Kings” heats up the fight – be brave or be gone!

With their new song in tow, VISIONS OF ATLANTIS and WARKINGS prepare to embark on another journey together. Their eponymously named “Pirates & Kings Over Europe” Tour starts February 5, 2026. Kicking off in Pratteln (Switzerland), they play 21 cities all across the continent.

Check Out The Official Video for “Pirates & Kings”
https://youtu.be/mKrNY9RvLM8

VISIONS OF ATLANTIS singer Clémentine Delauney on “Pirates & Kings?”:

“This is no longer a time for division or competition. When threats and tensions rise, the answer is to unite and become allies.

This year ends with fear and dark projections; next year is about showing the right response. Tyrants will not prevail, manipulation will not work. We will see through the smoke screen and claim our own truth.

We believe that unity is strength. This is a time for collaboration, for opening ourselves to others, and for gathering like-minded souls. We can face anything when we stand with our tribe and our tribe is growing. We’re welcoming new warriors and shield-maidens aboard.

Pirates and Kings are launching the movement, leading the charge. Now it’s your turn to join the call.

Brave your fear, bring a friend, and reserve your seat for the most epic adventure, a place where a new world is forged, where courage is honored, where emotions run deep, and where your power is real.”

WARKINGS add:
“When the tides of chaos swell and the winds whisper of war, the kings must look beyond their own thrones. So we joined forces with Visions of Atlantis — warriors of the endless sea — to remind the world that unity is the strongest weapon.
‚Pirates & Kings‘ is the pact we seal in fire and storm”

Music & Lyrics by Visions of Atlantis & WarkingsProduced by Felix HeldtMixed & Mastered by Jacob HansenVideo by Shootmeup Filmproduktion GmbH (shootmeup.at)D...

17/12/2025

ENTHRONED – ASHSPAWN

Out Now via Season Of Mist - Ashspawn marks Enthroned’s 12th studio album. Enthroned is a band well known in the Belgian black metal scene, their legacy spanning over three decades strong. Ashspawn demonstrates that Enthroned are masters of their craft, with an intense new release that creates a narrative voyage of metamorphosis and the stages of man, from the fall to the resurrection. Themes that are heavily based in spiritualism, rituals and overcoming the physical form through trials, with reference to belief systems common with the genre.

READ THE FULL REVIEW ON OUR WEBSITE
https://www.headbangersaustralia.com/reviews/enthroned---ashspawn

Review by H.Brown

Out Now via Season Of Mist - Ashspawn marks Enthroned’s 12th studio album. Enthroned is a band well known in the Belgian black metal scene, their legacy spanning over three decades strong. Ashspawn demonstrates that Enthroned are masters of their craft, with an intense new release that creates a n...

17/12/2025

Cult Of Alcaeus Release new videoclip “The Odyssey Of The Soul” – Final Chapter of the Doomed Cycles Trilogy

Release date: December 1, 2025

Portuguese metal act CULT OF ALCAEUS present the third and final video of their conceptual trilogy Doomed Cycles with the release of “The Odyssey Of The Soul (AMV Lyrics Video)” on December 1, 2025.
Marking one year since the original single’s debut, this new AMV-style lyric video explores the emotional and existential core of the track — a journey through internal chaos, awakening and the descent into the soul’s darkest layers.

This new visual chapter was brought to life by a long-time supporter and friend -esdeathAMV, whose anime-inspired vision expands the narrative impact of the song and completes the trilogy’s thematic arc.

Watch the new The Odyssey Of The Soul (AMV Lyrics Video) here:
https://youtu.be/6tHjan8_mV4

The full Doomed Cycles Trilogy that includes:

Forged By Rage
Iron Rebellion
The Odyssey Of The Soul (Final Chapter)

Can be heard on all major digital platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer and more.

Listen on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/34Cbkt939EvJLxtOM8U4yY?si=rjnEMN6jQoyv9-AyhZx8HQ

Earlier in 2025, Doomed Cycles was released on the split “Doomed Algorithms” through Nova Era Records (Italy), marking another milestone in the band’s expanding footprint within the European extreme metal scene.

Cult Of Alcaeus presents the third and final video of their conceptual trilogy Doomed Cycles with the release of “The Odyssey Of The Soul (AMV Lyrics Video)”...

17/12/2025

Elsinore - The Vengeful Ghost / Tombstone Hex

Out now via Caligari Records - Elsinore’s debut EP, The Vengeful Ghost / Tombstone Hex, is an exercise in historical compression. Two tracks, just over six minutes, and a singular purpose to exhume the earliest strain of death metal before refinement diluted its threat. Released by Caligari Records on 7” vinyl, the format is complete structural alignment. This music belongs to short sides, blunt statements, and physical friction.

READ THE FULL REVIEW ON OUR WEBSITE
https://www.headbangersaustralia.com/reviews/elsinore---the-vengeful-ghost-tombstone-hex

Words by LearnTwoExist

In collaboration with Headbangers Australia

Out now via Caligari Records - Elsinore’s debut EP, The Vengeful Ghost / Tombstone Hex, is an exercise in historical compression. Two tracks, just over six minutes, and a singular purpose to exhume the earliest strain of death metal before refinement diluted its threat. Released by Caligari Record...

16/12/2025

Burning Death - Self Titled

Burning Death’s self titled debut arrives as a deliberate act of genre conservation. Issued by Caligari Records, the album plants its flag firmly in the scorched earth of early thrash, rejecting modern polish in favor of speed, and doctrinal hostility. Formed in 2021 by Nashville veterans Ethan Rock, Jerry Garner, and drummer Gore, the trio uses familiarity as hardened limitation.

READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE
https://www.headbangersaustralia.com/reviews/burning-death---self-titled

Words by Leantwoexist

In collaboration with Headbangers Australia

Out Now via Caligari Records - Burning Death’s self titled debut arrives as a deliberate act of genre conservation. Issued by Caligari Records, the album plants its flag firmly in the scorched earth of early thrash, rejecting modern polish in favor of speed, and doctrinal hostility. Formed in 2021...

16/12/2025

LIONS AT THE GATE Ignite a New Era With ‘Burn The Candle’ and Bold Label Debut!

Metal powerhouse LIONS AT THE GATE proudly announce the release of their explosive new single, ‘Burn The Candle,’ which arrives alongside a visually striking music video directed by Vicente Cordero. This marks the band’s first official unveiling since signing with Reigning Phoenix Music. The track delivers a sharpened edge, renewed urgency, and a bold declaration of what fans can expect from the band’s next era, set to unfold in 2026.

With its searing riffs, thunderous rhythm section, and impassioned vocal performance, ‘Burn The Candle’ stands as a rallying cry for unity amid division, a theme at the heart of the band’s creative vision.

“Burn The Candle is a song about the divide being driven into our societies. Hatred is being normalized right in front of our eyes. No one is immune to it, we are being fed constant direction to build fortresses around our hearts because it’s a war out there and so lead your ego into battle. This song yells out to people, divided we are like sheep waiting to be led to a slaughter. So proudly we wave the triple-edged sword driven into the side of humanity: greed, pride, lust. I know eventually we open our eyes, but for how much longer will we burn the candle at both ends.”

Of the signing, Reigning Phoenix Music co-founder Gerardo Martinez states: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Lions at the Gate to the roster. With their deep-rooted legacy, fearless sound and bold vision, they embody exactly the kind of creative force we’re proud to support. Their debut album showed what happens when raw emotion meets uncompromising craftsmanship and we could not be more excited to help amplify what’s coming next."

The partnership with Reigning Phoenix Music marks a milestone moment for LIONS AT THE GATE, who enter this new phase with sharpened purpose and an unrelenting creative fire. ‘Burn The Candle’ serves as the first spark of what is to come as the band builds toward an ambitious release cycle in 2026. Watch the new video clip now premiering here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wqaz717ZRY&list=RD0wqaz717ZRY&start_radio=1

Adding fuel to the momentum, LIONS AT THE GATE are currently on tour with the legendary DEATH ANGEL, bringing their ferocious live energy to stages across the country and giving fans an early taste of their revitalized sound.

With a new label home, a blistering new single, and a vision focused firmly on the future, LIONS AT THE GATE are poised to make 2026 their most defining year yet!

About LIONS AT THE GATE:
Nestled in the creative heart of Los Angeles, LIONS AT THE GATE features an ensemble of seasoned musicians, including vocalist Cristian Machado, formerly of ILL NIÑO, alongside guitarists Diego Verduzco and Ahrue Luster, whose past stints with ILL NIÑO and MACHINE HEAD have seasoned their artistry. They are joined by drummer Josh Cuadra. Together, they burst onto the music scene with their electrifying debut single "Not Even Human," which rocketed to #3 on the Apple Metal charts, followed by "Bed of Nails," celebrated for its widespread acclaim on Billboard. Their debut album, The Excuses We Cannot Make, launched in August 2023, marking a bold new chapter and debuting on Billboard's Top 100, Top New Artists, and Heatseekers charts. LIONS AT THE GATE have shared stages with icons like LACUNA COIL and NITA STRAUSS.

As they leave their past projects behind, these artists fully embrace their creative freedom and fresh inspiration. Machado's vocals are at their peak, masterfully blending grace and aggression, while the expert instrumentation of Verduzco, Luster, and Cuadra add dynamic layers and enhance the emotional impact of each note. The band maintains its signature heavy dynamics, anchored by powerful choruses that perfectly complement the robust rhythms of their music.

LIONS AT THE GATE is:
Cristian Machado — vocals
Diego Verduzco — rhythm guitar
Ahrue Luster — lead guitar
Josh Cuadra — drums / percussion

🎧 Stream, get it here: https://latg.rpm.link/burnthecandleYT"Burn The Candle” is a song about the divide being driven into our societies. Hatred is being no...

16/12/2025

Headbangers Australia and To The Pit have made the decision to postpone the Infernal Metal Festival due to unforeseen circumstances.

All parties involved in the event have been advised directly.

Ticket refunds will be processed automatically via Moshtix in accordance with their standard refund procedures. Ticket holders do not need to take any further action.

We like to thank everyone for their understanding, patience, and support, and intend to return to the Infernal Metal Festival in the near future

15/12/2025

Headbangers Australia, alongside our contributors and the wider metal community, sends our support to everyone affected by the tragic Bondi Beach incident. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the community. If you or someone you know has been affected, please seek help through appropriate local support services.

14/12/2025

Windswept stream new album 'The Devil’s Vertep'

The full-album stream of Windswept’s The Devil’s Vertep is now live on the Black Metal Promotion YouTube channel, arriving ahead of its official release tomorrow, Friday December 12.

Stream the full album now: https://youtu.be/ruZJeBCn8tc

Inspired by The Black Book of Kremenets Castle 1747–1777, the album retraces the witch trials that took place in Western Ukraine between 1753 and 1754. Across six compositions, Windswept shape these testimonies, forced confessions, and final judgments into a raw, atmospheric narrative driven by instinct and stark musical intensity.

Windswept’s return follows a lineage defined by spontaneity and uncompromising focus. From The Great Cold Steppe to The Onlooker, the trio has favoured fast studio sessions that capture unfiltered performance over elaborate refinement. The Devil’s Vertep preserves this approach while expanding its scope. Inspired directly by preserved trial records, the album unfolds in six acts: the grim discovery narrated in “Infanticide,” the escalating procedures of “Investigation” and “Torture & Confession,” the witchdoctor’s craft in “The Potion,” the broader networks of sorcery in “Nest of the Witches,” and the judicial reckoning in “Verdicts.” Through these movements, Windswept deliver their most unified and historically grounded work to date, merging documentary realism with stark black metal language.

Available Formats:
CD Digipak
12” Vinyl Gatefold — Black
12” Coloured Vinyl Gatefold — Red & Black

Tracklist:
1. Infanticide (6:10)
2. Investigation (7:18)
3. Torture & Confession (8:38)
4. The Potion (6:58)
5. Nest of the Witches (4:57)
6. Verdicts (7:54)
Full runtime: 42:09

Country: Ukraine (UA)
Style: Black Metal

Country: Ukraine | Year: 2025 | Genre: Black Metal Pre-order CD, LP, Merch & Digital Album: https://orcd.co/windsweptthedevilsvertep - Windswept -Facebook: h...

13/12/2025

LIK Swedish Death Metallers releases video for “They”

LIK, the modern-day purveyors of classic Swedish death metal, gloriously return to action with a video for “They”, taken from their latest full-length Necro which was released last April.

Directed by the band´s own Joakim Antman you can check out the video
https://youtu.be/m5rmPw8r7YQ

Standing loud and proud over so many imitators, Necro is the musical equivalent of a classic shock-horror movie that's drenched in blood and gore and packed with over-the-top extremities. Delve beyond the zombified cover art created by Stockholm-based tattooist and artist Jens Olsson (Ink Fanatics), Necro serves as a reminder of just how special and exciting the genre is: packed with blood-curdling fantasy stories about war, death, zombies, world apocalypse, and murder all stacked with disgustingly-good rotten riffs.