06/04/2025
OUT NOW: Killswitch Engage “Blood Upon the Ashes” from the compilation ‘The Dogs of Hope’, a benefit for shelter animals, out on 8/8/25!
https://dthw.sh/thedogsofhope
“‘Blood Upon The Ashes’ is a song about struggle, sacrifice, and redemption. The lyrics read a bit like a story that’s inspired by what we go through in the human experience. I was picturing a war-torn city and people coming together to rebuild it—while the ‘blood’ signifies the sacrifice people make for each other in times of need. As much as it’s based on humanity and everything people are going through in a world riddled with war, it’s also a post apocalyptic story. — Jesse Leach (vocals, Killswitch Engage)
“For me, ‘Blood Upon The Ashes’ is ‘the one that got away.’ Although I was fighting hard for it, this track didn’t get the votes to be included in the final, 10-song ‘This Consequence’ record. So close. Alas, one of my favorite songs is now a b-side. Have no fear, however, ‘The Dogs Of Hope’ animal shelter benefit is the perfect place for it to live and regain new life. I’m really excited for people to hear it ‘cus every time I do, there’s regret for not including it on the album. Enjoy.”—Mike D’Antonio (bass, Killswitch Engage)
Featuring new or previously unreleased music from a genre-defining lineup Killswitch Engage, Deadguy, Snapcase, Orange 9mm, Jeromes Dream, Walter Schreifels, and more—The Dogs of Hope unites heavyweights from across the hardcore and punk scenes in support of an urgent cause.
The Dogs of Hope is a powerful new compilation from Iodine Recordings and Tom Bejgrowicz, created to raise critical funds for the Randolph County Animal Shelter in rural Alabama—a no-kill, privately run facility that’s saved thousands of animal lives despite operating without public funding or county support.
100% of net profits from physical and digital sales go directly to the Randolph County Animal Shelter in Wedowee, AL, where a small team faces overwhelming need every day in a region with no public animal control or spay/neuter programs. The shelter has operated at full capacity since 2021—and continues to do life-saving work against long odds.