FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HERETIC UNLEASH NEW ALBUM “SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME” VIA CANDLEPOWER RECORDS
Los Angeles Metal Legends Deliver 12 Tracks of Classic Heavy Metal Power and Renewed Fury
Los Angeles, CA – July 2026 – The wait is over. Heavy metal veterans Heretic have officially released their highly anticipated new 12-song LP “Shape Of Things To Come” through Candlepower Records , a division of Electracast Media, in partnership with Virgin Music Group/UMG.
Formed during the explosive Southern California heavy metal movement of the 1980s, Heretic have spent more than four decades delivering the crushing riffs, powerful songwriting, and uncompromising attitude that define true heavy metal. With “Shape Of Things To Come,” the band proves that their legendary sound remains as powerful and relevant as ever.
Produced by Steve Watson at Watson House Studios in Pasadena, California, the album captures the raw energy of Heretic while delivering a modern production that allows every riff, rhythm, and vocal performance to hit with maximum impact.
“When I started writing the record, I knew I wanted to pay tribute to classic metal bands and early Heretic records,” says guitarist and longtime creative force Brian Korban . “I made a conscious effort to create songs with a wide spectrum of styles. You will hear thrash, slow songs that end fast, an acoustic ballad, and medium-paced power riffs. I couldn’t be more pleased with the results.”
Known as true riff masters , Heretic continue their tradition of combining aggressive musicianship with memorable hooks and relentless grooves. Brian Korban’s signature guitar work remains at the center of the band’s identity, guiding a collection of songs that celebrate both the band’s history and their future.
Heretic first announced their arrival in 1986 with their appearance on Metal Blade Records’ Metal Massacre VII compilation featuring the track “Impulse.” This introduction helped launch the band into the forefront of the American metal movement and led to the release of their landmark debut album “Torture Knows No Boundary.” Two years later, “Breaking Point” further cemented Heretic’s reputation as one of Southern California’s most powerful heavy metal acts.
After lineup changes and evolving musical landscapes, Heretic returned with renewed intensity on “A Time of Crisis” (2012) and “A Game You Cannot Win” (2017), proving their signature sound remained sharp and vital. Their history was further celebrated through the box set “Tortured and Broken,” featuring remastered recordings and rare live footage from the band’s early years.
In 2023, Heretic’s legacy was documented in the acclaimed film “Don’t Turn Your Back – The Story of Heretic,” directed by Tanner Poppitt. The documentary premiered to a sold-out Los Angeles audience and screened internationally, chronicling the band’s journey, struggles, achievements, and lasting influence on American heavy metal.
Now, with “Shape Of Things To Come,” Heretic enter a powerful new era with the current lineup:
Brian Korban – Guitar
Angelo Espino – Vocals
Stewart Fujinami – Bass
Julian Mendez – Drums
Sean Scott McCormick – Guitar
Producer Steve Watson reflects on the creation of the album:
“Tracking and producing Heretic’s Shape Of Things To Come was an honor and a lot of fun. We wanted to capture the power of Heretic live but give the songs the production they deserve. As a fan of Heretic I could not love these songs more, as a friend of Heretic I am very proud of each of them, and as the producer I hope this album touches people the way it touched me.”
With “Shape Of Things To Come,” Heretic deliver a commanding statement that proves authentic heavy metal has no expiration date. Packed with crushing riffs, dynamic songwriting, and the unmistakable spirit that built their legacy, the album marks another defining chapter in the band’s ongoing journey.
Heretic – “Shape Of Things To Come” is out now via Candlepower Records.
Founded by hard rock veterans, Candlepower Records is built by musicians for musicians. The label is led by Hollywood production professional Diego Negrete , a three-time Primetime Emmy Certificate recipient with more than 40 years of television experience, including work with American Idol , The Voice , and Dancing With the Stars . Legendary producer and engineer Bill Metoyer , former Vice President of Metal Blade Records and studio force behind releases from artists including Slayer, D.R.I., Fates Warning, and Dark Angel, oversees production for the label.
Stream and purchase “Shape Of Things To Come” now:
Shape of Things To Come by Heretic
Connect:
https://www.facebook.com/HERETICUSA/
https://hereticmetal.bandcamp.com/album/shape-of-things-to-come
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7pZiZSupZWd6m41meizeWA
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/heretic/218145641
Candlepower Records
https://candlepowerrecords.com/contact