Blog
-
The 12 best new metal songs you need to hear right now
Vindicta put out a clapback at their Dogma past, Motionless In White go gothic metalcore and Sleep “return” (of a sort) in this week’s best new metal song round-up -
“If this were a brand new album, it’d be the best alt. rock record of 2026.” Thirty years after its original release, Placebo reimagine 1996 debut album to stunning effect with RE:CREATED
The 30th anniversary “director’s cut” of Placebo’s debut album is a triumph -
“If this were a brand new album, it’d be the best alt. rock record of 2026.” Thirty years after its original release, Placebo reimagine 1996 debut album to stunning effect with RE:CREATED
The 30th anniversary “director’s cut” of Placebo’s debut album is a triumph -
THUNDERCHIEF Featured By BraveWords Following New Album and Summer 2026 Tour Announcement – @thebeast
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THUNDERCHIEF Featured By BraveWords Following New Album and Summer 2026 Tour Announcement
Richmond, VA heavy metal/punk force THUNDERCHIEF continues to build momentum as BraveWords has featured the band’s recent announcement of their upcoming full-length album, With Hatchet, Pike or Morning Star… , due out July 1, 2026 via ASR Records.
The feature spotlights the band’s latest release plans, including a four-week U.S. tour beginning July 6 in support of the album. Blending aggressive heavy metal, hardcore punk, and hard rock influences, THUNDERCHIEF’s newest effort promises a relentless mix of crushing riffs, driving rhythms, and thought-provoking lyrical themes.
Metal Devastation PR congratulates THUNDERCHIEF on the well-deserved coverage and extends sincere thanks to the editorial team at BraveWords for continuing to champion independent heavy music.
With the album release and extensive touring just around the corner, THUNDERCHIEF is poised to deliver one of their strongest chapters yet.
Check it out here: https://bravewords.com/news/thunderchief-announces-new-album-with-hatchet-pike-or-morning-star-and-summer-2026-tour/
THUNDERCHIEF
With Hatchet, Pike or Morning Star…
ASR Records
Release Date: July 1, 2026 (CD/Digital)
Track Listing
Malaise
Chintzy
Catch My Fall
Entrance of the Devil (Zior)
Lie Nation
Slurpee
Summer Tour 2026
7/6 Alexandria, VA — Galactic Panther
7/7 New Hope, PA — John & Peters
7/8 Harrisonburg, VA — Coffee Hound
7/9 Pittsburgh, PA — Rock Room
7/10 Detroit, MI — Paris
7/11 Chicago, IL — Liars Club
7/12 Madison, WI — Gamma Ray (Matinee)
7/13 Minneapolis, MN — Underground
7/15 Columbus, OH — Dirty Dungarees
7/16 Wheeling, WV — Carins Pub
7/17 Akron, OH — The Matinee
7/18 Buffalo, NY — Ask a Punk
7/19 Reading, PA — Gnome Hutch
7/20 Saratoga Springs, NY — Desperate Annie’s
7/22 Manchester, NH — The Bungalow
7/23 Worcester, MA — Ralph’s Rock Diner
7/24 New London, CT — 33 Golden
7/25 Portland, ME — Madrids
7/26 Bangor, ME — Old Towne Theater
7/27 Henniker, NH — Henniker Brewing
7/29 Providence, RI — Alchemy
7/30 Medford, MA — Deep Cuts
7/31 Clifton, NJ — Dingbatz
8/1 Philadelphia, PA — O’Malley’s
-
Mikkey Dee And Friends Keep Lemmy’s Spirit Alive at Hellfest 2026

Hellfest 2026. Clisson, France. A day of legends in scorching heat begins with Mikkey Dee And Friends. Dee, the long-term drummer for Motörhead, has brought friends Viktor Skatt, a Lemmy lookalike on bass and vocals and William Dickborn on lead guitar. Both are from the Swedish band The Drippers.
“We are not Motörhead,” shouts out Mikkey as they launch into a series of Motörhead classics against a backdrop of Marshall amps and the band logo.
No frills and cranked out with fun and a never-backing-down attitude, this is the way Lemmy liked it. Mikkey Dee is a superb drummer, usually playing with The Scorpions, but with his side project today. His flying silver-grey hair marshals the fans and the band.

Mikkey Dee And Friends – Hellfest 2026. Photo: Luke Vaughan/MetalTalk Later in the set, the band are joined by Chuck Garric, Alice Cooper’s bassist, providing the unusual sight of two bassists riffing off each other. William Dickborn is a constant presence, teasing the front rows to ever more of a fun, fever pitch.
The crowd are hit by a regular high-volume pumping hose of cold water. Usually a prison torture, this is a blessing to prevent overheating moshers as Motörhead classic after classic is celebrated by the pit and some early moshing.

Hellfest 2026. Photo: Luke Vaughan/MetalTalk Aces Of Spades and Overkill end the set with the fans going wild. Not entirely clear why, but someone with a luminescent green bog brush waving around in the air added a touch of the bizarre to the party.
Hellfest famously has a striking statue of Lemmy, which Mikkey Dee points to during the set. For a short while, it felt like Lemmy still stalked the stage.

Hellfest 2026. Photo: Luke Vaughan/MetalTalk
HELLFEST 2026
Prepare to be consumed by the relentless energy of the most influential bands in Heavy Metal as they ignite the Hellfest stages with blistering performances. The immersive atmosphere of Clisson will immerse you in a dark, captivating experience like no other.
With its unparalleled lineup and unwavering commitment to the spirit of metal, Hellfest 2026 promises an unforgettable journey into the depths of sonic mayhem.
Read all the Heavy Metal News at MetalTalk.
MetalTalk Hellfest 2026 coverage can be found at https://www.metaltalk.net/tag/hellfest-2026.
This year’s MetalTalk team is:
Photography:
For Hellfest 2025, visit https://www.metaltalk.net/tag/hellfest-2025.
For Hellfest 2024, visit https://www.metaltalk.net/tag/hellfest-2024.
For Hellfest 2023, visit https://www.metaltalk.net/tag/hellfest-2023.
For Hellfest 2022, visit https://www.metaltalk.net/tag/hellfest-2022.
The post Mikkey Dee And Friends Keep Lemmy’s Spirit Alive at Hellfest 2026 first appeared on MetalTalk – Heavy Metal News, Reviews and Interviews. -
Interlaken The Illusion Fails Review
Interlaken The Illusion Fails Review
The song opens with a powerful bass-and-drums union, establishing an intense rhythm that immerses the listener in the band’s atmosphere. This strong foundation paves the way for the introduction of reverberated guitars that create a suspended ambiance, resembling a mirage. As the track unfolds, the vocals emerge, possessing an almost ancestral and magical quality. The voice resembles an oracle, endowed with abundant reverb, crafting dreamlike visions that envelop the listener in a mystical and ritualistic experience. This reveals the band’s uniquely artistic vision.
The lyrics express the frustration and sorrow associated with heartbreak. The overall vibe leans toward alternative, with hypnotic elements that evoke imagery of wandering through a dark desert. In this vastness, thoughts are amplified, echoing the feelings of isolation and introspection that come with lost love. Around the three-minute mark, there’s an energizing shift. The song escalates with distortion, and the vocals increase in intensity, drawing the audience further into its emotional depth.
There are notable influences from Radiohead, which heighten the musical experience significantly. The band demonstrates a solid unity in crafting music that is intense and introspective. Their work possesses a powerful ability to transport listeners away from reality, inviting them into a profound, mystical dreamscape.
The Illusion Fails – Sound and Atmosphere
The interplay of the instruments creates tension while maintaining a sense of cohesion. The guitars’ reverberation heightens the intricate sonic layers, offering a backdrop that feels expansive and intimate. The atmospheric quality invites the listener to explore their own thoughts and emotions, making it a deeply personal experience.
The lyrics resonate with emotions that many can relate to, and the delivery enhances this connection. The almost ethereal quality of the voice serves to bridge the emotional gap between the singer and the audience, facilitating a shared experience of heartache and reflection.
The Illusion Fails – Performance and Production
Interlaken’s ability to channel these emotions through their sound is exemplary. Their influences may be evident, but they carve out their own identity within the alternative genre. The song’s lyrical and melodic components work harmoniously, culminating in a track that lingers long after it concludes.
“The Illusion Fails” is a multifaceted exploration of heartbreak rendered through masterful instrumentation and haunting lyrics. Each aspect of the song, from the rhythmic foundation to the striking vocal delivery, invites reflection and deep engagement. The band’s unique vision shines throughout, offering listeners a sanctuary of sound that resonates with emotional authenticity.
Their artistry captures a moment in time, transforming feelings of despair into a beautifully crafted musical journey
Transformative
If you love this music: Discover More
For fans of:
Radiohead
The post Interlaken The Illusion Fails Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
-
Desire – “Summer Skin”
You know what you’re getting with Desire. Together, Montreal vocalist singer Megan Louise and former Chromatics leader Johnny Jewel make shimmery, whispery, glamorous synthpop. They’ve been doing it ever since their self-titled debut came out in 2009. Desire haven’t exactly been the most prolific act over the years, but they released their album Games People Play last year, and they’re already planning on following it with another LP this year.
The post Desire – “Summer Skin” appeared first on Stereogum.
-
Spinning Mercury Brand New Review
Spinning Mercury Brand New Review
The song opens with a distorted guitar chord, creating an atmosphere that feels dystopian and futuristic. This sound invokes a sense of being suspended in a unique limbo. It transports listeners to distant landscapes and cold, dark worlds. The reverberated vocals and guitars remind one of iconic bands like Type O Negative. Despite this influence, the song also sparks visions that feel dreamlike. This track emanates a sense of a cybernetic bubble, drawing the audience in for a distinct journey.

The alternative rock genre is present throughout, immersing listeners in a peculiar experience. The influence of cyber gothic aesthetics makes this piece particularly intriguing. The vocals float above the instrumentation, crafting a melody that is stable and powerful. As the music surrounds these vocals, the intricacies of the drum patterns add depth. The distant guitars manifest sharp notes that inject a sense of illusion into the distortions. Every so often, the song embraces pauses, which enhance its overall dynamics and flow.
The combination of influences creates a rich tapestry of sounds. The opening’s unique distorted chord sets the tone for what unfolds. Listeners can expect a blend of styles that challenge conventional definitions of rock music. The guitars create a foundation, while the vocals soar over the instrumental arrangements. At times, the rhythm shifts, offering moments of reflection amidst the energetic elements. The interplay of the different musical layers makes the experience engaging and thoughtful.
Brand New – Sound and Atmosphere
Throughout “Brand New,” there is a sense of vulnerability embedded in the performance. The lyrics and sounds encourage introspection and connection to deeper feelings. The song pulls listeners in with its ethereal qualities, inviting them to explore their thoughts and emotions. Each layer of the arrangement contributes to a sense of depth and richness that is palpable. This enables listeners to feel a multitude of emotions as they engage with the music.
The production quality is pristine, allowing each element to shine. The instrumentation complements the vocal delivery, creating a cohesive and inviting sonic landscape. The nuances captured in the track reflect a high level of care and artistry.
Brand New – Performance and Production
“Brand New” offers a multifaceted experience. It successfully blends elements of alternative rock with a unique, futuristic aesthetic. Spinning Mercury has composed a track that stands out in a crowded music landscape. The song not only captures attention but also invites listeners to delve into their own feelings and thoughts. With its intricate composition and emotional resonance, “Brand New” is a noteworthy addition to the modern music scene.
Intense
If you love this music: Discover More
The post Spinning Mercury Brand New Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
-
AN NCS PREMIERE: VIANDE — “SACRIFICE ARDENT”
(written by Islander) The French extreme metal band Viande named their 2022 debut album L’abime dévore les âmes, which can roughly be translated as “The abyss devours souls”. It was a fitting title, because in listening to the music we imagined horrific terrors that await the extinction of life in endless chasms from which there […]
The post AN NCS PREMIERE: VIANDE — “SACRIFICE ARDENT” appeared first on NO CLEAN SINGING.
-
Andy Smythe Quiet Revolution Extra Review
Andy Smythe Quiet Revolution Extra Review
The EP opens with “Higher Truth,” an atmospheric and refined track. It feels like a flower blossoming, with instruments that continuously enhance its sublime nature. Each note and harmony builds upon the last, bringing a refreshing depth. The quality of this artist’s music is always a pleasure to experience.

Following this is “Butterfly,” a song that transports listeners to Louisiana. The track evokes thoughts of blues, featuring harmonica and vibes typical of New Orleans. This composition retains a familiar chord progression while incorporating the distinct style of Andy Smythe. It resembles a blues piece that The Beatles could have produced.
Next is “Monet Is Smiling,” a song rich in songwriting. It suggests inspirations from Bob Dylan intertwined with a touch of David Bowie. The melodic structure invites listeners into a nostalgic tableau reminiscent of Monet’s artwork. Each verse paints imagery, effortlessly connecting the world of visual art with music.
Quiet Revolution Extra – Sound and Atmosphere
“House Without Love” presents an infectious rhythm combined with delicate vibes. This tune leans toward a somewhat bucolic nature. Its pastoral essence draws the listener in while maintaining a danceable quality. Here, Smythe showcases his talent for marrying meaningful lyrics with engaging melodies.
“Man of Pisces” takes a more cinematic approach. The arrangements are splendid, creating an atmosphere that allows the mind to wander. The instrumental sections provide a dream-like quality that encourages imagination. This song embodies an artistic vision that goes beyond mere auditory pleasure.
The EP concludes with “Algorithm.” Despite its title, this track and the EP in general are anything but artificial. It channels the essence of great singer-songwriters from the past. The nostalgic trumpet adds a sense of yearning and evokes images of vast, open landscapes. Listeners might imagine David Bowie working with Ennio Morricone to create this uniquely atmospheric piece. The harmonies and lyrical themes transport one to new realms.
Quiet Revolution Extra – Performance and Production
“Quiet Revolution Extra” is an impressive EP filled with musical richness and poetic lyrics. Each song highlights Andy Smythe’s ability to blend styles while creating an emotional connection. This collection is a fantastic experience that I would recommend to all music enthusiasts. Both the melodies and the depth of the lyrics speak to a timeless quality that deserves recognition.
Refined
If you love this music: Discover More
For fans of:
The Beatles • Bob Dylan • David Bowie
The post Andy Smythe Quiet Revolution Extra Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
