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  • Ashen Sun and Under Exile Featured in Metal Injection’s Weekly Injection of New Releases – @thebeast

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Metal Devastation PR Clients Ashen Sun and Under Exile Featured in Metal Injection’s Weekly Injection of New Releases
    March 31, 2026 – Metal Devastation PR is proud to announce that two of its standout clients, Ashen Sun and Under Exile, have been featured in the latest Weekly Injection of New Releases by Metal Injection , placing them alongside some of the biggest names in heavy music today.
    Ashen Sun’s latest release, Velarium (Desert Plain Records), continues the project’s evolution into a dark and cinematic force. Spearheaded by Johnny Hagel , known for his work with Tiamat and Sundown , the project blends the melancholic essence of classic gothic rock with modern cold-wave textures. With themes rooted in isolation, decay, and post-human longing, Ashen Sun builds on a foundation inspired by acts like The Sisters of Mercy , Fields of the Nephilim , and Type O Negative , while pushing the genre into new territory.
    Also featured is Under Exile’s Ephemera (Self-Released), a crushing display of modern metalcore intensity. Hailing from Shiprock, New Mexico on the Navajo Nation, Under Exile has built a reputation for relentless live performances and a powerful blend of precision, aggression, and raw emotion. Since forming in 2015, the band has shared the stage with heavyweights such as Fear Factory , In Flames , Whitechapel , and Killswitch Engage , further cementing their place in the modern metal landscape.
    Both releases were highlighted alongside major acts including Black Label Society and Party Cannon , showcasing the strength and growing global reach of independent artists in today’s metal scene.
    This recognition from Metal Injection underscores the rising momentum behind both Ashen Sun and Under Exile, as well as Metal Devastation PR’s continued mission to amplify powerful voices across the underground and beyond.
    For press inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact: zach@metaldevastationradio.com
    Check out the feature here: https://metalinjection.net/upcoming-releases/heavy-new-releases/the-weekly-injection-new-releases-from-black-label-society-party-cannon-more-out-this-week-3-27

    More details on the bands here at these links: 
    https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/28363/ashen-sun-haunts-the-gothic-shadows-with-debut-single-faiths-funeral
    https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/26892/under-exile-announces-new-single-the-lament-out-february-28-2025
  • An Interview With Matt Starr, Formerly Of The Ace Frehley Band & Mr. Big

    An Interview with Matt Starr, formerly of The Ace Frehley Band & Mr. Big By Andrew Daly As one of the hardest-hitting—and hardest-working—drummers in the rock and metal business, Matt Starr has played with Ace Frehley, Mr. Big, Kix, Black Swan, and more. Be that as it may, come the summer of 2026, Starr will be fronting iconic new wave group, The Knack. “I’m going to be singing for The Knack, which I’m very excited about,” Starr tells ClassicRockHistory.com. He explains, “I’ve known Prescott Niles and his family for about 15 years; we met through producer Mike Chapman. We’re playing

    The post An Interview With Matt Starr, Formerly Of The Ace Frehley Band & Mr. Big appeared first on ClassicRockHistory.com.

  • Judas Priest Sad Wings Of Destiny Celebrates 50 Years With Anniversary Editions

    Judas Priest - Sad Wings Of Destiny

    The landmark Judas Priest album Sad Wings Of Destiny is set to celebrate its 50th anniversary with new definitive editions from Exciter Records. The band have also confirmed a London show for 21 September 2026.

    Originally released in 1976, the album is widely regarded as one of the most influential records in Heavy Metal history, helping define the genre’s sound with its twin-guitar attack, soaring vocals and ambitious songwriting.

    “Sad Wings Of Destiny was a defining moment for us as a band,” Judas Priest said. “It’s where we really began to shape the sound and identity that would carry through everything we’ve done since. To see it recognised 50 years on, and to have it presented in new editions, is incredibly meaningful.”

    Judas Priest - Sad Wings Of Destiny 50th Anniversary Edition
    Judas Priest – Sad Wings Of Destiny 50th Anniversary Edition

    The anniversary editions will be developed from the original multitrack and master tapes, delivering enhanced clarity and depth while preserving the album’s iconic sound. Exciter Records, in partnership with Judas Priest, have acquired the master rights and will release remixed, remastered and audiophile-quality versions of the album.

    Exciter Records President Michael Closter added, “We’ve returned to the original master tapes for Sad Wings of Destiny—untouched for decades—and we’re excited and honoured to bring these definitive editions to fans worldwide.”

    Given the treatment given to the Rocka Rolla 50th Anniversary Edition, this news should be met with excitement, given the quality of the work of Tom Allom.

    “Rob Halford, Glenn Tipton, K. K. Downing, Ian Hill and John Hinch were on to something special in 1974,” MetalTalk said in their review. “I’m sure they realised this then. It is only now that we can recognise how special those late-night sessions were. Finally, Rocka Rolla has been brought to life.

    Fifty years on, Sad Wings of Destiny remains a defining moment in Heavy Metal, continuing to inspire generations of fans and musicians worldwide.

    21sep7:00 pm11:00 pmJudas Priest – LondonEventim Apollo

    Judas Priest 2026 Eventim Apollo Poster
    Judas Priest 2026 Eventim Apollo Poster
    The post Judas Priest Sad Wings Of Destiny Celebrates 50 Years With Anniversary Editions first appeared on MetalTalk – Heavy Metal News, Reviews and Interviews.
  • Iron Maiden Announce Blaze Bayley As EDDFEST Friday Headliner

    Blaze Bayley - Maid Of Stone Festival 2024

    Iron Maiden have announced Blaze Bayley as the Friday night headline act for EDDFEST at Knebworth, marking a major moment in the band’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

    Bayley, who fronted Iron Maiden between 1994 and 1999, will perform a special set featuring songs from his era, including material from The X Factor and Virtual XI. “I’m so excited to be invited to headline Friday night at EDDFEST, celebrating 50 years of Iron Maiden,” says Blaze.

    “I am so proud of my two albums with the band, and I’m really looking forward to playing some of the songs that we recorded together. Can’t wait to see you all at the hallowed grounds of Knebworth!”

    Gypsy's Kiss - Cart & Horses - 27 April 2024. Photo: Steve Ritchie/MetalTalk
    Gypsy’s Kiss – Cart & Horses – 27 April 2024. Photo: Steve Ritchie/MetalTalk

    Steve Harris personally curated the Maidenville stage, bringing together key moments from his musical journey. The line-up also includes Gypsy’s Kiss, Harris’s first band, making the event a unique retrospective of Iron Maiden’s roots.

    “Having the opportunity to put together our very own festival at Knebworth, and celebrate 50 years of Iron Maiden, has given me a chance to bring together friends past and present and create a really special weekend for the fans,” Steve Harris said.”
     
    “I’m very pleased that Blaze is able to join us and perform some of the songs we wrote and recorded in the ’90s. He has been a big part of Iron Maiden’s career, and I know the fans will be really excited to see him on stage at EDDFEST.

    “It’s also great to have Gypsy’s Kiss playing with us at Knebworth, too. They were a big part of my musical heritage, and it’s really exciting to have them play at the Maidenville stage.”

    11jul10:00 am11:00 pmIron Maiden / Run For Your Lives – Knebworth HouseKnebworth House

    EDDFEST promises a full weekend experience, including the Infinite Dreams Museum Experience, themed bars, live entertainment and immersive fan activities, culminating in Iron Maiden’s headline performance on Saturday.

    The event takes place at Knebworth on 10 and 11 July 2026 and is expected to be a landmark moment for Heavy Metal fans.

    Iron Maiden headline Knebworth Park on 11 July 2026 with Run For Your Lives, joined by The Darkness, The Hu & more.
    Iron Maiden headline Knebworth Park on 11 July 2026 with Run For Your Lives, joined by The Darkness, The Hu & more.
    The post Iron Maiden Announce Blaze Bayley As EDDFEST Friday Headliner first appeared on MetalTalk – Heavy Metal News, Reviews and Interviews.
  • The Karma Effect Announce 2026 UK Tour Following New Album Cruel Intentions

    The Karma Effect - NWOCR LiveFest 4 - KKs Steel Mill, Wolverhampton - 27-28 September 2025. Photo: John Inglis/MetalTalk

    The Karma Effect have announced a 13-date UK headline tour for autumn 2026 alongside further details of their upcoming third album, Cruel Intentions. Set for release on 15 May 2026 via Earache Records, the album marks a bold step forward for the South London band, delivering a sound leaner, louder and heavier.

    The tour will see the band perform across the UK, with support from Juliet’s Not Dead, following strong demand for their album launch show.

    Cruel Intentions features eleven new tracks, blending classic rock influences with modern energy, capturing the band’s dynamic live sound. The record explores themes of love, danger and ambition, while maintaining the swagger and wit that defines The Karma Effect.

    Recent single Dangerous Love is “about doing things you shouldn’t do, but you can’t stop yourself,” vocalist Henry Gottelier told us. “Passion overtaking your senses and your mind getting away from you.”

    Cruel Intentions is a collection which captures the visceral atmosphere of the band’s lauded live performances and is, without a doubt, the most complete, crystal clear realisation of the band’s ambitions yet.

    “This album is the culmination of everything we have,”  Henry said. “While collaborating again with producer Michael Charman, we brought in Mercury and GRAMMY-nominated Romesh Dodangoda specifically for the mix, because we were obsessed with making every single note count.

    “The result is a sound so big, it’s a stadium experience for your ears.”

    With a growing reputation and a Top 20 album already under their belt, The Karma Effect continue to establish themselves as one of the most exciting acts in modern Heavy Rock.

    The Karma Effect’s new album Cruel Intentions is out 15th May 2026 and is available to pre-order now on signed editions, limited alt artwork editions, limited coloured vinyl, and more, whilst stocks last, via the Earache store.

    October

    29oct7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, HastingsThe Carlisle

    30oct7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, NorwichWaterfront Studio

    31oct7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, GuildfordBoileroom

    November

    01nov7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, CambridgePortland Arms

    05nov7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, EdinburghBannermans

    06nov7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, GlasgowClassic Grand

    07nov7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, NottinghamBeta Rock City

    08nov7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, CrumlinThe Patriot

    12nov7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, BlackpoolWaterloo Music Bar

    13nov7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, SheffieldCorporation

    26nov7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, WolverhamptonKKS Steel Mill

    27nov7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, LondonWater Rats

    December

    05dec7:30 pmThe Karma Effect, GravesendLeo’s Red Lion

    The Karma Effect - Cruel Intentions Tour Poster 2026
    The Karma Effect – Cruel Intentions Tour Poster 2026

    The Karma Effect – Cruel Intentions Tracklist

    01 Ride or Die
    02 Dangerous Love
    03 Lady Bohemian
    04 Raised on Rock ‘n’ Roll
    05 Bad Manners
    06 Closest Thing to Crazy
    07 Waiting on a Miracle
    08 Better Luck Next Time
    09 Long Gone
    10 Cruel Intentions
    11 One More for the Road

    The post The Karma Effect Announce 2026 UK Tour Following New Album Cruel Intentions first appeared on MetalTalk – Heavy Metal News, Reviews and Interviews.
  • Guilt Trip To Release New Album On June 5th; Share New Single

    Manchester, UK-based five-piece GUILT TRIP are one of the fastest rising bands in heavy music. Today, they have announced their
  • Listening Now : Larvik – Unspoken

    Unspoken by Larvik is a sleek, emotionally charged slice of dance pop that leans into its melodic strengths with precision. The duo crafts an atmosphere where tension and release coexist, driven by polished production and a hook that lingers long after the track fades. There is a subtle vulnerability beneath the glossy surface, as the vocals carry an introspective weight that contrasts nicely with the uplifting rhythm. Everything feels finely tuned for impact without overreaching. It is a refined, radio ready effort that balances feeling and momentum, capturing that space between what is said and what remains unsaid.

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  • Criteria To Release New Album On May 22nd; Share New Single “Lean Out”

    Spartan Records and Criteria are pleased to present “Lean Out,” the latest single to be lifted from the Friday, May 22 release of SEIZE!, the