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From their lightning-bolt debut to their reunion LP more than three decades later, they've rarely strayed from form. Continue reading…

A are gearing up for the release of their first new album in 21 years, and are making sure that everyone has a chance to celebrate with them.

The album in question is ‘PRANG’ and will be released on May 22 via Cooking Vinyl. You can grab a copy of the record in a variety of different exclusive formats from Rock Sound. Pick it up on purple cassette, hand-signed CD or exclusive signed vinyl from SHOP.ROCKSOUND.TV

The shows the band will be playing will be a mix of signings and acoustic sets, all taking place in some of the record stores across the country that keep the independent spirit alive.

“Alright everyone, we’ve read your comments… we’re going to be taking PRANG on the road this May, playing some shows at some of the best record stores in the UK. We’ll be playing a set filled with songs, new and old, followed by a session meeting all of you, signing your records and taking photos… how ace is that? Honestly, the fact you’ve stuck with us and waited 21 years for a new record… means more than we can put into words. So it feels really important to get out there, do this properly, and thank you in person.”

Here are the dates.

MAY

22 – SOUTHAMPTON Vinilo Records (1:00 pm) (Stripped Back Show + Signing)
22 – KINGSTON Kingston College (7:30 pm) (Album Release Show)
25 – BURY Wax & Beans (7:00 pm) (live show + signing) (live show + signing)
26 – LEEDS Vinyl Whistle (1:00 pm) (Stripped Back Show + Signing)
26 – LIVERPOOL Jacaranda (7:00 pm) (live show + signing)
27 – BIRMINGHAM HMV Vault (1:00 pm) (live show + signing)
27 – OXFORD Truck Music (7:00 pm) (Stripped Back Show + Signing)
28 – LONDON Rough Trade East (7:00 pm) (live show + signing)

And to get you in the mood, here is latest single ‘Walkover’:

The post A Announce UK In-Store Appearances appeared first on Rock Sound.

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 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.

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.”

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.

Judas Priest / Majestic Rocka Rolla Is Finally Brought To Life

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 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!”

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.”

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.

Gypsy’s Kiss / Steve Harris, David Smith And The Cart & Horses

The post Iron Maiden Announce Blaze Bayley As EDDFEST Friday Headliner first appeared on MetalTalk – Heavy Metal News, Reviews and Interviews.

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.

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 Karma Effect / A Powerful Acoustic Set at Gibson Garage London Previews Cruel Intentions

The post The Karma Effect Announce 2026 UK Tour Following New Album Cruel Intentions first appeared on MetalTalk – Heavy Metal News, Reviews and Interviews.

Posted on March 31st 2026, 1:01p.m.

Manchester, UK-based five-piece GUILT TRIP are one of the fastest rising bands in heavy music. Today, they have announced their

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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