Steely tradition!

[ Logo by Timon Kokott ]

Action: TOMB OF GIANTS
Title: Holding The Flame
Base: Melle • Germany
Style: Old School Heavy Metal
Genre: NWOBHM, NWOTHM, Heavy Metal, Power Metal
FFO: Judas Priest, Saxon, Iron Maiden
Type: EP
Format: CD + Vinyl + Digital
Label: Independent
Release: July 25, 2025

PR:
https://www.metalmessage.de/PR_TOMB_OF_GIANTS_en.php

Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/intl-de/artist/2A6LKxE4mn3Ho9RxXdVnHZ


INTERVIEWS ➭ TOMB OF GIANTS are available via phone, Zoom & email

Bulletpoints:
🔘 Brand new EP with the highest cult factor
🔘 Inspiring songs that ignite immediately
🔘 Remarkable further development of the band

German old-school HEAVY METAL advocates TOMB OF GIANTS are back in full force with a new release that will blow you away!
Their latest single „The Flame“ is taken from the EP „Holding The Flame“, released on July 25, 2025!

https://www.youtube.com/embed/gGxng7sfy8w
[ Official Video „The Flame“]

The band announces:
„Where darkness rules, a flame will always burn. And you keep it alive! ‚The Flame‘ is our commitment to the positive power of Metal music. Even if darkness sometimes sets the tone in the world, we believe that the light in all of us keeps burning – as a band and as a community. Metal unites, Metal makes us strong and always gives us new energy. A fire that never goes out. Together with you, we rock the sound that gives hope – and shows: the fire stays alive. And you keep it alive!“

[ EP 2025 • Artwork by Timon Kokott ]

TRACKS
01. The Flame 04:59
02. Evilnator 05:01
03. Midnight Devil 04:12
04. When Destiny Calls 06:56

total: 21:08 min.

[ Photo credit: Tomb Of Giants ]


LINE-UP
Kai Nikolayczyk • Vocals
Oliver Nienhüser • Guitars, Vocals
Yannik „Moshi“ Moszynski • Guitars
Daniel Melchior • Bass
Mirco Nienhüser • Drums

With „Holding The Flame“, TOMB OF GIANTS ignite the next chapter in their band’s story.
Building consistently on the sound of their successful EP „Legacy Of The Sword“, the new release is irresistibly powerful, grippingly melodic, and fiercely heavy! At the same time, the band introduces their new vocalist, Kai Roarside — whose impressive voice breathes fresh fire into the flame — a truly lucky addition.

The imposing title track „The Flame“ celebrates the exhilarating spirit of Heavy Metal in all its facets – a highly anthemic call to raise your fist and keep the flame alive.

With „Evilnator“, TOMB OF GIANTS unleash a genuine live banger that already set hearts and heads ablaze at Germany’s Kuhzifest 2025. Behind its massive sonic wall lies a dark theme: the destructive force of addiction.

Two songs from their self-titled debut album (2017) have been reimagined for the new EP: „Midnight Devil“ and „When Destiny Calls“ return with fresh production — powerful yet true to the original spirit.

The EP was lovingly and independently recorded, with mixing and mastering handled by the legendary Andy Classen at the renowned Stage One Studio — an absolute guarantee of punchy sound.

The striking, distinctive cover artwork was once again created by graphic artist and designer Timon Kokott:
a traditionally hand-painted piece on real canvas, perfectly capturing the traditional soul of this remarkable band.

All in all, „Holding The Flame“ is therefore not just another release — it’s a fervent, unified declaration: Yes, Heavy Metal lives. And TOMB OF GIANTS keep the fire blazing!


FLASHBACK:
Traditional Heavy Metal that takes you on a journey back to the golden age of Metal. With a dynamic and powerful sound that combines classic Heavy Metal, Thrash and Speed Metal – TOMB OF GIANTS is a band that is passionate about preserving the legacy of true Heavy Metal and taking it to new heights.

Sweeping vocals, shredding guitar solos, thunderous bass and pounding drums create a raw and energetic presence that is both intense and memorable. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest and Dio, the quintet is dedicated to delivering a Metal experience that will have every head in the crowd bobbing in unison.

Accompany the band on their mission to keep the flame of traditional Heavy Metal burning brightly!

[ Album 2023 • Artwork by Timon Kokott ]

https://www.youtube.com/embed/FG0csEGUEFM
[ Official video „Soulstealer“]

TOMB OF GIANTS:
„With ‚Soulstealer‘ we represent the terrifying and relentless force of evil. ‚Soulstealer‘ is a being from hell that brings chaos and destruction to mankind. His appearance and actions are accompanied by images of the apocalypse – darkness, rain of blood and destruction. The song is meant to show the consequences of giving in to evil.“

https://www.youtube.com/embed/JYoD3qKcI3M
[ Official video „Railgunner“ ]


DISCOGRAPHY
2017 • Tomb Of Giants • Full-length
2023 • Soulstealer • Single
2023 • Legacy Of The Sword • Full-length
2025 • Holding The Flame • EP


MEDIA FEEDBACK for „Holding The Flame“:

4,5 / 5
➤ „… fiery and intense experience … blending timeless Heavy Metal roots with modern nuances to create a sound that is both confidently aggressive and nostalgic … unmistakable old-school charm … powerful and sophisticated …“
(Metal Underground AT)

4,5 / 5
➤ „… impressively powerful singer Kai Roarside – clearly more distinctive and combative … in terms of catchiness, ‚Midnight Devil‘ is clearly at the top, but ‚Evilnator‘ and ‚When Destiny Calls‘ are close behind … the individual instruments can be heard clearly, the sound by Andy Classen is organic, yet modern and heavy …“
(Rattle A.D.)

8 / 10
➤ „TOMB OF GIANTS keeps the German traditional Metal flag flying high, properly positioning themselves in good company to hopefully get a solid record deal in place down the line.“
(Dead Rhetoric)

8 / 10
➤ „… rounder … more catchy … more professional … sounds really fat … Andy Classen did a great job in his Stage One Studio … rich drums … crashing riffs … gang shouts … above it all floats the raw, powerful voice of new frontman Kai … a great new discovery!“
(Rock Garage)

7,5 / 10
➤ „The guitar riffs in particular clearly breathe the air of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal and immediately remind me of colleagues such as Judas Priest or Diamond Head … a subtle yet clearly audible preference for guitar harmonies, which naturally makes the leap to Iron Maiden not far off …“
(Powermetal DE)

12 / 15
➤ „… a deep dive into classic Heavy Metal as it emerged in the UK in the 1980s … fresh and unspent … has everything fans need to shake their necks … twangy guitar solos that chase each other, strong vocals supported by cool backing vocals, plus catchy sing-along choruses … pure energy, without frippery or filler …“
(Legacy)

7,5 / 10
➤ „… there is no doubt that ‚Holding The Flame‘ is the dawn of a new era for Tomb Of Giants with the Iron Maiden or Judas Priest inspired riffs of title track ‚The Flame‘ lighting the way … this record bodes very well indeed for their next album …“
(Metal Noise)

➤ „… fresh … with conviction … where many contemporary bands either cosplay the past or chase overproduced trends, TOMB OF GIANTS strike a meaningful balance: reverent yet relevant. The riffs hit hard, the solos elevate the songs, and the performance oozes passion.“
(Ancient Forest)

➤ „TOMB OF GIANTS presents classic Heavy Metal in its finest hour … ready to enrapture the entire world with their thrilling modern-day visions of a timeless genre … absolute amazing …“
(Highwire Daze)

➤ „… invites you to raise your fist and sing along … between Judas Priest, Iron Maiden and Running Wild … will go down very well with all fans of classic sounds … Kai – a real stroke of luck – drives the songs forward powerfully with his strong voice and unerring melodies … Andy Classens‘ production fits like a glove …“
(Totentanz)

➤ „These 4 tracks are all good, but I think that ‚Midnight Devil‘ is a little extra good. The songs are both powerful and melodic, just like good old Heavy Metal should be … Kai Roarside – a powerful voice and a very lucky addition … simply a band you shouldn’t miss. So check them out immediately.“
(Hard Rock Info)

etc.


MEDIA FEEDBACK for „Legacy Of The Sword“:

4 / 5
➤ „… a pummeling stripe of Trad Metal not far removed from acts like Battlerage, Skullview, or Majesty. The guitars are heavy and crunch out good riffs, and some of the leads are very tasty … a highly enjoyable slab … hammers and crunches along and will definitely keep your head banging …“
(The Metal Crypt)

86 / 100
➤ „The songwriting is tight and to the point … stringent songs that are perfect for shouting along and having fun without being too simple … every fan of traditional Metal should definitely give this album a listen …
(Metal Archives)

8,5 / 10
➤ „Traditional Metal is casually combined with Thrash and Speed Metal, while the guitars play rousing melodies that should enchant the epics among you … the sound is more than appealing, and it’s really surprising that this is an in-house production from the home rehearsal room …“
(Powermetal DE)

8,5 / 10
➤ „The powerful concept of Heavy and Power Metal is realized to the last breath … the riffs fly, bass and drums put the pressure on … hints of Saxon and Accept … reminiscences of Judas Priest …“
(Soundmagnet)

8 / 10
➤ „Everything sounds headbanger-ready and kicks ass … the production is clean, transparent and powerful … this half hour is totally fun! If you like Power Metal a bit harder and less cheesy, you should definitely get this one!“
(Crossfire)

7,5 / 10
➤ „Everything sounds beautifully raw … unerringly on the road in the specified genre. The great mixture of classic Heavy Metal with a bit of epic comes out of the speakers well and so you can only congratulate the band on their second album, strong performance!“
(Rock Garage)

3,5 / 5
➤ „… robust Heavy Metal, obviously inspired by the NWOBHM and especially by the lesson taught by Iron Maiden … play only the music they love, and they do it well … full of energy and heaviness, and in the end downright convincing and even rousing …“
(All Around Metal)

➤ „… classic Heavy Metal that’s stuck in the eighties up to the shoulder blade – from Manowar to Saxon to Teutonic stainless steel with greetings from the blade city of Solingen …“
(Deaf Forever)

➤ „… straight to the point … made to be played live with maximum performance and sung along to at the climax by the audience with horns in the air and a beer in the other hand … well-produced – it’s an in-house production, by the way … well played … doesn’t lose itself in frills and unnecessary lengthiness … recommended for fans of classical Metal sounds …“
(The Murder Inn)

➤ „… very good … I never felt the need to skip … I listened to ‚Legacy Of The Sword‘ over and over again and the initial good first impression was confirmed … you want classic Heavy Metal with the right fresh touch? TOMB OF GIANTS has exactly that for you.“
(Oszillator)

➤ „… from head to toe ‚Legacy Of The Sword‘ delivers all kinds of emotions and that’s the best part of it … the catchy and highly addictive chorus of ‚Ad Victoriam‘ is really something to be proud of … passionate … enthusiastic … lively … a remarkable album in all senses …“
(Metal Addicts)

➤ „Already the opener ‚Legacy Of The Sword‘ is a real banger … the vocals are speedy and anthemic at the same time … with ‚Soulstealer‘ you don’t have to think long who was the godfather here. Judas Priest with ‚Painkiller‘ send their regards …“
(Heavy Stage Force)

➤ „… a work that defends the classic style of Heavy Metal and offers a strong dose of adrenaline and power that keeps the old-school flame burning … the best version of eighties Heavy Metal … a musical gem …“
(Barraca 26)

➤ „… a record full of variety … powerful … anthemic flair … immediately entices you to sing along …“
(Metalmamas Neuigkeiten)

etc.

 CRUSADER • Refreshingly surprising brilliance

CRUSADER
Refreshingly surprising brilliance

[ Logo by Scott Rae ]


Action: CRUSADER
Title: In For The Kill
Base: London • UK
Style: Classic Melodic Hard Rock/Heavy Metal
Genre: Glam Hard Rock, Heavy Rock, Melodic Hard Rock, Melodic Heavy Metal
FFO: Def Leppard, Whitesnake, Ratt
Type: EP
Format: Digital + CD + Vinyl
Label: Independent
Release: May 15, 2025
PR: 𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗴𝗲 ᴳᴸᴼᴮᴬᴸ

https://open.spotify.com/intl-de/artist/4nmxIcGnSUriWMLyFRMK6I
https://thebandcrusader.bandcamp.com/album/in-for-the-kill


Bulletpoints:
🔘 The newcomer sensation from London
🔘 Immediately convincing across the board
🔘 Songs straight out of the genre’s manual

https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZTPth_R4Arc
[ „In For The Kill“ • EP • 2025 ]

CRUSADER, these immensely talented Englishmen prove impressively that it is still possible to triumph into the scene with a real gem out of nowhere:

[ Artwork by Scott Rae ]

TRACKS
1. Wanted Man 05:29
2. Time (Never Stops Running) 04:55
3. In For The Kill 04:06

total: 14:09 min.

The bravura balancing act of the quartet around extremely capable vocalist Tommy Baptiste is based directly in the heyday of the 1980s right up to the present day – and the wonderful EP „In For The Kill“ knows how to inspire immediately with an enormously fresh overall sound in addition to upliftingly energetic, completely fresh-sounding song material: just through and through awesome CLASSIC MELODIC HARD ROCK/HEAVY METAL!

For the time being, CRUSADER have deliberately decided to let the music of their release speak for itself and thus stimulate the imagination and fantasy of the listener – as was often the case in the good old days when you only had one LP and knew absolutely nothing about the band in question. This gave rise to cult legends that never faded in the hearts and minds of many …

LINE-UP
Tommy Baptiste • Vocals
Kyle Stevens • Guitars
Scott Rae • Bass
Nik K • Drums

DISCOGRAPHY
2025 • In For The Kill • EP

MEDIA FEEDBACK:
10 / 10
➤ „It’s like this was ripped straight outta 1988, and I mean that in all the best ways … for being a debut release, this little EP felt surprisingly complete and comprehensive … delicious … you’ve made a fan today … recommended for fans of Ratt, WASP, Dokken, Krokus, Whitesnake, Hitten, Wanted, Crazy Lixx, etc. …“
(THE NWOTHM)

9 / 10
➤ „… mercilessly strong first EP … what a way to start … classic-melodic Hard Rock par excellence … always on the edge of classic English Heavy Metal of the 80s … should undoubtedly belong to the top level in terms of quality … musically located between heroes like Whitesnake and Def Leppard …“
(Zephyr’s Odem)

4 / 5
➤ „… Tommy Baptiste’s vocals are dark and melodic and perfectly complement the fiery guitar work … classic Metal roots expand the melange excellently with slight glam attitudes … crisp and impressive … the fresh sound with an enormous 80s touch is a subtle experience that will truly captivate old traditionalists …“
(Metal Underground AT)

8,7 / 10
➤ „… with clear focus … driving riffs, tight rhythm section, and melodic vocals … steady blend of hooks and leads … the production by Rocco Pezzin is punchy and suits the band’s aesthetic … instruments are evenly balanced … overall mix is clear and direct … clearly understand their strengths and plays to them, sticking to concise arrangements that don’t feel rushed or overdone …“
(Heavy Metal Darkness)

8,5 / 10
➤ „… if you like hard rockin’ vibes such Whitesnake, Def Leppard, Scorpions, Dokken et al then you’ll love this … CRUSADER have the magic ingredients to make this witchery work … vocalist Tommy Baptiste sports the David Coverdale-style of rich, soulful crooning to the point …“
(Metal Forces)

➤ „Let me tell you – this is one of the best releases of the year!“
(Iridium Heavy Rock And Metal Music Reviews)

➤ „The English quartet debuts with a short-lived marvel with a taste of fantasy Hard Rock. Suitable for music lovers who give their lives to classic Hard Rock and its melodies, but also for that sector whose Metal branch is open to catchy songs.“
(Metal Nightmare)

➤ „… sounds like old warriors of the glorious era are at work here … good interplay and clean production … if you like Def Leppard, Whitesnake (their heavier ’1987″ phase!), Keel or Ratt, you should definitely check out these three tracks! If they don’t get a deal for a full album with these songs, I don’t know what will …“
(Crossfire)

➤ „Great … demands attention right from the opening riff, and tells you what CRUSADER is all about, right out of the gates … has walked straight out of the 80’s and I gotta say, sounds pretty damned cool in 2025! Well written, and very well produced … is sure to get stuck in your head and make you long for the best parts of old school Heavy Rock.“
(Wanna Hear A Great Song Today?)

➤ „Old school Hard Rock is alive. And in 2025, it sounds fucking fatter than ever before. Hand on heart (or rather: the battle-vest): anyone who doesn’t risk at least a little headbang pain here has never really loved the 80s god of guitar solos. Top production, razor-sharp writing and plenty of energy …“
(Radio Diabolus)

 

SUBLIND • Vehement velocity

[ Logo by Sublind ]

Action: SUBLIND
Title: Metalmorphosis
Base: Syren • Luxembourg
Style: Thrash Metal
Genre: Thrash Metal, Speed Metal
FFO: Overkill, Exodus, Testament
Type: EP
Format: Digital + Vinyl
Label: Independent
Distro: /
Release: Feb. 14, 2025
PR: https://www.metalmessage.de/PR_SUBLIND_en.php

Bulletpoints:
🔘 Brand new EP from the top-level high-speed Thrashers
🔘 Razor-sharp riffing copulates with insane clubbing drumming
🔘 Unspeakable energy, also fabulously intensely vocalized

https://youtu.be/zjW_nzfz5MY
[ „Metalmorphosis“ • Official Video ]

The band comments on the video:
„The song offers everything you’d expect from a Thrash anthem:
furious speed, relentless aggression and a healthy dose of humor. ‚Metalmorphosis‘ is a wild track that breaks genre boundaries with a wink. The music video for ‚Metalmorphosis‘ shows SUBLIND at their best – with wit, chaos and a good dose of self-irony: it’s about an old man who leads a dreary life and comes to Metal through us as a band. The elderly gentleman undergoes a ‚Metal morphosis‘, so to speak. It reads just as absurd as the video really is!“

When the ear canals glow:
SUBLIND takes back the listeners and fans to the inspiring spirit of the 80s. The approach to THRASH METAL is also recognizable in the – partially – corny lyrics and in the band’s general attitude, as shown on all records they released.

After a huge amount of gigs and smaller tours, SUBLIND dropped the very well received „The Cenosillicaphobic Sessions“ in March 2023, followed in 2025 by the brand-new EP beast "Metalmorphosis"!

[ Artwork by Dan Goldsworthy ]

TRACKS
01. Thrash It!
02. Revolution Execution
03. Metalmorphosis
04. Necromania
05. R.I.P – Reign In Pain
06. Thrashing Delirium

total: 23:11

The title may sound familiar as it is also a song from their 2014 album „Thrashing Delirium“. Contrary to expectations, there will be no new songs on „Metalmorphosis„, but six old ones that have been re-recorded.

The band explains the new artwork:
„The cover of the EP ‚Metalmorphosis‘ was created by Dan Goldsworthy. He is best known in the Metal scene as an artist, and we just love his artworks. The cover shows Goldsworthy at his best: a pub fight with zombies during the night taking place in a Metal pub. All the Thrash clichés are packed in here! The cover is inspired by the artwork of our album ‚Thrashing Delirium‘, which was released in 2014. The upcoming EP contains 6 old and newly recorded songs from that album, now wrapped in a punchy sound with much more brutality. Goldsworthy received the old cover as a reference from us, and we requested a few changes, like depicting the same chaotic scene but without us as a band being featured. He suggested the colors, and we found them interesting since we hadn’t initially considered them. They are just as brilliant and completely new to us, but they fit the style, the sound, and the music perfectly. It’s a real eye-catcher, and Goldsworthy absolutely nailed it! There are also many Easter eggs hidden in the cover, like the old cover as a poster in the corner. Ever had Coroner beer? All in all, we are very excited about his artwork—no one could have done it better. Dan is an incredibly pleasant and professional artist, and it was a joy to work with him. We are happy he is a part of this project.“

Over the years, many songs have evolved with the five-piece and now sound more brutal, faster, and more mature. SUBLIND have often wondered what these songs would sound like today, and so they have been enthusiastically brought back to life!

This new record pays homage to those days and does not only celebrates tracks that still remain integral to their shows, but also includes songs that deserve more attention. So these re-recorded and rearranged „classics“ appear in a new splendour!

[ Pic by Sublind ]

LINE-UP
Luca Tommasi • Vocals
Marc Geiben • Guitars
Ben Wilmes • Guitars
Mehdi Addi • Bass
Kevin Gricius • Drums

FLASHBACK:
Founded in late 2005/early 2006 by four enthusiastic Luxembourgian teenagers, SUBLIND stands strong for honest and furious Thrash Metal in all its intensity and originality. The greatest influences for the unstoppable five-piece around singer Luca are especially Thrash Metal bands from the eighties and nineties.

After many concerts in all these years and a few line-up changes so far, today the band combines fast and thrashy riffs with scratchy growls. Their merciless and sweaty live shows are full of outbreaks of highest energies, in which the quintet intends to include the audience with their clear-cutted choruses and a constant interaction with the fans. A long-standing live experience and tremendous fun with some liters of beer are guaranteed!

SUBLIND has shared all kinds of stages and plays especially in clubs or small Metal festivals in Luxembourg and abroad. So far, they already had the opportunity to share bigger stages with international acts like Exodus, Death Angel, Tankard, Warbringer, Satyricon, Exhorder, Benediction, Gruesome, Crisix, Eyehategod, Desaster, Alestorm, Carach Angren and many local heroes. In Luxembourg, nearly all major events have been played so far, but still the band stays hungry for more!

DISCOGRAPHY
2007 • The Beginning Of The End • EP
2014 • Thrashing Delirium • Full-length
2014 • Bricherhaff Compilation: Metal Made in Luxembourg • Split
2017 • Highspeed Hangover • Single
2023 • For Those About To Riot • Single
2023 • The Cenosillicaphobic Sessions • Full-length
2025 • Metalmorphosis • EP


MEDIA FEEDBACK:

10 / 10
➤ „… a ferociously fierce Thrash Metal onslaught … speed, aggression and menace fuelled … firing on all cylinders … unstoppable in this form …“
(Metal Gods TV)

4,95 / 5
➤ „Such a kick-ass Thrash tune, it blew me away … everything is more aggressive and faster—too bad you can’t see it, but the guitar fretboards are practically smoking. This take captures the energy and raw power with which the band tackled their old tracks …“
(Rock Hard SK)

9,5 / 10
➤ „… intensity … true riff monsters par excellence … release happiness hormones on a large scale … the quintet’s joy of playing quickly settles on the listener’s mind and influences their state in a positive way that can rarely be observed … insane amount of energy … excellent work …“
(Bleeding4Metal)

9,5 / 10
➤ „… at the highest level … one riff storm after the other … know how to convince after the first run-through … the production has it all … voluminous power … a lot of work has been done here … sounds contemporary, with a certain, probably intentional roughness that makes up the sound of Thrash Metal …“
(Hellfire)

4,5 / 5
➤ „… infectious … raw, no-nonsense passion for destructive thrash, as if these guys eat, sleep, and breathe it 24/7 … in this regard, my personal favorite song has got to be the title track ‚Metalmorphosis‘, a savage cut which is not only an all-out neck-snapping Thrash anthem, but also has one of the funniest music videos I have seen in a long time.“
(The Metal Inspector)

9 / 10
➤ „… absolutely wild! … blistering … these revamped versions are an entirely new beast … like the moth turning into a butterfly, but in a thrashy and nasty way … I can’t wait to hear these songs live again. For all the critics out there: take note – this is how you produce 21st-century Thrash.“
(Kaméidi Metal Podcast)

9 / 10
➤ „… the songs are immediately catchy and stick pretty quickly … anyone who can relate to thrash from Lich King, Municipal Waste or Warbringer won’t be able to ignore SUBLIND … without a doubt, the future of European highspeed, hyperclass Thrash Metal belongs to this band …“
(Zephyr’s Odem)

9 / 10
➤ „The six songs are fun from front to back and are just the right thing to blow your head off with awesome underground Thrash. The new recordings were definitely worth it!“
(Powermetal DE)

4 / 5
➤ „… own identity, despite a classic sound … SUBLIND clearly show that they have mastered the genre … album that is both a homage to the classic Thrash sound and a statement of their own identity … with real passion and conviction … solid offering for every Thrash Metal fan …“
(MetalUnderground AT)

4 / 5
➤ „… the six Thrash Metal firebrands are reborn here with an energy increased tenfold by a relentless modern production, a much more raging vocals and, it seems to us, a greatly increased velocity. Thus revitalized, the band’s compositions compete in intensity with the best Thrash productions of the moment …“
(Music In Belgium)

8,6 / 10
➤ „… six overspeed tracks … massive sound and a raging desire to really let it rip!“
(Soil Chronicles)

8,5 / 10
➤ „… perfectly paced for getting circle pits started at larger festivals … Tommasi’s harsh vocals give it the necessary weight … a lethal dose of hatred sent from Luxemburg with love and sounding as fresh as a daisy smells … SUBLIND have done the unthinkable and outdone themselves with this whirlwind …“
(Metal Noise)

7,9 / 10
➤ „… awesome and killer fast riffs, which are coupled with tremolos … has some tasty and ripping grooves, which are included throughout this … extremely fast and is full of ferocity and utter speed … has absolutely face-melting guitar solos in this that are definitely shreddy in nature and they’re pretty much all over this …“
(Drako’s Metal Reviews)

7 / 10
➤ „SUBLIND continue to deliver merciless Thrash Metal energy! The absence of fillers is unquestionable, I listened to the whole EP in one take and then went back to do it again. It is a catchy, raw and filled with Thrash anthems.“
(Musipedia Of Metal)

➤ „… very good … this EP is to be recommended to everyone who likes good Thrash – with the good sound of the 80s, with here and there a few detours to some Speed Metal …“
(Rancor Metalzine)

➤ „There’s nothing than I love more as sick ass riffs with killer tone … hard to decide which song is the best shooter cause they’re all passionate … make ‚Metalmorphosis‘ to your hunk of burning love!“
(The Metal Institute Of Thrashology)

➤ „A must for Thrash fans … even more pressure, aggression and precision … tons of sound that packs the raw essence of the genre into a modern guise … pure neckbreakers … razor-sharp riffs and well thought-out song structures …“
(BlattTurbo)

➤ „‚Metalmorphosis‘ gives me hope. The hope that a Thrash Metal album will not let Thrash metallers cool down not even a little bit. It is a lesson of how to thrash with all the strength and rage possible in this sad and lonely and pathetic little planet.“
(Metal Addicts)

➤ „I promise you that even the naysayers will change their mind immediately, once they hear the first note of these new old songs … these twenty-four minutes are the embodiment of a fresh coat of paint that you never knew you needed … classics in a brilliant new way … an amazing start into 2025 and SUBLIND are here to stay!“
(El Gore)

➤ „Boy, boy … really fun … like a bastard of Kreator, Assassin and possibly Hatesphere … the breaks are like a one, invite you to mosh right away before you can screw your head off again with the next high-speed passage … perfect for fistraising and roaring along … great stuff!“
(Totentanz)

➤ „Solid modern Thrash, with well-felt riffs, incredible energy and a voice perfectly adapted to the style, that’s exactly what I like in this kind of music.“
(Worldmetallum QC)

➤ „… a brutal barrage of fiery Thrash to melt even the most hardened of metallers!“
(Frenzy Fire)

➤ „… really cool old-school Thrash Metal in typical American guise. Bay Area is the magic word! Somewhere between Overkill, Exodus and Testament, this is where the bludgeon is unpacked. Sawing riffs, wild solos, driving drums, aggressive vocals and rousing gang shouts determine the action.“
(Crossfire)

➤ „… great speed … don’t expect the pace to drop at any moment on this EP, if anything expect it to just keep getting faster. The skill work these guys display is incredible and there’s an element of fun in here too. This is what I want from my Thrash Metal.“
(Mean Mister Green Recommends)

➤ „The prize for one of the heaviest Hardcore Thrash boards of the still young year undoubtedly goes to Luxembourg’s whipping boys SUBLIND … chasing uncompromisingly and in a permanent high-speed frenzy through four decades of shredding history … old-school excess …“
(Rock Hard DE)

➤ „… one thing is for sure: what they do, they do very well … fast, catchy and fun, in the style of Overkill and Exodus … a very good, rousing product, with excellent sound … shows a band in great form …“
(The Murder Inn)

etc.

[ Logo by Dark Lightning ]

Light in the darkness

Base: Lower Saxony • Germany
Style: Symphonic Metal
Genre: Melodic Metal, Dark Metal, Symphonic Metal
FFO: Xandria, Lunatica, Edenbridge
Type: Full-length
Format: CD + Digital
Label: Independent
Release: Dec. 06, 2024

Bulletpoints:
🔘 The profound debut album of the German band
🔘 Authentic, sincere, individual songs
🔘 Powerful, intense, touching, sung in multiple ways

LINE-UP
Lea Diekmann • Vocals
Alexander Jung • Guitars
Mike Richter • Guitars
Frank Pirnay • Bass
Marvin • Keyboards
Nepo • Drums

DARK LIGHTNING • Online:
► Instagram: www.instagram.com/darklightningband/
► Facebook: www.facebook.com/darklightningband
► YouTube: www.youtube.com/@darklightningband
► Bandcamp: dark-lightning.bandcamp.com/
► Spotify: open.spotify.com/artist/1rE3C3hLUtkJSqZVAe8yN6

💿 𝗗𝗜𝗦𝗖𝗢𝗚𝗥𝗔𝗣𝗛𝗬:
2023 • Dark Lightning • EP
2023 • Lilith • Single
2024 • The Demons We Create • Full-length

📢
DARK LIGHTNING is available for interviews via phone, Skype, Zoom & email – feel free to get in touch!
📢

DISCOGRAPHY
2023 • Dark Lightning • EP
2023 • Lilith • Single
2024 • The Demons We Create • Full-length

https://youtu.be/Yo-3QWXRayQ
[ „Beautiful Beast“ • Official Lyric Video ]

Singer Lea takes a deeper look at the single „Beautiful Beast“:
„‚Beautiful Beast‘ deals with the attraction of a toxic person. It’s a warning about the person – the ‚beast‘. She is described as gentle and beautiful, with an outward appearance of ‚virgin-like purity‘, so to speak, and a silky voice. But appearances are deceptive, because once you have allowed yourself to be dazzled, there is no escape. The beast will use you ruthlessly and make your life hell. Musically, the song is based on a recurring guitar riff, which is introduced to the listener right at the beginning by a string intro. The track represents the wilder, rougher side of DARK LIGHTNING, but despite its straightforwardness, it is not too simple, especially thanks to the varied middle section.“

Founded in Braunschweig in 2018, DARK LIGHTNING have carved out their own place in the scene with their unique Metal combination of symphonic elements and profound, emotional themes.

The six-piece’s music, which comes straight from the heart, processes personal struggles and experiences and transforms them into atmospherically dense soundscapes that are both powerful and touching.

[ Artwork by Diogo Soares ]

TRACKS
01. Glimpse Of Freedom (01:09)
02. Trapped Forever (04:31)
03. The Unknown Mind (04:33)
04. Into The Night Sky (03:10)
05. Hall Of Tears (05:00)
06. Take Off (04:01)
07. The Lonely Ruler (05:38)
08. Solace In My Solitude (04:48)
09. Born Without A Heart (04:38)
10. Beautiful Beast (04:18)
11. Quest For Light (03:11)
12. The Demons We Create (09:13)

total: 54:10 min.

„The Demons We Create“ is the first major release from DARK LIGHTNING and represents a clear further development of the band’s individual SYMPHONIC METAL sound.

Thematically, the profound work is dedicated to the inner struggle with personal demons and the confrontation with past experiences. The dark and emphatically emotional atmosphere is emphasised by varied vocals, driving guitar riffs and orchestral elements that make this album worth listening to an intense musical journey.

Compared to previous releases, the sincerely self-aware formation has further developed and noticeably refined its specific sound.

While the symphonic influences remain, „The Demons We Create“ features more dark and melodic Metal elements.

The songs have become more aggressive and dynamic overall, with distinctive guitar work and a broad, richly utilised palette of vocal expressions, ranging from clear, emotional passages to powerful growls.

[ Pic by Dark Lightning ]

LINE-UP
Lea Diekmann • Vocals
Alexander Jung • Guitars
Mike Richter • Guitars
Frank Pirnay • Bass
Marvin • Keyboards
Nepo • Drums

Future plans
After the release of „The Demons We Create“, DARK LIGHTNING 2025 will focus on live performances and festivals to bring the new sound to the stage. New singles are also in the pipeline to further advance DARK LIGHTNING’s musical development and strengthen the band’s presence in the Metal scene.

⚡
MEDIA FEEDBACK:

10 / 10
➤ „‚The Demons We Create‘ attracting fans from a multitude of genres … sending a stone cold chill down the spine – the band stomping ahead with an almighty punchy crunch, the harsh vocals adding even more menace to an already menacing march! The intensity of the album since it began has been spot on, not too overpowering and definitely not timid …“
(Metal Gods TV)

77 / 100
➤ „Although Lea occasionally sings in a soprano-like voice, she sings in a relatively deep female voice, which gives the overall mood a gloomy note and creates a beguiling world view.“
(Burrn!)

76 / 100
➤ „… well-constructed compositions in which power, melody and symphony merge wonderfully into good songs … good guitar work and many symphonic sounds that complement or support each other perfectly …“
(Musica BE)

7,5 / 10
➤ „… dramatic poetry … the combination of elegantly structured arrangements and raw passages, paired with the masterful interpretation of singer Lea, is one of the greatest strengths of this fascinating debut work …“
(Rock Hard Italy)

7,3 / 10
➤ „A solid debut album that focuses more on the classic sound of Symphonic Metal and is definitely aimed at fans of the genre at the turn of the century.“
(Melodic Metal Sound)

11 / 15
➤ „… immediately evokes memories of the time when the genre was still original and unspent … back then Theatre Of Tragecy coined the term ‚beauty and the beast‘, to which DARK LIGHTNING also feel committed … always sounds approachable and authentic … the band is focused and increases from song to song …“
(Legacy)

7 / 10
➤ … they no longer focus solely on pure Symphonic Metal, but also increasingly allow dark and melodic Metal elements to shine through, which give the whole thing a push in the right direction …
(Bleeding4Metal)

7 / 10
➤ „… the songs are well played to the point … the final title track at the end of the disc pushes the boundaries and lasts nine minutes. This is where they really let off steam. There are even aggressive growls in between …“
(Crossfire)

➤ „… more than just a work – it is a journey through human emotions and abysses, impressively accompanied by music that moves and resonates in equal measure …“
(BlattTurbo)

➤ „… is sure to impress fans of Symphonic Metal … just grabs the listener and the rhythmic vocal style is sure to keep one intrigued. Fantastic melodies throughout and Lea throws down one hell of a vocal performance …“
(Wanna Hear a Great Song Today?)

➤ „… melodic and compelling, with a female vocalist able and willing to deliver crustal clear melodic singing as well as adding an operatic flair … a band that are well aware of how contrasting elements create tension and a dynamic flair …“
(The Viking In The Wilderness)

➤ „… Symphonic Metal on the heavier side, with clean female vocals and harsher Black/Death Metal vocals mixing with the symphonic strings and classic Metal riffing, making for a rather neat take on the genre.“
(Loud Enough? Magazine)

➤ „… singer Lea does with a prone to the operatic, but not forgetting Metal roughness … essentially they are utterly linked with Old School Heavy Metal the same way Nightwish were in their early days … interesting how Lea’s voice reminds Alanis Morissette’s … well, the combination is a killer. That what makes ‚The Demons We Create‘ so different.“
(Metal Addicts)

➤ „… very dynamic release, where the songs fit together well …“
(Rancor Metalzine)

➤ „… a wide array of Symphonic Metal with crushing riffs and a blend of soaring and harsh vocals across a surprise packed hour of intensity.“
(Frenzy Fire)

➤ „Powerful guitars and keyboards with perfect atmospheric beds set the tone and reveal Lea Diekmann’s masterful vocal artistry … an album that deserves to be heard in its entirety, especially because the work, while not exactly conceptual, tackles profound themes dedicated to the inner struggle with personal demons and confronting past experiences. A wonderful debut!“
(Roadie Metal)

➤ „… powerful Symphonic Metal masterpiece … delivers a fierce blend of dark melodies, crushing riffs, and Lea Diekmann’s breathtaking vocal versatility, transitioning smoothly between clean vocals and guttural growls … if you crave music that hits deep and leaves you wanting more, this one’s for you!“
(CeciOn de Metal)

➤ „Dark, epic, symphonic music with a beautiful, versatile voice … definitely a band to follow and support!“
(Femmes du Metal)

➤ „… exemplifies both mastery and dedication. I was particularly impressed by the carefully structured sequences I appreciated their focus on the symphonic aspects present in each track, which were supported by a robust and skillfully constructed framework … melodic riffs, expressive and strong vocals, along with tight rhythms, truly culminate in a remarkable Symphonic Metal experience …“
(Rock Era)

etc.

 

Highly explosive riff thunderstorms!

[ Logo: Breakdown ]

Bulletpoints:
🔘 Full-bodied EP from the Brazilian-German killer band
🔘 Boisterously inventive songs that are immediately catchy
🔘 A cursedly fluid, fabulously coherent Thrash massacre


https://open.spotify.com/intl-de/artist/0J0CqxYejA6rrpFIJFswtI
https://www.youtube.com/@breakdownbkn
https://www.instagram.com/breakdown_bkn/
http://www.facebook.com/BreaKdowNBKN

Here comes a true banger:
Extremely fantastic THRASH METAL, bloody intense, wonderfully melodic & technically complex!

The new EP „Divide And Konquer“ was produced by experienced soundmaster Andy Classen (Stage One Studio) – 4 tracks of pure energy and uncompromising Metal that will delight Deathers, Thrashers and Heavy Metal fans.

The trio returns as a true powerhouse – delivered again is uncompromising extreme Metal with a mixture of melody, like a bastard of Death, Sepultura, Kreator & NWBHM – with that special X factor that makes BREAKDOWN what it is!

[ EP • Artwork by Alcides Burn ]

TRACKS
01.The Tentacles Of Hate
02. Divide And Konquer
03. War
04. Rise From The Dead
05. Angels Don’t Kill

total: 20:15

[ Pic: Breakdown ]

LINE-UP
Leo • Guitar, Vocals
Tati Schmidt • Bass
Edu • Drums

https://www.youtube.com/embed/eM8n5meX4YA
[ Official Video by Breakdown ]

[ Single • Artwork by Paulo Kalvo ]

https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dk5Bu6Zpwuc
[ Official Video by Ingo Spörl • Hard Media ]

https://www.youtube.com/embed/MzMDBATac1k
[ Official Video by Breakdown]

BACKFLASH:
Born from the streets of Sao Paulo, Brazil, later relocated to Ireland, and today based in Germany, Location is just a detail at this stage.
BREAKDOWN blasted on to the scene in 1998 playing every kind of show imaginable. They quickly found themselves embraced by every facet of the insanely diverse local music scene.

After recording „Disgrace“, a 3-song demo, and a live tape called „Live After Thrash“, the label Unsilent Records saw the band live and decided to release the first BREAKDOWN full-length „Time To Kill“.

Released in 2007, these 8 tracks have caught the attention in the global underground scene over the following years – BREAKDOWN appeared in compilations and Magazines in Brazil, USA, Europe and all over the planet and shared the stage with many important bands.

Heavy, old school and intense, the music is uncompromising:
„… just as amazing as the cover and title, so is the sound of the trio … got the punch of old school, amazing melodic pieces and good solos …“ (Rock Hard Germany 2007)

DISCOGRAPHY
2007 • Time To Kill • Full-length
2008 • Disorder & Unprogress • EP
2024 • Rise from the Dead • Single
2024 • Divide and Konquer • EP


MEDIA FEEDBACK:

10 / 10
➤ „… BREAKDOWN riding a Thrash Metal tsunami with consummate ease … uncompromising and fiery … deserves to be listened to time and time again!“
(Metal Gods TV)

9 / 10
➤ „… is really fun … drums like a machine gun, buzzing guitars and a wonderful shot of nostalgia … BREAKDOWN manage the balancing act of sounding old-school and, thanks to a great production, transporting the Teutonic-inspired Thrash into today …“
(Soundmagnet)

8 / 10
➤ „Thrash til‘ Death in old school guise explodes here with power in five tracks that do the genre proud.“
(Hellfire)

8 / 10
➤ „… strong Thrash Metal that keeps its roots but looks forward … besides Thrashers, this should also please fans of Heavy Metal due to good melodic solos and even Death Metallers due to the heavy passages … we hope with such good work that the trio will return soon with a full album …“
(Confere Rock)

8 / 10
➤ „Five songs that simply have everything it takes … razor-sharp riffs … terrific solos … the charismatic, unique vocals tower over everything … unbelievably high level … really strong songs … powerful riffs and truly catchy tunes … goosebump-inducing anthems …“
(Metal Division)

8 / 10
➤ „… very loud thrash metal – in a positive sense … as followers of the old school of thrash, focusing on fast picking and aggressive vocals, BREAKDOWN managed to update the style …“
(Whiplash)

8 / 10
➤ „… old-school Thrash … brutal sound … good work …“
(Mundo Metal)

7,5 / 10
➤ „… fast banging, pretty aggressive vocals … nice demolition … fat riffs … powerful drums, immense groove and melodic backings … always with fine death metal contacts … check out the guys, definitely.“
(Rock Castle Franken)

7,5 / 10
➤ „… full of energy, intensity and technical finesse … the level is appealing … with their balance of speed and heaviness they have found a good key to rise above the competition … I personally particularly like Leo on guitar and microphone, who can always provide pinpricks …“
(Time For Metal)

7,5 / 10
(Rockhard IT)

➤ „… a strong release … Thrash in general … clear hints of Speed and Death Metal – and that really makes it all the cooler … mix of some Death, Sepultura, Kreator and a little hint of some NWOBHM … if you like good Thrash with Speed across the field – well then this is the EP for you …“
(Rancor Metalzine)

➤ „… back to the golden age … a must-listen for fans of Thrash Metal. BREAKDOWN’s undeniable talent and passion for the genre shine through in every track, making ‚Divide And Konquer‘ a true gem …“
(Ancient Forest Fanzine & Art Zine)

➤ „… more than just an EP; it’s a fierce statement of intent, and a must-listen for anyone seeking fresh, aggressive, and uncompromising Metal.“
(Bloody News)

➤ „… based on the best and most modern of the metal scene … influences of Heavy Metal, Thrash Metal and more … modern sound, intense, well crafted and very well produced … will surely grab your attention from the first play … bold, intense … with modernity creativity …“
(Metal Junkbox)

➤ „Overall, a ferocity laden, aggression fuelled Thrash Metal onslaught with a tonne of menace and terrific head bang ability.“
(Frenzy Fire)

➤ „… returns with vengeance … relentless Thrash fury … a tight, well-executed package of Metal that caters to fans of the genre’s various subgenres …“
(1921 Bali Headbanger)

➤ „… a concentrated mixture of Death and Thrash … what makes this band so fantastic is their energetic sound and that they not only manage to convince with melodic leadership, but also present a powerful sound … stands out …“
(Metal-FM COM)

➤ „… high pace and high intensity compositions … meaty and subtly distorted lead vocals provide a contrast to the more form and elegant guitar riff cascades … with sharp and cutting guitar solo runs as the rule rather than the exception … an EP to seek out by those who enjoy their Thrash Metal when it is fast, tight and delivered with a bit of a ferocious momentum …“
(The Viking In The Wilderness)

➤ „… a thrashy masterpiece that will captivate fans of hard guitar sounds. The combination of powerful riffs, precise drumming and a pinch of melody makes each of the four tracks unique … for fans of uncompromising Thrash Metal, this is an absolute must-listen.“
(BlattTurbo)