Photo Credit: Freakshot

Today, German rock/metal trio The Hirsch Effekt present their new single, entitled 'Das Nachsehen'. It is the second track to be released from their new studio album Der Brauch, to be released 30th January 2026 via Long Branch Records.

Watch the visualiser to 'Das Nachsehen' here: https://youtu.be/5ZDoJYJFzIs

Stream the new single and pre-order the album here: https://thehirscheffekt.lnk.to/derbrauch

"Tausend Male hab ich diskutiert. Kein Mal davon hab ich das mit dir.“ 

"The song 'Das Nachsehen' is basically about how I – and some people around me – deal with conflicts," says singer Nils Wittrock. "Instead of talking to each other, interpersonal conflicts are negotiated with third parties. Many people shut themselves off behind their noise-cancelling headphones and smartphones. This stands in stark contrast to how many (especially) men walk around with a great sense of mission – be it loud engines, phone calls on speakerphone or Bluetooth speakers. Sometimes it seems to me that we are forgetting how to talk."

Since their formation The Hirsch Effekt have carved out a unique niche in heavy music, embracing limitless possibilities. Yet, despite - or perhaps because of - their elusiveness, the band have captivated a devoted audience.

While earlier works, despite their diversity, were still labelled “metal albums,” this new record explores paths first hinted at on the multi-layered second album, Holon : Anamnesis - the same album regarded as one of the best German-language records of all time. Der Brauch can be seen as a return to that pivotal point - and simultaneously as a bold step forward. Drummer Moritz Schmidt doesn’t entirely forgo blast beats, but the record demands a new heading. In the end, though, there is only one truth: it unmistakably sounds like The Hirsch Effekt.

The Hirsch Effekt are:
Nils Wittrock - Guitar, Vocals
Ilja John Lappin - Bass, Vocals
Moritz Schmidt - Drums

For more information:
http://www.thehirscheffekt.de/
https://www.facebook.com/thehirscheffekt
https://www.instagram.com/thehirscheffekt
https://www.youtube.com/thehirscheffekt

Tracklisting:

1 Der Brauch
2 Der Faden
3 Das Seil
4 Brauch Reprise
5 Der Doppelgänger
6 Die Lüge
7 Die Brücke
8 Das Nachsehen
9 Die Heimkehr
---
Vinyl Exclusive - Bonus Tracks
1 Agitation (acoustic)
2 Die Brücke (acoustic)
3 Stegodon (acoustic)

Photo Credit: Kim Andersen

Danish trio HIRAKI today announce their signing with famed German progressive label Pelagic Records, and release their new single 'Pale Antics'.

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/69h5G5HQ244

Stream here: https://orcd.co/hiraki-paleantics

After spending the last few years channelling their explosive energy as co-conspirators with projects like the doom-rave collective JOHN CXNNOR, the synthpunk trio are now back in control of their own realm.

Brace yourself for a tidal wave of aggressive noise rock, an aggressive style of progressive synthpunk from the edge of the abyss. As a part of Denmark’s flourishing underground scene for dark and heavy music, the three-piece present a sonic assault to accompany the inevitable fact: our world is sick and we are all responsible for this. 

New single 'Pale Antics' dives headfirst into the chaos of self-inflicted loss of control. The track captures the feeling of slipping into a black hole of one’s own making - wavering on the edge between surrender and self-destruction. With their signature blend of abrasive urgency and emotional rawness, HIRAKI turn inner collapse into a furious, cathartic sonic assault. 'Pale Antics' features multi-instrumentalist Zeki Jindyl (Narcosatanicos) on EWI (electronic wind instrument), underlining the beautiful madness heard within.

With foam at their mouths, HIRAKI sing, scream, and recite their way through songs about corrupted data and moral decay. Encouraged by boundless acts like Botch, Street Sects, and The Body, HIRAKI were formed in 2016, when the progressive rock band Liserstille went into hibernation. Jon Gotlev and Tue Schmidt Rasmussen then recruited their old friend and collaborator, Tim Frederiksen, to form a noisy trio unlike anything else on the Danish scene at the time.

In May 2017, the band self-released their EP Modern Genes digitally, on cassette, and as vacuum-sealed art prints. Later, it was also issued as a split vinyl with post-hardcore band We Are Among Storms (now EMBLA).

In 2021, the highly acclaimed debut album Stumbling Through The Walls was released through American label Nefarious Industries, which firmly cemented HIRAKI as a vital force within Denmark’s thriving underground scene for dark and heavy music.

In 2022, the songs found new life with ALTERER – Stumbling Through The Walls REWORKED, also released on Nefarious Industries - featuring ten unique reinterpretations by visionary and stylistically diverse artists. Pressed on recycled vinyl and hand-assembled by HIRAKI themselves, all profits were donated to Doctors Without Borders.

HIRAKI have played countless club and festival shows across Denmark, including Ilter Festival in Odense, SPOT Festival in Aarhus, and Store VEGA in Copenhagen during A Colossal Weekend. The band has also supported the American act The Armed in Hamburg and Berlin and toured in Norway.

In recent years,HIRAKIhave focused heavily on collaborative projects across genres and musical backgrounds - including vocal performances at large-scale shows with the doom-rave collective JOHN CXNNOR at Roskilde Festival and Copenhell, and most recently, a creative partnership with the Danish-Korean indie ensemble Meejah, with new music on the way.

For more:
https://www.instagram.com/hirakiband
https://www.facebook.com/HIRAKIband
https://pelagic-records.com

Photo Credit: Jiawei Zhang

Legendary German outfit The Ocean have revealed their cover of Nine Inch Nails' 1999 song 'Even Deeper', as part of a Best Of Nine Inch Nails Redux tribute album, to be released 28th November (Magnetic Eye Records). 

Watch the official visualiser here: https://youtu.be/XzD082JCUyw

Pre-order the album here: https://reduxrecords.bandcamp.com/album/best-of-nine-inch-nails-redux

The Ocean's Robin Staps (guitars) comments: "The Fragile has been an eye opening record for Loïc and me in many ways. The sheer scope of it, the production marrying fat electronics with broken, organic & acoustic elements that are intentionally slightly out of tune… no-one else had done it like that before. We wanted to do 'The Great Below' initially, but someone else had already picked that track, so 'Even Deeper' was only our second choice. But in hindsight I’m happy, it’s the right track for us and I believe we managed to make it ours, while honouring the original. Special thanks to Simen from Spurv and Orestis from Playgrounded for contributing trombone and synths. This is also farewell, thank you and send-off to Loïc, as it’s the last track we recorded with him on vocals."

The Ocean continue to work on new material - nearing completion of recording their upcoming album, to be released autumn 2026.

Lineup on 'Even Deeper': 
Loïc Rossetti - vocals
Robin Staps - guitars
Mattias Hägerstrand - bass
Jordi Farré - drums
Simen Eifring - trombone 
Orestis Zafiriou - synths
 

For more:
https://www.instagram.com/theoceancollective
https://www.facebook.com/theoceancollective
https://www.theoceancollective.com

Photo Credit: Rob Blackham

Today, hotly-tipped UK rocker Dan Byrne announces his signing with Frontiers, and reveals news of his debut record, This Is Where the Show Begins, which will be released 22nd May.

Dan has also released the first single from the album, the massive 'Saviour'.

Stream 'Saviour' and pre-order the album here: https://ffm.bio/thisiswheretheshowbegins
Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/qTGI9qHPDzI

Dan comments: "This album has been a long time coming for me and many of my fans, so I’ve truly poured my heart and soul into it. The journey to get here has been wild a one. Full of moments that shaped me, challenged me, and pushed me further than I ever expected to go as a young lad from Liverpool. I’ve lived with these songs for a little while now and I’m so proud to finally release them into the world. It feels incredible.

"Signing with Frontiers Records has given this whole chapter an energy and excitement I’ve never felt before. In many ways it feels like the stars have aligned at exactly the right moment. I’ve been working so hard behind the scenes and I do feel like I’ve come up with an album that represents me - not just as a musician, but as a person.

"Every track tells a part of the story. Some songs are loud and unapologetic, some are vulnerable and cinematic, but they all come from a very real place."

Dan's managers at Steelhouse Live, Max and Mikey, comment: "We're delighted Dan has found his recording home at Frontiers, a label that's about to celebrate being at the forefront of rock music for 30 glorious years. We believe it's passion that drives success and in Frontiers, Dan now has a label team that's hugely passionate about his music and totally committed to help him deliver his artistic vision."

Dan Byrne will be supporting Jared James Nichols on three dates in December, followed by his own headline run in March and April.

Full dates as follows:

Nov 29 Porthcawl Planet Rockstock

Dec 01 Bristol Thekla (supporting Jared James Nichols)
Dec 02 Glasgow G2 (supporting Jared James Nichols)
Dec 04 Nottingham Rescue Rooms (supporting Jared James Nichols)

Headline tour
Mar 21 Wolverhampton KK's Steel Mill
Mar 22 Manchester Deaf Institute
Mar 24 Chester The Live Rooms
Mar 26 Newcastle The Cluny
Mar 27 Edinburgh Voodoo Rooms
Mar 28 Glasgow The Attic
Mar 29 Blackpool Waterloo Music Bar
Apr 01 Sheffield Corporation
Apr 03 Nottingham Bodega
Apr 04 Southampton The Joiners
Apr 05 Bristol Exchange
Apr 10 London The Lower Third
Apr 11 Crumlin The Patriot

Jul 25 Ebbw Vale Steelhouse Festival
 
Dan Byrne swept in off the Mersey, announcing himself as a solo artist in 2023 with his debut EP, Beginnings. His powerhouse, soul-inflected vocal and deftly-executed, yet hugely accessible songcraft has quickly marked him out as an artist on the rise. Blending contemporary edge with classic influence, Byrne’s music is powerful, honest, and deeply emotive - widescreen in scope yet intimate at its core. It rocks, without question, but what truly sets him apart is the courage to weave sensitivity and vulnerability through the intensity. This isn’t just rock music - it has the heart and authenticity to connect with an audience beyond any one genre.

In just two years Dan has toured the UK three times, delivered standout performances at multiple festivals and found overwhelming support from Planet Rock - the UK’s leading rock station - where his first four singles amassed an impressive 25 weeks on the playlist. With that foundation firmly in place, Byrne now turns his focus to the release of his long-awaited debut solo album, marking the next powerful step in his evolution as an artist.

This Is Where The Show Begins - Dan’s debut album - is full of joy and confidence. There’s a swagger alongside the sensitivity, a further broadening of musical scope. But at the centre of it, is that voice -  as powerful as it is vulnerable, as emotive as it is strong.

The lead single, ‘Saviour’ - the perfect album opener - bursts to life with attention-grabbing hard-rock stabs and pile-driving riffs. Its verses simmer with drama before the tension breaks in a chorus that makes it clear we’re in for one hell of a ride. It struts, it shimmies and it absolutely rocks. “Light ’em up,” indeed. There’s no let up as we barrel headlong into ‘She’s the Devil’ - Dan weighing in with a colossal vocal punctured by gonzo guitar gymnastics, the sheer euphoria spilling forth here is palpable.

Elsewhere, we're taken to church with ‘Praise Hell’, and ‘Sober’ is stained with regret. We even perhaps get a glimpse of where Byrne is heading next with album closer ‘Home’ - a sprawling, soaring, shapeshifting piece of alt-rock which essentially is never in danger of losing its soul. It’s what Glenn Hughes and 30 Seconds To Mars might come up if they ever combined their superpowers.

This Is Where The Show Begins is the culmination of what has been an incredible journey so far. It’s a marker for what can happen when you back yourself, a calling card for following your gut. Bursting with ambition, diversity and authenticity, this is where it may truly begin for Dan, the exciting thing for us to ponder is where it should lead to next.

Dan Byrne online:

https://www.danbyrne.co
https://www.instagram.com/danbyrne__
https://www.facebook.com/danbyrneofficial

Tracklisting:
1. Saviour
2. She’s The Devil
3. Praise Hell
4. Sober
5. Cherry & Leather
6. Death Of Me
7. Temple
8. Pulling Me Under
9. Hate Me
10. Home

New Miserable Experience, featuring an all-star cast with members of Rivers of Nihil, Rosetta, ex-Revocation, Model Prisoner and Rivers of Nihil, today announce their new album Gild The Lily, due 23rd January via Pelagic Records.

The band have also revealed their second glimpse of the record, the infectious, evocative 'Ordinary People'.

Pre-order Gild The Lily and stream 'Ordinary People' here: https://orcd.co/newmiserableexperience

Watch the new video here: https://youtu.be/wYO1r29Zzdw

True to their signature energy and rich tones, 'Ordinary People' is drenched in tension and melancholy. As the band state, it is "a song that is a reaction to rich and powerful men trying to convince us that they are ordinary people and that empathy is a toxic trait.”

New Miserable Experience are a Philadelphia-rooted collective that reshapes heavy-music rigour into expansive, melody-forward songs through alternative synth-rock. What started as a file-trading collaboration between vocalist/bassist David Grossman (ex-Rosetta) and multi-instrumentalist Joshua Mahesh Kost (Model Prisoner) expanded into a full band that now includes Rosetta drummer Bruce “B.J.” McMurtrie Jr., technical-metal bassist Brett Bamberger (ex-Revocation), and guitarist Brody Uttley (Rivers of Nihil). 
  
Each member of New Miserable Experience contributes a distinctive sonic fingerprint. The vocals act as the emotional centre, delivering lines that feel confessional and immediate; synths and guitars are constructed with shimmering arpeggios and decisive motifs; percussion and production choices blend groove and tension within electronic nuance; and bass work often functions as a countermelody, lifting refrains and anchoring transitions. Together the five players emphasise careful craft over spectacle, shaping a song that rewards patient listening.

Across the twelve tightly arranged tracks of 3rd album Gild The Lily, the band pares its palette to essential elements: clear melodies, precise dynamics, and richly textured production. The album trades overt bombast for craft, building emotional weight through small gestures and patient arrangements rather than moments of spectacle.

Elements of Gild the Lily combines alternative synth rock with chorus-tinted guitars, and a rhythm section that alternates between taut propulsion and roomy, reverb-soaked space. Elements of artists as lauded and disparate as Crosses, Ulver, The Black Queen and more combine to irresistible effect.
 
New Miserable Experience are: 
Josh Kost (multi-instrumentalist)
Brody Uttley (guitar)
Brett Bamberger (bass)
David Grossman (vocals)
BJ McMurtrie (drums)

For more:
PELAGIC PROFILE * INSTAGRAM

Tracklisting: 

1.    Heartsick 
2.    Ordinary People
3.    The Devil We Know 
4.    In the House of Denial 
5.    Infinite Sadness
6.    Payback From God
7.    Yours to Bury 
8.    Perfect Things
9.    Letters to Insomnia
10.    Perfect Blue
11.    Running the Fear of it Dry 
12.    Ataraxia

California’s metallic hardcore titans Lionheart are back and hitting harder than ever with their brand-new single 'Bulletproof' - a ferocious statement track that marks the beginning of the next chapter in the band’s unstoppable rise. Groove-heavy, razor-sharp, and fueled by the Oakland outfit’s trademark intensity, 'Bulletproof' captures everything that has made Lionheart one of the most dominant forces in modern hardcore: pure aggression, anthemic gang-shouts, and a swagger that could only come from the West Coast.

Lionheart have also announced the release of their highly anticipated new album Valley of Death II, set for release on January 9th, 2026 via Arising Empire. Serving as the sequel to their crushing 2019 record Valley of Death, the new album promises to be heavier, darker, and even more unrelenting.

Watch the video for 'Bulletproof' here: https://youtu.be/VeP1OmL5fNQ

Pre-order here: https://arisingempire.com/lionheart

Now, after officially re-signing with Arising Empire, Lionheart are charging into their next era with renewed force. With one of 2026’s most anticipated hardcore albums on the horizon, the band is poised to push their legacy even further. Their return to Europe in January 2026 for a massive headline tour - joined by Madball, Gideon, and Slope - will showcase exactly why this new chapter with Arising Empire marks a decisive and powerful step forward.
 
Catch the band live with support from Madball, Gideon and Slope:

09.01.26 – Germany, Münster – Skaters Palace
10.01.26 – Germany, Leipzig – Haus Auensee
11.01.26 – Germany, Berlin – Astra
12.01.26 – Czech Republic, Prague – Lucerna Music
13.01.26 – Austria, Vienna – SiMM City
14.01.26 – Germany, Nürnberg – Z-Bau
15.01.26 – Germany, Munich – Tonhalle
16.01.26 – Germany, Wiesbaden – Schlachthof
17.01.26 – Switzerland, Solothurn – Kofmehl
18.01.26 – France, Paris – Bataclan
20.01.26 – Netherlands, Tilburg – 013
21.01.26 – Germany, Stuttgart – Im Wizemann
22.01.26 – Germany, Bremen – Modernes
23.01.26 – Germany, Cologne – Carlswerk Victoria
24.01.26 – Belgium, Antwerp – Trix

True strength is earned only through struggle - and California-based metallic hardcore act Lionheart are no strangers to struggle. Since their formation in 2007, the Oakland quintet have turned aggression and immolating intensity into the foundation of their groove-heavy, hard-hitting sound. Each record, each year, has marked another step forward: louder, sharper, stronger.

Lionheart first erupted with The Will to Survive (2007), followed by Built on Struggle (2010) and Undisputed (2012), earning their place in hardcore with relentless touring and uncompromising delivery. 2014’s Welcome to the West Coast hit #1 on iTunes and Google Play metal charts, setting off a celebrated trilogy. With Love Don’t Live Here (2016) and Welcome to the West Coast II (2017), the band expanded their sound - balancing primal rage with introspection and groove - before returning in 2019 with Valley of Death, a darker, unrelenting statement.

In 2022, Lionheart signed with Arising Empire and released Welcome to the West Coast III, produced by Jamey Jasta (Hatebreed) and mixed by Will Putney (Fit for an Autopsy, END, Counterparts). The record became their most ambitious yet: personal, punishing, and unapologetically Californian. That same year, their “Welcome to the West Coast III” European Tour drew over 15,000 fans, with multiple sold-out shows underlining the band’s growing global presence.

Lionheart’s rise only accelerated. On their 2024 European headline tour, the band sold nearly 20,000 tickets, with 7 out of 11 shows selling out - a testament to their unstoppable momentum and loyal following.

Now, as they head into the next chapter, Lionheart have re-signed and extended their cooperation with Arising Empire for their upcoming full-length. The brand-new album Valley Of Death II, set for release in 2026, will mark a new high point in the band’s career- heavier, darker, and more relentless than ever before. The record also holds a bold feature with Texas heavyweights Kublai Khan, pushing the intensity to new extremes.

Lionheart are ready to raise the bar once again and leave nothing standing.
 

LIONHEART are:
Rob Watson | Vocals
Nick Warner | Guitar
Walle Etzel | Guitar
Richard Mathews | Bass
Jay Scott | Drums

For more information:
https://www.facebook.com/lionheartca/
https://www.instagram.com/lionheartca/
https://twitter.com/lionheartca?lang=de

Track list:

01 Bulletproof    
02 Chewing Through The Leash ft Kubl    
03 Ice Cold    
04 Valley of Death II    
05 No Peace    
06 Roll Call    
07 Salt The Earth    
08 Release The Dogs    
09 In Love With The Pain    
10 Death Grip ft A Day To Remember

Photo Credit: Rolf Meldgaard

Danish alt-metal visionaries MØL return with 'Young', the second single from their eagerly awaited new album DREAMCRUSH, due on 30th January 2026 via Nuclear Blast Records. Now available on all streaming platforms, 'Young' follows lead single 'Garland'. 

Where 'Garland' ascended into majestic shoegaze territory, its shimmering guitars and brooding baritone vocals hinting at an impending rupture of blackened force, 'Young' wastes no time. It erupts in classic MØL fashion with searing fury from its very first moments, before plunging listeners into the band's signature haze of glittering guitar lines, towering crescendos and cathartic melodicism that blurs the line between beauty and brutality.

Check out the video for ‘Young’ here: https://youtu.be/F1fLSBTIx28 

Listen to 'Young' here: https://moel.bfan.link/young

Pre-order and listen to DREAMCRUSH here: https://moel.bfan.link/dreamcrush

Guitarist Nicolai Busse comments on the new single, "’Young' is a song that has travelled through time. The chorus is one of the first pieces of music that I wrote for MØL back in 2012 at a time when I was living outside Denmark. I have returned to it a number of times throughout the years, but I was never able to make it right. So it was only when revisiting it for this record that it finally clicked in my head and I was able to write the rest of the music. The song for me represents a time in my life second guessing myself, trying to stand on my own.”

With their third studio album now just weeks away, MØL continue to push the boundaries of their creative expression. DREAMCRUSH tempers the band’s sharpest, most jagged edges with soaring alt-rock hooks, delving into the tension between dreams and reality, and the ways aspiration can both sustain and consume us. By steeping even their most aggressive moments in melody, MØL deliver their most explosive and affecting work to date.

Following on from the critically acclaimed Jord (2019) and Diorama (2021), MØL’s latest opus sees their sound continue to evolve as they embrace new horizons - as a band and as individuals. Drawing on influences including My Bloody Valentine, Cocteau Twins and Smashing Pumpkins, the album explores recurring themes of belonging, resilience and finding home within oneself. DREAMCRUSH arrives with a renewed sense of confidence, acceptance and vigour.

Recording took place over several months in Frederik Uglebjerg’s Aarhus studio, allowing the band to shape the album gradually. Vocalist Kim Song Sternkopf explores his baritone register, delivering lyrics in Danish and English that reflect personal introspection and a revisitation of past events. Guitar solos by Nicolai Busse elevate the emotional journey, while abstract, Emil Nolde-inspired artwork by Daniel Owen at Nemesis Design (Sleep Token, Architects, BFMV, TesseracT) and photography by Rolf Meldgaard visually complement the album’s exploration of dreams, reality and emotional reconciliation.

Fans can experience the album live as MØL embark on a headline tour across Europe and the UK throughout February 2026 with support from Tayne and Cold Night For Alligators, promising shows that translate the album’s intensity into a visceral, unforgettable performance.

Comments vocalist Kim Song Sternkopf, "It feels incredible to bring DREAMCRUSH out into the world, not just through the record, but by stepping back onto stages across Europe and the UK. This will be our second headline run and it honestly feels like a new and thrilling chapter for us in MØL.

"The songs on DREAMCRUSH explore how our hopes and ideals can both lift us up and break us apart. Performing them live will be like tearing up that dream to the crowd, fragile, heavy and luminous all at once. 

"We’ve also been lucky to bring along two incredibly solid acts who embody that same spirit in their own ways: TAYNE, with their raw, industrial noise-pop energy and Cold Night for Alligators, who channel this beautifully intricate and emotional strain of alternative metal from Copenhagen. Together, we plan to bring you dynamic and compelling sets each night,  across Europe and the UK. We can’t wait to see everyone again!"

Tickets are available here: https://ffm.live/moeldk-tour

Feb 6 – Berlin, DE – Hole 44
Feb 7 – Prague, CZ – Futurum
Feb 8 – Leipzig, DE – Naummans
Feb 9 – München, DE – Feierwerk
Feb 10 – Wiesbaden, DE – Kesselhaus
Feb 11 – Eindhoven, NL – Effenaar KZ
Feb 12 – London, UK – Underworld
Feb 13 – Manchester, UK – Rebellion 
Feb 14 – Glasgow, UK – Classic Grand Lounge Bar 
Feb 15 – Leeds, UK – Key Club
Feb 16 – Birmingham, UK – O2 Institute2
Feb17 – Bristol, UK – Exchange
Feb 18 – Paris, FR – Petit Bain
Feb 20 – Koln, DE – Club Volta
Feb 21 – Hamburg, DE – Betty 

MØL are:

Ken Lund Klejs - drums
Holger Rumph Frost - bass
Kim Song Sternkopf - vocals 
Sigurd Kehlet - guitars 
Nicolai Busse - guitars

MØLonline: 
Facebook | Instagram |Spotify|  Linktree|Nuclear Blast  

DREAMCRUSH Tracklisting:

1. DREAM
2. Små Forlis
3. Young
4. Hud
5. Garland 
6. Favour
7. A Former Blueprint
8. ∞
9. Dissonance
10. Mimic
11. CRUSH

Photo Credit: Jennifer McCord

Acclaimed British metalcore band Shields have released their new single 'Parasites'. The song is taken from their upcoming studio album Death & Connection, to be released on 30th January 2026 via Long Branch Records. 

"'Parasites' is about the experience of sinking into depression and the warped internal relationship that develops within that state," comments Shields singer Joe Edwards. "Originally a rock song from a previous project, 'Parasites' was repurposed for our album. As the original track already had dark undertones, it was easy to reframe it in moody industrial arrangements, allowing for a wide range of dynamic shifts between sections."

Stream 'Parasites' and pre-order the album here: https://shields.lnk.to/deathconnection

"Death & Connection is a body of work born from the absence of the people who no longer hold space in our lives", comment Shields. "This record was created from a necessity to express and soothe our deepest losses; however, that was never the intention — we simply set out to make an album we wanted to hear."

Founded in 2012 by primary songwriters Joe Edwards (vocals) and Samuel Kubrick Finney (guitar/vocals), Shields quickly made an impact in the heavy music scene with their viral single I Just Feel Hate - a track they re-released in a newly reimagined version in April 2025.

Their EP GUILT cemented their refined sound, blending brutal instrumentation with poignant, emotionally driven lyrics. With this release, they demonstrated an aggressive adaptability to the ever-evolving alternative music landscape, winning over fans from across adjacent genres. The momentum of their powerful breakthrough led to tour cycles alongside acts such as Loathe, Ice Nine Kills, and Escape the Fate.

Shields’ debut full-length album Life in Exile (2018) received critical acclaim for its raw honesty and musical maturity. However, the album cycle was tragically cut short by the sudden passing of guitarist George Christie - an event that ultimately led to the band’s untimely and abrupt disbandment.

Now, several years later, Shields are back - a bold decision, given the tragic circumstances surrounding their 2018 split. Yet, Shields re-emerged with the powerful single 'Abuser' (released via Long Branch Records), inviting audiences to witness the next evolution of their sound - matured, refined, and fearless. This new chapter is supported by a fortified lineup, featuring founding members Joe Edwards and Samuel Kubrick Finney, now joined by Alastair Wain (drums) and Krishan Pujara (bass).

If Shields’ discography is any indication of what lies ahead, audiences can expect a torrent of unrelentingly bold strides into new sonic territories.

Shields are:

Joe Edwards - Vocals
Samuel Kubrick Finney - Guitar, Vocals
Alastair Wain - Drums
Krishan Pujara - Bass

For more:
https://www.tiktok.com/@shieldsuk
https://www.instagram.com/shieldsuk
https://www.facebook.com/Shieldsuk

Tracklisting:

1 This Is Not A Dream
2 Abuser
3 Kill
4 Parasites
5 Lacerate (ft. Harvey Freeman from Graphic Nature)
6 Womb
7 Brother's Lament
8 Red & Green
9 Wolfskin (ft. Taylor Barber from Left To Suffer)
10 Loser
11 Death & Connection (ft. Jonathan Finney)
12 Miss Me

Following a record-breaking event in 2025 with 230,000 music fans in attendance, Welcome To Rockville returns to Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida on 7th-10th May 2026 for its biggest year yet. Festival producer Danny Wimmer Presents is proud to unleash the full music lineup for the event’s 15th year.
 
Guns N' Roses and Foo Fighters join previously announced headliners Bring Me The Horizon and My Chemical Romance for an incredible four days of music at the World Center of Rock.
 
Welcome To Rockville 2026 will feature 160+ bands spanning all rock genres on five stages, topped by:
 
Thurs 7th May: Guns N' Roses, Five Finger Death Punch, Godsmack, Staind
Fri 8th May: Foo Fighters, TURNSTILE, The Offspring, Parkway Drive
Sat 9th May: Bring Me The Horizon, Breaking Benjamin, Motionless in White, Lamb of God
Sun 10th May: My Chemical Romance, A Day To Remember, Rise Against, Yellowcard
 
The overall music lineup for Welcome To Rockville 2026 is as follows: Foo Fighters, My Chemical Romance, Guns N' Roses, Bring Me The Horizon, TURNSTILE, Five Finger Death Punch, The Offspring, Breaking Benjamin, A Day To Remember, Godsmack, Staind, Parkway Drive, Lamb of God, Yellowcard, Rise Against, All Time Low, Motionless in White, Alice Cooper, Ice Nine Kills, Amon Amarth, Simple Plan, Lorna Shore, Coheed and Cambria, Slaughter To Prevail, Sleeping with Sirens, Hollywood Undead, Black Label Society, Highly Suspect, Dance Gavin Dance, Architects, Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Evening, Poppy, The Warning, Behemoth, Dethklok, Zakk Sabbath, Flyleaf with Lacey Sturm, Tom Morello, Underoath, Black Veil Brides, Mayday Parade, Sepultura, Suicidal Tendencies, Starset, Coal Chamber, Sevendust, Yelawolf, Badflower, Story of the Year, Plain White T's, Avatar, In Flames, Switchfoot, The Home Team, State Champs, Gym Class Heroes, The Plot In You, Static-X, Hatebreed, We The Kings, Paleface Swiss, Kreator, Eagles of Death Metal, 3OH!3, Cradle of Filth, The Wonder Years, L.S. Dunes, Atreyu, DragonForce, Wind Rose, Carcass, Palaye Royale, Failure, Polaris, Memphis May Fire, Blessthefall, DevilDriver, From First To Last, Apocalyptica, Senses Fail, Four Year Strong, FUEL, Violent Vira, Dying Fetus, Breathe Carolina, Whitechapel, thrown, Bloodywood, Buckcherry, All That Remains, Anberlin, Magnolia Park, Cattle Decapitation, The Ready Set, Catch Your Breath, Crown The Empire, Chelsea Grin, Death Angel, Biffy Clyro, Drowning Pool, DOPE, Make Them Suffer, Thornhill, Demon Hunter, Saliva, Brand of Sacrifice, Fozzy, Holding Absence, Sick Puppies, 10 Years, Dead Poet Society, VOILÀ, Napalm Death, Spineshank, Thy Art Is Murder, Alpha Wolf, Deicide, The Paradox, Local H, Carnifex, Bodysnatcher, Fleshgod Apocalypse, Egypt Central, Winona Fighter, House of Protection, Fame On Fire, The Word Alive, Amira Elfeky, Suffocation, Nonpoint, The Ataris, Jiluka, Nekrogoblikon, Red, Ill Niño, Psychostick, Adelitas Way, Framing Hanley, Immolation, Archers, Galactic Empire, Signs of the Swarm, Primer 55, Disembodied Tyrant, Ashes Remain, Spiritworld, Distant, Infected Rain, Castle Rat, Not Enough Space, The Haunt, Wolves at the Gate, Snuffed On Sight, If Not For Me, Colorblind, Ladrones, Platinum Moon, Netherwalker, and Kill The Robot.
 
Zoltan Bathory of Five Finger Death Punch said: "We are dropping our 10th studio album and kicking off our 20th anniversary world tour in 2026, so starting the year at Welcome To Rockville feels perfect. It is one of the biggest rock festivals in North America, and there is no better stage to fire the first shot of this next chapter of Five Finger Death Punch."
 
Some of the music highlights and special appearances for Welcome To Rockville 2026 include:

• Bring Me The Horizon: Only 2026 Florida show

• A Day To Remember: Home state show

• Five Finger Death Punch: 20th Anniversary World Tour

• Staind: Celebrating 25 years of their Break The Cycle album (playing select songs from the landmark album)

• Parkway Drive: Exclusive 2026 U.S. performance

• Yellowcard: Home state show

• Sleeping With Sirens: 15 years of Let's Cheers To This

• Flyleaf with Lacey Sturm: Celebrating 20th anniversary of platinum-certified self-titled album

• Sepultura: One of their final U.S. shows

• Coal Chamber: Rare show

• DragonForce: Inhuman Rampage 20th Anniversary show

• From First To Last: Reunion

• Magnolia Park: Hometown show

• The Ready Set: Very rare show / First in Florida in 10 years

• Death Angel: Act III album play

• Drowning Pool: Sinners 25th Anniversary Tour

• Saliva: Every Six Seconds 25th Anniversary Tour

• Spineshank: First show in Florida since reuniting in 2025

• Egypt Central: Reunion

• Primer 55: Reunion

• Not Enough Space: Hometown show

In addition, the Welcome To Rockville Battle for the Big Stage competition has returned for the 2026 edition. Bands can enter the competition here, up to 30th November. Then, leading up to the festival, viewers can vote on who they want to play Rockville during the Sunday episodes of the Space Zebra show at 6:30pm ET / 3:30pm PT on the DWP Twitch channel.
 
Fans will kick off the Welcome To Rockville celebration at the Wednesday night Welcome To Rockville Official Pre-Party at the festival site on 6th May with performances from Fuel, Local H, Adelitas Way and Ashes Remain. Pre-party passes are included with all camping packages and available to the public as a standalone ticket for $15 (all-in) here.
 
"Fifteen years in, Rockville has grown into something bigger than I ever imagined," says Danny Wimmer of DWP. "Last year’s record-breaking crowd raised the bar for what this festival could be, and this year’s lineup lives up to that energy. Bringing together Foo Fighters, Guns N’ Roses, My Chemical Romance, Bring Me The Horizon, and so many others on the same bill is more than a booking decision — it’s what keeps this genre alive and moving forward. Rock only grows when every era and every sound has a place, and it’s important to me that all corners of this world are represented here. Being able to deliver a lineup like this in my home state is something I’m truly grateful for."
 
"With the full lineup now revealed, fans can start getting loud for the 15th anniversary of Welcome To Rockville at Daytona International Speedway," said Frank Kelleher, President of Daytona International Speedway. "We’re bringing the heat in 2026 — Guns N’ Roses, Foo Fighters, Five Finger Death Punch, Godsmack, Breaking Benjamin and over 160 bands ready to blow the doors off The World Center of Racing. Daytona is built for moments like this, and Rockville will deliver them all weekend long."
 
Earlier this year, Danny Wimmer Presents (DWP), one of the world’s premier independent live event producers, and Daytona International Speedway (DIS), the world-renowned motorsports facility, announced a landmark 10-year agreement securing Welcome To Rockville in Daytona Beach through 2035.
 
All Welcome To Rockville passes - including single-day, 4-Day GA, VIP, and the exclusive Daytona Owners Club - are on sale now here. Fans can secure their spot for as little as $1 down, with flexible layaway options available for over six months.
 
Service fees on all pass purchases include a charity fee for the DWP Foundation, which gives back to local and national charities throughout the year.
 
DWP has again partnered with GOVX to offer specially priced Welcome To Rockville passes - including 4-Day GA and Single Day GA - to military, nurses, firefighters, and police personnel who can verify their eligibility here.
 
A Welcome To Rockville student offer will be available in 2026, allowing those with a valid .edu address access to a $125 (all-in, fees included) Single Day GA Pass via FEVO. More details are here.
 
Fans can book an official Welcome To Rockville hotel package via Jampack starting as low as $10 down, offering access to nearby hotels, shuttle service and other exclusives. Jampack Hotel + Admission packages also allow festival re-entry each day. Additional perks vary depending on the hotel package.
 
An extremely limited number of Car + Tent camping passes are still available as an add-on to festival pass purchases and include festival re-entry access and free entry to the Wednesday night Welcome To Rockville Official Pre-Party at the festival site. RV camping passes are sold out, but a waiting list is available. Camping amenities include indoor restrooms and showers, in and out privileges, a general store for supplies and more. General and premium parking passes are also available. Find camping and parking details here.

More information on Welcome To Rockville:
 
Originally launched in Jacksonville, Florida in 2011, Welcome To Rockville found its permanent home at Daytona International Speedway in 2021. Since then, the festival has established itself as The World Center of Rock, welcoming record-breaking crowds and cementing itself as a flagship event on the global festival calendar. The 2025 edition drew more than 230,000 fans from all 50 states and 30 countries, bringing a worldwide audience to Daytona Beach and Volusia County. Each year, Rockville generates over $80 million in economic impact through tourism, hospitality, and local business engagement—making it not only a cultural powerhouse but also a major driver of regional growth.
 
Onsite attractions will include the ferris wheel and other amusement rides, plus The Pit Stop Shop featuring vintage Welcome To Rockville merch, the Salty Skeeters tiki bar, and more to be announced.
 
Danny Wimmer Presents is proud to partner with an incredible lineup of partners for Welcome To Rockville 2026, including NÜTRL, Bud Light, Eargasm, Jack Daniel's, STRÜNG and more.
 
Welcome To Rockville online:
 
Website: https://welcometorockville.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/welcometorockville/
Twitter: https://x.com/RockvilleFest
Instagram: www.instagram.com/welcometorockville

“one of the best festivals in the world” -- Rock Feed
 
“From sweat-drenched circle pits to euphoric sing-alongs echoing across the Speedway…
a masterclass in controlled chaos – equal parts grit, glory, and good times.” -- Metal Injection

Welcome To Rockville 2025, photo: Sam Shapiro