Australian melodic metal four-piece DARKER HALF recently announced the upcoming release of their brand-new album, “Book Of Fate,” scheduled for August 29, 2025 via Massacre Records. Today the band unveil the second single ‘Another Day Another Nightmare.’The song is a powerful exploration of existential dread and the struggle to find meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. Drawing inspiration from timeless folklore — particularly the stories of the Pied Piper of Hamelin and the Wizard — “Book Of Fate” promises to deliver an epic narrative set to the band’s trademark heavy and melodic soundscapes. While not being a concept album, these were themes the band came back to regularly during writing sessions.The new lineup infused the album with a newfound energy, resulting in a faster paced release that harks back to earlier days of the bands roots. Meanwhile the anthemic choruses the band has become known for remain prominent. Produced by DARKER HALF’s drummer Dom Simpson at Elephant Sounds Studio, Australia, the album was mixed by Chris Themelco at Monolith Studios and mastered by Thomas Plec Johansson at The Panic Room. The stunning cover artwork was created by Karim Konig.  Track Listing:1. Introduction2. The Golden Path3. From Disaster4. Are You Listening5. Another Day, Another Nightmare6. Something Sinister7. Somebody Else8. Faded Glory9. Nightfall10.Book of Fate11. From Disaster (Live in Maastricht 03/11)

PHOTO: ROSS HALFIN

Eddie Van Halen’s iconic 1982 Kramer guitar, modeled after his famous "Frankenstein" design, is heading to auction for the first time this October through Sotheby’s, with an expected sale price of $2-3 million. Played during Van Halen’s 1982-83 tours and featured in a memorable Kramer TV commercial, the guitar was later gifted to Eddie's guitar tech, Robin “Rudy” Leiren, with the guitar sporting a personal inscription to Leiren. The instrument was subsequently owned by Mötley Crüe’s Mick Mars, who used it on the band’s chart-topping 1989 album, Dr. Feelgood, though the current owner is unknown and has requested anonymity. Ahead of the auction, the guitar will be on display in Monterey, California, with Sotheby’s claiming it will be “the first time the guitar has appeared on public view in 40 years.” The upcoming sale reflects a rising market for Van Halen’s memorabilia, highlighted by the late guitar legend’s original "Frankenstrat" fetching $3.9 million in 2023. (Rolling Stone)

During a new interview for the Grammys, Alice Cooper expressed his interest in voicing a character on The Simpsons. When asked if he would like to be on a future episode of the iconic animated series, the 77-year-old rock legend said, “Oh yeah, absolutely. When The Simpsons came out, they were totally unique. It was really, really funny. I really admired what they were doing.” Cooper has previously made memorable cameo appearances on Family Guy and Wayne’s World, and he recalls that his legendary 1978 appearance on The Muppet Show is still a career highlight. “My favourite thing in the world was being on The Muppet Show,” he said. “I loved the show — it was a very funny show, very clever. That ended up being the reference point to an entire generation, me doing The Muppet Show. It’s amazing, to this day people go, ‘I discovered you on The Muppet Show, and after that I went and got all your albums.’” (NME)

‘80s metal luminaries The Rods are back with Wild Dogs Unchained, a new album that combines reimagined classics from their past with masterfully crafted new songs.Hooks, grooves, crafty, formidable, and rebellious are songwriting attributes that The Rods gladly embrace. On Wild Dogs Unchained, the veteran power trio continues their famed aural assault with songs like “Eyes of a Dreamer” and “Tears for the Innocent,” revealing heretofore unrealized musical melodicism, while re-tooled classics, “Hurricane” and “Wild Dogs Unchained,” percolate with renewed vigor. On Wild Dogs Unchained, the playing is harder, the grooving is heavier, and the singing more soulful than ever before. David “Rock” Feinstein (guitar/vocals), Freddy Villano (bass), and Carl Canedy (drums) have crafted a definitive Rods album aimed at pleasing die-hard fans and new audiences alike. Once again mixed and mastered by Chris Collier, Wild Dogs Unchained flexes considerable musical muscle and builds upon the ironclad sonic template that these three musicians have forged over recent years. Not content to rest on their laurels or their legacy, The Rods are getting tighter, more nuanced, and perhaps even more bludgeoning with age. As Derric Miller at hardrockhaven.net said, “The Rods just pummel you. There’s an insane energy coming from this band.”

Metalopolis Records

Rockshots Records

Ozzy Osbourne died at the age of 76 on July 22nd from a heart attack, according to a death certificate obtained by the New York Times. The certificate, filed by his daughter Amiée, cited the cause of death as "(a) Out of hospital cardiac arrest (b) Acute myocardial infarction (c) Coronary artery disease and Parkinson's disease with autonomic dysfunction (Joint Causes)." In the wake of Osbourne's passing, his family released a statement, saying, "It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time." Just weeks prior to his death, Osbourne had performed at what was billed as Black Sabbath's final performance during a festival titled "Back to the Beginning" in his and the band's hometown of Birmingham, England. (Variety)

Vince Neil, the lead vocalist of Mötley Crüe, has returned to the stage for the first time since undergoing an undisclosed medical procedure that forced the band to postpone their Las Vegas residency earlier this year. Neil and his solo band recently performed a gig in Boston, marking his first live appearance in nearly a year. During the show, Neil addressed the audience, acknowledging his recent absence and the uncertainty surrounding his ability to return to the stage. "I had a medical thing that happened to me, and they said I wouldn't be back on stage again. I said, 'Fu-k that, man.' And I'm back and I'm with you guys tonight. And I'm really proud to be here, man." The setlist included various Mötley Crüe classics, and while Neil struggled with some of the higher vocal ranges, fan footage showed him to be physically active. Motley Crue's Vegas residency are now set for September and October. (COS)

Photo: Melinda Clabes

Atom Splitter PR

Photo Credit: Ross Halfin

Canadian melodic rock band Fatal Vision return with a powerful new standalone single, a reimagined version of “If You Ever Get Lonely”, originally recorded by John Waite. Now available on all major streaming platforms, the track showcases Fatal Vision’s ability to breathe new life into a beloved classic while making it distinctly their own.

Capital T Productions

Paul Mario Day, the original vocalist of Iron Maiden and a notable figure in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, has died at 69. Recruited in 1975 by bassist Steve Harris, Day’s brief tenure with Iron Maiden lasted only ten months before he was replaced, due to concerns over his stage presence. “When I sang in Iron Maiden, it was a new pub band and nobody wanted to see or hear them,” Day later recalled. “We were all nobodys all trying to make the best music we could and fighting for an audience.” Though Day isn’t featured on any studio recordings with the group, the singer did claim that he co-wrote “Strange World,” which appeared on Maiden’s 1980 self-titled debut album. After Iron Maiden, Day fronted bands including More and Wildfire, before joining the reformed English glam rock band Sweet in 1985, alongside guitarist Andy Scott and drummer Mick Tucker. “We needed a singer and when Paul arrived for the audition we looked no further,” Scott wrote in a tribute to Day, adding that his “vocal performance has stood the test of time” while expressing his “deepest condolences to his wife Cecily and family and friends. A sad day for all Sweet fans.” (Billboard)

Brace yourselves, A.D.A.M. Music Project's upcoming single "Powered Up" is a sonic juggernaut that tears through the ordinary and rockets you straight into the stratosphere of creativity and adrenaline! This explosive anthem doesn't just nod to the legendary 'MegaMan' video game franchise, it reinvents its spirited legacy in an astonishing fusion of hard rock fury and dazzling electronic brilliance.

📸: Ian Ritter

📸: Juho Virinkoski / Rytmi Visuals

Rock Of Angels Records

Photo: DC

Italian/Swedish hard rock/heavy metal band Hell in the Club return today with their new single and official video “The Devil Won’t Forget Me”, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.

The new documentary, No Escape From Now, which chronicles Ozzy Osbourne’s health struggles leading up to his performance at the recent Back to the Beginning concert, is still scheduled to premiere on Paramount+ this fall despite the singer’s death at 76. “Filming with him, Sharon, Aimee, Kelly and Jack for the last three and a half years will always be a cherished and remarkable experience,” said Phil and Tania Alexander, the creative team behind the rock doc. “We got to regularly witness Ozzy’s indomitable spirit, his mischievous, irresistible grin and his masterful display of unique one-liners. We will always love you dear Oz.”

A distinctive fighting spirit is undoubtedly an integral part of Jet Jaguar's DNA. The four-piece from Mexico is one of the most promising metal newcomers of 2025 yet they have survived a dramatic lineup change just as effortlessly as the difficult lockdown years and — you could say — as a dramatic climax. They endured a serious traffic accident in Autumn 2024 during their tour with Anvil. At the end of the day, these experiences have helped the band to grow tougher and more mature. 

Sweden’s favorite melodic rock band – was formed in 1985 in Sundsvall, Sweden, by members of local acts Overload, Red Skies, and The Kaza. The band quickly gained popularity on the Swedish rock scene, performing at clubs and festivals, and earning hits on local radio.In 1986, they reached the finals of the POP-86 competition in Stockholm, judged by Tommy Nilsson (Easy Action) and Kee Marcello (Europe). A year later, they signed with TAB Records and released their debut single “Hearts Keep On Burning”, featuring backing vocals from Tommy Nilsson, followed by “Fool For Your Love” in 1988. They made frequent TV appearances and shared stages with acts like Status Quo.In 1990, the band briefly rebranded as Cherry Red and signed with CBS, releasing the single “Only The Strong”. However, the record deal dissolved, and it wasn't until 2008 that they released their first CD, Better Late Than Never, a collection of singles and unreleased tracks.Roulette’s modern chapter began in 2015 with the single “Secret Room”, produced by Chris Rehn. This marked the beginning of their full comeback, culminating in the 2019 album Now!, which was named one of the best melodic rock albums of the year by outlets like Rocknytt (Sweden), AORland (Spain), and Burrn! (Japan).The band headlined a successful tour in Spain in 2022 and performed at major festivals including All Star Fest (Belgium) and Sabaton Open Air (Sweden), receiving rave reviews. A string of singles followed, including “Ready For Friday Night”, which was voted one of the best singles of 2022.In 2024, Roulette released the EP From Now Until Today, featuring past singles and the new track “Love’s The Drug”, which charted in Sweden. The EP debuted at No. 8 on the Swedish album and vinyl charts.Their highly anticipated new album GO! is set for release in spring 2025, featuring 10 brand-new tracks that blend their signature melodic hooks with the energy of classic influences like Thin Lizzy, Def Leppard, Bryan Adams, and Van Halen.Known for their dynamic live shows, Roulette will return to Spain for a headline tour in October 2025, along with select festival and club appearances—including a special 40th anniversary hometown show in Sundsvall.

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DRAGONSCLAW is the name one of the first bands Giles Lavery co-formed with Ben Thomas in 2010, while still residing in Sydney, Australia. Their debut album »Prophecy« was quickly recorded in 2011, followed by »Judgement Day« (2013). And now, a record breaking twelve years later, it’s time for the follow-up.Apart from Giles Lavery on vocals, »Moving Target« features Australian citizens Ben Thomas (guitars) and Aaron Thomas (bass) as well Warlord members Mark Zonder (drums) and Jimmy Waldo (keyboards).“For me the direction on »Moving Target« was intended to be if Judas Priest had made an album somewhere in 1985 between »Defenders Of The Faith« and »Turbo«,” describes the vocalist the sound of the new DRAGONSCLAW album, “with some of the second Fifth Angel album in there too.”Keyboards are prominently featured on »Moving Target«, which was actually the original plan of the band: “I think for this album the keyboards are very important, they create the needed atmosphere and drama. I would say that we used them in a similar way that Virgin Steele did on »Age Of Consent«, namely to build atmosphere. I really like that haunting effect keyboards can have when used right. Like Tony Banks from Genesis does, or Tony Carey on his Planet P Project albums ... Jimmy Waldo is one of those guys too.”Probably the fastest and most upbeat number on »Moving Target« is called “Shadowfire”. And it comes with a surprise: “’Shadowfire’ reminded me of a current-day Riot song, so I asked Todd Michael Hall to sing on it with me, and he was kind enough to do so!”“(Tell Me) All Your Lies”, on the other hand, another standout track on »Moving Target«, is quite an accessible composition, possibly the catchiest tune on »Moving Target«. It’s got a bit of that “Wasted Years” Maiden-vibe, following the Adrian Smith school of songwriting. “I am glad you noticed that,” laughs the singer. “As I heard that too ... Co-producer Thomas Mergler was largely responsible for helping to finish that song up as it wasn't quite right and he added some very good ideas to it.”With the band on fire and Giles Lavery, the singer, coming across as a blend of Michael Kiske, Geoff Tate and Ronnie James Dio, »Moving Target« has every chance to become a modern-day heavy metal classic.LINE-UP:Giles Lavery - VocalsBen Thomas - GuitarAaron Thomas - BassJimmy Waldo - KeysMark Zonder - Drums

Photo by P2 Foto Studio

Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary singer for Black Sabbath and heavy metal pioneer, died on Tuesday (July 22) at the age of 76. Osbourne’s family released a statement confirming his death: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”

From Dustin Hardman Promotions

Photo by DC

"TIME BOMB by RAZORWIRE HALO came out of a place of reflection more than rage. It's about the slow, quiet damage that builds up over time when you repress everything---your anger, your sadness, your doubts. We wanted to write a song that captured that internal pressure, like you're holding everything in until eventually, something gives.

📸:Stoney Darkstone

Photo Credit: Hannu Ikonen

📸: Anthony Grassetti

Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath's "Back to the Beginning" charity concert on July 5 raised over $200 million for three charities, setting the record for the highest-grossing benefit show of all time. The day-long heavy metal extravaganza took place at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, and the money generated from the show surpassed the amounts raised by FireAid and Farm Aid combined. The concert – billed as Ozzy’s final stage performance and the first reunion of all four original Sabbath members in 20 years – saw approximately 40,000 ticketholders and reached a peak of 5.8 million online viewers. The funds will be distributed equally to Birmingham Children’s Hospital, Acorn Children’s Hospice, and Cure Parkinson’s. Additional donations were raised through raffling tickets, auctioning off art and band photographs, and contributions from fans. The final donation to each charity has yet to be disclosed. (Billboard)

In a series of social media posts on Friday (July 11), Nikki Sixx revealed that health issues prevented Mötley Crüe from participating in Ozzy Osbourne's farewell show earlier this month. When a Twitter user asked him, “Motley Crue wasn't invited to perform at Black Sabbath's farewell? Would you have liked to have been there?,” the bassist responded, “We have been having health issues within the band…” Sixx later elaborated in his own post: “As some of you know I take my health extremely serious. I work HARD and I'm not interested in dying from work and BS STRESS. I have a wonderful wife, 5 golden children and a beautiful granddaughter.  Do you think any part of my past indulgences is worth destroying the beautiful life I built?  Never.” While Sixx didn’t share any specific ailments within the Crüe, they previously postponed their Las Vegas residency due to singer Vince Neil's vocal ailment, which will now kick-off in September. (Rolling Stone)

Swedish vocalist Robin Red (Degreed) is pleased share his new single and official lyric video, “Hammer Of The Gods”, out now via Frontiers Music Srl.

On Thursday (July 10), Ozzy Osbourne announced the upcoming release of his memoir, Last Rites, which is set to be published on October 7 by Hachette Book Group. The book promises to present a raw account of “the shocking, bitterly hilarious, never-before-told story of Osbourne’s descent into hell.” The book will also include behind-the-scenes details of Ozzy’s final concert and the Black Sabbath reunion, as well as his recent health struggles. The memoir will also delve into Osbourne's “turbulent marriage to wife Sharon, his encounters with fellow hellraisers including Slash, Bon Scott, John Bonham and Keith Moon, (and) the harrowing final moments he spent with Motorhead’s Lemmy Kilmister.” Ozzy is quoted as saying in the book, “Look, if it ends tomorrow, I can’t complain. I’ve been all around the world. Seen a lot of things. I’ve done good… and I’ve done bad. But right now, I’m not ready to go anywhere.” (Variety)

📸: Leo Baron

THE RASMUS dedicate this track to the beast called love! With the radio single "Love Is A Bitch"they deliver a high-energy anthem that once again proves why the Finnish rock band has been dominating international stages for decades. The song combines everything fans love about THE RASMUS: stadium-ready guitar riffs, modern pop elements, and a good dose of sarcastic humor. Singer Lauri Ylönen describes the track as a kind of outsider on the new album: "It was always a Wildcard song. It never quite fit with the others, but we just found it too much fun to leave it out. Lyrically, it’s about someone who treats you badly, but is simply too good in bed to let go."

📸: William Murray

Today, esteemed rock vocalist and guitarist MIKE TRAMP is pleased to announce the release of his new album, 'Songs of White Lion — Vol. III,' due out on September 19thvia Frontiers Music Srl. To celebrate the announcement, the lead single "Cherokee" is out now, accompanied by a music video, available below.

Info courtesy of MICHAEL BRANDVOLD MARKETING & MANAGEMENT

Following their latest, much-acclaimed studio album “Resurrection” (released in March 2025 via ROAR), darkened power metal torchbearers BLACK & DAMNED have premiered a music video for their brand new song "Heart Of Ashes"!  Guitarist Michael Vetter comments: "The song describes the emotional state of someone who has always lived on the dark side of his mind through his experiences. But he tries to bring light into his life by living according to his heart and not according to his head!"

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Scorpions celebrated their 60th anniversary in their hometown of Hanover, Germany, on Saturday (July 5), with a concert featuring Judas Priest, Alice Cooper, and more. While some fans found the headline act's career-spanning 18-song set thrilling and definitive, others were disappointed by the lack of rarities and special guests such as former guitarist Uli Jon Roth. The show will be released as an upcoming album titled, Coming Home Live, which is due out in November. The band says the live album will commemorate the event “for the 45,000 fans who get to experience this historical moment in person, and for the fans all over the world who want to celebrate… and relive memories from the last six decades.” The band shared an Instagram video recapping the festivities, writing: “Coming Home to Hannover was a very special moment in our long history. You, our fans from Hannover and all over the world, gave us a great gift ... this day will always be unforgettable to us.” (Ultimate Classic Rock)

Meet Wasted Wizards, a fresh new force from the Swedish underground. Young, hungry, and loud, this rising Hard Rock band is ready to crash the scene with their latest and most explosive single yet: “Hear Me Out!”, out now on all digital platforms.

📸: Alexander Strandell