Welcome to Angelic Warlord- your Christian metal and hard rock resource! Launched in the spring of 2006 with the purpose of supporting Christians creating art within the metal and hard rock genres, Angelic Warlord features an abundance of reviews, links, articles, interviews and news- all updated on a weekly basis. If you enjoy all types of metal and hard rock - melodic hard rock, straightforward hard rock, melodic metal, classic metal, power metal, progressive metal and all things in between - that, at the same time, is backed by a positive and life changing message, then you have found a new home in Angelic Warlord.
Christian art is the expression of the whole life of the whole person as a Christian. What a Christian portrays in his art is the totality of life. Art is not to be solely a vehicle for some sort of self-conscious evangelism.
A Christian should use these arts to the glory of God, not just as tracts, mind you, but as things of beauty to the praise of God. An art work can be a doxology in itself.
- Francis Schaeffer
Upcoming Reviews
• EPIC BARD - A Different View
• EXODUS RISING - The Book Of Life, Volume 1
• NEAL MORSE & THE RESONANCE - No Hill For A Climber
• WARLORD - Free Spirit Soar
• WITHIN SILENCE - The Eclipse Of Worlds
Upcoming Reviews- Reissues
• VENI DOMINE - Fall Babylon Fall (Melodic Passion)
• VENI DOMINE – Material Sanctuary (Melodic Passion)
Upcoming Reviews- Rewrites
• JOSHUA - Intense Defense
• MESSIAH PROPHET - Master Of The Metal
• WHITECROSS - Whitecross
Latest Updates
• ARTICLES - January 12, 2025
• FEATURED REVIEWS - February 16, 2025
• METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS - February 16, 2025
• RELEASE DATES - February 16, 2025
KALAMITY KILLS - Kalamity Kills - NEW
Whether your musical tastes trend towards eighties influenced melodic had rock or metal with a modern edge, the September of 2024 Pero Recordings self-titled Kalamity Kills debut full length fits the bill. Read Full Review >>
THE BRAVE - Carnival Of Sins
The September of 2024 independent The Brave sixth full length-album Carnival Of Sins has some nice songs but otherwise is not on the same level musically as its more consistent predecessors. Read Full Review >>
ECHOVERSE - Whispers Between Worlds
We love singing the praises of progressive rock, and the EchoVerse August of 2024 independent debut full length Whispers Between Worlds, with its technically sophisticated and multifarious sounds, gives us plenty to croon about. Read Full Review >>
HARD ROAD - Change The World
Incorporating classic rock, blues, Southern rock and hard rock, the November of 2024 independently released debut full length Change The World from Nashville, Tennessee based Hard Road exudes the attributes distinguishable to seventies influenced hard music. Read Full Review >>
LEGACY - Hello, New World
The epitome of eighties melodic metal and hard rock, Legacy continues to offer catchy hooks and melodies alongside the radio friendly sensibilities and commercial nuances to go in hand. Read Full Review >>
Mike Visaggio (1952 - 2025) In Memoriam:
As noted by Melodic Passion Records (Facebook - February 12, 2025):
“We are deeply saddened to share that Mike Visaggio, keyboardist and founder of Kinetic Element, passed away on the evening of February 11, 2025.
“Mike was not only an exceptional musician but also an inspiration to all who knew him. Throughout his life, he was deeply passionate about music, playing in rock, pop, and blues bands. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, he recorded four albums as the keyboardist for Billy Falcon, but his true love was always progressive rock.
“In 2006, Mike released his well-received solo album Starship Universe- a nine-track blend of bluesy progressive rock. Just a few years later, in 2009, he formed Kinetic Element, releasing their debut album, Powered By Light. The band, based in Richmond, Virginia, quickly gained recognition within the progressive rock community.
“In 2013, Kinetic Element signed with Melodic Revolution Records, leading to the release of three more acclaimed studio albums, including their most recent, Chasing The Lesser Light (2023), which followed a live album. Despite battling illness, Mike and the band had already begun work on what would have been their fifth studio album.
“Mike's unwavering passion, extraordinary talent, and steadfast dedication to his craft, combined with his profound love of God and for life, left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Though he will be deeply missed, his music and legacy will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come
“Rest in peace, Mike. Your music will continue to inspire and endure.”
Melodic Revolution Records online: https://mrrmusic.com & https://www.facebook.com/MelodicRevolutionRecords
KINETIC ELEMENT online: https://kineticelement.rocks & www.facebook.com/kineticelementband
“Letter From Heaven”, New Lyric Video From ALLOS:
Press Release / Strong Delusion, the December of 2024 second album from ALLOS, promises to win over fans around the world by challenging the limits of metal. Making Belo Horizonte, Brazil its home, ALLOS stands out for its ability to fuse the speed and harmony of power metal with the sophisticated technique of progressive metal in addition to masterfully incorporating aggressive and symphonic elements.
ALLOS recently released a lyric video (above) for the track “Letter From Heaven”.
The album offers an immersive listening experience, starting with the epic “The Pilgrim's Progress” that segues into “Follow Me”, a classic power metal track featuring Christian Liljegren (NARNIA). Along with singles “All your Days”, “TeleVisione of Reality” and “Letter from Heaven”, other highlights include “Suffering and Evil”, “Inferno”, “InHuman Mind”, and “Millennium Kingdom”, which features the powerful voice of the legendary Rob Rock (IMPELLITTERI. The title track joins “System Collapse” in an immersive conceptual duo that defies the standards of the style. The album ends in the same way it begins, with the equally epic “For the Centuries”.
Recorded at the renowned Sonastério studio and produced by the band together with innovative producer Bruno Barros in Brazil, and perfected by the international expertise of Viktor Stenquist and Thomas “Plec” Johansson, “Strong Delusion” displays a standard of production excellence that ensures that each element reaches the listener with the clarity and impact that a work of this style deserves.
ALLOS is ready to stand out among the great promises of metal, and Strong Delusion is a testament to this ambition. We invite you to discover and share this unique musical experience, built intensely in search of leaving its mark on the global metal scene.
Listen to Strong Delusion on your favorite streaming platforms: https://onerpm.link/StrongDelusion
Get the physical versions of Strong Delusion:
Brazilian pressing: https://www.enhakkore.com.br/bandas/allos
Australian pressing: https://soundmass.com/product/strong-delusion
“Tele Visione Of Reality” (official video): www.youtube.com/watch?v=t_jYHYXqIq8
“All Your Days” (Lyric Video): www.youtube.com/watch?v=8buBWWdAQY0
ALLOS lineup:
Celso Alves - Lead Vocals
Junior Oliveira - Guitars
Edley Winderson - Bass
Wallace Ryan - Drums
Guests Musicians:
Cristian Cooke - Midi Programming
Marco Amorim - Piano
Léo Turbo – Voiceover
Christian Liljregen - Lead Vocals
Rob Rock - Lead Vocals
Strong Delusion track listing:
1. “The Pilgrim’s Progress”
2. “Follow Me”
3. “All Your Days”
4. “Tele Visione Of Reality”
5. “Suffering And Evil”
6. “Inferno”
7. “Letter From Heaven”
8. “In Human Mind”
9. “Strong Delusion”
10. “System Collapse”
11. “Millennium Kingdom”
12. “For The Centuries”
ALLOS online: https://allosofficial.com & www.facebook.com/allosofficial
NEWS BRIEFS
* SIGNUM REGIS unleash “All Night Long” METALLICA cover: www.youtube.com/watch?v=va-_rUhQXPA
* BRIDE update from vocalist Dale Thompson (February 12, 2024):
“Bride's Vipers & Shadows is being mixed in Brazil at the moment. We are bouncing songs back and forth improving on the mixes.
“Bride will also be bringing with us to Immortal Fest a special EP called Lost Reels 4. This EP is exclusive to Immortal Fest. Be there and you can pick one up. Since these are going to be as rare as hen's teeth and as limited as defined, ‘whatever that means’, you will want to be at Immortal Fest.”
* LORDCHAIN announces MAD AT THE WORLD tribute EP, City Of Anger (Facebook – February 13, 2025):
“We have a new EP set to release on March 7, 2025 titled City Of Anger. It is a tribute to Mad At The World. This is the first in a series of EPs of tributes to some of our favorite bands and will be available on Spotify, Apple Music, etc.
“The question you are probably asking yourself is WHY? This is just as much for us as it is for anyone. So many awesome artists have influenced Lordchain's sound. We want to give a 'tip of the hat' so to speak. It's also been a lot of fun recording these songs. We hope you enjoy it.”
* EMMANATE & TRYTAN update from vocalist & guitarist Larry Dean (Facebook - February 14, 2025):
“I checked in with Eric Gillette and we’re getting ready to do the final mix down of the brand new Emanate Among The Nations album, which features quite a few amazing guest artists that will absolutely blow your mind. Again, as I’ve said before, this album will be an entire album of Revelation type songs. So, get ready for some plowing praise celebration and some life-changing worship intimacy!
“I also had some great meetings with Matthew Boone Hunt from Retroactive Records and Scott Waters our incredibly gifted art director and very soon we will be releasing a series of projects and albums. The first will be Trytan, Alliance: The Best Of Trytan. Four hand picked tracks from each of our first 3 albums: Celestial Messenger, Sylentiger & Blood Of Kings with some other surprises and bonus features as well. It will be an album that represents the alliances established, both musically, spiritually, and relationally through the years in different phases of our music odyssey.
“With more really super cool Trytan releases to boot! We’ll let you down the stretch. So thankful and amazed for the incredibly gifted Christian warriors that I get to lock arms with, face the enemy, lift up Christ and war, strong with!”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
COSMIC CATHEDRAL, New Super Group Featuring Legends Of The Genre:
As noted by vocalist, composer and multi-instrumentalist Neal Morse (Facebook - February 5, 2025):
“With Morsefest 2025, To the Power of Three, just around the corner, we’re thrilled to give you an exclusive preview of an exciting new band who will be part of this year’s line up: COSMIC CATHEDRAL
“This powerhouse band features drumming icon Chester Thompson (GENESIS, Frank Zappa), guitar virtuoso Phil Keaggy (GLASS HARP), renowned bassist Byron House (Robert Plant, Alison Krauss), and myself (Neal Morse). What started as a series of jam sessions quickly evolved into something much bigger- an album that we’ll be officially announcing in just a few weeks.
“Musically, COSMIC CATHEDRAL is rooted in progressive rock, but with a lineup like this, expect something truly unique. The chemistry between us is electric, and we can’t wait for you to hear what we’ve created. And here’s the best part- you won’t have to wait long!
“Get ready to experience the sound of COSMIC CATHEDRAL very soon, and when we hit the stage, it’s going to be something very special. Stay tuned for more details, and we’ll see you at Morsefest!”
Neal Morse online: www.facebook.com/nealmorse
Roxx Records Announce REIGN OF GLORY, All Will Bow, Second Pressing:
Album Release: March 28, 2025
Press Release / REIGN OF GLORY is the brand new metal band featuring the return of Robyn Kyle Basauri (RED SEA, DIE HAPPY, JOSHUA) on vocals after a long hiatus from his musical career. In addition we see the return of Roger Dale Martin (VENGEANCE RISING, ONCE DEAD, DIE HAPPY, TRIPLE ACE BAND), the monster on the bass, also the amazing Nick Layton (FIREWOLFE, Q5) crushing it on guitar and the one and only Jim Chaffin (THE CRUCIFIED, DELIVERANCE, THE BLAMED) pounding away on those drums.
The bands summer of 2022 released debut album All Will Bow features stunning new artwork with a beautiful cover illustration by David Edgar, and an elaborate cover design and layout by Scott Waters. The debut single “Welcome to Reality” was released in June of 2022 and second “Forever And Ever” in July of 2022.
“Forever And Ever” lyric video: https://youtu.be/uWJONULO-tc
“Welcome To Reality” lyric video: https://youtu.be/ghz4IRcpCX0
All Will Bow track listing:
1. “Forever And Ever”
2. “Welcome To Reality”
3. “Rise Of Aslan”
4. “Samson's Kryptonite”
5. “Love Came To Die”
6. “Call Down The Thunder”
7. “Last Daze”
8. “The Edge Of Night”
9. “1,000 Years”
10. “Writing On The Wall”
Roxx Records online: https://roxxrecords.com & www.facebook.com/RoxxRecords777
REIGN OF GLORY online: www.facebook.com/ReignofGlory777
“Yahweh Will Manifest Himself”, New Single From METAL OF HONOR Featuring Michael Drive:
As noted by guitarist and composer Maurice 'Mauce' Lefeu (Facebook - December 15, 2024):
“YES, YES! FINALLY! The long wait is over! I’m grateful and happy to announce the release of the first song of the metal worship project METAL OF HONOR called “Yahweh Will Manifest Himself’. Check the lyric video above.
“I’m humbled and honored to have Michael Drive (aka Mike Lee) of BARREN CROSS/HUMAN CODE on vocals. His voice fits perfect in the song and he’s a pleasant personality to work with.
“The song is a personal interpretation of the original song in a symphonic metal style while keeping the structure and melody lines intact so you can sing along. This is no AI! The song is available on all streaming media such as Spotify, Youtube and iTunes.
“A BIG THANK YOU goes out to everyone who supported me in doing this: my sons Jayson Lefeu and Gideon Lefeu (for your endless support); Roger Koedoot (for being a dear supportive friend and understanding my musical heart); Michael Drive (for collaboration on this); Martin Kuipers (for your producing skills, you know to listen to your customers); and the select group who already had a listen to the song and giving me feedback.
“The music I can take care of myself but I need to hire resources (vocalists, producer, etc) to make the music complete and in a finished state as this song is now. This project is my contribution to the Christian metal scene. If the community is open for more of these songs I really could use the support because I’m not able to bear these costs alone. And for that reason I started a fundraiser. I will use the raised income to hire those resources for new songs. I hope the metal community is willing to support me in this.”
About METAL OF HONOR:
Launched in 2024, Metal Of Honor is a passionate Worship Metal Project initiated by Maurice Lefeu, also known as Mauce. Our mission is to deliver high-quality worship songs to the Christian metal community, infused with the heavy metal style we all love.
We understand the diverse preferences within the heavy metal scene- whether you enjoy fast, brutal, melodic, or technically complex sounds. Our goal is to create arrangements that are not only engaging and singe able but above all inspire listeners to worship God. At its core, this project is all about glorifying Him.
Mauce is crafting these arrangements, primarily featuring fresh takes on well-known Christian songs and hymns re-imagined in a heavy metal context. We’re also excited to collaborate with guest vocalists to enhance our songs even more. No AI generated music, this is the real thing.
Fundraiser information can be found at: https://metalofhonorworship.com/index.html
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Bleeding”, new instrumental from guitarist Markus Sigfridsson (HARMONY, DARKWATER): www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zuefghN09c
* TRANSCENDENT update in regards to new vocalist, label (Resurrection Records) and upcoming single: www.youtube.com/watch?v=1aAoDqSJPDk
* AFTERWINTER released a pair of cover videos in tribute to vocalist Jerry Grazioso, whom sadly passed away in May of 2024:
“Wish You Were Here” (PINK FLOYD): www.youtube.com/watch?v=osQVqrQtmx4
“Wicked Game” (Chris Isaak): www.youtube.com/watch?v=HchVvnSlRlg
ARTIST COMMENTARY
Michael Sweet In Regards to Forthcoming Worship Album, The Masters Plan (Facebook - February 3, 2025):
“I’m weighing things out. I have an album I’ve been sitting on for almost 3 years. It’s an inspirational/worship album, but it is not like any other worship album you’ve ever heard. It’s an eclectic mix so many styles and it’s just me being free and doing what came to my heart and mind while writing each song.
“I funded the initial startup of the project three years ago, and it just basically got put on a shelf because of other things going on. Primarily with Stryper and other projects and I’m really feeling lead heavily to finish this album. I’m kind of stepping out in faith because I’ve got studio time booked already and I’m going to be tracking real drums, some overdubs, mixing and then mastering the album at the end of this month.
“Then, I’m not sure if I’ll sign with the label, license it to a label or release it on my own. I’m really not sure. But I know this much, I wanna get it out there for the world to hear. It’s an album that’s going to inspire you and encourage you and will definitely be a light in the dark for sure.
“I guess the reason for this post is that once again put my feelers out and make sure that this is something that all of you want. It’s definitely a different side of me and very unique and one-of-a-kind for sure. I’d love to see how many people are actually interested in this album. I’ve been talking about it for a long, long time and I’m a little concerned that it’s been forgotten about. I sure hope not. Let me know if you all are ready for an album like this and please feel free to share this post so I can hear from other people that might not normally come here.
“it’s going to be called The Masters Plan and I’m not looking at this like any other release. For me it’s more like a tie that were an offering and I really just wanna see it help people through life.”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
New Single From SILENCE THE ECHO, “Through The Dark”:
Press Release / Following the success of their debut single “Into Serenity”, the powerful modern metal band SILENCE THE ECHO is proud to announce the release of their second single, “Through The Dark”. This new track continues to build anticipation for their highly anticipated debut album, slated for release in the first half of 2025.
“Through The Dark” is a powerful and introspective piece that portrays the chaos, war, and turmoil of our world - the evil that threatens to consume us. However, amidst the darkness, the song brings a message of hope and refuge through faith. The track captures SILENCE THE ECHO’s signature ability to balance heaviness and melody while delivering emotionally resonant and inspiring themes.
SILENCE THE ECHO emerged in 2022 from the creative synergy between vocalist Katja Stefanovic and her husband, renowned composer and multi-instrumentalist Jani Stefanovic (ex-SOLUTION .45, MISERATION). What began as the bold vision of a duo evolved into a full band, now featuring: Teemu Rautiainen (ex-ONE MORNING LEFT) on guitar, Nikke Karaksela (FRAIL, OCEAN DARK) on drums, and Tommi Huuskonen (OCEAN DARK) on bass.
Together, they have created a sonic identity that blends modern metal and metalcore with atmospheric electronic elements, all anchored by epic and captivating choruses. Fans of bands such as STARSET, WITHIN TEMPTATION, DAYSEEKER, ARCHITECTS and AMARANTHE will find in SILENCE THE ECHO a great addition to their playlists.
To achieve their distinctive sound, SILENCE THE ECHO reunited with renowned producer and mixing engineer Thomas 'Plec' Johansson at Panic Room Studio.
SILENCE THE ECHO: www.facebook.com/silencetheechoofficial
IMARI TONES Drops New Album, Coming Back Alive:
A Powerful Comeback Album Created After a Devastating Fire, Thanks to the Support of Fans:
Press Release / IMARI TONES, widely recognized as Japan’s first Christian heavy metal band, is proud to announce the release of their 19th studio album, Coming Back Alive, on February 7, 2025. The album, released under the band’s self-run label, Kitchen Knife Records, marks a return to their roots while celebrating faith, resilience, and the power of music.
Their previous album, Nabeshima, was released through a European indie label and explored progressive and diverse musical directions with a touch of traditional Japanese influence. However, for Coming Back Alive, IMARI TONES took a different approach, crafting an album that pays homage to 1980s hard rock while maintaining their core Christian themes.
Overcoming Adversity to Create Music
The creation of this album was not without challenges. In June 2023, a fire destroyed the apartment where band members Tak (Nakamine - lead vocals & guitars) and Marie (bass) lived. The disaster put their activities on hold and forced them to rebuild their lives. Thankfully, with the support of their fans and community, they found a temporary home at Asao Christ Church, where they not only lived but also recorded much of the album.
The album’s title, Coming Back Alive, had been decided before the fire. However, the life-threatening experience gave the title a profound and literal significance. The album now serves as a testament to their survival, their faith in God, and the eternal themes of resurrection and enduring love that transcend life and death.
One tragic loss from the fire was a remarkable cat that lived in one of the apartments. This cat was known for its unique vocalization, sounding like it was singing "Hallelujah." The band incorporated a recording of the cat’s voice into one of the songs, honoring its memory and symbolizing the belief that it is now in heaven praising God.
A Return to Straightforward Rock
Musically, Coming Back Alive sees IMARI TONES revisiting the straightforward, high-energy rock that defined their early years. This shift contrasts with the expansive and experimental approach of their previous album, Nabeshima, which incorporated progressive influences, elements of traditional Japanese music, and multilingual lyrics.
Tak, the band’s leader, explains the evolution:
"Our previous album, Nabeshima, had a wide musical range. It was progressive, combining heavy metal with traditional Japanese elements, and featured lyrics in both Japanese and English. It was unique, and we’re proud of it, but some of our audience found it harder to connect with. So this time, we wanted to create something more straightforward. The theme of bouncing back from the fire perfectly matched the fun and hopeful musical direction we wanted to take."
This new album is a joyful celebration of life and renewal, with a sound heavily inspired by 1980s hard rock. It captures the youthful energy and optimism that first defined the band’s career, while maintaining the spiritual depth and purpose that have become their hallmark.
Singles and Music Videos Already Released
Ahead of the album release, IMARI TONES has already released five singles from Coming Back Alive, each paired with a music video. These videos, available on YouTube, have been well-received for their creativity and engaging visuals. Highlights include the use of AI-generated imagery in "Love Wars" and a fun Japanese food tour featured in the music video for "Message From Above."
Supporting Wildfire Relief with Album Proceeds
In gratitude for the support they received after their fire, IMARI TONES has decided to donate 50% of the proceeds from Coming Back Alive to the California Community Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to wildfire relief and recovery efforts. This contribution will be made on a permanent basis, ensuring that the band’s music not only brings hope to listeners but also directly helps those affected by similar disasters.
The decision to partner with the California Community Foundation was deeply personal for the band, as their experience with the 2023 fire left them acutely aware of the challenges faced by those who lose their homes. "We wanted to pay forward the kindness and support we received by helping others in need," Tak explains.
Music Videos
"Above & Below": www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyQ1cYs42Ps
"Love Resurrection": www.youtube.com/watch?v=_84lsRZgCvQ
"Message From Above": www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_dVGYxX4dM
"Love Wars": www.youtube.com/watch?v=glH43TeYiy8
Spotify Playlist (5 singles from the album): https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5aVVMvhhNkMSpFCDklEO8Y?si=9483d1d618134f32
About IMARI TONES
IMARI TONES is an independent Christian metal band based in Japan. Known for their pioneering role as the country’s first Christian heavy metal group, the band has released 18 albums to date and performed internationally, spreading messages of faith, hope, and resilience through their music.
Stay Connected
Website: www.imaritones.net
YouTube: www.youtube.com/imaritones
Instagram: @imaritones
X: @imaritones
NEWS BRIEFS
*“Gethsemane”, new single from SCANDINAVIAN METAL PRAISE: www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3QeHie7J0s & https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/scandinavianmetalpraise/gethsemane
* THE BRAVE release “Knock Knock” official video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=QXjhnyKUejQ
The song comes off the groups September of 2024 independently released fifth full-length album Carnival Of Sins.
* PRODIGAL is set to release in the near future its next album Welcome To The End Of Time. As noted by the Phoenix, Arizona based eighties metal and hard rock act (Facebook - January 5, 2025):
“We finally had our songs mastered, will be ready to print on CD, and will be available on all streaming platforms! 10 brand new songs and one bonus re-mastered classic from our earlier release. It should be available on all streaming within the next few weeks”.
Further Details: www.prodigalaz.com & www.facebook.com/prodigalarizona
* “Golgotha (The Place Of The Skull)”, official music video from WARLORD: www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VbAL3LEvCM
Free download: https://warlordheavymetal.bandcamp.com/track/golgotha-the-place-of-the-skull
Giles Lavery - Lead Vocals
Eric Juris - Guitars
Diego Pires - Guitars
Philip Bynoe - Bass
Jimmy Waldo - Keys
Mark Zonder – Drums
All words and music by William J Tsamis
* Vintage MATRIX live recording available for download. As noted by vocalist Dale Thompson (Facebook - January 28, 2025):
“If you have been a fan of Bride for a while, you know we were originally called Matrix. Troy and I discovered an old live performance of Matrix from 1983. We are offering this 10 song set as a digital download (.wav and .mp3). If you are interested, please visit www.bridepub.com. It features Dale singing and playing bass guitar! We are calling it Matrix Live White Room 1983”.
Track Listing: “Old Man Sneed (Reprise)”, “Get Away”, “To You My Love”, “Bring You Back”, “Man Of Straw”, “Following Me”, “Old Man Sneed”, “Paper Boy”, “White Room”
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
NARNIA To Release Tenth Studio Album:
Press Release / Since their return about a decade ago, NARNIA has released three studio albums, a live album and a compilation album, as well as touring and playing festivals in Europe and Latin America. The band is currently recording their tenth studio album, which is scheduled to be released in 2025.
The Stockholm, Sweden based melodic power metal band released its first album in 1996, but since their return have had the passion of a young and hungry band. This newfound energy has, among other things, fueled them on three tours in Latin America, together with American artists such as STRYPER and ROB ROCK. The band has a growing audience in Latin America, which is now rapidly beginning to spread to North America.
Since their return, the band has released three acclaimed studio albums, a live album recorded in Brazil, and a compilation album summarizing the band’s first 25 years.
NARNIA has recently begun recording their tenth studio album. Right now, the basics are being recorded with the band’s new drummer Anders Köllerfors, who played his first gig with the band during Sweden Rock Festival in 2022.
“We are highly motivated to start a new chapter with both new music and new tours around the world,” explains lead singer Christian Liljegren. He continues: “Interest in Narnia seems to be increasing, and we feel privileged to be a band that gets to continue this journey together. We are a collaborative team, where everyone has their role and compliments each other. So, it is with tremendous anticipation for the future that we now enter the studio to record our tenth studio album.”
The new album, which is still untitled, will be produced by the band’s co-founder and guitarist, CJ Grimmark, and is expected to be released in 2025.
NARNIA online: https://narniatheband.com & www.facebook.com/narniatheband
NEWS BRIEFS
*HEARTS ON FIRE is at work on its sophomore album, Signs & Wonders. A release date is yet to be announced. Look for the group to reveal its new lineup in the near future. The melodic hard rock and AOR project of guitarist Jean Funes (CODIGO ETERNO & SOUND OF ETERNITY), HEARTS ON FIRE debuted in 2018 on Melodic Rock Records with the full length effort (and 85% Angelic Warlord reviewed) Call Of Destiny.
* IMAGES OF EDEN new album update from vocalist & guitarist Gordon Tittsworth (Facebook - December 28, 2024):
“Making great progress on the new record (but still a long way to go). Vocals dialed in for almost 8 songs and with 2 or 3 left. Really starting to see the full painting and overall theme taking shape. Although there is still so much to do, this is the most difficult stage to get through and I am very pleased with how everything is going.
“With each album, there is always an ‘ah-ha’ moment a few songs in where I can really feel the ‘next level’ progression from the previous release and a unique identity starting to form. This is when I know I am on the right track. Will keep you posted as things progress.”
FEATURED REVIEWS
ALLOS - Strong Delusion
Belo Horizonte, Brazil based Allos offers more than you might expect from a power metal band. Read Full Review >>
FAITH HEAD - The Horror Of Things To Come
What’s behind the meaning to a bands name? In the case of Chattanooga, Tennessee based Faith Head, it refers to ‘someone who holds irrational religious fundamentalist beliefs and no matter what evidence is provided to the contrary will never change’ (quoting the Urban Dictionary). Read Full Review >>
FOLLOWER - Into The Son (Roxx Records re-issue)
Follower is what happens when you lash hard rock guitars onto a backbone of AOR and melodic rock. Read Full Review >>
FREEZING TERROR - Firestorm
Freezing Terror blends straightforward heavy metal and Gothic subtleties within a haunting and chilling progressive doom-like package. Read Full Review >>
GIANTKILLER - Whose Side You On? (Retroactive Records re-issue)
Albums do not dwell in the hearts and minds of hard music fans more than four decades because they’re bad, and Giantkiller sophomore effort Whose Side You On? remains as fresh a listen as when it was released 43 years ago. Read Full Review >>
THE HERO - Monster Hunter
Stockholm, Sweden based The Hero satisfies hard music fans who want Gothic influenced metal but without the use of widespread extreme vocals. Read Full Review >>
IMPELLITTERI - War Machine
We’re big fans of Impellitteri, and the groups Frontiers Records November of 2024 twelfth full length album War Machine should be one that raises our pulse. It does and it doesn’t. Read Full Review >>
SMITH, BRAD - Broken Bones & Bullet Holes
With the Roxx Records release to the Latter Reign third album Order To Chaos in March of 2024 and debut Live For The Day and second II each previous in 2022 (also Roxx), a solo record from the bands guitarist Brad Smith represents the next logical step. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Martin Simson’s DESTROYER OF DEATH To Release New Single Featuring Roy Khan:
“Rescue Me”, the third single from American melodic metal project Martin Simson’s DESTROYER OF DEATH, will feature Roy Khan, lead vocalist for CONCEPTION and formerly of Florida based metal band KAMELOT.
The single will be released by Jonatan Samuelsson’s (NARNIA, STARMEN) label JONO Music on Friday, February 28th, and will be available on all major digital platforms and streaming services.
“Rescue Me” lineup:
Roy Khan - Lead & Backing Vocals
CJ Grimmark - Guitars, Keyboards & Backing Vocals
Martin Simson - Bass
Anders Köllerfors - Drums
Martin Simson is a long-time heavy metal fan and musician, who began writing music and lyrics in 2020, some of which caught the attention of guitar legend and friend, CJ Grimmark (NARNIA, JERUSALEM, ROB ROC, EMPIRE 21).
The following year they released two singles:
“Destroyer Of Death” featuring Rob Rock (IMPELLITTERI) on lead vocals: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fn4Fk4tI4ZI
“Master Of All” featuring Jørn Lande (MASTERPLAN) on lead vocals: www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5tfY_V3bRw
Both songs were well received with fans demanding more music, resulting in Simson starting work on a full length album alongside Grimmark and Rock.
The September of 2023 released debut album Eternal Reign contains 10 tracks, with nine fronted by Rock and one by Lande. Other well-known musicians who participated include guitarist Rex Carroll (WHITECROSS) and drummer Anders Köllerfors (ALL FOR THE KING).
“Rescue Me” pre-order: https://orcd.co/dod-rescue-me
DESTROYER OF DEATH online: www.facebook.com/DestroyerOfDeath & www.instagram.com/MSDestroyerOfDeath
NEWS BRIEFS
* Vocalist Eli Prinsen replaces David Nelson as lead vocalist of SAINT. Further details in the ‘Is It Wrong?’ podcast with Rey Parra: www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNHCWdiEE18
Prinsen, renowned for his high end and soaring vocal prowess, fronted each of the three albums released by THE SACRIFICED: The DaVinci Hoax (2007), 2012 (2010) and III (2012). He also was part of SACRED WARRIOR at the time it recorded its fifth album Waiting In Darkness from 2013.
* Former Yngwie Malmsteen vocalist Mark Boals is officially a member of REIGN OF GLORY. The group is currently at work on its second record and is ‘chomping at the bit to unleash the adrenaline at Immortal Fest 2025’ (quoting the Facebook page of bassist Roger Dale Martin from January 15, 2025).
REIGN OF GLORY debuted in 2022 on Roxx Records with the Robyn Kyle Basauri fronted All Will Bow. Many will recall Boals from his work on 2012 Joshua Perahia solo album Resurrection.
Angelic Warlord Top 30 Albums of 2024:
The annual Angelic Warlord article counting down the top albums from the previous year can be read: HERE
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
FAITH & FIRE, Consumed By Music, Fueled By Faith Compilation On Girder Music:
Press Release / Remember when those iconic Christian rock compilations like California Metal, East Coast Metal, Heavy Righteous Metal, and Hot Metal Summer first hit the scene? They weren’t just albums - they were lifelines, shaping a generation of music lovers and introducing us to bands we’d never heard but instantly loved. Those compilations were more than just music; they built a movement, fueling our faith and passion for new bands, with every track.
Girder Music is bringing you one of the great compilations of this century - celebrating the legacy while igniting a new fire for today’s fans. This is more than a collection; it’s a revival. FAITH & FIRE is for those Consumed By Music & Fueled By Faith and Girder Music's dedication to preserving and celebrating the transformative power of faith-driven music.
2 Disc compilation containing classic Christian rock bands as well as up-and-coming artists: Features a dynamic mix of iconic bands like PETRA, DISCIPLE & MYLON & BROKEN HEART, alongside emerging stars such as BEHOLD THE BELOVED, HUMAN CODE and KALAMITY KILLS, making it a must-have for both longtime Christian rock and metal fans as well as new listeners.
Exclusive ‘Coveted Girder Treatment’: Meticulously re-mastered to deliver unparalleled audio quality, ensuring that every track sounds better than ever while honoring the legacy of these timeless songs.
34 Powerhouse Tracks Across 2 Discs: A comprehensive collection showcasing the full spectrum of Christian rock and metal, from melodic anthems to high-energy thrash, highlighting the genre's enduring spirit and vitality.
Declaration of Faith and Passion: Curated for those who are ‘Consumed by Music but Fueled by Faith’,this compilation reflects Girder Music's dedication to preserving and celebrating the transformative power of faith-driven music.
FAITH & FIRE is a powerful new 2-disc compilation from Girder Music, featuring 34 high-energy tracks that have received the ‘Coveted Girder Treatment’. This collection unites iconic Christian rock and metal artists from past and present, showcasing the enduring spirit and future of the genre. From the legendary PETRA and the dynamic vocals of LES CARLSEN to the intense thrash of THE SHOWDOWN, each track is a testament to faith and the transformative power of music for those ‘Consumed by Music but Fueled by Faith’.
Featuring music from many artists including PETRA, DISCIPLE, MYLON & BROKEN HEART, JOHN SCHLITT and AUDIO ADRENALINE, as well as up-and-coming artists like HUMAN CODE, WORLDVIEW, BEHOLD THE BELOVED and KALAMITY KILLS, this special set reflects Girder’s commitment to meticulous re-mastering and quality. FAITH & FIRE is not just a compilation- it’s a declaration of Girder Music's mission to preserve the legacy of Christian rock and metal for generations to come, ensuring that this powerful music continues to inspire both current and future fans.
Consumed By Music, Fueled By Faith track listing:
Disc One:
1. Worldview - “Invincible” (Invincible)
2. Perfect Vision - “Edge Of Nowhere” (Perfect Vision)
3. Van Zant - “Jesus Christ” (Always Look Up)
4. Behold The Beloved - “Playing With Fire” (No Surrender)
5. Kalamity Kills - “The Chemistry Of Meant To Be” (Kalamity Kills)
6. Digital KLL - “Kill Hope” (Digital KLL)
7. Human Code - “Break The Silence” (Break The Silence)
8. The Showdown – “The Man Named Hell” (Blood In The Gears)
9. Disciple - “I Just Know” (This Might Sting A Little)
10. Les Carlsen - “I Want To Know You” (He's Coming)
11. Petra - “Jekyll And Hyde” (Jekyll And Hyde)
12. Mylon And Broken Heart - “Crank It Up” (Crank It Up)
13. Audio Adrenaline - “We're A Band” (Don't Censor Me)
14. 2nd Chapter Af Acts - “Beware My Heart” (Singer Sower)
15. Rob Cassels - “Battles Won” (Storming The Cassels Gate)
16. Resurrection Band - “Rainbow's End” (Rainbow's End)
17. Petra - “Midnight Oil” (Wake Up Call)
Disc Two:
1. Petra - “Beyond Belief” (Beyond Belief)
2. Mylon And Broken Heart - “Sixteen” (Face The Music)
3. Les Carlsen - “He's Coming” (He's Coming)
4. Rob Cassels - “Know He Loves Me” (Storming the Cassels Gate)
5. Disciple - “Back Again” (Back Again)
6. Human Code - “Rain” (Break The Silence)
7. The Showdown - “Achilles - The Backbreaker” (Back Breaker)
8. Petra - “Dance” (Unseen Power)
9. Ken Tamplin - “Stormbringer” (Stand Up And Shout)
10. LARM - “Pray For Me” (Killing Time)
11. John Elefante - “This is How the Story Goes” (On My Way To the Sun)
12. John Schlitt - “Feel It” (History)
13. 2nd Chapter Of Acts - “Starlight, Starbright” (Mansion Builder)
14. Petra - “All Fired Up” (On Fire!)
15. Union Of Sinners And Saints - “One More Shot” (One More Shot)
16. John Elefante - “City Of Grace” (The Amazing Grace)
17. Les Carlsen - “Jeff's Song” (Jeff's Song)
Consumed By Music, Fueled By Faith pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders/products/faith-fire-consumed-by-music-fueled-by-faith-2-cd-2025-girder-records
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Love Wars” is the third single off the forthcoming album, Coming Back Alive, from Japanese Christian heavy metal band IMARI TONES: www.youtube.com/watch?v=glH43TeYiy8
According to the group, “Love Wars” is about ‘believing in love rather than power, following Jesus even though that makes the whole world against you’. Musically, ‘it has this rocking hard and having fun attitude, that takes you back to Imari Tones' early style’.
Look for Coming Back Alive, consisting of ‘easygoing happy songs written in 80’s style hard rock’, to be released on February 7, 2025.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
DIGITAL KLL, New Band From Dale Thompson:
Album Release: March 25, 2025
Press Release / Prepare yourself for the ultimate sonic assault. DIGITAL KLL, the groundbreaking self-titled debut from legendary vocalist Dale Thompson, is set to shake the metal world to its core. This isn’t just another album- it’s an unapologetically heavy, deep, and groovy masterpiece that redefines the genre.
From the first crushing riff of “Kill Hope” to the haunting finale of “Flying,” DIGITAL KLL is an unrelenting force of metal. Every track is a visceral experience, with punishing grooves, thunderous rhythms by Steve Curtsinger former bassist of BRIDE, and raw energy that will leave you breathless and craving more. Dale Thompson’s iconic vocals soar to new heights, pushing boundaries and venturing into bold, uncharted territory.
The cover art, a menacing creature clutching a skull, perfectly encapsulates the album’s dark intensity and primal power. It’s a visual promise of what’s to come: metal that grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go.
Digital KLL track listing:
1. “Kill Hope”
2. “Does It Really Burn”
3. “Feed The Ground”
4. “Juice”
5. “Face Staples”
6. “Flowers Grave”
7. “Pendulum”
8. “Lost As Atlantis”
9. “Hive”
10. “Vulture”
11. “Swimming Uphill”
12. “Hermosa”
13. “Flying”
Digital KLL pre-order: https://girdermusic.com/collections/pre-orders/products/digital-kll-1
DELIVERANCE, Assimilation Vinyl Re-issue On Retroactive Records:
Album Release: March 17, 2025
Press Release / DELIVERANCE’s Assimilation stands as one of the most innovative and creative heavy metal works of any genre, blending crushing riffs, atmospheric tones, and industrial accents to craft a sound that is both dark and captivating. Originally released in 2001 and reissued on CD in 2019, this landmark album now makes its long-awaited debut on vinyl, celebrating its place in metal history as a bold and transformative record.
This 2025 vinyl reissue marks the first time Assimilation is available on this format, presented on striking Borg Green Vinyl and limited to just 200 copies worldwide. Painstakingly re-mastered for vinyl by Rob Colwell, the album’s intricate layers and sonic textures are brought to life with newfound clarity and depth. Accompanying this deluxe release is a 12x12 full-color insert featuring lyrics and exclusive liner notes by DELIVERANCE front man Jimmy P. Brown II, offering fans a unique window into the album’s creation and enduring impact.
After a lengthy hiatus, Assimilation marked the triumphant return of DELIVERANCE, led by founding member Jimmy P. Brown II. Brown’s haunting, doom-like vocals - described as a blend of David Bowie and QUEENSRŸCHE’s Geoff Tate - anchor the album’s dynamic soundscape. His razor-sharp guitar riffs, placed prominently in the mix, are complemented by the unwavering bass lines of longtime band mate Manny Morales and the industrial-tinged keyboard work of David Gilbreath. Together, the band crafted a record that is both heavy and introspective, seamlessly marrying technical precision with melodic hooks.
Critics and fans alike have hailed Assimilation as one of DELIVERANCE’s finest achievements. Music critic Angelic Warlord described it as ‘the most musically consistent effort from the band since its critically acclaimed 1993 work Learn,’ awarding it an impressive 85% rating. Songs like “The Circle” and “Save Me From…” showcase the band’s technical prowess, while tracks such as “Assimilation” and “Between 2 Worlds” exude a resounding heaviness. Meanwhile, “The Limitless Light” and “Impressions” captivate listeners with their unforgettable choruses and gripping melodies.
Thematically, Assimilation delves into the perils of losing identity and control, exploring the tension between autonomy and external influence. Its haunting atmosphere and philosophical depth make it a powerful and thought-provoking listening experience. As the band declares, “Resistance is futile… you WILL be Assimilated.”
For fans of QUEENSRŸCHE, RAMMSTEIN, HIM, and mid-period DELIVERANCE, Assimilation is an essential addition to any collection. This exclusive reissue is part of the highly regarded Metal Icon Series and offers a rare opportunity to own one of heavy metal’s most creative masterpieces on vinyl. With only 200 copies pressed worldwide, this reissue is a collectible piece of metal history. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this remarkable chapter in DELIVERANCE’s legacy.
Assimilation track listing:
1. “The Limitless Light”
2. “From The Beginning”
3. “Assimilation”
4. “The Circle”
5. “Sell Your Soul”
6. “The Search”
7. “The Learned Man”
8. “Between 2 Worlds”
9. “Impressions”
10. “Save Me From…”
Assimilation vinyl pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/collections/pre-orders/products/deliverance-assimilation-borg-green-vinyl
DELIVERANCE, As Above-So Below Vinyl Re-issue On Retroactive Records:
Album Release: March 17, 2025
Press Release / Limited to 200 copies on Blitzkrieg Blue Vinyl with a 12x12 full-color insert and an all-new write-up from vocalist Jimmy Brown, As Above ~ So Below is a must-have for collectors and fans alike. This iconic 13th album from DELIVERANCE - originally released to universal acclaim - has been mastered for vinyl by Rob Colwell (KING’S X, GALACTIC COWBOYS, NEVERMORE) and is finally available in a format worthy of its massive sound and legendary status.
Since their thrashing 1989 debut, DELIVERANCE has set the gold standard in heavy metal, earning a place among the most innovative and distinguished bands in the genre. Known for their groundbreaking video “Weapons of Our Warfare” (the first Christian metal video to air on Headbanger’s Ball) and their seamless transition from thrash to progressive metal in the mid-90s, DELIVERANCE has built a career defined by commercial success, critical acclaim, and a relentless commitment to musical brilliance.
As Above ~ So Below was the band’s first new album in over a decade, and Jimmy Brown poured his heart and soul into creating what many consider one of the heaviest DELIVERANCE record to date. The album alternates between moments of sheer beauty and spine-crushing brutality, blending epic thrash/speed metal with the elegance of progressive metal. From the haunting, Omen-inspired opening track to thunderous riffs reminiscent of SLAYER and early BELIEVER, this is DELIVERANCE at their most powerful.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, this vinyl edition of As Above ~ So Below delivers a masterpiece that transcends expectations.
For fans of METALLICA, MEGADETH, QUEENSRŸCHE, SACRED WARRIOR, and ANTHRAX.
As Above ~ So Below track listing:
1. “Legum Servi Sumus Ut Liberi Esse Possimus (Intro)”
2. “Cause & Effect”
3. “Return To Form”
4. “As Above - So Below”
5. “Screaming”
6. “Should We Cross Paths”
7. “Contempt”
8. “Thistles”
9. “My Love”
10. “Enlightened”
As Above ~ So Below vinyl pre-order: https://boonesoverstock.com/collections/pre-orders/products/deliverance-as-above-so-below-blitzkrieg-blue-vinyl-2025-thrash-metal
NEWS BRIEFS
* “Dream I” is the title track to the new ADORNED GRAVES EP scheduled for release later in the year: www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0CuHkWW5HU
* “Above & Below” is the debut single off the forthcoming album, Coming Back Alive, from Japanese Christian heavy metal band IMARI TONES: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyQ1cYs42Ps
According to the group, “Above & Below” is ‘a hard rock song based on The New Testament Romans Chapter 8’. Look for Coming Back Alive, consisting of ‘easygoing happy songs written in 80’s style hard rock’, to be released on February 7, 2025.
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
Eonian Records Announce New LEGACY Album, Hello, New World:
Album Release: November 15, 2024
Press Release / Eonian Records is pleased to announce the new LEGACY album, Hello, New World, featuring all brand new studio recordings with all five original members celebrating the 35th Anniversary of the band.
With an infectious, anthemic sound, LEGACY has embraced the classic elements of early to mid-eighties metal with influences from DOKKEN, SCORPIONS and STRYPER. LEGACY’s signature sound is built around the dynamic interplay between Matthew Rice and Fred Blanchard’s fiery, virtuosic guitar work creating a rich, harmonically layered sound and Doug Meacham’s melodic, soaring vocals with the band’s trademark harmonized vocals. The rhythm section, with its powerful bass lines of John D. Rice and drumming of John Jenkins, provides a solid foundation drawing influences from both the melodic side of hard rock and the more riff-driven approach of traditional metal. Yet, LEGACY also shows they can write catchy mainstream rock songs, still with the classic LEGACY edge all with an uplifting message.
Anthony Focx, who has worked with the likes of AEROSMITH, OZZY OSBOURNE, TESLA and SKILLET, mastered BOTH new LEGACY titles, Hello, New World & Legacy II
Hello, New World track listing:
1. “These Five Words”
2. “Change Of A Broken Heart”
3. “Sidewalk Space”
4. “21”
5. “Take My Breath Away”
6. “Forever In Your Arms”
7. “With A Shout”
8. “Chains On My Heart”
Order Hello, New World via Eonian Records: www.eonianrecords.com/new-products/legacy-hello-new-world
LEGACY, Self-Titled Debut Re-Issue On Eonian Records:
Album Release: November 15, 2024
Press Release / Eonian Records is pleased to announce the release of LEGACY II celebrating the 35th Anniversary of the band.
With an infectious, anthemic sound, LEGACY has embraced the classic elements of early to mid-eighties metal with influences from DOKKEN, SCORPIONS, and STRYPER. LEGACY’s signature sound is built around the dynamic interplay between Matthew Rice and Fred Blanchard’s fiery, virtuosic guitar work creating a rich, harmonically layered sound and Doug Meacham’s melodic, soaring vocals with the band’s trademark harmonized vocals. The rhythm section, with its powerful bass lines of John D. Rice and drumming of John Jenkins, provides a solid foundation drawing influences from both the melodic side of hard rock and the more riff-driven approach of traditional metal. Yet, LEGACY also shows they can write catchy mainstream rock songs, still with the classic LEGACY edge all with an uplifting message.
• Originally released in 2010, LEGACY’s debut is the 2nd largest pressing of the entire Eonian Records catalog to date and has been OUT OF PRINT for well over a decade.
• Band came across new recording masters. A vast difference to the first pressing.
• Anthony Focx, who has worked with the likes of AEROSMITH, OZZY OSBOURNE, TESLA and SKILLET, mastered BOTH new LEGACY titles
• OUT with the old booklet, in with a NEW. A complete make-over to the self-titled release with expanded booklet and tons of never seen photos.
• Three bonus studio tracks including two never released demos from the band’s earliest archives.
Legacy II track listing:
1. “Salvation Is Law”
2. “It's Real”
3. “Cross The Line”
4. “Forever In Your Arms”
5. “You Need Love” (Previously Unreleased)
6. “Don't Run Away”
7. “Red, White, And Blue”
8. “Change Of A Broken Heart”
9. “Comin' Along”
10. “Soldiers Unite”
11. “One Way Or The Other”
12. “Live It”
13. “What A World”
14. “Model Citizen”
15. “Vision Of Perfection”
16. “Fear Of The Unknown” (Unreleased Demo)
17. “All The Pain And Tears” (Unreleased Demo)
Order Legacy II via Eonian Records: www.eonianrecords.com/new-products/legacy
NEWS BRIEFS
* SILENCE THE ECHO is a new band featuring Jani (guitars) & Katja (lead vocals) Stefanovic (THE WAYMAKER). “Into Serenity” is the first single off the groups upcoming debut album (untitled at the time of this writing) scheduled for release in April: www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7hixDlPhN8
Rounding out the group’s roster is Teemu Rautiainen (guitars), Nikke Karaksela (drums) and Tommi Huuskonen (bass).
* Drummer Steve Whitaker retires from BARREN CROSS. As reported by vocalist Michael Drive (Facebook - December 25, 2024):
“To all lovers of Barren Cross music and the ministry God has accomplished through BC:
“We wanted to let you know that Steve Whitaker, drummer for Barren Cross, is officially having to retire from playing the drums due to an official diagnosis of both frontal temporal dementia and ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Steve is facing this battle with courage, peace, and a beautiful simplicity of faith as he tells each doctor, “I know where I am going”. We are asking that you would join us in prayer as Steve faces this difficult journey. He has chosen no medical interventions, and is asking for a swift and pain free journey to be with Jesus. His family is also asking for prayer for guidance/provision to navigate the needs of care giving and supporting Steve on his journey.”
“Steve is no longer on the Internet, but we have created a site where you can post pictures, memories, and/or messages you’d like to share with him and his family. We’d also love to hear any stories you have related to the songs he wrote such as “Here I Am”, “Give Your Life”, “Out Of Time”, “King Of Kings” and “He Loves You” have touched your lives.”
Please feel free to share this post, and please don’t delay in sharing your memories, etc: https://www.instagram.com/stevewhitbc
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
BARREN CROSS, Atomic Arena & State Of Control 2-CD Deluxe Digipack Re-issue On Cherry Red Records:
Album Release: February 21, 2025
• 22 track double CD package from enduring Christian Metal act BARREN CROSS, featuring two cult albums from the mid 80s.
• CD 1 features their second full-length studio album from 1988 Atomic Arena.
• CD 2 features their third full-length studio album State Of Control, originally released in 1989.
Formed in Los Angeles in 1983, BARREN CROSS produced a powerful brand of classic metal that carried a strong Christian message alongside such contemporaries as STRYPER, BLOODGOOD and SACRED WARRIOR.
Having independently released their debut EP Believe in 1985 and quickly followed that with their first full-length album Rock For The King via Star Song Records, BARREN CROSS signed to Enigma Records.
Featured on the influential California Metal compilation from 1987, the band delivered a classy release with Atomic Arena that earned vocalist Michael Lee favorable comparisons to IRON MAIDEN’s Bruce Dickinson.
Follow up album State Of Control saw the band tour heavily and cultivate a fan base that went beyond the confines of the Christian scene as a result. This release features two bonus tracks, one of which, “Your Love Gives”, was originally only available on the version distributed to Christian bookstores.
This release features exclusive liner notes from respected writer Kevin Stewart-Panko who conducted a new in-depth interview with singer Mike Lee (now known as Michael Drive).
Atomic Arena has been named by Heaven’s Metal magazine as the No.11 Christian Metal Album of All Time, while State Of Control placed at No.32 on the CMR Top 100 Christian Metal Albums list.
Atomic Arena track listing:
1. “Imaginary Music”
2. “Killers Of The Unborn”
3. “In The Eye Of The Fire”
4. “Terrorist Child”
5. “Close To The Edge”
6. “Dead Lock”
7. “Cultic Regimes”
8. “Heaven Or Nothing”
9. “King Of Kings”
10. “Living Dead”
State Of Control track listing:
1. “State Of Control”
2. “Out Of Time”
3. “Cryin’ Over You”
4. “A Face In The Dark”
5. “The Stage of Intensity”
6. “Hard Lies”
7. “Inner War”
8. “Love At Full Volume”
9. “Bigotry Man (Who Are You)”
10. “Two Thousand Years”
11. “Your Love Gives” (bonus track)
12. “Escape In The Night” (bonus track)
Atomic Arena / State Of Control 2-CD Deluxe Digipak pre-order: www.cherryred.co.uk/barren-cross-atomic-arena-state-of-control-2cd-deluxe-digipack
WITHIN SILENCE Release “When Worlds Collide” Office Video:
Press Release / Melodic power metal band WITHIN SILENCE released on December 11, 2024 a video for their 12-minute epic, "When Worlds Collide", the album closer from their brand-new album The Eclipse Of Worlds. Watch the video now on YouTube above.
The Eclipse Of Worlds was released December 6, 2024 and is available on CD, limited vinyl editions and digital via Ulterium Records.
Since their inception, WITHIN SILENCE has established a formidable presence in the power metal scene with the release of their debut album, Gallery Of Life (2015) and follow-up Return From The Shadows (2017), both released on the Swedish label Ulterium Records. The two albums received enthusiastic feedback from fans worldwide, contributing to the band's steadily growing following.
Over the years, the band has played many shows in Slovakia and around Europe, including festivals in Germany, Norway, the Netherlands and Switzerland. In 2016 they supported THEOCRACY on their "Ghost Ship European Tour" and in 2018 they supported SLEEPING ROMANCE on their "Alba European Tour".
After many years of hard work, WITHIN SILENCE are now finally back with their third album The Eclipse Of Worlds. The guys set out to write and record their most epic, memorable and uplifting album so far and when you hear the album we believe you will agree that they succeeded!
On the album, you'll find everything from fast and uplifting melodic power metal hymns like "Battle Hymn" and "Divine Power" to the atmospheric ballad "Storyline," as well as the powerful and epic title track. The majestic album closer, "When Worlds Collide," clocks in at over 12 minutes and may well be the best song WITHIN SILENCE has released to date.
The album was produced and recorded in Slovakia by the band with the support of Jan Cvercko and Jan Kubas. The band enlisted Matt Smith from THEOCRACY to handle the mixing and Jacob Hansen for mastering. After their expert contributions, it’s safe to say this is WITHIN SILENCE’s best-sounding album to date, showcasing a production quality that perfectly complements the songs.
The Eclipse Of Worlds is a powerful and uplifting power metal album that will appeal to fans of melodic power metal and heavy metal and bands like STRATOVARIUS, THEOCRACY, POWER QUEST and MAJESTICA!
The Eclipse Of Worlds track listing:
1. “Land of Light”
2. “Divine Power”
3. “The Eclipse of Worlds”
4. “The Treason”
5. “Storyline”
6. “Battle Hymn”
7. “The Broken Thorn”
8. “The Mist”
9. “When Worlds Collide”
Ulterium Records online: www.ulterium-records.com & www.facebook.com/ulteriumrecords
WITHIN SILENCE online: www.within-silence.com, www.facebook.com/withinsilenceband & www.instagram.com/withinsilenceofficial
NEWS BRIEFS
* ARMAGEDDON USA, live 1990: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRPgsiwpyIM
Michael ‘Mike’ Vance - Lead Vocals
Robbie Liebrick, ‘Robby Lee’ - Guitars & Vocals
Robert ‘PJ’ Bussey - Guitars & Vocals
Daniel ‘Danny’ Wilkinson - Bass & Vocals
Joe Hasselvander - Drums
* DELIVERANCE, self-titled debut deep dive from founding member and vocalist/guitarist Jimmy P. Brown II: www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBILzlq_8iU
FEATURED REVIEWS
BATTLECRY - Red, White And Blue And Beyond (Roxx Records re-issue)
The 1985 GreenWorld Records six-song debut EP Red, White And Blue from Battlecry is an AORphiles delight. Read Full Review >>
MAD AT THE WORLD - Seasons Of Love (Retroactive Records re-issue)
Beginning with 1990 Alarma Records third album Seasons Of Love, however, MATW - drawing its name from 1 John 2:16 (Love not the world, neither the things of the world) - reinvented itself as a hard rock act with the goal of a sound more amiable toward live performances. Read Full Review >>
MAD AT THE WORLD - Boomerang (Retroactive Records re-issue)
Mad At The World (MATW) wears the badge of a modern/alternative rock band, but it also rocks heavily enough to pass for hard rock meets straightforward heavy metal. Read Full Review >>
PERPETUAL LEGACY - Teodrama
We put Brazil’s Perpetual Legacy near the top of our symphonic metal list for its classically trained soprano female vocals, intermittent extreme male vocals, complex musical arrangements and lavish orchestration, keyboards and choirs. Read Full Review >>
ROSE, RANDY - Sacrificium (Retroactive Records re-issue)
Hard music fans who appreciate doom metal and stoner rock will find plenty to like about the Intense Records 1991 debut solo album from Randy Rose, Sacrificium. Read Full Review >>
ROSE - Healing (Retroactive Records re-issue)
Whereas realizing a similar doom metal and stoner hard rock form as Sacrificium - including the slower tempos, thickset low end, bulky guitars and bleak setting to go in hand - Healing presents with a more varied sound rooted in stronger melodies and higher levels of accessibility. Read Full Review >>
STRYPER - When We Were Kings
Thirteenth studio album When We Were Kings from September of 2024, however, finds Stryper reversing course and gravitating towards a more commercial direction, albeit not without forsaking its heavier roots. Read Full Review >>
SUNBOMB - Light Up The Sky
The name Sunbomb might evoke images of a star gone supernova to some hard music fans, but to us it describes a ‘super group’ comprising renowned Stryper front man Michael Sweet and every bit noted L.A. Guns guitarist Tracii Guns. Read Full Review >>
METAL & HARD ROCK NEWS
New Lyric Video From BRAD SMITH, “Given’ ‘Em Hell”:
Roxx Records is excited to bring you the second single, “Given’ ‘Em Hell”, from the recently released (November 1, 2024) album Broken Bones & Bullet Holes by Brad Smith (LATTER REIGN).
Artist goes into detail behind the background to Broken Bones & Bullet Holes:
“KISS made me a rock fan, Ace made me want to play guitar, and STRYPER made it ok for me to do those things for Jesus! I started playing guitar at about 14. I listened to, and was influenced by guitarists like Ace, Randy Rhoads, Eddie, George Lynch, Nuno, Joe Satriani, Zakk Wylde, and Oz Fox. I thought I was a singer at first, until a guitar player I was jamming with showed me how to play “Rock You Like a Hurricane”. I quickly put away the microphone after that. This was the 80’s for me. I joined LATTER REIGN in ‘92.
“Fast forwarding a few years (umm, decades), LUIS CARDENAS and I just finished releasing the third LATER REIGN album in our catalog on Roxx earlier this year. When Roxx contacted us in ‘21 to finish and properly release our catalog, we hadn’t worked together for quite a few years. It’s hard to find time when you are raising kids. However, when going through the archives, I realized that we had started a Christmas songwriting endeavor ten years prior and forgot all about it when we got busy with family again. That song was called “Gift For You”, and our new project became known as CRIMSON HOPE. Meanwhile, Luis and I found that working together again was very productive and fun. So, when we finished Latter Reign II, Luis approached me to produce his next solo album, Stages. I poured everything I had into helping Luis with that project. We had such a great time and I felt like that was some of the best riff writing, arrangement and performances I had ever done. That album is called Stages and is available through Roxx in November.
“So, when we handed Roxx LATTER REIGN’s Order To Chaos in January ‘24, I asked Luis what he felt like doing next. Figuring he’d say 'work on a new Latter Reign album', I almost dropped the phone when he said, 'you need to do your own album!' I told him that I used all of my best riffs, arrangements, lyrics and creativity on his album and that I had nothing left in the ‘tank’.
“In faith, I picked up my guitar and the Lord blessed me like drinking water from a fire hose! Broken Bones & Bullet Holes was the first song, and provided the inspiration and attitude for the whole project. Ten songs were written and rough-tracked in a month! Luis was now in the ‘producer’s’ chair and he was approving or rejecting everything I came up with, while adding awesome backing vocals and melody ideas. Luis’ strengths are melody and rhythm. My strengths are more arrangements and lyrics. Sometimes, Luis felt like he had to apologize for being too critical. He was great about demanding the best possible product and performance from me and I am thankful for it.
“Broken Bones & Bullet Holes is about my realization that I don’t want to be a quiet, sidelined Christian. I don’t want to ‘keep my faith personal’ like the world has convinced so many to do. I want to move people a little closer to Jesus everyday. I may take some hits for it, but the last few years have convinced me ‘Late is the Hour’. Stay alert, don’t be caught sleepin’ when the Master returns!”
Debut single “Broken Bones & Bullet Holes” was released September 20, 2024: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZF2Nop7fFMo
Broken Holes & Bullet Holes track listing:
1. “Broken Bones & Bullet Holes”
2. “Late Is The Hour”
3. “Troubles Enough”
4. “Lift Me Up”
5. “Hourglass & Avalanche”
6. “Easy To Lie”
7. “Given’ ‘Em Hell”
8. “Becoming Dangerous”
9. “Sea Of Truth”
10. “Flame & Fortune”
11. “Bondo”
Order Broken Bones & Bullet Holes: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/brad-smith-broken-bones-bullet-holes-cd-2024-ffo-bls-black-sabbath
Roxx Records Announce GEMS: Volume 1 Compilation:
Album Release: January 25, 2025
Press Release / Roxx Records is excited to bring you a brand-new Limited-Edition series entitled Roxx GEMS.
What is Roxx GEMS you ask? Roxx GEMS is a new series that will focus on many special Christian rock releases that may not have otherwise been able to get a vinyl or CD re-mastered edition. Items originally released in short run, cassette only demo tapes, or maybe previously unreleased GEMS from bands that have let us in to their archives. It may even feature a focus on a special instrumental artist from days gone by. Who knows what direction this may take but we know one thing for sure these will all be one time only limited edition runs.
How ever you look at it, it means more great Classic Christian rock and metal for your enjoyment, and today we announce Roxx GEMS Volume I.
Volume I will feature two legendary and classic Christian metal artists from the 80’s and 90’s. Up first on Side A the legendary Bay Area West Coast band SOLDIER will grace the first 4 tracks of the GEMS series including 4 previously unreleased tracks. These special 4 tracks were recorded in 1992, when the band would go into the studio and record a 4-track demo after the interest of a record label prompted a very brief reunion. These tracks were ultimately shelved since they were recorded and released briefly as part of our 2-disc set Babylon & Beyond which is sold out, but never on vinyl or stand-alone CD!
Volume I will also feature on side B a legendary artist from the other side of the US on the East Coast with Christian rockers TAKER. Here we will feature the bands debut 4 track cassette only demo as well as an additional rehearsal track previously unreleased that was recorded in 1987 shortly after their debut cassette only demo titled Matthew 11:12.
There you have it Roxx GEMS: Volume I will be released on January 25, 2025 as ONE TIME ONLY pressings on limited edition heavy weight colored vinyl and CD. Volume I will be on yellow vinyl. The CD version will also be limited edition pressings housed in a jewel case with 4 panel inserts mirroring the vinyl products.
GEMS: Volume I track listing:
SOLDIER (Unreleased Demos, 1992):
1. “When I Finally See You Smile”
2. “Blues For The Fallin”
3. “Thru The Past Darkly”
4. “Down On The Killing Floor”
TAKER (Matt 11:12 Demo, 1987):
1. “Open Your Heart”
2. “He Is The Light”
3. “Yesterday, Today & Forever”
4. “The 11 O'Clock News”
5. “Living By Faith”
GEMS: Volume 1 vinyl pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/roxx-gems-volume-i-featuring-soldier-taker-lp-2025
GEMS: Volume 1 CD pre-order: https://roxxrecords.com/collections/roxx-records/products/roxx-gems-volume-i-featuring-soldier-taker-cd-2025
Angelic Warlord Update Archives: HERE
