#thenwothm-com — Public Fediverse posts
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Interview: Cmÿter (Slovakia)
8–12 minutesThe Nwothm
Bratislava’s Cmÿter are a young band already stirring interest with their stark blend of heavy metal, occult atmosphere, and unmistakably Central European character. Formed in 2024, they’ve arrived with a clear sense of identity and a debut EP that hints at something far darker and more considered than their short history might suggest.
In this interview, Gregor offers a glimpse into the ideas, places, and creative impulses shaping Cmÿter’s world—without stripping away the mystery that makes the band so compelling.
Interview
TheNwothm: For readers discovering you for the first time, how would you introduce Cmÿter and the world you’re building through your music?
Gregor: Cmÿter is is heavy metal that deals with blasphemy, mysticism, and the Inquisition, strongly inspired by the perspective—the vision—of artist and writer Josef Váchal. I am beginning to perceive that the lyrics also touch on existential nihilism. This is probably due to what I read and the values I represent, but it is not surprising in music with this theme. It should be noted that I am not the sole author of all the lyrics; other members of Cmÿter have also contributed to the songs. In fact, one unreleased song has lyrics that were written with the participation of an author outside our band.
Musically, I have probably the greatest authorship. I strongly emphasize the influences of Swedish bands such as Gotham City, Mindless Sinner, Heavy Load, and In Solitude.Of course, it’s not limited to Swedish bands, but also bands such as Thin Lizzy, Saxon, Judas Priest, and Tublatanka.
From reviews and from people, bands such as Mercyful Fate, Bathory, Manilla Road, Stormwitch, and Metalinda are also mentioned in connection with us.TheNwothm: Cmÿter formed in 2024. What brought each of you together at that particular moment, and when did it become clear that this collaboration should become a band?
Gregor: It was after an Eisenhand concert at Weranda in Bratislava sometime back in 2023. We got pretty drunk, and Palo mentioned something about a band and heavy metal. Since this genre is a way of life for me, the next day, in addition to a headache, I had news about what would happen with our band, haha.
TheNwothm: You’re based in Bratislava. What aspects of the city’s atmosphere or character feel most connected to the spirit of the band?
Gregor: When we were starting the band, I often visited a cemetery called “Cintorín na Kozej bráne” (Goat Gate Cemetery). I used to go there often to read books, drink coffee, or just walk around. I don’t do it as often anymore, but I always enjoy it when I get the chance. I think that the band’s identity is quite influenced by this place.
It is important to note that the first promotional photo is not from this cemetery but from another one – “Ondrejský Cemetery.”
TheNwothm: Slovakia has a rich mix of folklore, history, and darker spiritual traditions. Which parts of Slovak culture have naturally found their way into your music or lyrics?
Gregor: I would say that thematically, not at all, since we take inspiration from Josef Váchal or from our own view of the world of blasphemy, etc., and this gives the whole band a Czechoslovak character. It’s more about the accent and style of language where we come from. I don’t sing with an accent like Malokarpatan, for example, even though I’m very fond of that style. In fact, the original name of the band was supposed to be “Cinter,” which is much closer to us, but in the end we chose “Cmÿter” precisely so that we wouldn’t be imitating the aforementioned band Malokarpatan. Anyway, what I mean is that I don’t sing in standard Slovak, but here and there I use the Bratislava accent, for example.
TheNwothm: Bratislava has its own artistic personality (I enjoyed my visit to the Slovak pub especially!) How has living and creating there shaped the themes or mood of Cmÿter?
Gregor: That’s a very good question. Personally, I can’t imagine Cmÿter changing its base and operating somewhere outside this city, for example in Prague. On my mother’s side, I am a fourth-generation native of Bratislava (maybe even more) and I personally have a very close and specific relationship with this city. This certainly influences the direction of the band and how it functions.
I used to feel quite sorry for what the city went through during communism, especially in the 1960s. Today, I see it a little differently… The brutalist part of the city’s identity is really interesting and appealing to me, as is the more historical part.
Fortunately, we no longer have communism, but we are suffering from aggressive development and the pursuit of profit. For example, the “Fuga” club has closed, the “Garáže” is under threat, and the forest parks in the Danube area surrounding Bratislava are also in the developers’ sights. Even the place where we have our rehearsal space is now threatened by developers.
It sounds terribly sad and catastrophic, but the resistance of citizens is considerable… so there is still some chance of preservation.
So, the band is clearly influenced by the identity of the city and the problems associated with it.
The pubs here can be really nice, which definitely contributes to the band’s formation, haha.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zfxwonYKfH0&list=RDzfxwonYKfH0&start_radio=1
TheNwothm: Your themes reference mysticism, blasphemy, and the works of Josef Váchal. What first connected you to these ideas, and how do they influence your writing process?
Gregor: I studied fine arts and during my studies I got to know Josef Váchal. I believe that this can have a huge impact and contribution to metal. Josef Váchal had his own vision of occultism and mysticism, which differed quite a bit from the Western one, or rather from what Western occultists worked with.
So far, lyrics dealing with Váchal’s themes have only appeared in two songs. I am also often influenced by philosophical or academic texts dealing with the Inquisition and similar topics, or simply by my—our own creative intuition.
TheNwothm: Your debut EP Ave Lucifer arrived in 2025. What was the earliest spark that led to this release?
Gregor: We definitely wanted to establish the band’s existence through recordings rather than live performances at first. The complex riffs and vocals are not as simple as they may seem to some. It was simply the first step in the existence of our band.
TheNwothm: When you look back at the creation of “Gróf Reisenstein,” what stands out to you about how that track came together?
Gregor: The band In Solitude and the book “Krvavý román” (Bloody Novel). Before we had anything composed, the band played cover versions of songs by the aforementioned band. We also played something by Saxon, but that was right at the beginning. “Gróf Reisenstein” is our very first song.
TheNwothm: The title track “Ave Lucifer” has a striking name. What was the starting point for developing that piece?
Gregor: In August, actor Karel Heřmánek committed suicide. He played Lucifer in the fairy tale “S čerty nejsou žerty” (Give the Devil His Due) The lyrics of the song are quite satanic, but it is also my tribute to him.
We also wanted to make a faster and more bestial song so that the EP wouldn’t be all about some strange blasphemic melancholy. In the song, I also sing “Peklo peklom bude,” (Hell will be hell – A hell is hell) which always reminds me of the Belgian band Acid, which also contributed to this song.
TheNwothm: “Čierny Dom” closes the EP. What can you share about the process of writing or assembling that song?
Gregor: The basic riff is quite old… I composed it sometime in 2017-2019. Of course, its original form was simpler – less technical and in a different key. Lyrically, it differs most from the previous two in terms of theme. Blasphemy still appears here, but more in the realm of the aforementioned existentialist nihilism.
TheNwothm: What was that experience like for you as a new band navigating your first official release?
Gregor: The recording and production were independent – an internal matter for the band. In any case, our label, Tapes of Terror, had already been agreed upon during the recording of the EP. The label just allowed us to release the EP on the internet (Bandcamp and NWOTHM Full Albums) before it comes out on cassette.
As a band, we felt that after a year of existence, we were finally going to release something that would take us further.
TheNwothm: If Cmÿter were represented by an object found in an old Slovak cemetery, what would each of you choose and why?
Gregor: Hmm… a fence? Haha, I don’t really know how to answer that. Cmÿter represents the cemetery as a whole and everything associated with it, including intangible things, not just one object. But let’s say any ornament found in old cemeteries.
TheNwothm: Now that your debut EP is out, what direction are you exploring for your next musical steps? Are you already working on a follow up?
Gregor: We are mainly working on a high-quality, lively set list. This is also connected with preparations for the studio. So, apart from playing concerts, the next big step is to enter the studio again. This time, we won’t be doing it on our own. Personally, I would like to release a single this year that will be a precursor to the release of our debut album… I don’t really know if we’ll manage it because we have to get the finances ready for it.
TheNwothm: Are there regions or countries you’re especially excited to bring Cmÿter to in the future? What shows do you have booked of the rest of the year?
Gregor: Of course, we would like to play in Poland, Germany, Sweden, and basically anywhere in Europe where people want to see us. At the moment, I don’t see Cmÿter going outside Europe in the foreseeable future, although we are not ruling out this possibility in the future.
Our next show will be at Heavy Metal Thunder in Písek on March the 20th, 2026. Then we’ll probably show up again in April in Bratislava, where we’ll perform with a Chilean heavy metal band, but I won’t reveal any more than that. We already had the opportunity to play in Poland, but it fell through because of the long distance, which would have cost the organiser a lot of money—maybe it will work out some other time.
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Gregor: The cassette on the Tapes of Terror website and our merch—so far we only have T-shirts available at concerts, or if there are any left, you can message us on Instagram or email us, because our edition of hand-printed T-shirts is limited.
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Gregor: Instagram, Facebook and Bandcamp.
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Gregor: I have nothing to add except to say thank you very much for the interview and your support. I think what you are doing is amazing.
See you at the shows!
Gregor from Cmÿter.
#AveLucifer #Cmÿter #HeavyMetal #NewEP #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #NWOTHM #SlovakianHeavyMetal #TapesOfTerror #thenwothmCom -
Review: Greyhawk “Warriors of Greyhawk”
Release date: 13 February 2026
Label: Cruz Del Sur Music
7–11 minutesGage J. Tolin
Fusing classic US power metal, AOR and all things epic metal; GREYHAWK returns with their third album of triumphant battle hymns.
Refreshed, rejuvenated and ready for adventure; GREYHAWK are back with their third album of epic, melodic power/heavy metal fused with an anthemic AOR angle. Shredding guitars, soaring vocals, powerful rhythms and songs that will stick with you are all a part of this majestic opus.
From the very beginning you will be met with soaring guitars, pounding riffs and a classic heavy/power metal attack from the instrumentals. Grandiose and powerful vocals complete the mix, which is perfectly blended by Henrik Udd’s sublime production which is detailed and grandiose. Daniel Porta has provided artwork for this record and clearly the band have had a strong input on all aspects of the release to make sure the entire experience is gripping for you, the fans.
Not many bands blend the more traditional epic heavy/power metal glory with these AOR elements but GREYHAWK do so marvellously, giving the music not only power but memorability, showing that on their third album – this will definitely stand the test of time. The musicianship is continually improving on all counts, from the crushing drumming to the mind-blowing guitar work to the operatic and stunning vocals. Lovers of all things fantastical, adventurous and metallic will be enchanted, enthralled and bedazzled by this stratospheric effort.
“This album is a return to the epic metal roots that we had on our debut album ‘Keepers of the Flame’”, says founding member Darin Wall, “it also features some faster songs where we explore our love for power metal, as well as some of the 80s AOR vibes we had on the last album ‘Thunderheart’. Songs about inner strength, overcoming obstacles in life, and triumphing in victory are all present here. Creating an experience where the listener can find inspiration from the lyrics and energy of the songs, or detach from reality a bit and get lost in some of the epic fantastical themes is the goal. Ronnie James Dio is the bands biggest influence as far as lyrical themes go.”
Line-Up
Anthony Corso – Vocals
Jesse Berlin – Lead Guitar
Rob Steinway – Rhythm Guitar
Darin Wall – Bass
Nate Butler – DrumsReview
Greyhawk begin their third full-length album, and first with vocalist Anthony Corso, with “Ascension”, a song that wastes little time in making its mark. While longtime listeners might be a bit put off by the new singer, this quickly faded for me and I found myself enjoying Anthony’s set of pipes. The AOR influence comes through with gusto, at times sounding very akin to the vocal talents of Steve Perry of Journey or Brad Delp of Boston. It helps to give the album a pronounced melodic and anthemic sound to it that I think makes it stand out from their earlier work. On the instrumental side, I did find the production to be a bit cacophonous at times, but I still found the music largely enjoyable. The guitar solo in particular was a great taste of what was to come on the album.
Taking things into a more thrashy realm was “Land of Ashes”, which offered a blitzing pace and sound that I felt more similar to Holy Grail than previous Greyhawk releases. Drummer Nate Butler is killing it throughout the track, with some thundering beats on the kit. Again, I found Corso’s vocals to be more than solid, and they continued to grow on me. While a shorter track, at 3:26, it definitely makes the most of its minutes (as the saying goes), and though I still wasn’t quite sold on the production, everything else was clicking for me up to now.
“Take A Stand” offered a more chanty and simplistic style of track, and I don’t think that’s a bad thing. As I’ve said in other reviews, I appreciate versatility and this shows just that. On top of that, something about this track made it feel like an old Greyhawk track (can’t quite explain why or how that is). While featuring a proper shredder of a guitar solo, the track kept things close to its chest and never strayed too far from the formula that this sort of track offers. It felt like a lead single, and while I do contend that it was a solid addition to the album, I can’t quite rate it higher than that just yet. Alas, future relistens may change my perception.
“Endless Race” returned us to that more thrashy (speedy?) realm, with an opening that ripped like crazy. The melodic guitar harmony coming in to accentuate it was a cherry on top. Speaking of melody, the way in which Corso delivers the chorus is simply dripping with magic and majesty. For some reason, I found the production to really work in the track’s favor for this one, though I retain that I think it’s a touch too clean. This wasn’t a long track, clocking in at just over 4 minutes, and it actually felt shorter than it really was, but I really think it worked. Good stuff here.
The first, of a few, more lengthy tracks was the title track “Warriors of Greyhawk”. I loved the slow build-up in the beginning for this one, interspersing old recordings of past Greyhawk tracks (really nice touch!). This one had a really great sense of epic washed over it, and the track itself felt like a sort of homage to Greyhawk’s work up to this point. I think this is a pretty strong way to signify that the band is entering a new era with Anthony Corso at the helm. By this point, I really felt like the production was starting to click with me, and the aforementioned Corso’s vocals were doing the same. At just a few ticks over six minutes, this was a bit on the longer side, but it never felt overly such.
“Words of Power” returned us toward the shorter side of tracks for the album, and for this one I was really enjoying Corso’s vocals. While I felt that the overall instrumentation was a touch simplistic for the majority of its runtime, the guitar solo was a brief showcase of wizardry. Someone that I think many will call an MVP of the album though is definitely drummer Nate Butler, who remains in top-form. However, though the vocals, solo, and drumming, were all great, the track overall run a bit hollow for me.
Next up was “Chosen”, which was a more mid-tempo track that served to dish up some extra variety on the album. At times verging on epic, the track featured Corso delivering vocals that I found highly reminiscent of previous Greyhawk singer Rev Taylor, but not in a derivative way. The addition of the band chanting the chorus behind the voice of Corso only helped to elevate the track up the ladder of grandeur. The riffs were simple, but they had a purpose and a weight behind them, something I find easy to appreciate. Pretty solid song here.
“Hyperspace”, a word which I never know whether to hyphenate or not, began as a fairly standard power metal romp, with a slick opening riff. Corso’s vocals here remind me heavily of someone, but I can’t quite my finger on who exactly it is. It’s not so much his performance as it is his delivery and cadence, it’s so familiar. Insane shred-fest of a guitar solo to really steal the show near the end, great stuff all-round.
“Embers Rise” opened with a riff that reminded me a lot of modern Judas Priest or Vicious Rumors (both underrated eras for both bands). The song itself however felt a tad bit underdeveloped or undercooked. On the whole, it was a solid track in all respects, but it definitely felt a touch too safe for me. However, it was one of the few tracks where I can hear the bass through the production and that makes me appreciate it for that.
Changing things up completely was “Rise Above”, the penultimate track, which began with a nice melodic instrumental section that delivered an almost reflective mood. Corso joined in with a deep delivery of the opening lines, only further ushering the song into higher territory. His control over his vocal chords is seriously impressive, the way he can effortlessly switch between the deep and high pitches. Throughout the track, especially by the midpoint, I began to wonder if it was building towards something. My thoughts and ponderings proved correct when the song came to a crescendo with a pretty nice closing sequence (wherein the guitar from the very beginning returned for a spell).
Finally we come to “Eternal Quest”, which opened with an even more melodic guitar part (this one felt much more 80s ballad inspired, like some Ratt or Krokus). The intro sequence lasted a bit over a minute of good buildup before Corso ushered in the song properly with crisp vocals. In terms of tempo, this one kept things more middle-speed for the majority of its runtime, to the point that I admit, it began to feel a touch long in the tooth. A brief, but sharp, guitar solo breaks things up a bit with a nice band-chant sequence that eventually became part of the background (cool touch!). Though overall, I do feel like the prior track was the stronger of the two 6 minute closers.
Conclusion
Greyhawk’s third album introduces fans and newcomers to the arrival of new vocalist Anthony Corso, who showcases his exemplary talents throughout. While the sound is a bit different when compared to their previous releases, it isn’t a massive jump, but rather a gradual one if you’ve followed them for some time. The AOR influence from previous album, “Thunderheart” is definitely refined and pushed more towards the front. However, I do feel that the production was a touch too clean and crisp, and at times just simply too much- though think that chalks more up to personal taste. Building on that, the album had a tendency to feel hot and then cold, rather than feeling like a consistent flow was there (though I could’ve just been in the wrong headspace for it).
TheNwothm Score: 7.5/10
Links
Bandcamp: https://greyhawkmetal.bandcamp.com/album/warriors-of-greyhawk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greyhawkheavymetal
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greyhawkmetal
Label: https://www.cruzdelsurmusic.com/
Read More Reviews
#americanHeavyMetal #AOR #Boston #CruzDelSuMusic #dio #epicHeavyMetal #greyhawk #HeavyMetal #Journey #JudasPriest #Krokus #NewAlbum #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #NWOTHM #powerMetal #Ratt #Review #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #VICIOUSRUMORS
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Tailgunner unleash new single “Tears In Rain”
UK heavy metal torchbearers TAILGUNNER have unleashed their brand-new single “Tears in Rain”, now available worldwide. The track delivers a powerful taste of the band’s upcoming debut album Midnight Blitz, set for release on February 6th, 2026 via Napalm Records.
The official video, directed and produced by Andy Pilkington of Very Metal Art, captures Tailgunner’s raw energy and classic heavy metal spirit.
Legendary Judas Priest guitarist K.K. Downing has praised the band:
“TAILGUNNER is a band we should have seen emerge years ago from the UK. They personify everything that is heavy metal… Their energy and rawness, together with their brand of metal, incorporates all of the godfathers and much more. The band has a youthful freshness and a uniqueness that will no doubt elevate them to being a true Metal favourite of the fans.”
Tailgunner about “Tears In Rain”:
‘Lost in time, like Tears in Rain…’ The most iconic monologue in cinematic history, and one of most legendary on-screen moments of the 80s. ‘Blade Runner’ has been a focal point throughout writing our new album, and none more so than here, on our new single ‘Tears in Rain’. Carrying a chorus for the ages, this is a track we can’t wait to take out on the road and have you sing with us, deep into the night. Made for those moments where the light fades and things get that little more epic, ‘Tears in Rain’ is an all-time anthem, here for the modern day.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeD-9pah4fQ&list=RDUeD-9pah4fQ&start_radio=1
TAILGUNNER 2026 LIVE ONSLAUGHT
Supporting HammerFall
- Jan 14 – Pratteln, Switzerland – Z7
- Jan 15 – Lausanne, Switzerland – Docks
- Jan 17 – Barcelona, Spain – Razzmatazz 1
- Jan 18 – Murcia, Spain – Mamba
- Jan 20 – Sevilla, Spain – Custom
- Jan 21 – Lisbon, Portugal – Republica Da Musica
- Jan 22 – Porto, Portugal – Hard Club
- Jan 23 – Madrid, Spain – La Riviera
- Jan 24 – Villava, Spain – Totem
- Jan 26 – Milan, Italy – Alcatraz
Planet Rock Winters End
- Jan 30 – Porthcawl, Wales
Supporting Fozzy
- Feb 6 – Brighton, England – Chalk
- Feb 7 – Margate, England – Dreamland
- Feb 8 – Manchester, England – The Ritz
- Feb 10 – Norwich, England – Epic Studios
- Feb 11 – Bradford, England – Nightrain
- Feb 13 – Nottingham, England – Rock City
- Feb 14 – Glasgow, Scotland – TV Studios
- Feb 15 – Newcastle, England – Boiler Shop
- Feb 17 – Cardiff, Wales – Tramshed
- Feb 18 – Torquay, England – The Foundry
- Feb 19 – Southampton, England – The 1865
- Feb 20 – London, England – Electric Ballroom
- Feb 21 – Wolverhampton, England – KK’s Steel Mill
Summer Festivals
- Jun 4 – Stykkishólmur, Iceland – Satán Festival
- Jun 6 – Sölvesborg, Sweden – Sweden Rock Festival
- Jun 7 – Trondheim Festival, Norway
- Jun 13 – Donington Park, England – Download Festival
- Jun 26 – Spálené Poříčí, Czech Republic – Basinfire Festival
- Jun 27 – Rock Am Hartsfeldsee, Germany
- Jul 4 – Rock Harz Festival, Germany
- Jul 18 – Maidstone, England – Maid of Stone Festival
- Aug 6 – Leyendas Del Rock, Spain
- Aug 8 – Alcatraz Festival, Belgium
- Aug 9 – Geiselwind, Germany – Keep it True Legions Festival
- Aug 15 – Eindhoven, Netherlands – Dynamo Metal Festival
- Aug 21 – Hells Pells Festival, Germany
- Sep 5 – Coventry, England – Hella Rock Festival
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tailgunnerhq
Pre-Order “MIDNIGHT BLITZ” here: http://lnk.to/TailgunnerMidnightBlitz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailgunnerhq
#AndyPilkington #BritishHeavyMetal #HeavyMetal #kkDowning #MidnightBlitz #NewAlbum #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwobhm #NWOTHM #Tailgunner #TailgunnerTearsInRain #tearsInRain #thenwothmCom #VeryMetalArt
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Tailgunner unleash new single “Tears In Rain”
UK heavy metal torchbearers TAILGUNNER have unleashed their brand-new single “Tears in Rain”, now available worldwide. The track delivers a powerful taste of the band’s upcoming debut album Midnight Blitz, set for release on February 6th, 2026 via Napalm Records.
The official video, directed and produced by Andy Pilkington of Very Metal Art, captures Tailgunner’s raw energy and classic heavy metal spirit.
Legendary Judas Priest guitarist K.K. Downing has praised the band:
“TAILGUNNER is a band we should have seen emerge years ago from the UK. They personify everything that is heavy metal… Their energy and rawness, together with their brand of metal, incorporates all of the godfathers and much more. The band has a youthful freshness and a uniqueness that will no doubt elevate them to being a true Metal favourite of the fans.”
Tailgunner about “Tears In Rain”:
‘Lost in time, like Tears in Rain…’ The most iconic monologue in cinematic history, and one of most legendary on-screen moments of the 80s. ‘Blade Runner’ has been a focal point throughout writing our new album, and none more so than here, on our new single ‘Tears in Rain’. Carrying a chorus for the ages, this is a track we can’t wait to take out on the road and have you sing with us, deep into the night. Made for those moments where the light fades and things get that little more epic, ‘Tears in Rain’ is an all-time anthem, here for the modern day.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeD-9pah4fQ&list=RDUeD-9pah4fQ&start_radio=1
TAILGUNNER 2026 LIVE ONSLAUGHT
Supporting HammerFall
- Jan 14 – Pratteln, Switzerland – Z7
- Jan 15 – Lausanne, Switzerland – Docks
- Jan 17 – Barcelona, Spain – Razzmatazz 1
- Jan 18 – Murcia, Spain – Mamba
- Jan 20 – Sevilla, Spain – Custom
- Jan 21 – Lisbon, Portugal – Republica Da Musica
- Jan 22 – Porto, Portugal – Hard Club
- Jan 23 – Madrid, Spain – La Riviera
- Jan 24 – Villava, Spain – Totem
- Jan 26 – Milan, Italy – Alcatraz
Planet Rock Winters End
- Jan 30 – Porthcawl, Wales
Supporting Fozzy
- Feb 6 – Brighton, England – Chalk
- Feb 7 – Margate, England – Dreamland
- Feb 8 – Manchester, England – The Ritz
- Feb 10 – Norwich, England – Epic Studios
- Feb 11 – Bradford, England – Nightrain
- Feb 13 – Nottingham, England – Rock City
- Feb 14 – Glasgow, Scotland – TV Studios
- Feb 15 – Newcastle, England – Boiler Shop
- Feb 17 – Cardiff, Wales – Tramshed
- Feb 18 – Torquay, England – The Foundry
- Feb 19 – Southampton, England – The 1865
- Feb 20 – London, England – Electric Ballroom
- Feb 21 – Wolverhampton, England – KK’s Steel Mill
Summer Festivals
- Jun 4 – Stykkishólmur, Iceland – Satán Festival
- Jun 6 – Sölvesborg, Sweden – Sweden Rock Festival
- Jun 7 – Trondheim Festival, Norway
- Jun 13 – Donington Park, England – Download Festival
- Jun 26 – Spálené Poříčí, Czech Republic – Basinfire Festival
- Jun 27 – Rock Am Hartsfeldsee, Germany
- Jul 4 – Rock Harz Festival, Germany
- Jul 18 – Maidstone, England – Maid of Stone Festival
- Aug 6 – Leyendas Del Rock, Spain
- Aug 8 – Alcatraz Festival, Belgium
- Aug 9 – Geiselwind, Germany – Keep it True Legions Festival
- Aug 15 – Eindhoven, Netherlands – Dynamo Metal Festival
- Aug 21 – Hells Pells Festival, Germany
- Sep 5 – Coventry, England – Hella Rock Festival
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tailgunnerhq
Pre-Order “MIDNIGHT BLITZ” here: http://lnk.to/TailgunnerMidnightBlitz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailgunnerhq
#AndyPilkington #BritishHeavyMetal #HeavyMetal #kkDowning #MidnightBlitz #NewAlbum #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwobhm #NWOTHM #Tailgunner #TailgunnerTearsInRain #tearsInRain #thenwothmCom #VeryMetalArt
-
Tailgunner unleash new single “Tears In Rain”
UK heavy metal torchbearers TAILGUNNER have unleashed their brand-new single “Tears in Rain”, now available worldwide. The track delivers a powerful taste of the band’s upcoming debut album Midnight Blitz, set for release on February 6th, 2026 via Napalm Records.
The official video, directed and produced by Andy Pilkington of Very Metal Art, captures Tailgunner’s raw energy and classic heavy metal spirit.
Legendary Judas Priest guitarist K.K. Downing has praised the band:
“TAILGUNNER is a band we should have seen emerge years ago from the UK. They personify everything that is heavy metal… Their energy and rawness, together with their brand of metal, incorporates all of the godfathers and much more. The band has a youthful freshness and a uniqueness that will no doubt elevate them to being a true Metal favourite of the fans.”
Tailgunner about “Tears In Rain”:
‘Lost in time, like Tears in Rain…’ The most iconic monologue in cinematic history, and one of most legendary on-screen moments of the 80s. ‘Blade Runner’ has been a focal point throughout writing our new album, and none more so than here, on our new single ‘Tears in Rain’. Carrying a chorus for the ages, this is a track we can’t wait to take out on the road and have you sing with us, deep into the night. Made for those moments where the light fades and things get that little more epic, ‘Tears in Rain’ is an all-time anthem, here for the modern day.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeD-9pah4fQ&list=RDUeD-9pah4fQ&start_radio=1
TAILGUNNER 2026 LIVE ONSLAUGHT
Supporting HammerFall
- Jan 14 – Pratteln, Switzerland – Z7
- Jan 15 – Lausanne, Switzerland – Docks
- Jan 17 – Barcelona, Spain – Razzmatazz 1
- Jan 18 – Murcia, Spain – Mamba
- Jan 20 – Sevilla, Spain – Custom
- Jan 21 – Lisbon, Portugal – Republica Da Musica
- Jan 22 – Porto, Portugal – Hard Club
- Jan 23 – Madrid, Spain – La Riviera
- Jan 24 – Villava, Spain – Totem
- Jan 26 – Milan, Italy – Alcatraz
Planet Rock Winters End
- Jan 30 – Porthcawl, Wales
Supporting Fozzy
- Feb 6 – Brighton, England – Chalk
- Feb 7 – Margate, England – Dreamland
- Feb 8 – Manchester, England – The Ritz
- Feb 10 – Norwich, England – Epic Studios
- Feb 11 – Bradford, England – Nightrain
- Feb 13 – Nottingham, England – Rock City
- Feb 14 – Glasgow, Scotland – TV Studios
- Feb 15 – Newcastle, England – Boiler Shop
- Feb 17 – Cardiff, Wales – Tramshed
- Feb 18 – Torquay, England – The Foundry
- Feb 19 – Southampton, England – The 1865
- Feb 20 – London, England – Electric Ballroom
- Feb 21 – Wolverhampton, England – KK’s Steel Mill
Summer Festivals
- Jun 4 – Stykkishólmur, Iceland – Satán Festival
- Jun 6 – Sölvesborg, Sweden – Sweden Rock Festival
- Jun 7 – Trondheim Festival, Norway
- Jun 13 – Donington Park, England – Download Festival
- Jun 26 – Spálené Poříčí, Czech Republic – Basinfire Festival
- Jun 27 – Rock Am Hartsfeldsee, Germany
- Jul 4 – Rock Harz Festival, Germany
- Jul 18 – Maidstone, England – Maid of Stone Festival
- Aug 6 – Leyendas Del Rock, Spain
- Aug 8 – Alcatraz Festival, Belgium
- Aug 9 – Geiselwind, Germany – Keep it True Legions Festival
- Aug 15 – Eindhoven, Netherlands – Dynamo Metal Festival
- Aug 21 – Hells Pells Festival, Germany
- Sep 5 – Coventry, England – Hella Rock Festival
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tailgunnerhq
Pre-Order “MIDNIGHT BLITZ” here: http://lnk.to/TailgunnerMidnightBlitz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailgunnerhq
#AndyPilkington #BritishHeavyMetal #HeavyMetal #kkDowning #MidnightBlitz #NewAlbum #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwobhm #NWOTHM #Tailgunner #TailgunnerTearsInRain #tearsInRain #thenwothmCom #VeryMetalArt
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Band of the day: Dark Forest (UK)
The Nwothmhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7CW5SVxyyM&list=RDb7CW5SVxyyM&start_radio=1
Band: Dark Forest
Country: UK
Label: Cruz del Sur Music
Members: Josh Winnard – Vocals Christian Horton – Guitars, Bass Patrick Jenkins – Guitars Adam Sidaway – Drums
Album: Ridge & Furrow (EP)
Track Info: 1. Skylark 00:00 2. The Golden Acre 06:40 3. Ridge & Furrow 12:18 4. Meadowland 18:45 5. Under The Greenwood Tree 20:57
Dark Forest is a heavy metal band from Dudley in the West Midlands, England. Formed in 2002, they are known for blending soaring melodies with themes drawn from mythology, history, patriotism and classic metal traditions. Signed to Cruz del Sur Music, the band has released a series of acclaimed albums including Dark Forest, Dawn of Infinity, The Awakening, Beyond the Veil and Oak, Ash & Thorn. Their music has appeared on several compilations, including Fear Candy and British Steel, marking their place in the rising force of British heavy metal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j21z8KCbuVc&list=RDj21z8KCbuVc&start_radio=1
Links
Bandcamp: https://darkforest-uk.bandcamp.com/album/ridge-and-furrow
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Darkforestuk
Instagram:
Label: https://www.cruzdelsurmusic.com/store/
#bandOfTheDay #britishHeavyMetal #cruzDelSuMusic #darkForest #heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ridgeFurrow #thenwothmCom
-
Band of the day: Dark Forest (UK)
The Nwothmhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7CW5SVxyyM&list=RDb7CW5SVxyyM&start_radio=1
Band: Dark Forest
Country: UK
Label: Cruz del Sur Music
Members: Josh Winnard – Vocals Christian Horton – Guitars, Bass Patrick Jenkins – Guitars Adam Sidaway – Drums
Album: Ridge & Furrow (EP)
Track Info: 1. Skylark 00:00 2. The Golden Acre 06:40 3. Ridge & Furrow 12:18 4. Meadowland 18:45 5. Under The Greenwood Tree 20:57
Dark Forest is a heavy metal band from Dudley in the West Midlands, England. Formed in 2002, they are known for blending soaring melodies with themes drawn from mythology, history, patriotism and classic metal traditions. Signed to Cruz del Sur Music, the band has released a series of acclaimed albums including Dark Forest, Dawn of Infinity, The Awakening, Beyond the Veil and Oak, Ash & Thorn. Their music has appeared on several compilations, including Fear Candy and British Steel, marking their place in the rising force of British heavy metal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j21z8KCbuVc&list=RDj21z8KCbuVc&start_radio=1
Links
Bandcamp: https://darkforest-uk.bandcamp.com/album/ridge-and-furrow
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Darkforestuk
Instagram:
Label: https://www.cruzdelsurmusic.com/store/
#bandOfTheDay #britishHeavyMetal #cruzDelSuMusic #darkForest #heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ridgeFurrow #thenwothmCom
-
Band of the day: Dark Forest (UK)
The Nwothmhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7CW5SVxyyM&list=RDb7CW5SVxyyM&start_radio=1
Band: Dark Forest
Country: UK
Label: Cruz del Sur Music
Members: Josh Winnard – Vocals Christian Horton – Guitars, Bass Patrick Jenkins – Guitars Adam Sidaway – Drums
Album: Ridge & Furrow (EP)
Track Info: 1. Skylark 00:00 2. The Golden Acre 06:40 3. Ridge & Furrow 12:18 4. Meadowland 18:45 5. Under The Greenwood Tree 20:57
Dark Forest is a heavy metal band from Dudley in the West Midlands, England. Formed in 2002, they are known for blending soaring melodies with themes drawn from mythology, history, patriotism and classic metal traditions. Signed to Cruz del Sur Music, the band has released a series of acclaimed albums including Dark Forest, Dawn of Infinity, The Awakening, Beyond the Veil and Oak, Ash & Thorn. Their music has appeared on several compilations, including Fear Candy and British Steel, marking their place in the rising force of British heavy metal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j21z8KCbuVc&list=RDj21z8KCbuVc&start_radio=1
Links
Bandcamp: https://darkforest-uk.bandcamp.com/album/ridge-and-furrow
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Darkforestuk
Instagram:
Label: https://www.cruzdelsurmusic.com/store/
#bandOfTheDay #britishHeavyMetal #cruzDelSuMusic #darkForest #heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ridgeFurrow #thenwothmCom
-
Band of the day: Dark Forest (UK)
The Nwothmhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7CW5SVxyyM&list=RDb7CW5SVxyyM&start_radio=1
Band: Dark Forest
Country: UK
Label: Cruz del Sur Music
Members: Josh Winnard – Vocals Christian Horton – Guitars, Bass Patrick Jenkins – Guitars Adam Sidaway – Drums
Album: Ridge & Furrow (EP)
Track Info: 1. Skylark 00:00 2. The Golden Acre 06:40 3. Ridge & Furrow 12:18 4. Meadowland 18:45 5. Under The Greenwood Tree 20:57
Dark Forest is a heavy metal band from Dudley in the West Midlands, England. Formed in 2002, they are known for blending soaring melodies with themes drawn from mythology, history, patriotism and classic metal traditions. Signed to Cruz del Sur Music, the band has released a series of acclaimed albums including Dark Forest, Dawn of Infinity, The Awakening, Beyond the Veil and Oak, Ash & Thorn. Their music has appeared on several compilations, including Fear Candy and British Steel, marking their place in the rising force of British heavy metal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j21z8KCbuVc&list=RDj21z8KCbuVc&start_radio=1
Links
Bandcamp: https://darkforest-uk.bandcamp.com/album/ridge-and-furrow
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Darkforestuk
Instagram:
Label: https://www.cruzdelsurmusic.com/store/
#bandOfTheDay #britishHeavyMetal #cruzDelSuMusic #darkForest #heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ridgeFurrow #thenwothmCom
-
Band of the day: Dark Forest (UK)
The Nwothmhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7CW5SVxyyM&list=RDb7CW5SVxyyM&start_radio=1
Band: Dark Forest
Country: UK
Label: Cruz del Sur Music
Members: Josh Winnard – Vocals Christian Horton – Guitars, Bass Patrick Jenkins – Guitars Adam Sidaway – Drums
Album: Ridge & Furrow (EP)
Track Info: 1. Skylark 00:00 2. The Golden Acre 06:40 3. Ridge & Furrow 12:18 4. Meadowland 18:45 5. Under The Greenwood Tree 20:57
Dark Forest is a heavy metal band from Dudley in the West Midlands, England. Formed in 2002, they are known for blending soaring melodies with themes drawn from mythology, history, patriotism and classic metal traditions. Signed to Cruz del Sur Music, the band has released a series of acclaimed albums including Dark Forest, Dawn of Infinity, The Awakening, Beyond the Veil and Oak, Ash & Thorn. Their music has appeared on several compilations, including Fear Candy and British Steel, marking their place in the rising force of British heavy metal.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j21z8KCbuVc&list=RDj21z8KCbuVc&start_radio=1
Links
Bandcamp: https://darkforest-uk.bandcamp.com/album/ridge-and-furrow
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Darkforestuk
Instagram:
Label: https://www.cruzdelsurmusic.com/store/
#bandOfTheDay #britishHeavyMetal #cruzDelSuMusic #darkForest #heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ridgeFurrow #thenwothmCom
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Live roundup #39
The NwothmWe are back with another live roundup showing you some of the best gigs and festivals coming up in the near future! Buying in advance both supports bands and festivals helping to make sure shows go ahead! So what are you waiting for, go and grabs some tickets!
What your gig featured?
If you would like to have your gig featured here please drop us a message on our socials or email [email protected]!
#1 Haunt
More info: https://www.facebook.com/hauntthenation
#2 2 Minutes To Tulsa 2026
More info: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091898229431
#3 Speed Queen
More info: https://fb.me/e/88lj0eOFj
#4 Enforcer
More info: https://www.instagram.com/enforcerofficial
#5 Hëiligen
More info: https://www.instagram.com/heiligenheavymetal/
#6 Rock Hard Festival 2026
More info: https://www.rockhard.de/rhfestival
#7 FullMetal Osthessen
More info: https://www.facebook.com/FullMetalOsthessen
#8 Tyrannt
More info: https://www.instagram.com/tyrannband/
#9 High Voltage La Ceja
More info: https://www.instagram.com/revenge.speedmetal/
#10 Messiah + Amethyst & Klaw
More info: http://www.Eisenwerk.ch
#1 #10 #2 #2MinutesToTulsa2026 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #amethyst #angelWitch #enforcer #haunt #heiligen #heavyMetal #lucifer #megaColossus #messiah #nwothm #picture #revenge #sacredWarrior #scavenger #snowblind #speedQueen #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tyrannt #wytchHazel
-
Live roundup #39
The NwothmWe are back with another live roundup showing you some of the best gigs and festivals coming up in the near future! Buying in advance both supports bands and festivals helping to make sure shows go ahead! So what are you waiting for, go and grabs some tickets!
What your gig featured?
If you would like to have your gig featured here please drop us a message on our socials or email [email protected]!
#1 Haunt
More info: https://www.facebook.com/hauntthenation
#2 2 Minutes To Tulsa 2026
More info: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091898229431
#3 Speed Queen
More info: https://fb.me/e/88lj0eOFj
#4 Enforcer
More info: https://www.instagram.com/enforcerofficial
#5 Hëiligen
More info: https://www.instagram.com/heiligenheavymetal/
#6 Rock Hard Festival 2026
More info: https://www.rockhard.de/rhfestival
#7 FullMetal Osthessen
More info: https://www.facebook.com/FullMetalOsthessen
#8 Tyrannt
More info: https://www.instagram.com/tyrannband/
#9 High Voltage La Ceja
More info: https://www.instagram.com/revenge.speedmetal/
#10 Messiah + Amethyst & Klaw
More info: http://www.Eisenwerk.ch
#1 #10 #2 #2MinutesToTulsa2026 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #amethyst #angelWitch #enforcer #haunt #heiligen #heavyMetal #lucifer #megaColossus #messiah #nwothm #picture #revenge #sacredWarrior #scavenger #snowblind #speedQueen #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tyrannt #wytchHazel
-
Live roundup #39
The NwothmWe are back with another live roundup showing you some of the best gigs and festivals coming up in the near future! Buying in advance both supports bands and festivals helping to make sure shows go ahead! So what are you waiting for, go and grabs some tickets!
What your gig featured?
If you would like to have your gig featured here please drop us a message on our socials or email [email protected]!
#1 Haunt
More info: https://www.facebook.com/hauntthenation
#2 2 Minutes To Tulsa 2026
More info: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091898229431
#3 Speed Queen
More info: https://fb.me/e/88lj0eOFj
#4 Enforcer
More info: https://www.instagram.com/enforcerofficial
#5 Hëiligen
More info: https://www.instagram.com/heiligenheavymetal/
#6 Rock Hard Festival 2026
More info: https://www.rockhard.de/rhfestival
#7 FullMetal Osthessen
More info: https://www.facebook.com/FullMetalOsthessen
#8 Tyrannt
More info: https://www.instagram.com/tyrannband/
#9 High Voltage La Ceja
More info: https://www.instagram.com/revenge.speedmetal/
#10 Messiah + Amethyst & Klaw
More info: http://www.Eisenwerk.ch
#1 #10 #2 #2MinutesToTulsa2026 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #amethyst #angelWitch #enforcer #haunt #heiligen #heavyMetal #lucifer #megaColossus #messiah #nwothm #picture #revenge #sacredWarrior #scavenger #snowblind #speedQueen #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tyrannt #wytchHazel
-
Live roundup #39
The NwothmWe are back with another live roundup showing you some of the best gigs and festivals coming up in the near future! Buying in advance both supports bands and festivals helping to make sure shows go ahead! So what are you waiting for, go and grabs some tickets!
What your gig featured?
If you would like to have your gig featured here please drop us a message on our socials or email [email protected]!
#1 Haunt
More info: https://www.facebook.com/hauntthenation
#2 2 Minutes To Tulsa 2026
More info: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091898229431
#3 Speed Queen
More info: https://fb.me/e/88lj0eOFj
#4 Enforcer
More info: https://www.instagram.com/enforcerofficial
#5 Hëiligen
More info: https://www.instagram.com/heiligenheavymetal/
#6 Rock Hard Festival 2026
More info: https://www.rockhard.de/rhfestival
#7 FullMetal Osthessen
More info: https://www.facebook.com/FullMetalOsthessen
#8 Tyrannt
More info: https://www.instagram.com/tyrannband/
#9 High Voltage La Ceja
More info: https://www.instagram.com/revenge.speedmetal/
#10 Messiah + Amethyst & Klaw
More info: http://www.Eisenwerk.ch
#1 #10 #2 #2MinutesToTulsa2026 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #amethyst #angelWitch #enforcer #haunt #heiligen #heavyMetal #lucifer #megaColossus #messiah #nwothm #picture #revenge #sacredWarrior #scavenger #snowblind #speedQueen #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tyrannt #wytchHazel
-
Live roundup #39
The NwothmWe are back with another live roundup showing you some of the best gigs and festivals coming up in the near future! Buying in advance both supports bands and festivals helping to make sure shows go ahead! So what are you waiting for, go and grabs some tickets!
What your gig featured?
If you would like to have your gig featured here please drop us a message on our socials or email [email protected]!
#1 Haunt
More info: https://www.facebook.com/hauntthenation
#2 2 Minutes To Tulsa 2026
More info: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091898229431
#3 Speed Queen
More info: https://fb.me/e/88lj0eOFj
#4 Enforcer
More info: https://www.instagram.com/enforcerofficial
#5 Hëiligen
More info: https://www.instagram.com/heiligenheavymetal/
#6 Rock Hard Festival 2026
More info: https://www.rockhard.de/rhfestival
#7 FullMetal Osthessen
More info: https://www.facebook.com/FullMetalOsthessen
#8 Tyrannt
More info: https://www.instagram.com/tyrannband/
#9 High Voltage La Ceja
More info: https://www.instagram.com/revenge.speedmetal/
#10 Messiah + Amethyst & Klaw
More info: http://www.Eisenwerk.ch
#1 #10 #2 #2MinutesToTulsa2026 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #amethyst #angelWitch #enforcer #haunt #heiligen #heavyMetal #lucifer #megaColossus #messiah #nwothm #picture #revenge #sacredWarrior #scavenger #snowblind #speedQueen #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tyrannt #wytchHazel
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Support the scene: Eld Varg (Scotland)
I recently came across a Scottish heavy metal band that caught my attention by the name of Eld Varg. This trio have been around since 2013 and already have a stack of releases out.And now they are celebrating the release of their new record “Destroyer” As you know merch is a big part for any bands income so I wanted to show just what they have to offer over on their official web shop!
Web shop: https://www.eldvarg.com/category/all-products
Remember buying physical merch always goes so much further. It puts more money in bands pockets, helping them to do what they do best and that is deliver the metal! So if you love the bands music and can do so, grab some merch and help keep the metal flame burning!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKzl_Hwpgaw&list=RDIKzl_Hwpgaw&start_radio=1
Links
Website: https://www.eldvarg.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eldvargofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQeunHdDIdc/
Read More Support The Scene Posts
#bandMerch #buyBandMerch #destroyer #eldVarg #eldVargScotland #heavyMetal #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #supportTheScene #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Support the scene: Eld Varg (Scotland)
I recently came across a Scottish heavy metal band that caught my attention by the name of Eld Varg. This trio have been around since 2013 and already have a stack of releases out.And now they are celebrating the release of their new record “Destroyer” As you know merch is a big part for any bands income so I wanted to show just what they have to offer over on their official web shop!
Web shop: https://www.eldvarg.com/category/all-products
Remember buying physical merch always goes so much further. It puts more money in bands pockets, helping them to do what they do best and that is deliver the metal! So if you love the bands music and can do so, grab some merch and help keep the metal flame burning!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKzl_Hwpgaw&list=RDIKzl_Hwpgaw&start_radio=1
Links
Website: https://www.eldvarg.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eldvargofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQeunHdDIdc/
Read More Support The Scene Posts
#bandMerch #buyBandMerch #destroyer #eldVarg #eldVargScotland #heavyMetal #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #supportTheScene #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Support the scene: Eld Varg (Scotland)
I recently came across a Scottish heavy metal band that caught my attention by the name of Eld Varg. This trio have been around since 2013 and already have a stack of releases out.And now they are celebrating the release of their new record “Destroyer” As you know merch is a big part for any bands income so I wanted to show just what they have to offer over on their official web shop!
Web shop: https://www.eldvarg.com/category/all-products
Remember buying physical merch always goes so much further. It puts more money in bands pockets, helping them to do what they do best and that is deliver the metal! So if you love the bands music and can do so, grab some merch and help keep the metal flame burning!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKzl_Hwpgaw&list=RDIKzl_Hwpgaw&start_radio=1
Links
Website: https://www.eldvarg.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eldvargofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQeunHdDIdc/
Read More Support The Scene Posts
#bandMerch #buyBandMerch #destroyer #eldVarg #eldVargScotland #heavyMetal #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #supportTheScene #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Support the scene: Eld Varg (Scotland)
I recently came across a Scottish heavy metal band that caught my attention by the name of Eld Varg. This trio have been around since 2013 and already have a stack of releases out.And now they are celebrating the release of their new record “Destroyer” As you know merch is a big part for any bands income so I wanted to show just what they have to offer over on their official web shop!
Web shop: https://www.eldvarg.com/category/all-products
Remember buying physical merch always goes so much further. It puts more money in bands pockets, helping them to do what they do best and that is deliver the metal! So if you love the bands music and can do so, grab some merch and help keep the metal flame burning!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKzl_Hwpgaw&list=RDIKzl_Hwpgaw&start_radio=1
Links
Website: https://www.eldvarg.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eldvargofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQeunHdDIdc/
Read More Support The Scene Posts
#bandMerch #buyBandMerch #destroyer #eldVarg #eldVargScotland #heavyMetal #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #supportTheScene #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Support the scene: Eld Varg (Scotland)
I recently came across a Scottish heavy metal band that caught my attention by the name of Eld Varg. This trio have been around since 2013 and already have a stack of releases out.And now they are celebrating the release of their new record “Destroyer” As you know merch is a big part for any bands income so I wanted to show just what they have to offer over on their official web shop!
Web shop: https://www.eldvarg.com/category/all-products
Remember buying physical merch always goes so much further. It puts more money in bands pockets, helping them to do what they do best and that is deliver the metal! So if you love the bands music and can do so, grab some merch and help keep the metal flame burning!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKzl_Hwpgaw&list=RDIKzl_Hwpgaw&start_radio=1
Links
Website: https://www.eldvarg.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eldvargofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQeunHdDIdc/
Read More Support The Scene Posts
#bandMerch #buyBandMerch #destroyer #eldVarg #eldVargScotland #heavyMetal #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #supportTheScene #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Interview: Wild Witch (Brazil)
8–13 minutesThe Nwothm
Wild Witch emerged from Curitiba’s underground in 2011, carving out a fierce identity rooted in classic heavy metal. In this interview, guitarist Lucas Shred and bassist Felipe Leite trace the band’s journey, reflect on Brazil’s metal scene, and share glimpses of the chaos, camaraderie, and craft behind their latest release.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADFTDsEYPE0
Interview
TheNwothm: Greetings Wild Witch! Can you start by telling our readers where you are based and who is in the band?
Lucas Shred: Greetings! We would like to thank you for this opportunity to share a little about us! We’re based in Curitiba – Brazil. The crew consists of: Felipe Leite (bass), Lucas Shred (guitars), Tiago Rebel (vocals) and Weiberlan Garcia (drums).
TheNwothm: When the four of you first came together in 2011, what was the spark that made it official?
Felipe Leite: Our first Line up was formed by Felipe Leite (bass), Weiberlan (drums), Flav Scheidt (vocal) and Mariano Burich (guitar). The main idea in the beginning was to form a band to have fun, play some covers. In our first rehearsal we played some songs such like Burning the Witches (Warlock), Strong Arm of the Law (Saxon), Running Free (Iron Maiden) and Strutter (KISS). Then, almost in the same day, Mariano and I bring the first two Wild Witch songs: Burning Chains and Trail of Bones. That was the start we needed to the band get more serious. After that many other songs came up like WitchRipper, From the Purgatory and Diabolic Jaws and we recorded our first EP.
TheNwothm: What’s the story behind the band name Wild Witch. Was it a lightning bolt moment or a slow brew?
Felipe Leite: We thought about many names, such like Sandman (because we were really fan of the comic book) and Lamia, a greek mythology demon. Wild Witch was part of a brainstorm made between Flav and I. We came with some option in the rehearsal and the guys voted for Wild Witch. It was a strong name. Two inspirations for that were the song Wild Child by W.A.S.P. and Don1t Burn the Witch by Venom.
TheNwothm: How has growing up in Brazil shaped your approach to heavy metal?
Lucas Shred: Brazil has plenty of metal bands one can be inspired of, but it’s also a very rich land in terms of popular music, which makes our musical vocabulary have some variations and different influences. And about being in a metal band, we also had to learn to fight for it – no support from government for musicians.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHo-T_MBQnA
TheNwothm: What’s something about the Brazilian metal scene that international fans might not know but should?
Felipe Leite: Something that they should know is that there are a lot of great bands working hard to put out new material. It’s crazy because Heavy Metal in Brazil got more popular in the second half of the 80s, after Rock in Rio 1. But even late it grew so fast. Traditionally, Thrash, Death and Power Metal used to be more popular here and we could mention Sepultura, Sarcofago, Angra and Viper. But bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest always had a great base of fans. In the early 2000s we have a very good revival of Thrash Metal here with bands like Violator, ByWar and others that really influenced me on my music formation and my preference for 80s Metal. The first band I had with Mariano and Weiberlan was an oldschool Thrash Metal band.
After that we also had a revival of Traditional Heavy Metal that still going on with a lot of bands. I was a great fan of Saxon and, my idea in the beginning, was to form a band that sound like Saxon in Wheels of Steel era. Today Heavy Metal that people use to call as NWOTHM still very popular in Brazil. Lucas have played in Hell Gun and now he is also on Phantom Star, two Traditional Metal bands. I also played in Axecuter and now I am playing bass on Espectro, both Heavy Metal. But what is more interesting his that all these bands are different from each other. Espectro is a Heavy Metal that sounds more like 70s rock like Sabbath and Lizzy. Phantom Star sounds more like Savatage. Even Wild Witch have changed through the years. But all these bands are always recording albums, producing video clipes and travelling for playing.
TheNwothm: Growing up, was there a particular artist or band that made you say “I want to do that”?
Lucas Shred: For me (Lucas) it was Kiko Loureiro from Angra.
Felipe Leite: Biff Byford, from Saxon, and Marcel Schmier from Destruction. Not by technique but because I saw Destruction when I was a teenager and that shocked me, one of my first concerts.
TheNwothm: I would love to know your preferred format for music for both the band and for collecting and why! Vinyl, cassette, CD, digital?
Lucas Shred: For the band’s merch, due to easier sells, the CD is great. For collecting, vinyl is great for the audio unique quality and the size of the cover art, easy to see it’s details.
Felipe Leite: Actually, I collect both. When I was younger I used to buy more CDs as most of my Metal friends in school used to not have Turntable. So we used to do exchange of music on times that downloading was really difficult. I knew many different thing through this process. But I always preferred Vinyl and also bought some when I was teenager as they used to be cheaper then CDs at that time. Today I have about 800 CDs and 600 LPs on my collection. My dream is to release both Wild Witch albums in vinyl.
TheNwothm: So let us talk about the music! Let’s rewind to 2013. What do you remember most vividly about recording “Burning Chains?”
Lucas Shred: I wasn’t there yet, but when I heard it, I thought “this is one of the bands I’d love to be part of”
Felipe Leite: We didn’t have any experience on that. I have recorded a demo with Mariano in another band we had but it was totally unprofessional. So we decided to not start with a full lenght album to learn more about recording process. At the end, it was more satisfying than expected and I still love that EP. We still playing the title track and we re-recorded WitchRipper that still being the last song of our concerts.
TheNwothm: “The Offering” then landed in 2017 with strong reviews. What was the biggest creative risk you took on that album?
Felipe Leite: Most songs on “The Offering” were made at the beginning of the band. We started to record in 2013 and had a version with Flav Scheidt singing, but the production was really bad. So, we decide to restart from the beginning at Sonata Prima Studio in 2015, after I returned to Brazil (I lived in Dublin in 2014 and 15). We recorded the album throughout the year. Flav was focusing on some other goals at that time related to college, so she was not that involved in the process. I mean hard work like going to studio and practicing the songs. Also, we broke up at the end of the year, before she record the vocals and we decided we could no longer continue playing together.
So, I started to study and got vocal classes and recorded the lead vocals. For that album I think it worked fine, it was more focusing on sounding more “Rock” like early British bands like Saxon and Angel Witch. On Reaper’s Blade we changed a little, and we are sounding more powerful, with more influences of Power Metal bands, so I decided that we needed a stronger voice from a tenor dedicated to this. That’s why we invited Tiago, but I still sang some songs of “The Offering” in the shows, and the album had a good receptivity.
TheNwothm: “Reaper’s Blade” is your latest full-length. What’s one track from that album you’d love to see fans dissect line by line?
Lucas Shred: “Magic’s Sin” already drove some attention, but it’s still our favourite.” The Quahog” and the “Pearl” haves some interesting metaphors in its lyrics and Get Out! Is very provocative.
Felipe Leite: I have a special connection with “WitchRipper” but I agree with Lucas. “Magic’s Sin” is powerful! It’s my favorite and the one we see the best approval from people who likes us. But I love every song in this album. Fist is amazing as well, Quahog and the Pearl, King of Skies.
TheNwothm: What did you enjoy most about putting your latest record together?
Lucas Shred: Working together as a band and as friends. Easy group decisions and also enjoying the process of seeing your ideas getting shaped.
Felipe Leite: I think it was a hard journey. During the process we had many problems that postponed this like the covid pandemic and the passing of our friend and guitar player Paulo Ryba. Release this was like the feeling of doing the great work of our lives. This album is really special for me.
TheNwothm: And looking back at the music you have created so far is there a song you particularly enjoyed writing or playing live?
Lucas Shred: “Heavy Metal Inferno” is very fun to play.
Felipe Leite: I agree with Lucas and that’s the most exciting part on having a band and recording new albums. When you notice that some songs are too strong to leave the setlist even with a lot of great new songs coming up. In our last show there were a lot of younger faces that knew us from Reaper’s Blade and playing “Heavy Metal Inferno,” a simple and catchy song from the first album was amazing!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rr6jcpjgRAM
TheNwothm: If Wild Witch had a signature drink at a bar, what would it be called and what’s in it?
Lucas Shred: A bock or red ale, called Bruxa Selvagem (Wild Witch in portuguese).
Felipe Leite: I prefer malty and winter beer so I would go with Lucas, maybe a brown or red ale. Or maybe something from the German school like a Dunkel Weiss or a Weizen Bock.
TheNWothm: If you weren’t in Wild Witch, what would you be doing instead—no music allowed?
Lucas Shred: Cinema, painting
Felipe Leite: Painting or drawing comics.
TheNwothm: What’s been your most chaotic gig moment so far—gear failure, crowd madness, anything goes?
Lucas Shred: Without a doubt, one gig in São Paulo (can’t remember the year). Both guitarists were drunk, but under control. Can’t say the same about the drummer, who forgot how to play the songs. My belt broke and my pants started to fall off, so I used the guitar to hold it on its place.
TheNwothm: Are there any upcoming live plans fans should be watching for as we head into 2026?
Felipe Leite: We will give a time of recordings and will keep playing the songs from “Reaper’s Blade.” But I really want to record something new.
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Felipe Leite: Now we are selling all our stuff by social media contacting directly the band, but really soon we will activate the selling of our merch in our bandcamp for Brazil and rest of the World.
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Felipe Leite: follow us on Instagram (wildwitch.metal) and facebook. Also we have a channel on youtube with our live videos and studio video clipes for Diabolic Jaws and Magic’s Sin. We are also in all streaming platforms.
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Felipe Leite: Thank you very much for all the support! It was a great pleasure to answer this questions. We could spend hours talking and writing about something that we love like making Heavy Metal!
Bandcamp: https://wildwitch.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildwitchmetal/
Instagram: http://instagram.com/wildwitch.metal/
Label: Classic Metal Records
#brasil #brazilianHeavyMetal #burningChains #heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #theOffering #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #wildWitch #wildWitchBrazil
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Interview: Wild Witch (Brazil)
8–13 minutesThe Nwothm
Wild Witch emerged from Curitiba’s underground in 2011, carving out a fierce identity rooted in classic heavy metal. In this interview, guitarist Lucas Shred and bassist Felipe Leite trace the band’s journey, reflect on Brazil’s metal scene, and share glimpses of the chaos, camaraderie, and craft behind their latest release.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADFTDsEYPE0
Interview
TheNwothm: Greetings Wild Witch! Can you start by telling our readers where you are based and who is in the band?
Lucas Shred: Greetings! We would like to thank you for this opportunity to share a little about us! We’re based in Curitiba – Brazil. The crew consists of: Felipe Leite (bass), Lucas Shred (guitars), Tiago Rebel (vocals) and Weiberlan Garcia (drums).
TheNwothm: When the four of you first came together in 2011, what was the spark that made it official?
Felipe Leite: Our first Line up was formed by Felipe Leite (bass), Weiberlan (drums), Flav Scheidt (vocal) and Mariano Burich (guitar). The main idea in the beginning was to form a band to have fun, play some covers. In our first rehearsal we played some songs such like Burning the Witches (Warlock), Strong Arm of the Law (Saxon), Running Free (Iron Maiden) and Strutter (KISS). Then, almost in the same day, Mariano and I bring the first two Wild Witch songs: Burning Chains and Trail of Bones. That was the start we needed to the band get more serious. After that many other songs came up like WitchRipper, From the Purgatory and Diabolic Jaws and we recorded our first EP.
TheNwothm: What’s the story behind the band name Wild Witch. Was it a lightning bolt moment or a slow brew?
Felipe Leite: We thought about many names, such like Sandman (because we were really fan of the comic book) and Lamia, a greek mythology demon. Wild Witch was part of a brainstorm made between Flav and I. We came with some option in the rehearsal and the guys voted for Wild Witch. It was a strong name. Two inspirations for that were the song Wild Child by W.A.S.P. and Don1t Burn the Witch by Venom.
TheNwothm: How has growing up in Brazil shaped your approach to heavy metal?
Lucas Shred: Brazil has plenty of metal bands one can be inspired of, but it’s also a very rich land in terms of popular music, which makes our musical vocabulary have some variations and different influences. And about being in a metal band, we also had to learn to fight for it – no support from government for musicians.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHo-T_MBQnA
TheNwothm: What’s something about the Brazilian metal scene that international fans might not know but should?
Felipe Leite: Something that they should know is that there are a lot of great bands working hard to put out new material. It’s crazy because Heavy Metal in Brazil got more popular in the second half of the 80s, after Rock in Rio 1. But even late it grew so fast. Traditionally, Thrash, Death and Power Metal used to be more popular here and we could mention Sepultura, Sarcofago, Angra and Viper. But bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest always had a great base of fans. In the early 2000s we have a very good revival of Thrash Metal here with bands like Violator, ByWar and others that really influenced me on my music formation and my preference for 80s Metal. The first band I had with Mariano and Weiberlan was an oldschool Thrash Metal band.
After that we also had a revival of Traditional Heavy Metal that still going on with a lot of bands. I was a great fan of Saxon and, my idea in the beginning, was to form a band that sound like Saxon in Wheels of Steel era. Today Heavy Metal that people use to call as NWOTHM still very popular in Brazil. Lucas have played in Hell Gun and now he is also on Phantom Star, two Traditional Metal bands. I also played in Axecuter and now I am playing bass on Espectro, both Heavy Metal. But what is more interesting his that all these bands are different from each other. Espectro is a Heavy Metal that sounds more like 70s rock like Sabbath and Lizzy. Phantom Star sounds more like Savatage. Even Wild Witch have changed through the years. But all these bands are always recording albums, producing video clipes and travelling for playing.
TheNwothm: Growing up, was there a particular artist or band that made you say “I want to do that”?
Lucas Shred: For me (Lucas) it was Kiko Loureiro from Angra.
Felipe Leite: Biff Byford, from Saxon, and Marcel Schmier from Destruction. Not by technique but because I saw Destruction when I was a teenager and that shocked me, one of my first concerts.
TheNwothm: I would love to know your preferred format for music for both the band and for collecting and why! Vinyl, cassette, CD, digital?
Lucas Shred: For the band’s merch, due to easier sells, the CD is great. For collecting, vinyl is great for the audio unique quality and the size of the cover art, easy to see it’s details.
Felipe Leite: Actually, I collect both. When I was younger I used to buy more CDs as most of my Metal friends in school used to not have Turntable. So we used to do exchange of music on times that downloading was really difficult. I knew many different thing through this process. But I always preferred Vinyl and also bought some when I was teenager as they used to be cheaper then CDs at that time. Today I have about 800 CDs and 600 LPs on my collection. My dream is to release both Wild Witch albums in vinyl.
TheNwothm: So let us talk about the music! Let’s rewind to 2013. What do you remember most vividly about recording “Burning Chains?”
Lucas Shred: I wasn’t there yet, but when I heard it, I thought “this is one of the bands I’d love to be part of”
Felipe Leite: We didn’t have any experience on that. I have recorded a demo with Mariano in another band we had but it was totally unprofessional. So we decided to not start with a full lenght album to learn more about recording process. At the end, it was more satisfying than expected and I still love that EP. We still playing the title track and we re-recorded WitchRipper that still being the last song of our concerts.
TheNwothm: “The Offering” then landed in 2017 with strong reviews. What was the biggest creative risk you took on that album?
Felipe Leite: Most songs on “The Offering” were made at the beginning of the band. We started to record in 2013 and had a version with Flav Scheidt singing, but the production was really bad. So, we decide to restart from the beginning at Sonata Prima Studio in 2015, after I returned to Brazil (I lived in Dublin in 2014 and 15). We recorded the album throughout the year. Flav was focusing on some other goals at that time related to college, so she was not that involved in the process. I mean hard work like going to studio and practicing the songs. Also, we broke up at the end of the year, before she record the vocals and we decided we could no longer continue playing together.
So, I started to study and got vocal classes and recorded the lead vocals. For that album I think it worked fine, it was more focusing on sounding more “Rock” like early British bands like Saxon and Angel Witch. On Reaper’s Blade we changed a little, and we are sounding more powerful, with more influences of Power Metal bands, so I decided that we needed a stronger voice from a tenor dedicated to this. That’s why we invited Tiago, but I still sang some songs of “The Offering” in the shows, and the album had a good receptivity.
TheNwothm: “Reaper’s Blade” is your latest full-length. What’s one track from that album you’d love to see fans dissect line by line?
Lucas Shred: “Magic’s Sin” already drove some attention, but it’s still our favourite.” The Quahog” and the “Pearl” haves some interesting metaphors in its lyrics and Get Out! Is very provocative.
Felipe Leite: I have a special connection with “WitchRipper” but I agree with Lucas. “Magic’s Sin” is powerful! It’s my favorite and the one we see the best approval from people who likes us. But I love every song in this album. Fist is amazing as well, Quahog and the Pearl, King of Skies.
TheNwothm: What did you enjoy most about putting your latest record together?
Lucas Shred: Working together as a band and as friends. Easy group decisions and also enjoying the process of seeing your ideas getting shaped.
Felipe Leite: I think it was a hard journey. During the process we had many problems that postponed this like the covid pandemic and the passing of our friend and guitar player Paulo Ryba. Release this was like the feeling of doing the great work of our lives. This album is really special for me.
TheNwothm: And looking back at the music you have created so far is there a song you particularly enjoyed writing or playing live?
Lucas Shred: “Heavy Metal Inferno” is very fun to play.
Felipe Leite: I agree with Lucas and that’s the most exciting part on having a band and recording new albums. When you notice that some songs are too strong to leave the setlist even with a lot of great new songs coming up. In our last show there were a lot of younger faces that knew us from Reaper’s Blade and playing “Heavy Metal Inferno,” a simple and catchy song from the first album was amazing!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rr6jcpjgRAM
TheNwothm: If Wild Witch had a signature drink at a bar, what would it be called and what’s in it?
Lucas Shred: A bock or red ale, called Bruxa Selvagem (Wild Witch in portuguese).
Felipe Leite: I prefer malty and winter beer so I would go with Lucas, maybe a brown or red ale. Or maybe something from the German school like a Dunkel Weiss or a Weizen Bock.
TheNWothm: If you weren’t in Wild Witch, what would you be doing instead—no music allowed?
Lucas Shred: Cinema, painting
Felipe Leite: Painting or drawing comics.
TheNwothm: What’s been your most chaotic gig moment so far—gear failure, crowd madness, anything goes?
Lucas Shred: Without a doubt, one gig in São Paulo (can’t remember the year). Both guitarists were drunk, but under control. Can’t say the same about the drummer, who forgot how to play the songs. My belt broke and my pants started to fall off, so I used the guitar to hold it on its place.
TheNwothm: Are there any upcoming live plans fans should be watching for as we head into 2026?
Felipe Leite: We will give a time of recordings and will keep playing the songs from “Reaper’s Blade.” But I really want to record something new.
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Felipe Leite: Now we are selling all our stuff by social media contacting directly the band, but really soon we will activate the selling of our merch in our bandcamp for Brazil and rest of the World.
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Felipe Leite: follow us on Instagram (wildwitch.metal) and facebook. Also we have a channel on youtube with our live videos and studio video clipes for Diabolic Jaws and Magic’s Sin. We are also in all streaming platforms.
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Felipe Leite: Thank you very much for all the support! It was a great pleasure to answer this questions. We could spend hours talking and writing about something that we love like making Heavy Metal!
Bandcamp: https://wildwitch.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildwitchmetal/
Instagram: http://instagram.com/wildwitch.metal/
Label: Classic Metal Records
#brasil #brazilianHeavyMetal #burningChains #heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #theOffering #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #wildWitch #wildWitchBrazil
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Helvetets Port: Tomas Ericson on inspiration vs influence
The Nwothm
5–8 minutesI am sometimes asked the question of what has inspired or influenced Helvetets Port’s music. I am sure these terms are interchangeable to some, but to me the question has made my brain rev up to a higher degree than I expected. Perhaps because I have felt there is a difference that I should take more seriously in order to answer the question. In this article I would like to make a distinction between inspiration and influence: the former is something that can act as a “muse”, or something which you strive for, even if it is not necessarily heard in your music. Whereas influence is something that could be more clearly heard, or an “inspiration that has broken through” if you will. Let us start with five sources of inspiration and why it stays on that side of the fence:
Thor (CAN) – Unchained (1983) and Only the Strong (1985)
This is peak efficiency in songwriting. The songs are straightforward and catchy without being cheerful or predictable. I often see my songs getting out of hand when it comes to complexity and abstruseness at the writing stage, and then I try to think “more Thor”. No one could do it quite like them though. They could get seriously epic and heavy with the same simplicity in songs like When Gods Collide and Ride of the Chariots, and it is genius level.
Killen (USA) – Restless is the Witch (1989)
This is perhaps not so much a direct musical inspiration, rather a “heavy metal-philosophical” one. On this cassette, particularly on the two songs that are unique for this release – Birth of a King and The Resurrection/Vampire – Killen demonstrate the ways in which you can warp heavy metal to its limits while still being impervious of accusations of deviating from trueness. And, check out the video of “Scream in the Night” on Youtube for some serious overall coolness inspiration. Their full-length album from 1987 is also a major lesson in giving zero fucks.
Witch Cross (DEN) – Fit for Fight (1984)
In heavy metal there are two overarching themes with their respective moods, from which all sub-themes stem. The old and the new (well, 80s new). The old is the ancient or medieval; fantasy, the epic stuff. The new is the (80s) contemporary, nightlife, street level stuff. And although Witch Cross can excel in the former (especially on some older demo stuff) it is in the “new” category where they truly set the ultimate mood. The first minute of “Light of a Torch” and “Face of a Clown” is like the equivalent of 100 Stranger Things first seasons. It’s all you need if you want to get in the mood to make neon light music – but never to be equalled.
Tyrant (Gloucester, UK) and Tyrant (Mansfield, UK)
For two bands with the same name from the same country to be inseparable regarding the same kind of inspiration is a cosmic fluke. But there they stand, as the two most important bastions of the medieval sub-theme of the “old” category. One of them only having recorded two songs. Listen to a few Tyrant songs and you have bathed yourself in enough medieval melancholy to subtract a few hundred years from the atmosphere of the music you write next. Highlights if I have to choose: “Day of the Knight” and “Shadows of the Night”.
Overkill (Winnenden, GER) – Demo (1984)
It is difficult to be directly musically influenced by these Germans, perhaps because all the songs are so different from each other, but each superb in their own way. Heavy Metal Forces, the catchy anthem; The Iron Sword, the medieval epic song and Killers in the Dawn, a number that surpasses the meanness of all thrash metal while being classic heavy metal. They are a major inspiration when it comes to varying your songs without losing the core, and also to try and change your vocal colour depending on the song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxKivzih7I
And here are five sources of influence and it turns out to be a somewhat patriotic list:
Gotham City (SWE)
The elephant in the room, the influence of all influences! Notwithstanding the music, the sharp-sighted can probably tell that our logo and the artwork to our first single are heavily influenced by Gotham City. They are the main reason I got into obscure heavy metal and the main influence to start Helvetets Port. Their music has the perfect blend of coolness, quirkiness and regalness. Right now I am working on a song which is especially influenced by them, called “We Played Heavy Metal”.
Heavy Load (SWE)
There is always a bit, small or big, of Heavy Load and especially Ragne Wahlquist in one’s guitar playing, singing and songwriting. It is as though their work is the template for heavy metal. When you sit down with a guitar, there is always this little quick subconscious process in your head of “what is guitar playing all about?” in order to get your bearings as to what you are about to do with that strange object in your lap. And that subconscious backdrop is made by Heavy Load. The melancholy and earnestness, the E minor riffs that can always lead to greatness.
Kim Sixx (DEN) – Demo 1984
Kim Sixx in my opinion have the most commendable mix of guitar playing “tools” out of any band. There is perfect division of riffs, rhythm, licks, solos and melodies. Of course not only the division but the way it is played. This, and the fact that they might be the most true template of a classic heavy metal band imaginable, is a huge influence and inspiration. On a song like “Ruled with an Iron Hand”, I tried to summon the guitar practices of Kim Sixx.
Rising (SWE) – The Show is Over (song from the “Just One Bite …” demo 1984)
Now I am going to talk about a couple of songs that have distinct parts that have left an everlasting impression and which I feel I can never really fully explore, an itch that never goes away. For this Rising song it is about the very end, where it is almost like they are starting a new, awesome song and then it stops. It is the ultimate risky “kill your idols” technique in songwriting, creating a yearning that you as a songwriter want to almost fulfill but not quite. This I tried to recreate in the ending of “Cry of the Night”.
Zone Zero (SWE) – Evil Dream (B side from the “Heavy Metal” 7″ 1982)
With the Zone Zero song it is a similar deal in changing parts, but a more abrupt change and preferably more in the middle of the song. The time I first heard the tempo change in Evil Dream might be the most significant listening experience in my life and I get goosebumps just thinking about it. It shows that if you have written a cool part you can just brute force it into whatever place your heart feels like. Having it become as mind-blowing as in Evil Dream is a different matter though. Some places where I have attempted it is for example in “The Invincible” when the lone riff starts, and “Stan Brinner” when the final kind of chorus starts, and many more. Basically, whenever there is a part change that is not very “natural”, the spirit of Evil Dream looms over it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPgrKjyJrqM
Conclusion by TheNwothm
For Tomas Ericson, Helvetes Port is shaped by inspiration that sparks imagination and influence that leaves its mark in sound. Together they create a vision that balances tradition with individuality, keeping the old spirit of heavy metal alive in a unique way.
How do you see it? Does heavy metal thrive more on unseen muses or on the influences we can clearly hear? Let us know!
Photo Credit: Sabrina (Visual_Evidence)
#heavyMetal #helvetetsPort #inspirationVsInfluence #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tomasEricson #tradMetal #traditionalHeavyMetal
-
Helvetets Port: Tomas Ericson on inspiration vs influence
The Nwothm
5–8 minutesI am sometimes asked the question of what has inspired or influenced Helvetets Port’s music. I am sure these terms are interchangeable to some, but to me the question has made my brain rev up to a higher degree than I expected. Perhaps because I have felt there is a difference that I should take more seriously in order to answer the question. In this article I would like to make a distinction between inspiration and influence: the former is something that can act as a “muse”, or something which you strive for, even if it is not necessarily heard in your music. Whereas influence is something that could be more clearly heard, or an “inspiration that has broken through” if you will. Let us start with five sources of inspiration and why it stays on that side of the fence:
Thor (CAN) – Unchained (1983) and Only the Strong (1985)
This is peak efficiency in songwriting. The songs are straightforward and catchy without being cheerful or predictable. I often see my songs getting out of hand when it comes to complexity and abstruseness at the writing stage, and then I try to think “more Thor”. No one could do it quite like them though. They could get seriously epic and heavy with the same simplicity in songs like When Gods Collide and Ride of the Chariots, and it is genius level.
Killen (USA) – Restless is the Witch (1989)
This is perhaps not so much a direct musical inspiration, rather a “heavy metal-philosophical” one. On this cassette, particularly on the two songs that are unique for this release – Birth of a King and The Resurrection/Vampire – Killen demonstrate the ways in which you can warp heavy metal to its limits while still being impervious of accusations of deviating from trueness. And, check out the video of “Scream in the Night” on Youtube for some serious overall coolness inspiration. Their full-length album from 1987 is also a major lesson in giving zero fucks.
Witch Cross (DEN) – Fit for Fight (1984)
In heavy metal there are two overarching themes with their respective moods, from which all sub-themes stem. The old and the new (well, 80s new). The old is the ancient or medieval; fantasy, the epic stuff. The new is the (80s) contemporary, nightlife, street level stuff. And although Witch Cross can excel in the former (especially on some older demo stuff) it is in the “new” category where they truly set the ultimate mood. The first minute of “Light of a Torch” and “Face of a Clown” is like the equivalent of 100 Stranger Things first seasons. It’s all you need if you want to get in the mood to make neon light music – but never to be equalled.
Tyrant (Gloucester, UK) and Tyrant (Mansfield, UK)
For two bands with the same name from the same country to be inseparable regarding the same kind of inspiration is a cosmic fluke. But there they stand, as the two most important bastions of the medieval sub-theme of the “old” category. One of them only having recorded two songs. Listen to a few Tyrant songs and you have bathed yourself in enough medieval melancholy to subtract a few hundred years from the atmosphere of the music you write next. Highlights if I have to choose: “Day of the Knight” and “Shadows of the Night”.
Overkill (Winnenden, GER) – Demo (1984)
It is difficult to be directly musically influenced by these Germans, perhaps because all the songs are so different from each other, but each superb in their own way. Heavy Metal Forces, the catchy anthem; The Iron Sword, the medieval epic song and Killers in the Dawn, a number that surpasses the meanness of all thrash metal while being classic heavy metal. They are a major inspiration when it comes to varying your songs without losing the core, and also to try and change your vocal colour depending on the song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxKivzih7I
And here are five sources of influence and it turns out to be a somewhat patriotic list:
Gotham City (SWE)
The elephant in the room, the influence of all influences! Notwithstanding the music, the sharp-sighted can probably tell that our logo and the artwork to our first single are heavily influenced by Gotham City. They are the main reason I got into obscure heavy metal and the main influence to start Helvetets Port. Their music has the perfect blend of coolness, quirkiness and regalness. Right now I am working on a song which is especially influenced by them, called “We Played Heavy Metal”.
Heavy Load (SWE)
There is always a bit, small or big, of Heavy Load and especially Ragne Wahlquist in one’s guitar playing, singing and songwriting. It is as though their work is the template for heavy metal. When you sit down with a guitar, there is always this little quick subconscious process in your head of “what is guitar playing all about?” in order to get your bearings as to what you are about to do with that strange object in your lap. And that subconscious backdrop is made by Heavy Load. The melancholy and earnestness, the E minor riffs that can always lead to greatness.
Kim Sixx (DEN) – Demo 1984
Kim Sixx in my opinion have the most commendable mix of guitar playing “tools” out of any band. There is perfect division of riffs, rhythm, licks, solos and melodies. Of course not only the division but the way it is played. This, and the fact that they might be the most true template of a classic heavy metal band imaginable, is a huge influence and inspiration. On a song like “Ruled with an Iron Hand”, I tried to summon the guitar practices of Kim Sixx.
Rising (SWE) – The Show is Over (song from the “Just One Bite …” demo 1984)
Now I am going to talk about a couple of songs that have distinct parts that have left an everlasting impression and which I feel I can never really fully explore, an itch that never goes away. For this Rising song it is about the very end, where it is almost like they are starting a new, awesome song and then it stops. It is the ultimate risky “kill your idols” technique in songwriting, creating a yearning that you as a songwriter want to almost fulfill but not quite. This I tried to recreate in the ending of “Cry of the Night”.
Zone Zero (SWE) – Evil Dream (B side from the “Heavy Metal” 7″ 1982)
With the Zone Zero song it is a similar deal in changing parts, but a more abrupt change and preferably more in the middle of the song. The time I first heard the tempo change in Evil Dream might be the most significant listening experience in my life and I get goosebumps just thinking about it. It shows that if you have written a cool part you can just brute force it into whatever place your heart feels like. Having it become as mind-blowing as in Evil Dream is a different matter though. Some places where I have attempted it is for example in “The Invincible” when the lone riff starts, and “Stan Brinner” when the final kind of chorus starts, and many more. Basically, whenever there is a part change that is not very “natural”, the spirit of Evil Dream looms over it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPgrKjyJrqM
Conclusion by TheNwothm
For Tomas Ericson, Helvetes Port is shaped by inspiration that sparks imagination and influence that leaves its mark in sound. Together they create a vision that balances tradition with individuality, keeping the old spirit of heavy metal alive in a unique way.
How do you see it? Does heavy metal thrive more on unseen muses or on the influences we can clearly hear? Let us know!
Photo Credit: Sabrina (Visual_Evidence)
#heavyMetal #helvetetsPort #inspirationVsInfluence #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tomasEricson #tradMetal #traditionalHeavyMetal
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Helvetets Port: Tomas Ericson on inspiration vs influence
The Nwothm
5–8 minutesI am sometimes asked the question of what has inspired or influenced Helvetets Port’s music. I am sure these terms are interchangeable to some, but to me the question has made my brain rev up to a higher degree than I expected. Perhaps because I have felt there is a difference that I should take more seriously in order to answer the question. In this article I would like to make a distinction between inspiration and influence: the former is something that can act as a “muse”, or something which you strive for, even if it is not necessarily heard in your music. Whereas influence is something that could be more clearly heard, or an “inspiration that has broken through” if you will. Let us start with five sources of inspiration and why it stays on that side of the fence:
Thor (CAN) – Unchained (1983) and Only the Strong (1985)
This is peak efficiency in songwriting. The songs are straightforward and catchy without being cheerful or predictable. I often see my songs getting out of hand when it comes to complexity and abstruseness at the writing stage, and then I try to think “more Thor”. No one could do it quite like them though. They could get seriously epic and heavy with the same simplicity in songs like When Gods Collide and Ride of the Chariots, and it is genius level.
Killen (USA) – Restless is the Witch (1989)
This is perhaps not so much a direct musical inspiration, rather a “heavy metal-philosophical” one. On this cassette, particularly on the two songs that are unique for this release – Birth of a King and The Resurrection/Vampire – Killen demonstrate the ways in which you can warp heavy metal to its limits while still being impervious of accusations of deviating from trueness. And, check out the video of “Scream in the Night” on Youtube for some serious overall coolness inspiration. Their full-length album from 1987 is also a major lesson in giving zero fucks.
Witch Cross (DEN) – Fit for Fight (1984)
In heavy metal there are two overarching themes with their respective moods, from which all sub-themes stem. The old and the new (well, 80s new). The old is the ancient or medieval; fantasy, the epic stuff. The new is the (80s) contemporary, nightlife, street level stuff. And although Witch Cross can excel in the former (especially on some older demo stuff) it is in the “new” category where they truly set the ultimate mood. The first minute of “Light of a Torch” and “Face of a Clown” is like the equivalent of 100 Stranger Things first seasons. It’s all you need if you want to get in the mood to make neon light music – but never to be equalled.
Tyrant (Gloucester, UK) and Tyrant (Mansfield, UK)
For two bands with the same name from the same country to be inseparable regarding the same kind of inspiration is a cosmic fluke. But there they stand, as the two most important bastions of the medieval sub-theme of the “old” category. One of them only having recorded two songs. Listen to a few Tyrant songs and you have bathed yourself in enough medieval melancholy to subtract a few hundred years from the atmosphere of the music you write next. Highlights if I have to choose: “Day of the Knight” and “Shadows of the Night”.
Overkill (Winnenden, GER) – Demo (1984)
It is difficult to be directly musically influenced by these Germans, perhaps because all the songs are so different from each other, but each superb in their own way. Heavy Metal Forces, the catchy anthem; The Iron Sword, the medieval epic song and Killers in the Dawn, a number that surpasses the meanness of all thrash metal while being classic heavy metal. They are a major inspiration when it comes to varying your songs without losing the core, and also to try and change your vocal colour depending on the song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxKivzih7I
And here are five sources of influence and it turns out to be a somewhat patriotic list:
Gotham City (SWE)
The elephant in the room, the influence of all influences! Notwithstanding the music, the sharp-sighted can probably tell that our logo and the artwork to our first single are heavily influenced by Gotham City. They are the main reason I got into obscure heavy metal and the main influence to start Helvetets Port. Their music has the perfect blend of coolness, quirkiness and regalness. Right now I am working on a song which is especially influenced by them, called “We Played Heavy Metal”.
Heavy Load (SWE)
There is always a bit, small or big, of Heavy Load and especially Ragne Wahlquist in one’s guitar playing, singing and songwriting. It is as though their work is the template for heavy metal. When you sit down with a guitar, there is always this little quick subconscious process in your head of “what is guitar playing all about?” in order to get your bearings as to what you are about to do with that strange object in your lap. And that subconscious backdrop is made by Heavy Load. The melancholy and earnestness, the E minor riffs that can always lead to greatness.
Kim Sixx (DEN) – Demo 1984
Kim Sixx in my opinion have the most commendable mix of guitar playing “tools” out of any band. There is perfect division of riffs, rhythm, licks, solos and melodies. Of course not only the division but the way it is played. This, and the fact that they might be the most true template of a classic heavy metal band imaginable, is a huge influence and inspiration. On a song like “Ruled with an Iron Hand”, I tried to summon the guitar practices of Kim Sixx.
Rising (SWE) – The Show is Over (song from the “Just One Bite …” demo 1984)
Now I am going to talk about a couple of songs that have distinct parts that have left an everlasting impression and which I feel I can never really fully explore, an itch that never goes away. For this Rising song it is about the very end, where it is almost like they are starting a new, awesome song and then it stops. It is the ultimate risky “kill your idols” technique in songwriting, creating a yearning that you as a songwriter want to almost fulfill but not quite. This I tried to recreate in the ending of “Cry of the Night”.
Zone Zero (SWE) – Evil Dream (B side from the “Heavy Metal” 7″ 1982)
With the Zone Zero song it is a similar deal in changing parts, but a more abrupt change and preferably more in the middle of the song. The time I first heard the tempo change in Evil Dream might be the most significant listening experience in my life and I get goosebumps just thinking about it. It shows that if you have written a cool part you can just brute force it into whatever place your heart feels like. Having it become as mind-blowing as in Evil Dream is a different matter though. Some places where I have attempted it is for example in “The Invincible” when the lone riff starts, and “Stan Brinner” when the final kind of chorus starts, and many more. Basically, whenever there is a part change that is not very “natural”, the spirit of Evil Dream looms over it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPgrKjyJrqM
Conclusion by TheNwothm
For Tomas Ericson, Helvetes Port is shaped by inspiration that sparks imagination and influence that leaves its mark in sound. Together they create a vision that balances tradition with individuality, keeping the old spirit of heavy metal alive in a unique way.
How do you see it? Does heavy metal thrive more on unseen muses or on the influences we can clearly hear? Let us know!
Photo Credit: Sabrina (Visual_Evidence)
#heavyMetal #helvetetsPort #inspirationVsInfluence #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tomasEricson #tradMetal #traditionalHeavyMetal
-
Helvetets Port: Tomas Ericson on inspiration vs influence
The Nwothm
5–8 minutesI am sometimes asked the question of what has inspired or influenced Helvetets Port’s music. I am sure these terms are interchangeable to some, but to me the question has made my brain rev up to a higher degree than I expected. Perhaps because I have felt there is a difference that I should take more seriously in order to answer the question. In this article I would like to make a distinction between inspiration and influence: the former is something that can act as a “muse”, or something which you strive for, even if it is not necessarily heard in your music. Whereas influence is something that could be more clearly heard, or an “inspiration that has broken through” if you will. Let us start with five sources of inspiration and why it stays on that side of the fence:
Thor (CAN) – Unchained (1983) and Only the Strong (1985)
This is peak efficiency in songwriting. The songs are straightforward and catchy without being cheerful or predictable. I often see my songs getting out of hand when it comes to complexity and abstruseness at the writing stage, and then I try to think “more Thor”. No one could do it quite like them though. They could get seriously epic and heavy with the same simplicity in songs like When Gods Collide and Ride of the Chariots, and it is genius level.
Killen (USA) – Restless is the Witch (1989)
This is perhaps not so much a direct musical inspiration, rather a “heavy metal-philosophical” one. On this cassette, particularly on the two songs that are unique for this release – Birth of a King and The Resurrection/Vampire – Killen demonstrate the ways in which you can warp heavy metal to its limits while still being impervious of accusations of deviating from trueness. And, check out the video of “Scream in the Night” on Youtube for some serious overall coolness inspiration. Their full-length album from 1987 is also a major lesson in giving zero fucks.
Witch Cross (DEN) – Fit for Fight (1984)
In heavy metal there are two overarching themes with their respective moods, from which all sub-themes stem. The old and the new (well, 80s new). The old is the ancient or medieval; fantasy, the epic stuff. The new is the (80s) contemporary, nightlife, street level stuff. And although Witch Cross can excel in the former (especially on some older demo stuff) it is in the “new” category where they truly set the ultimate mood. The first minute of “Light of a Torch” and “Face of a Clown” is like the equivalent of 100 Stranger Things first seasons. It’s all you need if you want to get in the mood to make neon light music – but never to be equalled.
Tyrant (Gloucester, UK) and Tyrant (Mansfield, UK)
For two bands with the same name from the same country to be inseparable regarding the same kind of inspiration is a cosmic fluke. But there they stand, as the two most important bastions of the medieval sub-theme of the “old” category. One of them only having recorded two songs. Listen to a few Tyrant songs and you have bathed yourself in enough medieval melancholy to subtract a few hundred years from the atmosphere of the music you write next. Highlights if I have to choose: “Day of the Knight” and “Shadows of the Night”.
Overkill (Winnenden, GER) – Demo (1984)
It is difficult to be directly musically influenced by these Germans, perhaps because all the songs are so different from each other, but each superb in their own way. Heavy Metal Forces, the catchy anthem; The Iron Sword, the medieval epic song and Killers in the Dawn, a number that surpasses the meanness of all thrash metal while being classic heavy metal. They are a major inspiration when it comes to varying your songs without losing the core, and also to try and change your vocal colour depending on the song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxKivzih7I
And here are five sources of influence and it turns out to be a somewhat patriotic list:
Gotham City (SWE)
The elephant in the room, the influence of all influences! Notwithstanding the music, the sharp-sighted can probably tell that our logo and the artwork to our first single are heavily influenced by Gotham City. They are the main reason I got into obscure heavy metal and the main influence to start Helvetets Port. Their music has the perfect blend of coolness, quirkiness and regalness. Right now I am working on a song which is especially influenced by them, called “We Played Heavy Metal”.
Heavy Load (SWE)
There is always a bit, small or big, of Heavy Load and especially Ragne Wahlquist in one’s guitar playing, singing and songwriting. It is as though their work is the template for heavy metal. When you sit down with a guitar, there is always this little quick subconscious process in your head of “what is guitar playing all about?” in order to get your bearings as to what you are about to do with that strange object in your lap. And that subconscious backdrop is made by Heavy Load. The melancholy and earnestness, the E minor riffs that can always lead to greatness.
Kim Sixx (DEN) – Demo 1984
Kim Sixx in my opinion have the most commendable mix of guitar playing “tools” out of any band. There is perfect division of riffs, rhythm, licks, solos and melodies. Of course not only the division but the way it is played. This, and the fact that they might be the most true template of a classic heavy metal band imaginable, is a huge influence and inspiration. On a song like “Ruled with an Iron Hand”, I tried to summon the guitar practices of Kim Sixx.
Rising (SWE) – The Show is Over (song from the “Just One Bite …” demo 1984)
Now I am going to talk about a couple of songs that have distinct parts that have left an everlasting impression and which I feel I can never really fully explore, an itch that never goes away. For this Rising song it is about the very end, where it is almost like they are starting a new, awesome song and then it stops. It is the ultimate risky “kill your idols” technique in songwriting, creating a yearning that you as a songwriter want to almost fulfill but not quite. This I tried to recreate in the ending of “Cry of the Night”.
Zone Zero (SWE) – Evil Dream (B side from the “Heavy Metal” 7″ 1982)
With the Zone Zero song it is a similar deal in changing parts, but a more abrupt change and preferably more in the middle of the song. The time I first heard the tempo change in Evil Dream might be the most significant listening experience in my life and I get goosebumps just thinking about it. It shows that if you have written a cool part you can just brute force it into whatever place your heart feels like. Having it become as mind-blowing as in Evil Dream is a different matter though. Some places where I have attempted it is for example in “The Invincible” when the lone riff starts, and “Stan Brinner” when the final kind of chorus starts, and many more. Basically, whenever there is a part change that is not very “natural”, the spirit of Evil Dream looms over it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPgrKjyJrqM
Conclusion by TheNwothm
For Tomas Ericson, Helvetes Port is shaped by inspiration that sparks imagination and influence that leaves its mark in sound. Together they create a vision that balances tradition with individuality, keeping the old spirit of heavy metal alive in a unique way.
How do you see it? Does heavy metal thrive more on unseen muses or on the influences we can clearly hear? Let us know!
Photo Credit: Sabrina (Visual_Evidence)
#heavyMetal #helvetetsPort #inspirationVsInfluence #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tomasEricson #tradMetal #traditionalHeavyMetal
-
Helvetets Port: Tomas Ericson on inspiration vs influence
The Nwothm
5–8 minutesI am sometimes asked the question of what has inspired or influenced Helvetets Port’s music. I am sure these terms are interchangeable to some, but to me the question has made my brain rev up to a higher degree than I expected. Perhaps because I have felt there is a difference that I should take more seriously in order to answer the question. In this article I would like to make a distinction between inspiration and influence: the former is something that can act as a “muse”, or something which you strive for, even if it is not necessarily heard in your music. Whereas influence is something that could be more clearly heard, or an “inspiration that has broken through” if you will. Let us start with five sources of inspiration and why it stays on that side of the fence:
Thor (CAN) – Unchained (1983) and Only the Strong (1985)
This is peak efficiency in songwriting. The songs are straightforward and catchy without being cheerful or predictable. I often see my songs getting out of hand when it comes to complexity and abstruseness at the writing stage, and then I try to think “more Thor”. No one could do it quite like them though. They could get seriously epic and heavy with the same simplicity in songs like When Gods Collide and Ride of the Chariots, and it is genius level.
Killen (USA) – Restless is the Witch (1989)
This is perhaps not so much a direct musical inspiration, rather a “heavy metal-philosophical” one. On this cassette, particularly on the two songs that are unique for this release – Birth of a King and The Resurrection/Vampire – Killen demonstrate the ways in which you can warp heavy metal to its limits while still being impervious of accusations of deviating from trueness. And, check out the video of “Scream in the Night” on Youtube for some serious overall coolness inspiration. Their full-length album from 1987 is also a major lesson in giving zero fucks.
Witch Cross (DEN) – Fit for Fight (1984)
In heavy metal there are two overarching themes with their respective moods, from which all sub-themes stem. The old and the new (well, 80s new). The old is the ancient or medieval; fantasy, the epic stuff. The new is the (80s) contemporary, nightlife, street level stuff. And although Witch Cross can excel in the former (especially on some older demo stuff) it is in the “new” category where they truly set the ultimate mood. The first minute of “Light of a Torch” and “Face of a Clown” is like the equivalent of 100 Stranger Things first seasons. It’s all you need if you want to get in the mood to make neon light music – but never to be equalled.
Tyrant (Gloucester, UK) and Tyrant (Mansfield, UK)
For two bands with the same name from the same country to be inseparable regarding the same kind of inspiration is a cosmic fluke. But there they stand, as the two most important bastions of the medieval sub-theme of the “old” category. One of them only having recorded two songs. Listen to a few Tyrant songs and you have bathed yourself in enough medieval melancholy to subtract a few hundred years from the atmosphere of the music you write next. Highlights if I have to choose: “Day of the Knight” and “Shadows of the Night”.
Overkill (Winnenden, GER) – Demo (1984)
It is difficult to be directly musically influenced by these Germans, perhaps because all the songs are so different from each other, but each superb in their own way. Heavy Metal Forces, the catchy anthem; The Iron Sword, the medieval epic song and Killers in the Dawn, a number that surpasses the meanness of all thrash metal while being classic heavy metal. They are a major inspiration when it comes to varying your songs without losing the core, and also to try and change your vocal colour depending on the song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxKivzih7I
And here are five sources of influence and it turns out to be a somewhat patriotic list:
Gotham City (SWE)
The elephant in the room, the influence of all influences! Notwithstanding the music, the sharp-sighted can probably tell that our logo and the artwork to our first single are heavily influenced by Gotham City. They are the main reason I got into obscure heavy metal and the main influence to start Helvetets Port. Their music has the perfect blend of coolness, quirkiness and regalness. Right now I am working on a song which is especially influenced by them, called “We Played Heavy Metal”.
Heavy Load (SWE)
There is always a bit, small or big, of Heavy Load and especially Ragne Wahlquist in one’s guitar playing, singing and songwriting. It is as though their work is the template for heavy metal. When you sit down with a guitar, there is always this little quick subconscious process in your head of “what is guitar playing all about?” in order to get your bearings as to what you are about to do with that strange object in your lap. And that subconscious backdrop is made by Heavy Load. The melancholy and earnestness, the E minor riffs that can always lead to greatness.
Kim Sixx (DEN) – Demo 1984
Kim Sixx in my opinion have the most commendable mix of guitar playing “tools” out of any band. There is perfect division of riffs, rhythm, licks, solos and melodies. Of course not only the division but the way it is played. This, and the fact that they might be the most true template of a classic heavy metal band imaginable, is a huge influence and inspiration. On a song like “Ruled with an Iron Hand”, I tried to summon the guitar practices of Kim Sixx.
Rising (SWE) – The Show is Over (song from the “Just One Bite …” demo 1984)
Now I am going to talk about a couple of songs that have distinct parts that have left an everlasting impression and which I feel I can never really fully explore, an itch that never goes away. For this Rising song it is about the very end, where it is almost like they are starting a new, awesome song and then it stops. It is the ultimate risky “kill your idols” technique in songwriting, creating a yearning that you as a songwriter want to almost fulfill but not quite. This I tried to recreate in the ending of “Cry of the Night”.
Zone Zero (SWE) – Evil Dream (B side from the “Heavy Metal” 7″ 1982)
With the Zone Zero song it is a similar deal in changing parts, but a more abrupt change and preferably more in the middle of the song. The time I first heard the tempo change in Evil Dream might be the most significant listening experience in my life and I get goosebumps just thinking about it. It shows that if you have written a cool part you can just brute force it into whatever place your heart feels like. Having it become as mind-blowing as in Evil Dream is a different matter though. Some places where I have attempted it is for example in “The Invincible” when the lone riff starts, and “Stan Brinner” when the final kind of chorus starts, and many more. Basically, whenever there is a part change that is not very “natural”, the spirit of Evil Dream looms over it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPgrKjyJrqM
Conclusion by TheNwothm
For Tomas Ericson, Helvetes Port is shaped by inspiration that sparks imagination and influence that leaves its mark in sound. Together they create a vision that balances tradition with individuality, keeping the old spirit of heavy metal alive in a unique way.
How do you see it? Does heavy metal thrive more on unseen muses or on the influences we can clearly hear? Let us know!
Photo Credit: Sabrina (Visual_Evidence)
#heavyMetal #helvetetsPort #inspirationVsInfluence #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tomasEricson #tradMetal #traditionalHeavyMetal
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Reminder: Share your voice for our upcoming feature!
We’re working on a permanent section for the website, and it begins with one simple but important question:
What does NWOTHM mean to you?
- How do you interpret the term?
- How does it make you feel?
- How do you think it all began?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share your comments below, through social media, or by email at [email protected] — and don’t forget to include your country. Your words could even become part of the feature itself.
The feature is planned to go live in the new year, so keep an eye out.
Submit a form.#heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #whatDoesNwothmMeanToYou2
-
Reminder: Share your voice for our upcoming feature!
We’re working on a permanent section for the website, and it begins with one simple but important question:
What does NWOTHM mean to you?
- How do you interpret the term?
- How does it make you feel?
- How do you think it all began?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share your comments below, through social media, or by email at [email protected] — and don’t forget to include your country. Your words could even become part of the feature itself.
The feature is planned to go live in the new year, so keep an eye out.
Submit a form.#heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #whatDoesNwothmMeanToYou2
-
Reminder: Share your voice for our upcoming feature!
We’re working on a permanent section for the website, and it begins with one simple but important question:
What does NWOTHM mean to you?
- How do you interpret the term?
- How does it make you feel?
- How do you think it all began?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share your comments below, through social media, or by email at [email protected] — and don’t forget to include your country. Your words could even become part of the feature itself.
The feature is planned to go live in the new year, so keep an eye out.
Submit a form.#heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #whatDoesNwothmMeanToYou2
-
Reminder: Share your voice for our upcoming feature!
We’re working on a permanent section for the website, and it begins with one simple but important question:
What does NWOTHM mean to you?
- How do you interpret the term?
- How does it make you feel?
- How do you think it all began?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share your comments below, through social media, or by email at [email protected] — and don’t forget to include your country. Your words could even become part of the feature itself.
The feature is planned to go live in the new year, so keep an eye out.
Submit a form.#heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #whatDoesNwothmMeanToYou2
-
Reminder: Share your voice for our upcoming feature!
We’re working on a permanent section for the website, and it begins with one simple but important question:
What does NWOTHM mean to you?
- How do you interpret the term?
- How does it make you feel?
- How do you think it all began?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. Please share your comments below, through social media, or by email at [email protected] — and don’t forget to include your country. Your words could even become part of the feature itself.
The feature is planned to go live in the new year, so keep an eye out.
Submit a form.#heavyMetal #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #whatDoesNwothmMeanToYou2
-
Review: Mausoleum Gate “Space, Rituals and Magick’
Release date: Out Now
Label: Cruz Del Sur Music
8 minutesThe Nwothm
Finnish heavy metal cult Mausoleum Gate return with their heavily anticipated third studio album. “Space, Rituals and Magick” is available now via Cruz Del Sur Music on vinyl, CD, and digital formats.
Formed in 2008, Mausoleum Gate have carved a reputation for their mystical and atmospheric approach to heavy metal, drawing inspiration from obscure gems of the 1980s and beyond. Their latest work continues this tradition, offering a journey into other realms and ancient times with a distinctive sound that remains recognisably their own.
Guitarist Count L.F remarks:
Well the notorious third album shall we say? Or so the legend that I have heard goes. This time with Mausoleum Gate. The album took remarkable time to make for various reasons. Sometimes the song not intended to album was growing a serious epic and so on. Well as we called it -The Church of Isaac 666 (a phrase in Finnish called “Iisakin kirkko” which means a building that is never finished) but here we are! As usual the album differs from previous albums. This seems to be the case with us. Anyway still sounding Mausoleum Gate. This is the point. Our line-up has changed quite a lot since the last album and that of course changes the sound of the band but you can recognise the band. And the melodies and harmonies are still there. This time the compositions are maybe more of a band effort than ever before which gives a new nuances. New members: Jarno Saarinen, Jari Kourunen and Jarno Koskell have brought a great addition to Mausoleum Gate – as well as playing wise and composing wise. The new line-up has been tested live a few times but now its time to reveal the claws in album size! Last but definitely not the least our long time artist Timo Raita who did awesome job this time – again!
Review
Vision Divine is the first track of the album and essentially my introduction to the band. Noticeably straight I get this very organic vibe especially with the drums which do not feel over processed and focus on the acoustic qualities. There are repeating synths phrases and effects that make you feel your travelling through space. I am loving the jump in pacing and the melodic work delivered by the guitars. It just injects this sense of energy which catches your attention instantly. And throughout everything flies forward on top of some great (and sometimes unusually interesting) synth beds).The solo work slots in perfectly adding some flair to the song. And the vocal work helps to gel everything together ultimately creating this very organic, raw and nostalgic sound which has got me tuned in.
Lucifer Shrine shines strong with powerful and bright synth chords to open up the track. Unlike “Vision Divine” the tempo takes a step into the mid tempo range but packs a lot of punch. Notably I am liking the flowing feel of the melodies by both the guitars and synth notes in the background. And due to the mix being being very unrefined or polished you can here nuances, the roughness and grit of the guitar tones. And it is a pleasant listen. The vocals just like the track before are like butter on top of toast. Smooth and just go really well with the music. When the song breaks down to some riffing the synths even jump in for a bit of play. A refreshing break to a lot of the heavy metal and hard rock I have been listening too. Then it starts to get hella’ funky! The bass begins vibing the synths go off on one and the guitars are doing their thing. It comes all back together for one big bout driving towards the end. The vocals here are lower in key and add some nice weight to the song
Sacred Be Thy Throne come in at just around seven minutes so lets see if the length works. The band this time around have dialled things back to a mid/slower tempo pace. The band are all running together giving us some wonderful ideas before transition into a softer section where it is acoustic guitars, rolling snare patterns and calming vocal lines.Even little touches of synth in the background. A great way to bring balance to a song. Then a ripping riff cuts in helping to bring everything else back driving things forward. Things play out for a bit keeping the flow before dropping back down to our acoustic style section. However this time things pick up with some bold and heroic synths lighting up the mix in the background. Soon enough some majestic guitar harmonies shine light on the music and even the synths have a go. And as the sng progresses everything is gradually building in height and tone. The vocals that have played between calm and collected hit moments of energy and strength – especially when stacked.The passion just really holds this track up and high and does so until the very end. I am really digging this song and how the musical structure for not one minute feels boring. The acoustics and calm vocals bring Sacred Be Thy Throne to a close rounded everything off. What a brilliant song!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OoZ9nH5z24
4. Shine The Night has a very unusual intro. Just imagine you are floating through the darkness of space and matter flies past you. The sounds of synth notes cry from the silent dead void like alien calls. The pulsing bass notes drift in with a 16th note hi-hat beat and glossy guitar riffs. Little tweets of synths cry out all presenting a very spacey vibe. The verses are strong and muscular with driving rhythms and ballsy vocals. There is a couple of times where the verse and main glossy riffs repeat. But later on there are some developments where the things feel heightened and the synths beep noises like a spaceship computer. The whole track really does feel like a trip through space and time. And I really think that the atmosphere and synths are what what create this whole feeling.
5. Space, Rituals And Magick gets down to business with some heavy metal riffing and more spacey vibes with trickling synth melodies and bubbling sound effects in the background. The song has pace and does not mess around getting locked into the riffs all while the bass and drums provide a solid backbone. The vocals have been spot on throughout the whole album just making everything feel together and wholesome. There are some unusual vocal moments which do not feel human but more like a robot which are ace. lines brimming with character and charm. Layered beneath, the synth beds add width and depth, amplifying the atmosphere. The space‑like vibe shines especially bright here, evoking the sensation of flying through an asteroid field. The outro ties everything together seamlessly, rounding off the track as another excellent addition to the release.
We reach the end of this epic journey with the Witches Circle. Now this track comes in at just over eight minutes making it the longest track on the record. And unlike the rest of the album a large part of this track is stripped back. The intro is very merry and glistens bright but that acts as a brief flash before what follows next. Acoustic guitars and warm vocal lines gracefully come in as well as very light tip taps on hand drums. These just help to keep the flow moving forward. The title of Witches Circles is sung at intervals while synth piano notes gradually weave in to the song. And over time ]the music builds, the bass getting a little more interesting, the drums dropping in to a slow and mellow 4/4 beat. Semi acoustic guitar riffing comes in and the synth notes play out in the background. Everything feels so chilled yet retro and nostalgic yet I have travelled back in time. Little guitar melodies sing out delightfully with almost whispering vocal lines joining for a stint. But as we approach the last two minutes the dazzling vibes of the intro section returns and even some ideas like you would hear at American football game flash by. The song closes with a few repeats of the title ending a great and adventurous album!
Conclusion
Overall, this album delivers a cohesive and engaging journey that blends raw, organic instrumentation with rich, space-inspired atmosphere. Each track stands out in its own way, whether through energetic riffs, mid-tempo grooves, or expansive, emotional builds, but they are all tied together by expressive vocals, unpolished warmth, and imaginative synth work. The band moves effortlessly between heavy metal power and cosmic ambience, keeping the album dynamic and never dull. By the time the final track closes, it is clear this release is both adventurous and confidently crafted, offering a refreshing and memorable experience from start to finish.
TheNwothm Score: 10/10
Links
Bandcamp: https://mausoleumgatemetal.bandcamp.com/album/space-rituals-and-magick
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MausoleumGate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mausoleumgate/
Label: https://cruzdelsurmusic.bandcamp.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBDbBoZAJL4
Read More Reviews
#cruzDelSur #cruzDelSurMusic #heavyMetal #mausoleumGate #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ritualsAndMagick #space #spaceMetal #spaceRock #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Review: Mausoleum Gate “Space, Rituals and Magick’
Release date: Out Now
Label: Cruz Del Sur Music
8 minutesThe Nwothm
Finnish heavy metal cult Mausoleum Gate return with their heavily anticipated third studio album. “Space, Rituals and Magick” is available now via Cruz Del Sur Music on vinyl, CD, and digital formats.
Formed in 2008, Mausoleum Gate have carved a reputation for their mystical and atmospheric approach to heavy metal, drawing inspiration from obscure gems of the 1980s and beyond. Their latest work continues this tradition, offering a journey into other realms and ancient times with a distinctive sound that remains recognisably their own.
Guitarist Count L.F remarks:
Well the notorious third album shall we say? Or so the legend that I have heard goes. This time with Mausoleum Gate. The album took remarkable time to make for various reasons. Sometimes the song not intended to album was growing a serious epic and so on. Well as we called it -The Church of Isaac 666 (a phrase in Finnish called “Iisakin kirkko” which means a building that is never finished) but here we are! As usual the album differs from previous albums. This seems to be the case with us. Anyway still sounding Mausoleum Gate. This is the point. Our line-up has changed quite a lot since the last album and that of course changes the sound of the band but you can recognise the band. And the melodies and harmonies are still there. This time the compositions are maybe more of a band effort than ever before which gives a new nuances. New members: Jarno Saarinen, Jari Kourunen and Jarno Koskell have brought a great addition to Mausoleum Gate – as well as playing wise and composing wise. The new line-up has been tested live a few times but now its time to reveal the claws in album size! Last but definitely not the least our long time artist Timo Raita who did awesome job this time – again!
Review
Vision Divine is the first track of the album and essentially my introduction to the band. Noticeably straight I get this very organic vibe especially with the drums which do not feel over processed and focus on the acoustic qualities. There are repeating synths phrases and effects that make you feel your travelling through space. I am loving the jump in pacing and the melodic work delivered by the guitars. It just injects this sense of energy which catches your attention instantly. And throughout everything flies forward on top of some great (and sometimes unusually interesting) synth beds).The solo work slots in perfectly adding some flair to the song. And the vocal work helps to gel everything together ultimately creating this very organic, raw and nostalgic sound which has got me tuned in.
Lucifer Shrine shines strong with powerful and bright synth chords to open up the track. Unlike “Vision Divine” the tempo takes a step into the mid tempo range but packs a lot of punch. Notably I am liking the flowing feel of the melodies by both the guitars and synth notes in the background. And due to the mix being being very unrefined or polished you can here nuances, the roughness and grit of the guitar tones. And it is a pleasant listen. The vocals just like the track before are like butter on top of toast. Smooth and just go really well with the music. When the song breaks down to some riffing the synths even jump in for a bit of play. A refreshing break to a lot of the heavy metal and hard rock I have been listening too. Then it starts to get hella’ funky! The bass begins vibing the synths go off on one and the guitars are doing their thing. It comes all back together for one big bout driving towards the end. The vocals here are lower in key and add some nice weight to the song
Sacred Be Thy Throne come in at just around seven minutes so lets see if the length works. The band this time around have dialled things back to a mid/slower tempo pace. The band are all running together giving us some wonderful ideas before transition into a softer section where it is acoustic guitars, rolling snare patterns and calming vocal lines.Even little touches of synth in the background. A great way to bring balance to a song. Then a ripping riff cuts in helping to bring everything else back driving things forward. Things play out for a bit keeping the flow before dropping back down to our acoustic style section. However this time things pick up with some bold and heroic synths lighting up the mix in the background. Soon enough some majestic guitar harmonies shine light on the music and even the synths have a go. And as the sng progresses everything is gradually building in height and tone. The vocals that have played between calm and collected hit moments of energy and strength – especially when stacked.The passion just really holds this track up and high and does so until the very end. I am really digging this song and how the musical structure for not one minute feels boring. The acoustics and calm vocals bring Sacred Be Thy Throne to a close rounded everything off. What a brilliant song!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OoZ9nH5z24
4. Shine The Night has a very unusual intro. Just imagine you are floating through the darkness of space and matter flies past you. The sounds of synth notes cry from the silent dead void like alien calls. The pulsing bass notes drift in with a 16th note hi-hat beat and glossy guitar riffs. Little tweets of synths cry out all presenting a very spacey vibe. The verses are strong and muscular with driving rhythms and ballsy vocals. There is a couple of times where the verse and main glossy riffs repeat. But later on there are some developments where the things feel heightened and the synths beep noises like a spaceship computer. The whole track really does feel like a trip through space and time. And I really think that the atmosphere and synths are what what create this whole feeling.
5. Space, Rituals And Magick gets down to business with some heavy metal riffing and more spacey vibes with trickling synth melodies and bubbling sound effects in the background. The song has pace and does not mess around getting locked into the riffs all while the bass and drums provide a solid backbone. The vocals have been spot on throughout the whole album just making everything feel together and wholesome. There are some unusual vocal moments which do not feel human but more like a robot which are ace. lines brimming with character and charm. Layered beneath, the synth beds add width and depth, amplifying the atmosphere. The space‑like vibe shines especially bright here, evoking the sensation of flying through an asteroid field. The outro ties everything together seamlessly, rounding off the track as another excellent addition to the release.
We reach the end of this epic journey with the Witches Circle. Now this track comes in at just over eight minutes making it the longest track on the record. And unlike the rest of the album a large part of this track is stripped back. The intro is very merry and glistens bright but that acts as a brief flash before what follows next. Acoustic guitars and warm vocal lines gracefully come in as well as very light tip taps on hand drums. These just help to keep the flow moving forward. The title of Witches Circles is sung at intervals while synth piano notes gradually weave in to the song. And over time ]the music builds, the bass getting a little more interesting, the drums dropping in to a slow and mellow 4/4 beat. Semi acoustic guitar riffing comes in and the synth notes play out in the background. Everything feels so chilled yet retro and nostalgic yet I have travelled back in time. Little guitar melodies sing out delightfully with almost whispering vocal lines joining for a stint. But as we approach the last two minutes the dazzling vibes of the intro section returns and even some ideas like you would hear at American football game flash by. The song closes with a few repeats of the title ending a great and adventurous album!
Conclusion
Overall, this album delivers a cohesive and engaging journey that blends raw, organic instrumentation with rich, space-inspired atmosphere. Each track stands out in its own way, whether through energetic riffs, mid-tempo grooves, or expansive, emotional builds, but they are all tied together by expressive vocals, unpolished warmth, and imaginative synth work. The band moves effortlessly between heavy metal power and cosmic ambience, keeping the album dynamic and never dull. By the time the final track closes, it is clear this release is both adventurous and confidently crafted, offering a refreshing and memorable experience from start to finish.
TheNwothm Score: 10/10
Links
Bandcamp: https://mausoleumgatemetal.bandcamp.com/album/space-rituals-and-magick
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MausoleumGate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mausoleumgate/
Label: https://cruzdelsurmusic.bandcamp.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBDbBoZAJL4
Read More Reviews
#cruzDelSur #cruzDelSurMusic #heavyMetal #mausoleumGate #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ritualsAndMagick #space #spaceMetal #spaceRock #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Review: Mausoleum Gate “Space, Rituals and Magick’
Release date: Out Now
Label: Cruz Del Sur Music
8 minutesThe Nwothm
Finnish heavy metal cult Mausoleum Gate return with their heavily anticipated third studio album. “Space, Rituals and Magick” is available now via Cruz Del Sur Music on vinyl, CD, and digital formats.
Formed in 2008, Mausoleum Gate have carved a reputation for their mystical and atmospheric approach to heavy metal, drawing inspiration from obscure gems of the 1980s and beyond. Their latest work continues this tradition, offering a journey into other realms and ancient times with a distinctive sound that remains recognisably their own.
Guitarist Count L.F remarks:
Well the notorious third album shall we say? Or so the legend that I have heard goes. This time with Mausoleum Gate. The album took remarkable time to make for various reasons. Sometimes the song not intended to album was growing a serious epic and so on. Well as we called it -The Church of Isaac 666 (a phrase in Finnish called “Iisakin kirkko” which means a building that is never finished) but here we are! As usual the album differs from previous albums. This seems to be the case with us. Anyway still sounding Mausoleum Gate. This is the point. Our line-up has changed quite a lot since the last album and that of course changes the sound of the band but you can recognise the band. And the melodies and harmonies are still there. This time the compositions are maybe more of a band effort than ever before which gives a new nuances. New members: Jarno Saarinen, Jari Kourunen and Jarno Koskell have brought a great addition to Mausoleum Gate – as well as playing wise and composing wise. The new line-up has been tested live a few times but now its time to reveal the claws in album size! Last but definitely not the least our long time artist Timo Raita who did awesome job this time – again!
Review
Vision Divine is the first track of the album and essentially my introduction to the band. Noticeably straight I get this very organic vibe especially with the drums which do not feel over processed and focus on the acoustic qualities. There are repeating synths phrases and effects that make you feel your travelling through space. I am loving the jump in pacing and the melodic work delivered by the guitars. It just injects this sense of energy which catches your attention instantly. And throughout everything flies forward on top of some great (and sometimes unusually interesting) synth beds).The solo work slots in perfectly adding some flair to the song. And the vocal work helps to gel everything together ultimately creating this very organic, raw and nostalgic sound which has got me tuned in.
Lucifer Shrine shines strong with powerful and bright synth chords to open up the track. Unlike “Vision Divine” the tempo takes a step into the mid tempo range but packs a lot of punch. Notably I am liking the flowing feel of the melodies by both the guitars and synth notes in the background. And due to the mix being being very unrefined or polished you can here nuances, the roughness and grit of the guitar tones. And it is a pleasant listen. The vocals just like the track before are like butter on top of toast. Smooth and just go really well with the music. When the song breaks down to some riffing the synths even jump in for a bit of play. A refreshing break to a lot of the heavy metal and hard rock I have been listening too. Then it starts to get hella’ funky! The bass begins vibing the synths go off on one and the guitars are doing their thing. It comes all back together for one big bout driving towards the end. The vocals here are lower in key and add some nice weight to the song
Sacred Be Thy Throne come in at just around seven minutes so lets see if the length works. The band this time around have dialled things back to a mid/slower tempo pace. The band are all running together giving us some wonderful ideas before transition into a softer section where it is acoustic guitars, rolling snare patterns and calming vocal lines.Even little touches of synth in the background. A great way to bring balance to a song. Then a ripping riff cuts in helping to bring everything else back driving things forward. Things play out for a bit keeping the flow before dropping back down to our acoustic style section. However this time things pick up with some bold and heroic synths lighting up the mix in the background. Soon enough some majestic guitar harmonies shine light on the music and even the synths have a go. And as the sng progresses everything is gradually building in height and tone. The vocals that have played between calm and collected hit moments of energy and strength – especially when stacked.The passion just really holds this track up and high and does so until the very end. I am really digging this song and how the musical structure for not one minute feels boring. The acoustics and calm vocals bring Sacred Be Thy Throne to a close rounded everything off. What a brilliant song!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OoZ9nH5z24
4. Shine The Night has a very unusual intro. Just imagine you are floating through the darkness of space and matter flies past you. The sounds of synth notes cry from the silent dead void like alien calls. The pulsing bass notes drift in with a 16th note hi-hat beat and glossy guitar riffs. Little tweets of synths cry out all presenting a very spacey vibe. The verses are strong and muscular with driving rhythms and ballsy vocals. There is a couple of times where the verse and main glossy riffs repeat. But later on there are some developments where the things feel heightened and the synths beep noises like a spaceship computer. The whole track really does feel like a trip through space and time. And I really think that the atmosphere and synths are what what create this whole feeling.
5. Space, Rituals And Magick gets down to business with some heavy metal riffing and more spacey vibes with trickling synth melodies and bubbling sound effects in the background. The song has pace and does not mess around getting locked into the riffs all while the bass and drums provide a solid backbone. The vocals have been spot on throughout the whole album just making everything feel together and wholesome. There are some unusual vocal moments which do not feel human but more like a robot which are ace. lines brimming with character and charm. Layered beneath, the synth beds add width and depth, amplifying the atmosphere. The space‑like vibe shines especially bright here, evoking the sensation of flying through an asteroid field. The outro ties everything together seamlessly, rounding off the track as another excellent addition to the release.
We reach the end of this epic journey with the Witches Circle. Now this track comes in at just over eight minutes making it the longest track on the record. And unlike the rest of the album a large part of this track is stripped back. The intro is very merry and glistens bright but that acts as a brief flash before what follows next. Acoustic guitars and warm vocal lines gracefully come in as well as very light tip taps on hand drums. These just help to keep the flow moving forward. The title of Witches Circles is sung at intervals while synth piano notes gradually weave in to the song. And over time ]the music builds, the bass getting a little more interesting, the drums dropping in to a slow and mellow 4/4 beat. Semi acoustic guitar riffing comes in and the synth notes play out in the background. Everything feels so chilled yet retro and nostalgic yet I have travelled back in time. Little guitar melodies sing out delightfully with almost whispering vocal lines joining for a stint. But as we approach the last two minutes the dazzling vibes of the intro section returns and even some ideas like you would hear at American football game flash by. The song closes with a few repeats of the title ending a great and adventurous album!
Conclusion
Overall, this album delivers a cohesive and engaging journey that blends raw, organic instrumentation with rich, space-inspired atmosphere. Each track stands out in its own way, whether through energetic riffs, mid-tempo grooves, or expansive, emotional builds, but they are all tied together by expressive vocals, unpolished warmth, and imaginative synth work. The band moves effortlessly between heavy metal power and cosmic ambience, keeping the album dynamic and never dull. By the time the final track closes, it is clear this release is both adventurous and confidently crafted, offering a refreshing and memorable experience from start to finish.
TheNwothm Score: 10/10
Links
Bandcamp: https://mausoleumgatemetal.bandcamp.com/album/space-rituals-and-magick
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MausoleumGate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mausoleumgate/
Label: https://cruzdelsurmusic.bandcamp.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBDbBoZAJL4
Read More Reviews
#cruzDelSur #cruzDelSurMusic #heavyMetal #mausoleumGate #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ritualsAndMagick #space #spaceMetal #spaceRock #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Review: Mausoleum Gate “Space, Rituals and Magick’
Release date: Out Now
Label: Cruz Del Sur Music
8 minutesThe Nwothm
Finnish heavy metal cult Mausoleum Gate return with their heavily anticipated third studio album. “Space, Rituals and Magick” is available now via Cruz Del Sur Music on vinyl, CD, and digital formats.
Formed in 2008, Mausoleum Gate have carved a reputation for their mystical and atmospheric approach to heavy metal, drawing inspiration from obscure gems of the 1980s and beyond. Their latest work continues this tradition, offering a journey into other realms and ancient times with a distinctive sound that remains recognisably their own.
Guitarist Count L.F remarks:
Well the notorious third album shall we say? Or so the legend that I have heard goes. This time with Mausoleum Gate. The album took remarkable time to make for various reasons. Sometimes the song not intended to album was growing a serious epic and so on. Well as we called it -The Church of Isaac 666 (a phrase in Finnish called “Iisakin kirkko” which means a building that is never finished) but here we are! As usual the album differs from previous albums. This seems to be the case with us. Anyway still sounding Mausoleum Gate. This is the point. Our line-up has changed quite a lot since the last album and that of course changes the sound of the band but you can recognise the band. And the melodies and harmonies are still there. This time the compositions are maybe more of a band effort than ever before which gives a new nuances. New members: Jarno Saarinen, Jari Kourunen and Jarno Koskell have brought a great addition to Mausoleum Gate – as well as playing wise and composing wise. The new line-up has been tested live a few times but now its time to reveal the claws in album size! Last but definitely not the least our long time artist Timo Raita who did awesome job this time – again!
Review
Vision Divine is the first track of the album and essentially my introduction to the band. Noticeably straight I get this very organic vibe especially with the drums which do not feel over processed and focus on the acoustic qualities. There are repeating synths phrases and effects that make you feel your travelling through space. I am loving the jump in pacing and the melodic work delivered by the guitars. It just injects this sense of energy which catches your attention instantly. And throughout everything flies forward on top of some great (and sometimes unusually interesting) synth beds).The solo work slots in perfectly adding some flair to the song. And the vocal work helps to gel everything together ultimately creating this very organic, raw and nostalgic sound which has got me tuned in.
Lucifer Shrine shines strong with powerful and bright synth chords to open up the track. Unlike “Vision Divine” the tempo takes a step into the mid tempo range but packs a lot of punch. Notably I am liking the flowing feel of the melodies by both the guitars and synth notes in the background. And due to the mix being being very unrefined or polished you can here nuances, the roughness and grit of the guitar tones. And it is a pleasant listen. The vocals just like the track before are like butter on top of toast. Smooth and just go really well with the music. When the song breaks down to some riffing the synths even jump in for a bit of play. A refreshing break to a lot of the heavy metal and hard rock I have been listening too. Then it starts to get hella’ funky! The bass begins vibing the synths go off on one and the guitars are doing their thing. It comes all back together for one big bout driving towards the end. The vocals here are lower in key and add some nice weight to the song
Sacred Be Thy Throne come in at just around seven minutes so lets see if the length works. The band this time around have dialled things back to a mid/slower tempo pace. The band are all running together giving us some wonderful ideas before transition into a softer section where it is acoustic guitars, rolling snare patterns and calming vocal lines.Even little touches of synth in the background. A great way to bring balance to a song. Then a ripping riff cuts in helping to bring everything else back driving things forward. Things play out for a bit keeping the flow before dropping back down to our acoustic style section. However this time things pick up with some bold and heroic synths lighting up the mix in the background. Soon enough some majestic guitar harmonies shine light on the music and even the synths have a go. And as the sng progresses everything is gradually building in height and tone. The vocals that have played between calm and collected hit moments of energy and strength – especially when stacked.The passion just really holds this track up and high and does so until the very end. I am really digging this song and how the musical structure for not one minute feels boring. The acoustics and calm vocals bring Sacred Be Thy Throne to a close rounded everything off. What a brilliant song!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OoZ9nH5z24
4. Shine The Night has a very unusual intro. Just imagine you are floating through the darkness of space and matter flies past you. The sounds of synth notes cry from the silent dead void like alien calls. The pulsing bass notes drift in with a 16th note hi-hat beat and glossy guitar riffs. Little tweets of synths cry out all presenting a very spacey vibe. The verses are strong and muscular with driving rhythms and ballsy vocals. There is a couple of times where the verse and main glossy riffs repeat. But later on there are some developments where the things feel heightened and the synths beep noises like a spaceship computer. The whole track really does feel like a trip through space and time. And I really think that the atmosphere and synths are what what create this whole feeling.
5. Space, Rituals And Magick gets down to business with some heavy metal riffing and more spacey vibes with trickling synth melodies and bubbling sound effects in the background. The song has pace and does not mess around getting locked into the riffs all while the bass and drums provide a solid backbone. The vocals have been spot on throughout the whole album just making everything feel together and wholesome. There are some unusual vocal moments which do not feel human but more like a robot which are ace. lines brimming with character and charm. Layered beneath, the synth beds add width and depth, amplifying the atmosphere. The space‑like vibe shines especially bright here, evoking the sensation of flying through an asteroid field. The outro ties everything together seamlessly, rounding off the track as another excellent addition to the release.
We reach the end of this epic journey with the Witches Circle. Now this track comes in at just over eight minutes making it the longest track on the record. And unlike the rest of the album a large part of this track is stripped back. The intro is very merry and glistens bright but that acts as a brief flash before what follows next. Acoustic guitars and warm vocal lines gracefully come in as well as very light tip taps on hand drums. These just help to keep the flow moving forward. The title of Witches Circles is sung at intervals while synth piano notes gradually weave in to the song. And over time ]the music builds, the bass getting a little more interesting, the drums dropping in to a slow and mellow 4/4 beat. Semi acoustic guitar riffing comes in and the synth notes play out in the background. Everything feels so chilled yet retro and nostalgic yet I have travelled back in time. Little guitar melodies sing out delightfully with almost whispering vocal lines joining for a stint. But as we approach the last two minutes the dazzling vibes of the intro section returns and even some ideas like you would hear at American football game flash by. The song closes with a few repeats of the title ending a great and adventurous album!
Conclusion
Overall, this album delivers a cohesive and engaging journey that blends raw, organic instrumentation with rich, space-inspired atmosphere. Each track stands out in its own way, whether through energetic riffs, mid-tempo grooves, or expansive, emotional builds, but they are all tied together by expressive vocals, unpolished warmth, and imaginative synth work. The band moves effortlessly between heavy metal power and cosmic ambience, keeping the album dynamic and never dull. By the time the final track closes, it is clear this release is both adventurous and confidently crafted, offering a refreshing and memorable experience from start to finish.
TheNwothm Score: 10/10
Links
Bandcamp: https://mausoleumgatemetal.bandcamp.com/album/space-rituals-and-magick
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MausoleumGate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mausoleumgate/
Label: https://cruzdelsurmusic.bandcamp.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBDbBoZAJL4
Read More Reviews
#cruzDelSur #cruzDelSurMusic #heavyMetal #mausoleumGate #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ritualsAndMagick #space #spaceMetal #spaceRock #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Review: Mausoleum Gate “Space, Rituals and Magick’
Release date: Out Now
Label: Cruz Del Sur Music
8 minutesThe Nwothm
Finnish heavy metal cult Mausoleum Gate return with their heavily anticipated third studio album. “Space, Rituals and Magick” is available now via Cruz Del Sur Music on vinyl, CD, and digital formats.
Formed in 2008, Mausoleum Gate have carved a reputation for their mystical and atmospheric approach to heavy metal, drawing inspiration from obscure gems of the 1980s and beyond. Their latest work continues this tradition, offering a journey into other realms and ancient times with a distinctive sound that remains recognisably their own.
Guitarist Count L.F remarks:
Well the notorious third album shall we say? Or so the legend that I have heard goes. This time with Mausoleum Gate. The album took remarkable time to make for various reasons. Sometimes the song not intended to album was growing a serious epic and so on. Well as we called it -The Church of Isaac 666 (a phrase in Finnish called “Iisakin kirkko” which means a building that is never finished) but here we are! As usual the album differs from previous albums. This seems to be the case with us. Anyway still sounding Mausoleum Gate. This is the point. Our line-up has changed quite a lot since the last album and that of course changes the sound of the band but you can recognise the band. And the melodies and harmonies are still there. This time the compositions are maybe more of a band effort than ever before which gives a new nuances. New members: Jarno Saarinen, Jari Kourunen and Jarno Koskell have brought a great addition to Mausoleum Gate – as well as playing wise and composing wise. The new line-up has been tested live a few times but now its time to reveal the claws in album size! Last but definitely not the least our long time artist Timo Raita who did awesome job this time – again!
Review
Vision Divine is the first track of the album and essentially my introduction to the band. Noticeably straight I get this very organic vibe especially with the drums which do not feel over processed and focus on the acoustic qualities. There are repeating synths phrases and effects that make you feel your travelling through space. I am loving the jump in pacing and the melodic work delivered by the guitars. It just injects this sense of energy which catches your attention instantly. And throughout everything flies forward on top of some great (and sometimes unusually interesting) synth beds).The solo work slots in perfectly adding some flair to the song. And the vocal work helps to gel everything together ultimately creating this very organic, raw and nostalgic sound which has got me tuned in.
Lucifer Shrine shines strong with powerful and bright synth chords to open up the track. Unlike “Vision Divine” the tempo takes a step into the mid tempo range but packs a lot of punch. Notably I am liking the flowing feel of the melodies by both the guitars and synth notes in the background. And due to the mix being being very unrefined or polished you can here nuances, the roughness and grit of the guitar tones. And it is a pleasant listen. The vocals just like the track before are like butter on top of toast. Smooth and just go really well with the music. When the song breaks down to some riffing the synths even jump in for a bit of play. A refreshing break to a lot of the heavy metal and hard rock I have been listening too. Then it starts to get hella’ funky! The bass begins vibing the synths go off on one and the guitars are doing their thing. It comes all back together for one big bout driving towards the end. The vocals here are lower in key and add some nice weight to the song
Sacred Be Thy Throne come in at just around seven minutes so lets see if the length works. The band this time around have dialled things back to a mid/slower tempo pace. The band are all running together giving us some wonderful ideas before transition into a softer section where it is acoustic guitars, rolling snare patterns and calming vocal lines.Even little touches of synth in the background. A great way to bring balance to a song. Then a ripping riff cuts in helping to bring everything else back driving things forward. Things play out for a bit keeping the flow before dropping back down to our acoustic style section. However this time things pick up with some bold and heroic synths lighting up the mix in the background. Soon enough some majestic guitar harmonies shine light on the music and even the synths have a go. And as the sng progresses everything is gradually building in height and tone. The vocals that have played between calm and collected hit moments of energy and strength – especially when stacked.The passion just really holds this track up and high and does so until the very end. I am really digging this song and how the musical structure for not one minute feels boring. The acoustics and calm vocals bring Sacred Be Thy Throne to a close rounded everything off. What a brilliant song!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OoZ9nH5z24
4. Shine The Night has a very unusual intro. Just imagine you are floating through the darkness of space and matter flies past you. The sounds of synth notes cry from the silent dead void like alien calls. The pulsing bass notes drift in with a 16th note hi-hat beat and glossy guitar riffs. Little tweets of synths cry out all presenting a very spacey vibe. The verses are strong and muscular with driving rhythms and ballsy vocals. There is a couple of times where the verse and main glossy riffs repeat. But later on there are some developments where the things feel heightened and the synths beep noises like a spaceship computer. The whole track really does feel like a trip through space and time. And I really think that the atmosphere and synths are what what create this whole feeling.
5. Space, Rituals And Magick gets down to business with some heavy metal riffing and more spacey vibes with trickling synth melodies and bubbling sound effects in the background. The song has pace and does not mess around getting locked into the riffs all while the bass and drums provide a solid backbone. The vocals have been spot on throughout the whole album just making everything feel together and wholesome. There are some unusual vocal moments which do not feel human but more like a robot which are ace. lines brimming with character and charm. Layered beneath, the synth beds add width and depth, amplifying the atmosphere. The space‑like vibe shines especially bright here, evoking the sensation of flying through an asteroid field. The outro ties everything together seamlessly, rounding off the track as another excellent addition to the release.
We reach the end of this epic journey with the Witches Circle. Now this track comes in at just over eight minutes making it the longest track on the record. And unlike the rest of the album a large part of this track is stripped back. The intro is very merry and glistens bright but that acts as a brief flash before what follows next. Acoustic guitars and warm vocal lines gracefully come in as well as very light tip taps on hand drums. These just help to keep the flow moving forward. The title of Witches Circles is sung at intervals while synth piano notes gradually weave in to the song. And over time ]the music builds, the bass getting a little more interesting, the drums dropping in to a slow and mellow 4/4 beat. Semi acoustic guitar riffing comes in and the synth notes play out in the background. Everything feels so chilled yet retro and nostalgic yet I have travelled back in time. Little guitar melodies sing out delightfully with almost whispering vocal lines joining for a stint. But as we approach the last two minutes the dazzling vibes of the intro section returns and even some ideas like you would hear at American football game flash by. The song closes with a few repeats of the title ending a great and adventurous album!
Conclusion
Overall, this album delivers a cohesive and engaging journey that blends raw, organic instrumentation with rich, space-inspired atmosphere. Each track stands out in its own way, whether through energetic riffs, mid-tempo grooves, or expansive, emotional builds, but they are all tied together by expressive vocals, unpolished warmth, and imaginative synth work. The band moves effortlessly between heavy metal power and cosmic ambience, keeping the album dynamic and never dull. By the time the final track closes, it is clear this release is both adventurous and confidently crafted, offering a refreshing and memorable experience from start to finish.
TheNwothm Score: 10/10
Links
Bandcamp: https://mausoleumgatemetal.bandcamp.com/album/space-rituals-and-magick
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MausoleumGate
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mausoleumgate/
Label: https://cruzdelsurmusic.bandcamp.com/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TBDbBoZAJL4
Read More Reviews
#cruzDelSur #cruzDelSurMusic #heavyMetal #mausoleumGate #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #ritualsAndMagick #space #spaceMetal #spaceRock #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Exclusive interview with Jimmy Lozano of Jet Jaguar
Mark Pruett
Formed in 2014 in the vibrant heart of Cancún, Jet Jaguar has quickly risen as one of Mexico’s most electrifying metal exports. In a country where heavy metal pulses through the veins of generations, their sound is both a tribute and a rallying cry. They are proof that the love of metal in Mexico is fierce, loyal, and deeply rooted. Also, the future is in the great hands of these underground heroes.
Their name carries weight. The jaguar, a sacred symbol in local mythology, represents power, protection, and the ability to walk between worlds. It’s a fitting emblem for a band that blends tradition with thunder. And yes, there’s a nod to the Japanese cult hero Jet Jaguar, who is a kaiju-fighting machine with a heart of gold and fists of steel. That fusion of myth and pop culture mirrors the band’s own blend of classic metal spirit and modern fire.
In this interview, we dive into their journey, their inspirations, and the roar behind the riffs. Jet Jaguar is a force to be reckoned with their new release Severance (out on October 24, 2025). Check out the lead single, “Mach 10”, which is speed metal, face melting, and riff blazing powerhouse of energy.
Full review of the album, Severance, is coming soon!
Photo Credit: Jet Jaguar
#heavyMetal #jetJaguar #jimmyLozano #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Exclusive interview with Jimmy Lozano of Jet Jaguar
Mark Pruett
Formed in 2014 in the vibrant heart of Cancún, Jet Jaguar has quickly risen as one of Mexico’s most electrifying metal exports. In a country where heavy metal pulses through the veins of generations, their sound is both a tribute and a rallying cry. They are proof that the love of metal in Mexico is fierce, loyal, and deeply rooted. Also, the future is in the great hands of these underground heroes.
Their name carries weight. The jaguar, a sacred symbol in local mythology, represents power, protection, and the ability to walk between worlds. It’s a fitting emblem for a band that blends tradition with thunder. And yes, there’s a nod to the Japanese cult hero Jet Jaguar, who is a kaiju-fighting machine with a heart of gold and fists of steel. That fusion of myth and pop culture mirrors the band’s own blend of classic metal spirit and modern fire.
In this interview, we dive into their journey, their inspirations, and the roar behind the riffs. Jet Jaguar is a force to be reckoned with their new release Severance (out on October 24, 2025). Check out the lead single, “Mach 10”, which is speed metal, face melting, and riff blazing powerhouse of energy.
Full review of the album, Severance, is coming soon!
Photo Credit: Jet Jaguar
#heavyMetal #jetJaguar #jimmyLozano #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Exclusive interview with Jimmy Lozano of Jet Jaguar
Mark Pruett
Formed in 2014 in the vibrant heart of Cancún, Jet Jaguar has quickly risen as one of Mexico’s most electrifying metal exports. In a country where heavy metal pulses through the veins of generations, their sound is both a tribute and a rallying cry. They are proof that the love of metal in Mexico is fierce, loyal, and deeply rooted. Also, the future is in the great hands of these underground heroes.
Their name carries weight. The jaguar, a sacred symbol in local mythology, represents power, protection, and the ability to walk between worlds. It’s a fitting emblem for a band that blends tradition with thunder. And yes, there’s a nod to the Japanese cult hero Jet Jaguar, who is a kaiju-fighting machine with a heart of gold and fists of steel. That fusion of myth and pop culture mirrors the band’s own blend of classic metal spirit and modern fire.
In this interview, we dive into their journey, their inspirations, and the roar behind the riffs. Jet Jaguar is a force to be reckoned with their new release Severance (out on October 24, 2025). Check out the lead single, “Mach 10”, which is speed metal, face melting, and riff blazing powerhouse of energy.
Full review of the album, Severance, is coming soon!
Photo Credit: Jet Jaguar
#heavyMetal #jetJaguar #jimmyLozano #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Exclusive interview with Jimmy Lozano of Jet Jaguar
Mark Pruett
Formed in 2014 in the vibrant heart of Cancún, Jet Jaguar has quickly risen as one of Mexico’s most electrifying metal exports. In a country where heavy metal pulses through the veins of generations, their sound is both a tribute and a rallying cry. They are proof that the love of metal in Mexico is fierce, loyal, and deeply rooted. Also, the future is in the great hands of these underground heroes.
Their name carries weight. The jaguar, a sacred symbol in local mythology, represents power, protection, and the ability to walk between worlds. It’s a fitting emblem for a band that blends tradition with thunder. And yes, there’s a nod to the Japanese cult hero Jet Jaguar, who is a kaiju-fighting machine with a heart of gold and fists of steel. That fusion of myth and pop culture mirrors the band’s own blend of classic metal spirit and modern fire.
In this interview, we dive into their journey, their inspirations, and the roar behind the riffs. Jet Jaguar is a force to be reckoned with their new release Severance (out on October 24, 2025). Check out the lead single, “Mach 10”, which is speed metal, face melting, and riff blazing powerhouse of energy.
Full review of the album, Severance, is coming soon!
Photo Credit: Jet Jaguar
#heavyMetal #jetJaguar #jimmyLozano #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Exclusive interview with Jimmy Lozano of Jet Jaguar
Mark Pruett
Formed in 2014 in the vibrant heart of Cancún, Jet Jaguar has quickly risen as one of Mexico’s most electrifying metal exports. In a country where heavy metal pulses through the veins of generations, their sound is both a tribute and a rallying cry. They are proof that the love of metal in Mexico is fierce, loyal, and deeply rooted. Also, the future is in the great hands of these underground heroes.
Their name carries weight. The jaguar, a sacred symbol in local mythology, represents power, protection, and the ability to walk between worlds. It’s a fitting emblem for a band that blends tradition with thunder. And yes, there’s a nod to the Japanese cult hero Jet Jaguar, who is a kaiju-fighting machine with a heart of gold and fists of steel. That fusion of myth and pop culture mirrors the band’s own blend of classic metal spirit and modern fire.
In this interview, we dive into their journey, their inspirations, and the roar behind the riffs. Jet Jaguar is a force to be reckoned with their new release Severance (out on October 24, 2025). Check out the lead single, “Mach 10”, which is speed metal, face melting, and riff blazing powerhouse of energy.
Full review of the album, Severance, is coming soon!
Photo Credit: Jet Jaguar
#heavyMetal #jetJaguar #jimmyLozano #newAlbum #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Throw bak Thursday: Ion Drive (Australia)
Ion Drive formed in Melbourne in 1982 and quickly became part of Australia’s early heavy metal movement. Their first releases, Witches (demo) and Friday the 13th (EP), both appeared in 1984 and captured the raw energy of the band’s formative years. After a brief split, members regrouped under the name Angelica in 1987, continuing to perform Ion Drive material before reverting to the original name in 1988. The band remained active into the mid-1990s and returned in 2009 with new members and renewed focus, releasing the Witch Hunt EP in 2017.
Ion Drive’s current status is uncertain. Their last public post appeared in 2023, and there have been no confirmed updates since. Notable members over the years include Jennifer Thumwood, Dave King, Joe Cordina, and founding drummer Mick Burns (rip), whose early contributions helped shape the band’s sound. Operating independently and unsigned, Ion Drive’s legacy remains rooted in Melbourne’s heavy metal underground.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IonDrive
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y225oKkmYRY
#80sHeavyMetal2 #australianHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #ionDrive #thenwothmCom #throwBackThursday
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Throw bak Thursday: Ion Drive (Australia)
Ion Drive formed in Melbourne in 1982 and quickly became part of Australia’s early heavy metal movement. Their first releases, Witches (demo) and Friday the 13th (EP), both appeared in 1984 and captured the raw energy of the band’s formative years. After a brief split, members regrouped under the name Angelica in 1987, continuing to perform Ion Drive material before reverting to the original name in 1988. The band remained active into the mid-1990s and returned in 2009 with new members and renewed focus, releasing the Witch Hunt EP in 2017.
Ion Drive’s current status is uncertain. Their last public post appeared in 2023, and there have been no confirmed updates since. Notable members over the years include Jennifer Thumwood, Dave King, Joe Cordina, and founding drummer Mick Burns (rip), whose early contributions helped shape the band’s sound. Operating independently and unsigned, Ion Drive’s legacy remains rooted in Melbourne’s heavy metal underground.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IonDrive
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y225oKkmYRY
#80sHeavyMetal2 #australianHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #ionDrive #thenwothmCom #throwBackThursday
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Throw bak Thursday: Ion Drive (Australia)
Ion Drive formed in Melbourne in 1982 and quickly became part of Australia’s early heavy metal movement. Their first releases, Witches (demo) and Friday the 13th (EP), both appeared in 1984 and captured the raw energy of the band’s formative years. After a brief split, members regrouped under the name Angelica in 1987, continuing to perform Ion Drive material before reverting to the original name in 1988. The band remained active into the mid-1990s and returned in 2009 with new members and renewed focus, releasing the Witch Hunt EP in 2017.
Ion Drive’s current status is uncertain. Their last public post appeared in 2023, and there have been no confirmed updates since. Notable members over the years include Jennifer Thumwood, Dave King, Joe Cordina, and founding drummer Mick Burns (rip), whose early contributions helped shape the band’s sound. Operating independently and unsigned, Ion Drive’s legacy remains rooted in Melbourne’s heavy metal underground.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IonDrive
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y225oKkmYRY
#80sHeavyMetal2 #australianHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #ionDrive #thenwothmCom #throwBackThursday
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Throw bak Thursday: Ion Drive (Australia)
Ion Drive formed in Melbourne in 1982 and quickly became part of Australia’s early heavy metal movement. Their first releases, Witches (demo) and Friday the 13th (EP), both appeared in 1984 and captured the raw energy of the band’s formative years. After a brief split, members regrouped under the name Angelica in 1987, continuing to perform Ion Drive material before reverting to the original name in 1988. The band remained active into the mid-1990s and returned in 2009 with new members and renewed focus, releasing the Witch Hunt EP in 2017.
Ion Drive’s current status is uncertain. Their last public post appeared in 2023, and there have been no confirmed updates since. Notable members over the years include Jennifer Thumwood, Dave King, Joe Cordina, and founding drummer Mick Burns (rip), whose early contributions helped shape the band’s sound. Operating independently and unsigned, Ion Drive’s legacy remains rooted in Melbourne’s heavy metal underground.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IonDrive
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y225oKkmYRY
#80sHeavyMetal2 #australianHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #ionDrive #thenwothmCom #throwBackThursday
-
Throw bak Thursday: Ion Drive (Australia)
Ion Drive formed in Melbourne in 1982 and quickly became part of Australia’s early heavy metal movement. Their first releases, Witches (demo) and Friday the 13th (EP), both appeared in 1984 and captured the raw energy of the band’s formative years. After a brief split, members regrouped under the name Angelica in 1987, continuing to perform Ion Drive material before reverting to the original name in 1988. The band remained active into the mid-1990s and returned in 2009 with new members and renewed focus, releasing the Witch Hunt EP in 2017.
Ion Drive’s current status is uncertain. Their last public post appeared in 2023, and there have been no confirmed updates since. Notable members over the years include Jennifer Thumwood, Dave King, Joe Cordina, and founding drummer Mick Burns (rip), whose early contributions helped shape the band’s sound. Operating independently and unsigned, Ion Drive’s legacy remains rooted in Melbourne’s heavy metal underground.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IonDrive
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y225oKkmYRY
#80sHeavyMetal2 #australianHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #ionDrive #thenwothmCom #throwBackThursday
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Interview: Kaine (UK)
11 minutesThe Nwothm
Kaine have been keeping the flame of heavy metal alive since 2009. Rooted in East Anglia’s thriving scene, the band blend Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and thrash influences into a sound that’s fast, heavy, and defiantly DIY. Sixteen years on, they remain one of the UK’s most enduring heavy metal acts, with a catalogue that charts their resilience and evolution. In this interview with TheNwothm, Kaine reflect on their journey and share what’s next.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tuGaWfGYHo
Interview
TheNwothm: For those who might be discovering Kaine for the first time, how would you introduce yourselves and where you’re from?
Kaine: We’re Kaine, we are from East Anglia in England. We’re probably one of the heavier NWOTHM bands, and we’ve been at this for 16 years now. We’re very much a DIY band and not a lot of people know we exist! Our influences are essentially Sabbath, Priest, NWOBHM, and the early Thrash movement in the States. We’re often referred to as a Speed Metal band, as that’s one of the closest approximations people can make to us!
TheNwothm: How did the band form back in 2009?
Kaine: You could say we were one of the original British NWOTHM bands to emerge around that time, along with Osmium Guillotine. Hamerex were around a few years before us, and not long after we formed, you had bands like Amulet, Neverworld, and Toledo Steel emerging, Culloden, Midnight Force, Seven Sisters, Heathen Kings, and up until more recently, Tailgunner, who are the first British NWOTHM band to break into the mainstream.
In Ireland, you had a band called Celtic Legacy, which was very much in the vein of what we now call NWOTHM, too. When we started in 2009, it was a reaction to the Emo and Metalcore scene that dominated the UK underground at the time. There were no straight-up Metal bands playing, and if you went to a gig, it would be a something-core band playing to a handful of school friends, and the venues were empty. People who liked old school Metal were put off and stayed home, so we decided to do our own band playing music influenced by the likes of Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and the wider NWOBHM movement, as well as the American bands that were influenced by that same movement. We turn 17 in January, so we have been around longer than the NWOBHM movement ran back in the day!
TheNwothm: Colchester isn’t always the first place people think of when it comes to heavy metal. How has being based there shaped your identity as a band?
Kaine: That’s surprising because Colchester, along with Ipswich, probably has two of the best, if not the best, alternative music scenes in the country. This area has always been a hotbed for Metal music. If you look at an act like Cradle of Filth, over the years, they have recruited heavily from the scene here. There are still plenty of venues, promoters, and bands playing great live music across the Rock and Metal sphere in this area, and we’re very lucky to have such a thriving scene. We’re local to the area and are very much proud of it. Norwich also has a thriving Metal scene. I’d argue East Anglia as a whole has one of the best Metal scenes in the country.
TheNwothm: When you’ve toured across Britain and Ireland, have you noticed differences in how audiences respond compared to back home in Colchester?
Kaine: We have only played two gigs in Ireland, which were supporting Mordred on tour back in 2014. As for Britain, audiences have always been receptive wherever we have gone. We have always had a loyal following in Scotland, so we try to visit as often as we can afford to, but really, we have enjoyed great responses over the years up and down the country. We enjoy getting out there and playing everywhere we can.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_Nh2GlG-t4
TheNwothm: Growing up, did you have a particular metal hero whose posters were on your wall?
Kaine: We all have a range of heroes and influences, everyone from Priest, Maiden, AC/DC, Sabbath, Metallica, Megadeth, in fact, Toby has a Marty Friedman tattoo, he is that much of a fan of him, and Liam has an Ozzy tattoo now too! We have looked up to and been inspired by a lot of bands collectively.
TheNwothm: If you could cover one classic track from your influences like Sabbath or Maiden, which would it be?
Kaine: We recently did a Sabbath tribute set in honour of Ozzy Osbourne, which included Paranoid, War Pigs, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, and The Straightener. It would be difficult to choose a single track from our influences to be a definitive “one”, but at a push, Painkiller by Judas Priest would probably be one we could do justice to.
The Nwothm: Your debut “Falling Through Freedom” (2012) was the first full-length release. Looking back, what was the biggest challenge in getting that record out?
Kaine: Aside from being young, having no label support, and frankly not really knowing what the f*#k we were doing at the time, the biggest issue was a mixture of budget and personnel changes that happened during the writing and recording of that record. We did our best with it, and in hindsight we should have held off doing a record until we had a more stable line-up and played the songs live a lot more to hone them, but as previously stated, we didn’t have any management or a label to really guide us, we just had a go at putting a record together and in all fairness a few people still love songs from that album, despite it being a totally unpolished DIY effort.
The Nwothm: “The Waystone” (2014) saw you touring extensively, even alongside Monument and Mordred. What memories stand out most from that era?
Kaine: We were meant to release that album under MGR Records, which was Monument’s label at the time. We had to write, record, and release it to their schedule, which meant we probably didn’t spend as much time on the record as we should have. We had a big disagreement with MGR Records during that tour; they were using our bassist at the time to cover for Chris Dale, unpaid, and not only tried to steal him from our band but were totally unprofessional in how they dealt with the band in general. On the last date of the tour, we fired them and put the record out ourselves.
This album, however, did launch the band, and we got a lot of good shows booked, and a festival appearance (Wildfire) off the back of that record. It sold over a thousand copies on CD, so for us it was a successful record. Our tour with Mordred was a much more positive experience. We replaced Furyon last minute and had less than a day to prepare for the tour before we were off on a ferry to Ireland. Touring with Mordred was an amazing experience and one of the highlights of our career. The Waystone was a bit of a missed opportunity for us, I think. Had we had a label more interested in making us a success and had a little more time to finish it, it would have been more successful, but we made the best of a bad situation.
TheNwothm: “A Crisis of Faith” (2018) marked a turning point before the current line-up came together. How did that album reflect the band’s state at the time?
Kaine: A Crisis of Faith was a very carefully written record. We started putting it together at the end of 2015 and fleshed the tracks out on the road. Most people think it should have been a bigger success than it was, but sadly, the line-up that put it together had to part almost immediately after its release. We did get to play the main stage of HRH Metal at a sold-out o2 Academy in Birmingham, which is probably the most people we ever played to. Most people expected the band to die when the three other members left, but we had spent a small fortune on studio time and printing the release, so it couldn’t simply be left for scrap. We had a few weeks to recruit a new line-up to continue the gigging schedule we had at the time, which we did, and it turned out to be the right thing for the band.
The Nwothm: “Reforge the Steel” (2019) has a title that feels defiant. What was the driving force behind that record?
Kaine: Reforge The Steel is as close to a “Rage Sadler” solo record as you will ever get. These songs were written solely by Rage while the new line-up was learning the A Crisis of Faith material. The band then started learning the new tracks and playing them live alongside the Crisis material, and by the end of 2018, we were back in the studio again to put together this record. It often ends up at the top of fans’ lists of favourite Kaine records, so we must have done something right with this one. The record was a marker to show that we were not dead, the band would continue, and that there was a lot more to Kaine going forward. The title literally refers to the reformation of the band from near extinction.
The Nwothm: “After Extinction” (2022) is your latest album! How do you think it compares to your previous works, and do you each have a favourite track from the record?
Kaine: It’s our heaviest record since our debut album, and it’s the only record we’ve ever done that hit the mainstream charts; it actually reached number 85 on the top 100 in the UK. The lead single A Slave to the Grind seems to be the track everyone loves from that album. It was a different experience from Reforge the Steel, as this record was a collaborative effort. We love all the tracks on the album, but staples of the current set are Second Coming, Protesting for Profit, and A Slave to the Grind.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndhF-pe-Gl0
TheNwothm: Are there any hints you can share about new material in the works?
Kaine: Extinctions End is a redo of the Covid-era album and EP. We had to record those releases between several studios and in a very disrupted fashion due to the pandemic, so we have re-recorded a selection of songs that complement each other from both releases, in a different format and style from the original. I think the release will surprise a few people, especially those who still think we’re a Poundland-Maiden knockoff!
TheNwothm: Do you see yourselves experimenting with different sounds or sticking firmly to the classic heavy metal roots?
Kaine: We have a new EP we’re writing at the moment, which is a pure love letter to NWOBHM, and we’re working on a new album, which has heavier material than we have done before.
TheNwothm: Where would you most love to take Kaine next, if you could choose anywhere in the world?
Kaine: We’ve never played in Europe, so that would be amazing, America, Japan, also, but we’re realistic. Many of the promoters there have been aware of us for years, but have never asked us to play, so we’re not optimistic that it will change in the future! If we can just make our UK gigs sustainable, we will be happy. We’re not rock stars, we’re just four regular blokes that happen to be mates and play in a Metal band together. That’s really what we’re about more than anything.
TheNwothm: If you could design your dream tour line-up with Kaine plus three other bands, who would you pick?
Kaine: Oddly, we have found in the past that the Death Metal audience has been far more receptive to us than most! So a tour with Obituary, Carcass, and Kaine would be a dream line-up as it would be riffs galore and full of raw energy. However, I doubt we could ever afford to buy onto a tour like that! That’s the nature of the music business. But if they ever needed a support, we’d be more than up for it!
TheNwothm: What gigs do you have coming up for the rest of 2025 and 2026
Kaine: We have just one gig, which is on May 17th at Club85 in Hitchin. Nobody else wants us at the moment! Joking aside, there will hopefully be more dates announced in the future.
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Kaine: We have CDs, vinyl, shirts, and hoodies for sale on Bandcamp:, and we also do exclusive merch and CDs over at Patreon starting at just £1 a month: https://patreon.com/kaine_metal?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Kaine:
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Kaine: We’ve recently relaunched our YouTube channel, so we would invite people to check that out first!
#aCrisisOfFaith #afterExtinction #fallingThroughFreedom #heavyMetal #kaine #kaineColchester #kaineUk #newEp #nwothm #theWaystone #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Interview: Kaine (UK)
11 minutesThe Nwothm
Kaine have been keeping the flame of heavy metal alive since 2009. Rooted in East Anglia’s thriving scene, the band blend Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and thrash influences into a sound that’s fast, heavy, and defiantly DIY. Sixteen years on, they remain one of the UK’s most enduring heavy metal acts, with a catalogue that charts their resilience and evolution. In this interview with TheNwothm, Kaine reflect on their journey and share what’s next.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tuGaWfGYHo
Interview
TheNwothm: For those who might be discovering Kaine for the first time, how would you introduce yourselves and where you’re from?
Kaine: We’re Kaine, we are from East Anglia in England. We’re probably one of the heavier NWOTHM bands, and we’ve been at this for 16 years now. We’re very much a DIY band and not a lot of people know we exist! Our influences are essentially Sabbath, Priest, NWOBHM, and the early Thrash movement in the States. We’re often referred to as a Speed Metal band, as that’s one of the closest approximations people can make to us!
TheNwothm: How did the band form back in 2009?
Kaine: You could say we were one of the original British NWOTHM bands to emerge around that time, along with Osmium Guillotine. Hamerex were around a few years before us, and not long after we formed, you had bands like Amulet, Neverworld, and Toledo Steel emerging, Culloden, Midnight Force, Seven Sisters, Heathen Kings, and up until more recently, Tailgunner, who are the first British NWOTHM band to break into the mainstream.
In Ireland, you had a band called Celtic Legacy, which was very much in the vein of what we now call NWOTHM, too. When we started in 2009, it was a reaction to the Emo and Metalcore scene that dominated the UK underground at the time. There were no straight-up Metal bands playing, and if you went to a gig, it would be a something-core band playing to a handful of school friends, and the venues were empty. People who liked old school Metal were put off and stayed home, so we decided to do our own band playing music influenced by the likes of Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and the wider NWOBHM movement, as well as the American bands that were influenced by that same movement. We turn 17 in January, so we have been around longer than the NWOBHM movement ran back in the day!
TheNwothm: Colchester isn’t always the first place people think of when it comes to heavy metal. How has being based there shaped your identity as a band?
Kaine: That’s surprising because Colchester, along with Ipswich, probably has two of the best, if not the best, alternative music scenes in the country. This area has always been a hotbed for Metal music. If you look at an act like Cradle of Filth, over the years, they have recruited heavily from the scene here. There are still plenty of venues, promoters, and bands playing great live music across the Rock and Metal sphere in this area, and we’re very lucky to have such a thriving scene. We’re local to the area and are very much proud of it. Norwich also has a thriving Metal scene. I’d argue East Anglia as a whole has one of the best Metal scenes in the country.
TheNwothm: When you’ve toured across Britain and Ireland, have you noticed differences in how audiences respond compared to back home in Colchester?
Kaine: We have only played two gigs in Ireland, which were supporting Mordred on tour back in 2014. As for Britain, audiences have always been receptive wherever we have gone. We have always had a loyal following in Scotland, so we try to visit as often as we can afford to, but really, we have enjoyed great responses over the years up and down the country. We enjoy getting out there and playing everywhere we can.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_Nh2GlG-t4
TheNwothm: Growing up, did you have a particular metal hero whose posters were on your wall?
Kaine: We all have a range of heroes and influences, everyone from Priest, Maiden, AC/DC, Sabbath, Metallica, Megadeth, in fact, Toby has a Marty Friedman tattoo, he is that much of a fan of him, and Liam has an Ozzy tattoo now too! We have looked up to and been inspired by a lot of bands collectively.
TheNwothm: If you could cover one classic track from your influences like Sabbath or Maiden, which would it be?
Kaine: We recently did a Sabbath tribute set in honour of Ozzy Osbourne, which included Paranoid, War Pigs, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, and The Straightener. It would be difficult to choose a single track from our influences to be a definitive “one”, but at a push, Painkiller by Judas Priest would probably be one we could do justice to.
The Nwothm: Your debut “Falling Through Freedom” (2012) was the first full-length release. Looking back, what was the biggest challenge in getting that record out?
Kaine: Aside from being young, having no label support, and frankly not really knowing what the f*#k we were doing at the time, the biggest issue was a mixture of budget and personnel changes that happened during the writing and recording of that record. We did our best with it, and in hindsight we should have held off doing a record until we had a more stable line-up and played the songs live a lot more to hone them, but as previously stated, we didn’t have any management or a label to really guide us, we just had a go at putting a record together and in all fairness a few people still love songs from that album, despite it being a totally unpolished DIY effort.
The Nwothm: “The Waystone” (2014) saw you touring extensively, even alongside Monument and Mordred. What memories stand out most from that era?
Kaine: We were meant to release that album under MGR Records, which was Monument’s label at the time. We had to write, record, and release it to their schedule, which meant we probably didn’t spend as much time on the record as we should have. We had a big disagreement with MGR Records during that tour; they were using our bassist at the time to cover for Chris Dale, unpaid, and not only tried to steal him from our band but were totally unprofessional in how they dealt with the band in general. On the last date of the tour, we fired them and put the record out ourselves.
This album, however, did launch the band, and we got a lot of good shows booked, and a festival appearance (Wildfire) off the back of that record. It sold over a thousand copies on CD, so for us it was a successful record. Our tour with Mordred was a much more positive experience. We replaced Furyon last minute and had less than a day to prepare for the tour before we were off on a ferry to Ireland. Touring with Mordred was an amazing experience and one of the highlights of our career. The Waystone was a bit of a missed opportunity for us, I think. Had we had a label more interested in making us a success and had a little more time to finish it, it would have been more successful, but we made the best of a bad situation.
TheNwothm: “A Crisis of Faith” (2018) marked a turning point before the current line-up came together. How did that album reflect the band’s state at the time?
Kaine: A Crisis of Faith was a very carefully written record. We started putting it together at the end of 2015 and fleshed the tracks out on the road. Most people think it should have been a bigger success than it was, but sadly, the line-up that put it together had to part almost immediately after its release. We did get to play the main stage of HRH Metal at a sold-out o2 Academy in Birmingham, which is probably the most people we ever played to. Most people expected the band to die when the three other members left, but we had spent a small fortune on studio time and printing the release, so it couldn’t simply be left for scrap. We had a few weeks to recruit a new line-up to continue the gigging schedule we had at the time, which we did, and it turned out to be the right thing for the band.
The Nwothm: “Reforge the Steel” (2019) has a title that feels defiant. What was the driving force behind that record?
Kaine: Reforge The Steel is as close to a “Rage Sadler” solo record as you will ever get. These songs were written solely by Rage while the new line-up was learning the A Crisis of Faith material. The band then started learning the new tracks and playing them live alongside the Crisis material, and by the end of 2018, we were back in the studio again to put together this record. It often ends up at the top of fans’ lists of favourite Kaine records, so we must have done something right with this one. The record was a marker to show that we were not dead, the band would continue, and that there was a lot more to Kaine going forward. The title literally refers to the reformation of the band from near extinction.
The Nwothm: “After Extinction” (2022) is your latest album! How do you think it compares to your previous works, and do you each have a favourite track from the record?
Kaine: It’s our heaviest record since our debut album, and it’s the only record we’ve ever done that hit the mainstream charts; it actually reached number 85 on the top 100 in the UK. The lead single A Slave to the Grind seems to be the track everyone loves from that album. It was a different experience from Reforge the Steel, as this record was a collaborative effort. We love all the tracks on the album, but staples of the current set are Second Coming, Protesting for Profit, and A Slave to the Grind.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndhF-pe-Gl0
TheNwothm: Are there any hints you can share about new material in the works?
Kaine: Extinctions End is a redo of the Covid-era album and EP. We had to record those releases between several studios and in a very disrupted fashion due to the pandemic, so we have re-recorded a selection of songs that complement each other from both releases, in a different format and style from the original. I think the release will surprise a few people, especially those who still think we’re a Poundland-Maiden knockoff!
TheNwothm: Do you see yourselves experimenting with different sounds or sticking firmly to the classic heavy metal roots?
Kaine: We have a new EP we’re writing at the moment, which is a pure love letter to NWOBHM, and we’re working on a new album, which has heavier material than we have done before.
TheNwothm: Where would you most love to take Kaine next, if you could choose anywhere in the world?
Kaine: We’ve never played in Europe, so that would be amazing, America, Japan, also, but we’re realistic. Many of the promoters there have been aware of us for years, but have never asked us to play, so we’re not optimistic that it will change in the future! If we can just make our UK gigs sustainable, we will be happy. We’re not rock stars, we’re just four regular blokes that happen to be mates and play in a Metal band together. That’s really what we’re about more than anything.
TheNwothm: If you could design your dream tour line-up with Kaine plus three other bands, who would you pick?
Kaine: Oddly, we have found in the past that the Death Metal audience has been far more receptive to us than most! So a tour with Obituary, Carcass, and Kaine would be a dream line-up as it would be riffs galore and full of raw energy. However, I doubt we could ever afford to buy onto a tour like that! That’s the nature of the music business. But if they ever needed a support, we’d be more than up for it!
TheNwothm: What gigs do you have coming up for the rest of 2025 and 2026
Kaine: We have just one gig, which is on May 17th at Club85 in Hitchin. Nobody else wants us at the moment! Joking aside, there will hopefully be more dates announced in the future.
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Kaine: We have CDs, vinyl, shirts, and hoodies for sale on Bandcamp:, and we also do exclusive merch and CDs over at Patreon starting at just £1 a month: https://patreon.com/kaine_metal?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Kaine:
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Kaine: We’ve recently relaunched our YouTube channel, so we would invite people to check that out first!
#aCrisisOfFaith #afterExtinction #fallingThroughFreedom #heavyMetal #kaine #kaineColchester #kaineUk #newEp #nwothm #theWaystone #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Interview: Kaine (UK)
11 minutesThe Nwothm
Kaine have been keeping the flame of heavy metal alive since 2009. Rooted in East Anglia’s thriving scene, the band blend Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and thrash influences into a sound that’s fast, heavy, and defiantly DIY. Sixteen years on, they remain one of the UK’s most enduring heavy metal acts, with a catalogue that charts their resilience and evolution. In this interview with TheNwothm, Kaine reflect on their journey and share what’s next.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tuGaWfGYHo
Interview
TheNwothm: For those who might be discovering Kaine for the first time, how would you introduce yourselves and where you’re from?
Kaine: We’re Kaine, we are from East Anglia in England. We’re probably one of the heavier NWOTHM bands, and we’ve been at this for 16 years now. We’re very much a DIY band and not a lot of people know we exist! Our influences are essentially Sabbath, Priest, NWOBHM, and the early Thrash movement in the States. We’re often referred to as a Speed Metal band, as that’s one of the closest approximations people can make to us!
TheNwothm: How did the band form back in 2009?
Kaine: You could say we were one of the original British NWOTHM bands to emerge around that time, along with Osmium Guillotine. Hamerex were around a few years before us, and not long after we formed, you had bands like Amulet, Neverworld, and Toledo Steel emerging, Culloden, Midnight Force, Seven Sisters, Heathen Kings, and up until more recently, Tailgunner, who are the first British NWOTHM band to break into the mainstream.
In Ireland, you had a band called Celtic Legacy, which was very much in the vein of what we now call NWOTHM, too. When we started in 2009, it was a reaction to the Emo and Metalcore scene that dominated the UK underground at the time. There were no straight-up Metal bands playing, and if you went to a gig, it would be a something-core band playing to a handful of school friends, and the venues were empty. People who liked old school Metal were put off and stayed home, so we decided to do our own band playing music influenced by the likes of Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and the wider NWOBHM movement, as well as the American bands that were influenced by that same movement. We turn 17 in January, so we have been around longer than the NWOBHM movement ran back in the day!
TheNwothm: Colchester isn’t always the first place people think of when it comes to heavy metal. How has being based there shaped your identity as a band?
Kaine: That’s surprising because Colchester, along with Ipswich, probably has two of the best, if not the best, alternative music scenes in the country. This area has always been a hotbed for Metal music. If you look at an act like Cradle of Filth, over the years, they have recruited heavily from the scene here. There are still plenty of venues, promoters, and bands playing great live music across the Rock and Metal sphere in this area, and we’re very lucky to have such a thriving scene. We’re local to the area and are very much proud of it. Norwich also has a thriving Metal scene. I’d argue East Anglia as a whole has one of the best Metal scenes in the country.
TheNwothm: When you’ve toured across Britain and Ireland, have you noticed differences in how audiences respond compared to back home in Colchester?
Kaine: We have only played two gigs in Ireland, which were supporting Mordred on tour back in 2014. As for Britain, audiences have always been receptive wherever we have gone. We have always had a loyal following in Scotland, so we try to visit as often as we can afford to, but really, we have enjoyed great responses over the years up and down the country. We enjoy getting out there and playing everywhere we can.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_Nh2GlG-t4
TheNwothm: Growing up, did you have a particular metal hero whose posters were on your wall?
Kaine: We all have a range of heroes and influences, everyone from Priest, Maiden, AC/DC, Sabbath, Metallica, Megadeth, in fact, Toby has a Marty Friedman tattoo, he is that much of a fan of him, and Liam has an Ozzy tattoo now too! We have looked up to and been inspired by a lot of bands collectively.
TheNwothm: If you could cover one classic track from your influences like Sabbath or Maiden, which would it be?
Kaine: We recently did a Sabbath tribute set in honour of Ozzy Osbourne, which included Paranoid, War Pigs, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, and The Straightener. It would be difficult to choose a single track from our influences to be a definitive “one”, but at a push, Painkiller by Judas Priest would probably be one we could do justice to.
The Nwothm: Your debut “Falling Through Freedom” (2012) was the first full-length release. Looking back, what was the biggest challenge in getting that record out?
Kaine: Aside from being young, having no label support, and frankly not really knowing what the f*#k we were doing at the time, the biggest issue was a mixture of budget and personnel changes that happened during the writing and recording of that record. We did our best with it, and in hindsight we should have held off doing a record until we had a more stable line-up and played the songs live a lot more to hone them, but as previously stated, we didn’t have any management or a label to really guide us, we just had a go at putting a record together and in all fairness a few people still love songs from that album, despite it being a totally unpolished DIY effort.
The Nwothm: “The Waystone” (2014) saw you touring extensively, even alongside Monument and Mordred. What memories stand out most from that era?
Kaine: We were meant to release that album under MGR Records, which was Monument’s label at the time. We had to write, record, and release it to their schedule, which meant we probably didn’t spend as much time on the record as we should have. We had a big disagreement with MGR Records during that tour; they were using our bassist at the time to cover for Chris Dale, unpaid, and not only tried to steal him from our band but were totally unprofessional in how they dealt with the band in general. On the last date of the tour, we fired them and put the record out ourselves.
This album, however, did launch the band, and we got a lot of good shows booked, and a festival appearance (Wildfire) off the back of that record. It sold over a thousand copies on CD, so for us it was a successful record. Our tour with Mordred was a much more positive experience. We replaced Furyon last minute and had less than a day to prepare for the tour before we were off on a ferry to Ireland. Touring with Mordred was an amazing experience and one of the highlights of our career. The Waystone was a bit of a missed opportunity for us, I think. Had we had a label more interested in making us a success and had a little more time to finish it, it would have been more successful, but we made the best of a bad situation.
TheNwothm: “A Crisis of Faith” (2018) marked a turning point before the current line-up came together. How did that album reflect the band’s state at the time?
Kaine: A Crisis of Faith was a very carefully written record. We started putting it together at the end of 2015 and fleshed the tracks out on the road. Most people think it should have been a bigger success than it was, but sadly, the line-up that put it together had to part almost immediately after its release. We did get to play the main stage of HRH Metal at a sold-out o2 Academy in Birmingham, which is probably the most people we ever played to. Most people expected the band to die when the three other members left, but we had spent a small fortune on studio time and printing the release, so it couldn’t simply be left for scrap. We had a few weeks to recruit a new line-up to continue the gigging schedule we had at the time, which we did, and it turned out to be the right thing for the band.
The Nwothm: “Reforge the Steel” (2019) has a title that feels defiant. What was the driving force behind that record?
Kaine: Reforge The Steel is as close to a “Rage Sadler” solo record as you will ever get. These songs were written solely by Rage while the new line-up was learning the A Crisis of Faith material. The band then started learning the new tracks and playing them live alongside the Crisis material, and by the end of 2018, we were back in the studio again to put together this record. It often ends up at the top of fans’ lists of favourite Kaine records, so we must have done something right with this one. The record was a marker to show that we were not dead, the band would continue, and that there was a lot more to Kaine going forward. The title literally refers to the reformation of the band from near extinction.
The Nwothm: “After Extinction” (2022) is your latest album! How do you think it compares to your previous works, and do you each have a favourite track from the record?
Kaine: It’s our heaviest record since our debut album, and it’s the only record we’ve ever done that hit the mainstream charts; it actually reached number 85 on the top 100 in the UK. The lead single A Slave to the Grind seems to be the track everyone loves from that album. It was a different experience from Reforge the Steel, as this record was a collaborative effort. We love all the tracks on the album, but staples of the current set are Second Coming, Protesting for Profit, and A Slave to the Grind.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndhF-pe-Gl0
TheNwothm: Are there any hints you can share about new material in the works?
Kaine: Extinctions End is a redo of the Covid-era album and EP. We had to record those releases between several studios and in a very disrupted fashion due to the pandemic, so we have re-recorded a selection of songs that complement each other from both releases, in a different format and style from the original. I think the release will surprise a few people, especially those who still think we’re a Poundland-Maiden knockoff!
TheNwothm: Do you see yourselves experimenting with different sounds or sticking firmly to the classic heavy metal roots?
Kaine: We have a new EP we’re writing at the moment, which is a pure love letter to NWOBHM, and we’re working on a new album, which has heavier material than we have done before.
TheNwothm: Where would you most love to take Kaine next, if you could choose anywhere in the world?
Kaine: We’ve never played in Europe, so that would be amazing, America, Japan, also, but we’re realistic. Many of the promoters there have been aware of us for years, but have never asked us to play, so we’re not optimistic that it will change in the future! If we can just make our UK gigs sustainable, we will be happy. We’re not rock stars, we’re just four regular blokes that happen to be mates and play in a Metal band together. That’s really what we’re about more than anything.
TheNwothm: If you could design your dream tour line-up with Kaine plus three other bands, who would you pick?
Kaine: Oddly, we have found in the past that the Death Metal audience has been far more receptive to us than most! So a tour with Obituary, Carcass, and Kaine would be a dream line-up as it would be riffs galore and full of raw energy. However, I doubt we could ever afford to buy onto a tour like that! That’s the nature of the music business. But if they ever needed a support, we’d be more than up for it!
TheNwothm: What gigs do you have coming up for the rest of 2025 and 2026
Kaine: We have just one gig, which is on May 17th at Club85 in Hitchin. Nobody else wants us at the moment! Joking aside, there will hopefully be more dates announced in the future.
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Kaine: We have CDs, vinyl, shirts, and hoodies for sale on Bandcamp:, and we also do exclusive merch and CDs over at Patreon starting at just £1 a month: https://patreon.com/kaine_metal?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Kaine:
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Kaine: We’ve recently relaunched our YouTube channel, so we would invite people to check that out first!
#aCrisisOfFaith #afterExtinction #fallingThroughFreedom #heavyMetal #kaine #kaineColchester #kaineUk #newEp #nwothm #theWaystone #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Interview: Kaine (UK)
11 minutesThe Nwothm
Kaine have been keeping the flame of heavy metal alive since 2009. Rooted in East Anglia’s thriving scene, the band blend Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and thrash influences into a sound that’s fast, heavy, and defiantly DIY. Sixteen years on, they remain one of the UK’s most enduring heavy metal acts, with a catalogue that charts their resilience and evolution. In this interview with TheNwothm, Kaine reflect on their journey and share what’s next.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tuGaWfGYHo
Interview
TheNwothm: For those who might be discovering Kaine for the first time, how would you introduce yourselves and where you’re from?
Kaine: We’re Kaine, we are from East Anglia in England. We’re probably one of the heavier NWOTHM bands, and we’ve been at this for 16 years now. We’re very much a DIY band and not a lot of people know we exist! Our influences are essentially Sabbath, Priest, NWOBHM, and the early Thrash movement in the States. We’re often referred to as a Speed Metal band, as that’s one of the closest approximations people can make to us!
TheNwothm: How did the band form back in 2009?
Kaine: You could say we were one of the original British NWOTHM bands to emerge around that time, along with Osmium Guillotine. Hamerex were around a few years before us, and not long after we formed, you had bands like Amulet, Neverworld, and Toledo Steel emerging, Culloden, Midnight Force, Seven Sisters, Heathen Kings, and up until more recently, Tailgunner, who are the first British NWOTHM band to break into the mainstream.
In Ireland, you had a band called Celtic Legacy, which was very much in the vein of what we now call NWOTHM, too. When we started in 2009, it was a reaction to the Emo and Metalcore scene that dominated the UK underground at the time. There were no straight-up Metal bands playing, and if you went to a gig, it would be a something-core band playing to a handful of school friends, and the venues were empty. People who liked old school Metal were put off and stayed home, so we decided to do our own band playing music influenced by the likes of Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and the wider NWOBHM movement, as well as the American bands that were influenced by that same movement. We turn 17 in January, so we have been around longer than the NWOBHM movement ran back in the day!
TheNwothm: Colchester isn’t always the first place people think of when it comes to heavy metal. How has being based there shaped your identity as a band?
Kaine: That’s surprising because Colchester, along with Ipswich, probably has two of the best, if not the best, alternative music scenes in the country. This area has always been a hotbed for Metal music. If you look at an act like Cradle of Filth, over the years, they have recruited heavily from the scene here. There are still plenty of venues, promoters, and bands playing great live music across the Rock and Metal sphere in this area, and we’re very lucky to have such a thriving scene. We’re local to the area and are very much proud of it. Norwich also has a thriving Metal scene. I’d argue East Anglia as a whole has one of the best Metal scenes in the country.
TheNwothm: When you’ve toured across Britain and Ireland, have you noticed differences in how audiences respond compared to back home in Colchester?
Kaine: We have only played two gigs in Ireland, which were supporting Mordred on tour back in 2014. As for Britain, audiences have always been receptive wherever we have gone. We have always had a loyal following in Scotland, so we try to visit as often as we can afford to, but really, we have enjoyed great responses over the years up and down the country. We enjoy getting out there and playing everywhere we can.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_Nh2GlG-t4
TheNwothm: Growing up, did you have a particular metal hero whose posters were on your wall?
Kaine: We all have a range of heroes and influences, everyone from Priest, Maiden, AC/DC, Sabbath, Metallica, Megadeth, in fact, Toby has a Marty Friedman tattoo, he is that much of a fan of him, and Liam has an Ozzy tattoo now too! We have looked up to and been inspired by a lot of bands collectively.
TheNwothm: If you could cover one classic track from your influences like Sabbath or Maiden, which would it be?
Kaine: We recently did a Sabbath tribute set in honour of Ozzy Osbourne, which included Paranoid, War Pigs, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, and The Straightener. It would be difficult to choose a single track from our influences to be a definitive “one”, but at a push, Painkiller by Judas Priest would probably be one we could do justice to.
The Nwothm: Your debut “Falling Through Freedom” (2012) was the first full-length release. Looking back, what was the biggest challenge in getting that record out?
Kaine: Aside from being young, having no label support, and frankly not really knowing what the f*#k we were doing at the time, the biggest issue was a mixture of budget and personnel changes that happened during the writing and recording of that record. We did our best with it, and in hindsight we should have held off doing a record until we had a more stable line-up and played the songs live a lot more to hone them, but as previously stated, we didn’t have any management or a label to really guide us, we just had a go at putting a record together and in all fairness a few people still love songs from that album, despite it being a totally unpolished DIY effort.
The Nwothm: “The Waystone” (2014) saw you touring extensively, even alongside Monument and Mordred. What memories stand out most from that era?
Kaine: We were meant to release that album under MGR Records, which was Monument’s label at the time. We had to write, record, and release it to their schedule, which meant we probably didn’t spend as much time on the record as we should have. We had a big disagreement with MGR Records during that tour; they were using our bassist at the time to cover for Chris Dale, unpaid, and not only tried to steal him from our band but were totally unprofessional in how they dealt with the band in general. On the last date of the tour, we fired them and put the record out ourselves.
This album, however, did launch the band, and we got a lot of good shows booked, and a festival appearance (Wildfire) off the back of that record. It sold over a thousand copies on CD, so for us it was a successful record. Our tour with Mordred was a much more positive experience. We replaced Furyon last minute and had less than a day to prepare for the tour before we were off on a ferry to Ireland. Touring with Mordred was an amazing experience and one of the highlights of our career. The Waystone was a bit of a missed opportunity for us, I think. Had we had a label more interested in making us a success and had a little more time to finish it, it would have been more successful, but we made the best of a bad situation.
TheNwothm: “A Crisis of Faith” (2018) marked a turning point before the current line-up came together. How did that album reflect the band’s state at the time?
Kaine: A Crisis of Faith was a very carefully written record. We started putting it together at the end of 2015 and fleshed the tracks out on the road. Most people think it should have been a bigger success than it was, but sadly, the line-up that put it together had to part almost immediately after its release. We did get to play the main stage of HRH Metal at a sold-out o2 Academy in Birmingham, which is probably the most people we ever played to. Most people expected the band to die when the three other members left, but we had spent a small fortune on studio time and printing the release, so it couldn’t simply be left for scrap. We had a few weeks to recruit a new line-up to continue the gigging schedule we had at the time, which we did, and it turned out to be the right thing for the band.
The Nwothm: “Reforge the Steel” (2019) has a title that feels defiant. What was the driving force behind that record?
Kaine: Reforge The Steel is as close to a “Rage Sadler” solo record as you will ever get. These songs were written solely by Rage while the new line-up was learning the A Crisis of Faith material. The band then started learning the new tracks and playing them live alongside the Crisis material, and by the end of 2018, we were back in the studio again to put together this record. It often ends up at the top of fans’ lists of favourite Kaine records, so we must have done something right with this one. The record was a marker to show that we were not dead, the band would continue, and that there was a lot more to Kaine going forward. The title literally refers to the reformation of the band from near extinction.
The Nwothm: “After Extinction” (2022) is your latest album! How do you think it compares to your previous works, and do you each have a favourite track from the record?
Kaine: It’s our heaviest record since our debut album, and it’s the only record we’ve ever done that hit the mainstream charts; it actually reached number 85 on the top 100 in the UK. The lead single A Slave to the Grind seems to be the track everyone loves from that album. It was a different experience from Reforge the Steel, as this record was a collaborative effort. We love all the tracks on the album, but staples of the current set are Second Coming, Protesting for Profit, and A Slave to the Grind.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndhF-pe-Gl0
TheNwothm: Are there any hints you can share about new material in the works?
Kaine: Extinctions End is a redo of the Covid-era album and EP. We had to record those releases between several studios and in a very disrupted fashion due to the pandemic, so we have re-recorded a selection of songs that complement each other from both releases, in a different format and style from the original. I think the release will surprise a few people, especially those who still think we’re a Poundland-Maiden knockoff!
TheNwothm: Do you see yourselves experimenting with different sounds or sticking firmly to the classic heavy metal roots?
Kaine: We have a new EP we’re writing at the moment, which is a pure love letter to NWOBHM, and we’re working on a new album, which has heavier material than we have done before.
TheNwothm: Where would you most love to take Kaine next, if you could choose anywhere in the world?
Kaine: We’ve never played in Europe, so that would be amazing, America, Japan, also, but we’re realistic. Many of the promoters there have been aware of us for years, but have never asked us to play, so we’re not optimistic that it will change in the future! If we can just make our UK gigs sustainable, we will be happy. We’re not rock stars, we’re just four regular blokes that happen to be mates and play in a Metal band together. That’s really what we’re about more than anything.
TheNwothm: If you could design your dream tour line-up with Kaine plus three other bands, who would you pick?
Kaine: Oddly, we have found in the past that the Death Metal audience has been far more receptive to us than most! So a tour with Obituary, Carcass, and Kaine would be a dream line-up as it would be riffs galore and full of raw energy. However, I doubt we could ever afford to buy onto a tour like that! That’s the nature of the music business. But if they ever needed a support, we’d be more than up for it!
TheNwothm: What gigs do you have coming up for the rest of 2025 and 2026
Kaine: We have just one gig, which is on May 17th at Club85 in Hitchin. Nobody else wants us at the moment! Joking aside, there will hopefully be more dates announced in the future.
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Kaine: We have CDs, vinyl, shirts, and hoodies for sale on Bandcamp:, and we also do exclusive merch and CDs over at Patreon starting at just £1 a month: https://patreon.com/kaine_metal?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Kaine:
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Kaine: We’ve recently relaunched our YouTube channel, so we would invite people to check that out first!
#aCrisisOfFaith #afterExtinction #fallingThroughFreedom #heavyMetal #kaine #kaineColchester #kaineUk #newEp #nwothm #theWaystone #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Interview: Kaine (UK)
11 minutesThe Nwothm
Kaine have been keeping the flame of heavy metal alive since 2009. Rooted in East Anglia’s thriving scene, the band blend Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and thrash influences into a sound that’s fast, heavy, and defiantly DIY. Sixteen years on, they remain one of the UK’s most enduring heavy metal acts, with a catalogue that charts their resilience and evolution. In this interview with TheNwothm, Kaine reflect on their journey and share what’s next.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tuGaWfGYHo
Interview
TheNwothm: For those who might be discovering Kaine for the first time, how would you introduce yourselves and where you’re from?
Kaine: We’re Kaine, we are from East Anglia in England. We’re probably one of the heavier NWOTHM bands, and we’ve been at this for 16 years now. We’re very much a DIY band and not a lot of people know we exist! Our influences are essentially Sabbath, Priest, NWOBHM, and the early Thrash movement in the States. We’re often referred to as a Speed Metal band, as that’s one of the closest approximations people can make to us!
TheNwothm: How did the band form back in 2009?
Kaine: You could say we were one of the original British NWOTHM bands to emerge around that time, along with Osmium Guillotine. Hamerex were around a few years before us, and not long after we formed, you had bands like Amulet, Neverworld, and Toledo Steel emerging, Culloden, Midnight Force, Seven Sisters, Heathen Kings, and up until more recently, Tailgunner, who are the first British NWOTHM band to break into the mainstream.
In Ireland, you had a band called Celtic Legacy, which was very much in the vein of what we now call NWOTHM, too. When we started in 2009, it was a reaction to the Emo and Metalcore scene that dominated the UK underground at the time. There were no straight-up Metal bands playing, and if you went to a gig, it would be a something-core band playing to a handful of school friends, and the venues were empty. People who liked old school Metal were put off and stayed home, so we decided to do our own band playing music influenced by the likes of Sabbath, Priest, Maiden, and the wider NWOBHM movement, as well as the American bands that were influenced by that same movement. We turn 17 in January, so we have been around longer than the NWOBHM movement ran back in the day!
TheNwothm: Colchester isn’t always the first place people think of when it comes to heavy metal. How has being based there shaped your identity as a band?
Kaine: That’s surprising because Colchester, along with Ipswich, probably has two of the best, if not the best, alternative music scenes in the country. This area has always been a hotbed for Metal music. If you look at an act like Cradle of Filth, over the years, they have recruited heavily from the scene here. There are still plenty of venues, promoters, and bands playing great live music across the Rock and Metal sphere in this area, and we’re very lucky to have such a thriving scene. We’re local to the area and are very much proud of it. Norwich also has a thriving Metal scene. I’d argue East Anglia as a whole has one of the best Metal scenes in the country.
TheNwothm: When you’ve toured across Britain and Ireland, have you noticed differences in how audiences respond compared to back home in Colchester?
Kaine: We have only played two gigs in Ireland, which were supporting Mordred on tour back in 2014. As for Britain, audiences have always been receptive wherever we have gone. We have always had a loyal following in Scotland, so we try to visit as often as we can afford to, but really, we have enjoyed great responses over the years up and down the country. We enjoy getting out there and playing everywhere we can.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_Nh2GlG-t4
TheNwothm: Growing up, did you have a particular metal hero whose posters were on your wall?
Kaine: We all have a range of heroes and influences, everyone from Priest, Maiden, AC/DC, Sabbath, Metallica, Megadeth, in fact, Toby has a Marty Friedman tattoo, he is that much of a fan of him, and Liam has an Ozzy tattoo now too! We have looked up to and been inspired by a lot of bands collectively.
TheNwothm: If you could cover one classic track from your influences like Sabbath or Maiden, which would it be?
Kaine: We recently did a Sabbath tribute set in honour of Ozzy Osbourne, which included Paranoid, War Pigs, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, and The Straightener. It would be difficult to choose a single track from our influences to be a definitive “one”, but at a push, Painkiller by Judas Priest would probably be one we could do justice to.
The Nwothm: Your debut “Falling Through Freedom” (2012) was the first full-length release. Looking back, what was the biggest challenge in getting that record out?
Kaine: Aside from being young, having no label support, and frankly not really knowing what the f*#k we were doing at the time, the biggest issue was a mixture of budget and personnel changes that happened during the writing and recording of that record. We did our best with it, and in hindsight we should have held off doing a record until we had a more stable line-up and played the songs live a lot more to hone them, but as previously stated, we didn’t have any management or a label to really guide us, we just had a go at putting a record together and in all fairness a few people still love songs from that album, despite it being a totally unpolished DIY effort.
The Nwothm: “The Waystone” (2014) saw you touring extensively, even alongside Monument and Mordred. What memories stand out most from that era?
Kaine: We were meant to release that album under MGR Records, which was Monument’s label at the time. We had to write, record, and release it to their schedule, which meant we probably didn’t spend as much time on the record as we should have. We had a big disagreement with MGR Records during that tour; they were using our bassist at the time to cover for Chris Dale, unpaid, and not only tried to steal him from our band but were totally unprofessional in how they dealt with the band in general. On the last date of the tour, we fired them and put the record out ourselves.
This album, however, did launch the band, and we got a lot of good shows booked, and a festival appearance (Wildfire) off the back of that record. It sold over a thousand copies on CD, so for us it was a successful record. Our tour with Mordred was a much more positive experience. We replaced Furyon last minute and had less than a day to prepare for the tour before we were off on a ferry to Ireland. Touring with Mordred was an amazing experience and one of the highlights of our career. The Waystone was a bit of a missed opportunity for us, I think. Had we had a label more interested in making us a success and had a little more time to finish it, it would have been more successful, but we made the best of a bad situation.
TheNwothm: “A Crisis of Faith” (2018) marked a turning point before the current line-up came together. How did that album reflect the band’s state at the time?
Kaine: A Crisis of Faith was a very carefully written record. We started putting it together at the end of 2015 and fleshed the tracks out on the road. Most people think it should have been a bigger success than it was, but sadly, the line-up that put it together had to part almost immediately after its release. We did get to play the main stage of HRH Metal at a sold-out o2 Academy in Birmingham, which is probably the most people we ever played to. Most people expected the band to die when the three other members left, but we had spent a small fortune on studio time and printing the release, so it couldn’t simply be left for scrap. We had a few weeks to recruit a new line-up to continue the gigging schedule we had at the time, which we did, and it turned out to be the right thing for the band.
The Nwothm: “Reforge the Steel” (2019) has a title that feels defiant. What was the driving force behind that record?
Kaine: Reforge The Steel is as close to a “Rage Sadler” solo record as you will ever get. These songs were written solely by Rage while the new line-up was learning the A Crisis of Faith material. The band then started learning the new tracks and playing them live alongside the Crisis material, and by the end of 2018, we were back in the studio again to put together this record. It often ends up at the top of fans’ lists of favourite Kaine records, so we must have done something right with this one. The record was a marker to show that we were not dead, the band would continue, and that there was a lot more to Kaine going forward. The title literally refers to the reformation of the band from near extinction.
The Nwothm: “After Extinction” (2022) is your latest album! How do you think it compares to your previous works, and do you each have a favourite track from the record?
Kaine: It’s our heaviest record since our debut album, and it’s the only record we’ve ever done that hit the mainstream charts; it actually reached number 85 on the top 100 in the UK. The lead single A Slave to the Grind seems to be the track everyone loves from that album. It was a different experience from Reforge the Steel, as this record was a collaborative effort. We love all the tracks on the album, but staples of the current set are Second Coming, Protesting for Profit, and A Slave to the Grind.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndhF-pe-Gl0
TheNwothm: Are there any hints you can share about new material in the works?
Kaine: Extinctions End is a redo of the Covid-era album and EP. We had to record those releases between several studios and in a very disrupted fashion due to the pandemic, so we have re-recorded a selection of songs that complement each other from both releases, in a different format and style from the original. I think the release will surprise a few people, especially those who still think we’re a Poundland-Maiden knockoff!
TheNwothm: Do you see yourselves experimenting with different sounds or sticking firmly to the classic heavy metal roots?
Kaine: We have a new EP we’re writing at the moment, which is a pure love letter to NWOBHM, and we’re working on a new album, which has heavier material than we have done before.
TheNwothm: Where would you most love to take Kaine next, if you could choose anywhere in the world?
Kaine: We’ve never played in Europe, so that would be amazing, America, Japan, also, but we’re realistic. Many of the promoters there have been aware of us for years, but have never asked us to play, so we’re not optimistic that it will change in the future! If we can just make our UK gigs sustainable, we will be happy. We’re not rock stars, we’re just four regular blokes that happen to be mates and play in a Metal band together. That’s really what we’re about more than anything.
TheNwothm: If you could design your dream tour line-up with Kaine plus three other bands, who would you pick?
Kaine: Oddly, we have found in the past that the Death Metal audience has been far more receptive to us than most! So a tour with Obituary, Carcass, and Kaine would be a dream line-up as it would be riffs galore and full of raw energy. However, I doubt we could ever afford to buy onto a tour like that! That’s the nature of the music business. But if they ever needed a support, we’d be more than up for it!
TheNwothm: What gigs do you have coming up for the rest of 2025 and 2026
Kaine: We have just one gig, which is on May 17th at Club85 in Hitchin. Nobody else wants us at the moment! Joking aside, there will hopefully be more dates announced in the future.
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Kaine: We have CDs, vinyl, shirts, and hoodies for sale on Bandcamp:, and we also do exclusive merch and CDs over at Patreon starting at just £1 a month: https://patreon.com/kaine_metal?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Kaine:
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Kaine: We’ve recently relaunched our YouTube channel, so we would invite people to check that out first!
#aCrisisOfFaith #afterExtinction #fallingThroughFreedom #heavyMetal #kaine #kaineColchester #kaineUk #newEp #nwothm #theWaystone #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Interview: Midnight Sorcery (Mexico)
9 minutesThe Nwothm
Midnight Sorcery emerged from the shadows of Mexico City, conjuring epic heavy metal steeped in mysticism, prehispanic ritual, and fantasy lore. With cloaks, candles, and names like Sorcerer of the Black Sun, their debut demo Tales from the Dark channels both Tolkien-inspired myth and local spiritual depth. In this interview, TheNwothm explores the band’s origins, their arcane inspirations, and the spellbinding path ahead.
Interview
TheNwothm: Midnight Sorcery — the name alone conjures spells and shadows. Can you tell us where you’re from and how this mystic fellowship came together?
Midnight Sorcery: We believe in obscurity, in the arcane and in the epic where darkness and light are faced together in an eternal battle, we’re four sorcerers who share similar ideas to create something new, something mystic forged by steel and evil spells.
TheNwothm: What arcane ritual (or coffee-fuelled jam session) led to choosing the name Midnight Sorcery? Was there a long list of other magical monikers?
Midnight Sorcery: Everything was revealed in front of our eyes one night when we gathered, at the time we were only three members, and had a conversation about having a band with an obscure and epic touch to their sound and when it came to thinking names for what we wanted and it came to be “Midnight Sorcery”. Which at the same time according to the lunar phases and astronomical events there was a blood moon happening at that time and made perfect sense to the moment adding a bit of mysticism to the name.
TheNwothm: Being based in the heart of Mexico City, a place pulsing with history, myth, and chaos, how has the city’s atmosphere seeped into your music?
Midnight Sorcery: Well, one of our band members (Sorcerer Of The Black Sun) is into Mexican prehispanic culture and he has the deepest interests in our Mexican history which is celebrating life, celebrating death, joining energies with nature through chants and dances.
This at the same time is also a way to connect with music through mind and soul where you channel yourself and let your mind and feelings take you to a place you’ve never been away from everything. During our rehearsals we can say that all four of us are connected in some way, that even the way our music was created flows naturally between us.
TheNwothm: Mexico has a rich legacy of both indigenous mysticism and heavy music. Do you draw inspiration from local legends or spiritual beliefs in your lyrics and themes?
Midnight Sorcery: Our member Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is more fond of this topic, although speaking about inspiration the short answer is YES! We have all sorts of ideas coming from different artists from different periods in Mexico and history and not only related to Heavy Metal music.
In this case one of the ideas we have for future songs are acoustic intros/outros similar to our ending of your Demo (Takes from The Dark), but in this case we would even like to use prehispanic instruments like a Huehuetl (A drum-like handheld percussion instrument).
At the same time this will add to the mysterious atmosphere we want to create to keep our listeners on the edge.
TheNwothm: Is there anything about the Mexican metal scene that you feel the rest of the world doesn’t quite understand yet?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes, it is quite different from elsewhere. Not because of economic possibilities but instead I believe that whoever has the will and determination to create music they will find a way to do it. Here in Mexico not only in the metal scene we see constant street musicians and people cherish them! Sometimes you never know when you’re having a bad day and the musician might cheer you up!
We believe this could be one of the problems and solutions to the metal scene in Mexico, in the same place you can find people who listen and play metal music for a hobby, some because it’s in their family, others because they enjoy it and others because it’s their escape to the real world…
A majority of the metal scene in Mexico speaks about how hard it is really to be a musician fighting against anything really, sometimes music is the only thing we have to face up and make your stand and at the same time it makes us strong. The Mexican metal scene is not just music, it is about resistance and being true to yourself.
TheNwothm: Growing up were there any bands or musicians growing up that you truly idolised — posters-on-the-wall level obsession?
Midnight Sorcery: Definitely! Our Heavy Metal heroes will always be Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Heavy Load, Manilla Road, Saint Vitus, Witchfinder General! Classic Heavy Metal to the vein that will live forever as long as our music goes to 11!
TheNwothm: “Tales from the Dark” is your debut! What was the very first spark that set the concept in motion?
Midnight Sorcery: The idea came from the songs that made it to the demo, it was originally going to have 4 songs but each of the three songs are different from each other, different style, different mood and different vocal techniques were involved. This was done in order to make this as a small compilation of the fantasy world we want to create.
TheNwothm: The title “Tales from the Dark” feels like opening a cursed storybook. Are these tales drawn from personal myth, fantasy, or a blend of both?
Midnight Sorcery: It’s a compound of both, we all admire J.R.R. Tolkien’s work and fables so we decided to add a little bit of our own to our music, based on this we created the songs on the Demo which tell the story of creatures inside Tolkien’s tales making it “Takes from The Dark”
TheNwothm: If you had to pick one of the three trucks which would be your favourite and why?
Midnight Sorcery: Without any doubt “Evil Sorcerers” is our favorite since it was the first song we as a band created and forged the musical path we took until these days.
TheNwothm: With names like “The Dark Steel Sorcerer” and “Sorcerer of the Black Sun,” it begs the question; if you had real magical powers, what spell would you cast first?
Midnight Sorcery: Hahahaha you can’t name Houdini as a magician without magic, right? Once I thought of having magical powers to twist time and space at my will and also teletransportation.
TheNwothm: Outside of music, what’s something totally unexpected each of you is passionate about? (Taxidermy? Competitive chess? Dragon breeding?)
Midnight Sorcery: Surprisingly Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is a Mexica Dancer(Aztec Dancer) who is in constant touch with mystic energies that make ancient Mexico sacred.
Along with this The Dark Steel Sorcerer, Sorcerer Of the Dark Throne and The Sorcerer Of The Black Forest have interests in the occult generalizing all types of magic it involves, this feeding the band’s interest in topics about the occult, sorcery, alchemy, all types of magic, wizardry, spells, atmosphere, visuals, etc… all comes into place.
TheNwothm: Will your live shows channel theatrical or magical elements to match your epic themes; cloaks, candles, incantations?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes! In fact we are already planning a debut show which will feature us dressed in black cloaks, candles like our promo photos, rituals, smoke, swords, the visual aspects are a MUST when speaking about Midnight Sorcery.
TheNwothm: What realms will Midnight Sorcery venture into next musically? Are there any whispers of a full-length album on the horizon?
Midnight Sorcery: At this time finishing the upcoming songs for the first full-length album and while we do this we are also planning our first gig to debut, these new songs are in the vein of the same style as the ones from the Demo.
While we’re at this, we’re joining forces with an Italian Record label for a Pro re-release of our “Tales From The Dark” Demo as our physical promo copies are long sold out.
TheNwothm: Are there any sacred or cursed lands you’re dying to tour first? Maybe a dream venue that screams “Midnight Sorcery must play here”?
Midnight Sorcery: Of course! Mexico City being our home town, our debut will be honored there although one of the places we would love to play would be Keep it True Festival in Lauda-Konigshofen, Germany along with Italy, Greece and USA were who best reacted to our demo and we would love to be at places like Up The Hammers Festival in Athens, Greece or even Hell’s Heroes in the USA.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kM6OLOaTRBM
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Midnight Sorcery: They would gladly be able to purchase our merch through our BandCamp website or by messaging is directly through social media or send us an email to [email protected]
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Midnight Sorcery: We’re available on Facebook as Midnight Sorcery, on Instagram as @4sorcerersms, on BandCamp as Midnight Sorcery
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Midnight Sorcery: We would like to thank Thenwothm.com for this interview!
We would also like to thank Thenwothmfullalbums youtube channel for the opportunity for upcoming bands to show the world what they’re made of! Also this would not be possible thanks to all you Metal Merchants and Heavy Metal Maniacs that keep this alive!
It was a surprise to us how far our demo went to lands like Mexico, USA, Canada, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, England, Wales, Spain, Germany, Italy, Greece and Portugal, thanks again for the amazing response and to the people we me personally and gave our demo to them in their hands and special thanks to the people to gave the demo a listen on digital platforms.
On the other hand we want to thank Father Sorcerer and Mother Sorceress for motivating us and always having faith in us, as your children your legacy will always be carried on and we will forever remember you in our hearts with much love and happiness as you gave to us…
Special Thanks to: Ed On Fire Designs for the design for the inlay J-card of our demo, Open Sepulcre for drawing our demo cover artwork, Khert Nether for designing our logo
PS: Special Special thanks to Bri (Spectral City, A Ferro E Fuoco – Underground Metal Circle) and Demonolatry for supporting us and for our upcoming demo re-release… more to be announced soon…
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MidnightSorcery
Bandcamp: https://midnightsorcery.bandcamp.com/album/tales-from-the-dark
#arcaneHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #mexicanHeavyMetal #midnightSorcery #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothmfullalbums #sorcererOfTheBlackSun #talesFromTheDark #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Interview: Midnight Sorcery (Mexico)
9 minutesThe Nwothm
Midnight Sorcery emerged from the shadows of Mexico City, conjuring epic heavy metal steeped in mysticism, prehispanic ritual, and fantasy lore. With cloaks, candles, and names like Sorcerer of the Black Sun, their debut demo Tales from the Dark channels both Tolkien-inspired myth and local spiritual depth. In this interview, TheNwothm explores the band’s origins, their arcane inspirations, and the spellbinding path ahead.
Interview
TheNwothm: Midnight Sorcery — the name alone conjures spells and shadows. Can you tell us where you’re from and how this mystic fellowship came together?
Midnight Sorcery: We believe in obscurity, in the arcane and in the epic where darkness and light are faced together in an eternal battle, we’re four sorcerers who share similar ideas to create something new, something mystic forged by steel and evil spells.
TheNwothm: What arcane ritual (or coffee-fuelled jam session) led to choosing the name Midnight Sorcery? Was there a long list of other magical monikers?
Midnight Sorcery: Everything was revealed in front of our eyes one night when we gathered, at the time we were only three members, and had a conversation about having a band with an obscure and epic touch to their sound and when it came to thinking names for what we wanted and it came to be “Midnight Sorcery”. Which at the same time according to the lunar phases and astronomical events there was a blood moon happening at that time and made perfect sense to the moment adding a bit of mysticism to the name.
TheNwothm: Being based in the heart of Mexico City, a place pulsing with history, myth, and chaos, how has the city’s atmosphere seeped into your music?
Midnight Sorcery: Well, one of our band members (Sorcerer Of The Black Sun) is into Mexican prehispanic culture and he has the deepest interests in our Mexican history which is celebrating life, celebrating death, joining energies with nature through chants and dances.
This at the same time is also a way to connect with music through mind and soul where you channel yourself and let your mind and feelings take you to a place you’ve never been away from everything. During our rehearsals we can say that all four of us are connected in some way, that even the way our music was created flows naturally between us.
TheNwothm: Mexico has a rich legacy of both indigenous mysticism and heavy music. Do you draw inspiration from local legends or spiritual beliefs in your lyrics and themes?
Midnight Sorcery: Our member Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is more fond of this topic, although speaking about inspiration the short answer is YES! We have all sorts of ideas coming from different artists from different periods in Mexico and history and not only related to Heavy Metal music.
In this case one of the ideas we have for future songs are acoustic intros/outros similar to our ending of your Demo (Takes from The Dark), but in this case we would even like to use prehispanic instruments like a Huehuetl (A drum-like handheld percussion instrument).
At the same time this will add to the mysterious atmosphere we want to create to keep our listeners on the edge.
TheNwothm: Is there anything about the Mexican metal scene that you feel the rest of the world doesn’t quite understand yet?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes, it is quite different from elsewhere. Not because of economic possibilities but instead I believe that whoever has the will and determination to create music they will find a way to do it. Here in Mexico not only in the metal scene we see constant street musicians and people cherish them! Sometimes you never know when you’re having a bad day and the musician might cheer you up!
We believe this could be one of the problems and solutions to the metal scene in Mexico, in the same place you can find people who listen and play metal music for a hobby, some because it’s in their family, others because they enjoy it and others because it’s their escape to the real world…
A majority of the metal scene in Mexico speaks about how hard it is really to be a musician fighting against anything really, sometimes music is the only thing we have to face up and make your stand and at the same time it makes us strong. The Mexican metal scene is not just music, it is about resistance and being true to yourself.
TheNwothm: Growing up were there any bands or musicians growing up that you truly idolised — posters-on-the-wall level obsession?
Midnight Sorcery: Definitely! Our Heavy Metal heroes will always be Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Heavy Load, Manilla Road, Saint Vitus, Witchfinder General! Classic Heavy Metal to the vein that will live forever as long as our music goes to 11!
TheNwothm: “Tales from the Dark” is your debut! What was the very first spark that set the concept in motion?
Midnight Sorcery: The idea came from the songs that made it to the demo, it was originally going to have 4 songs but each of the three songs are different from each other, different style, different mood and different vocal techniques were involved. This was done in order to make this as a small compilation of the fantasy world we want to create.
TheNwothm: The title “Tales from the Dark” feels like opening a cursed storybook. Are these tales drawn from personal myth, fantasy, or a blend of both?
Midnight Sorcery: It’s a compound of both, we all admire J.R.R. Tolkien’s work and fables so we decided to add a little bit of our own to our music, based on this we created the songs on the Demo which tell the story of creatures inside Tolkien’s tales making it “Takes from The Dark”
TheNwothm: If you had to pick one of the three trucks which would be your favourite and why?
Midnight Sorcery: Without any doubt “Evil Sorcerers” is our favorite since it was the first song we as a band created and forged the musical path we took until these days.
TheNwothm: With names like “The Dark Steel Sorcerer” and “Sorcerer of the Black Sun,” it begs the question; if you had real magical powers, what spell would you cast first?
Midnight Sorcery: Hahahaha you can’t name Houdini as a magician without magic, right? Once I thought of having magical powers to twist time and space at my will and also teletransportation.
TheNwothm: Outside of music, what’s something totally unexpected each of you is passionate about? (Taxidermy? Competitive chess? Dragon breeding?)
Midnight Sorcery: Surprisingly Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is a Mexica Dancer(Aztec Dancer) who is in constant touch with mystic energies that make ancient Mexico sacred.
Along with this The Dark Steel Sorcerer, Sorcerer Of the Dark Throne and The Sorcerer Of The Black Forest have interests in the occult generalizing all types of magic it involves, this feeding the band’s interest in topics about the occult, sorcery, alchemy, all types of magic, wizardry, spells, atmosphere, visuals, etc… all comes into place.
TheNwothm: Will your live shows channel theatrical or magical elements to match your epic themes; cloaks, candles, incantations?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes! In fact we are already planning a debut show which will feature us dressed in black cloaks, candles like our promo photos, rituals, smoke, swords, the visual aspects are a MUST when speaking about Midnight Sorcery.
TheNwothm: What realms will Midnight Sorcery venture into next musically? Are there any whispers of a full-length album on the horizon?
Midnight Sorcery: At this time finishing the upcoming songs for the first full-length album and while we do this we are also planning our first gig to debut, these new songs are in the vein of the same style as the ones from the Demo.
While we’re at this, we’re joining forces with an Italian Record label for a Pro re-release of our “Tales From The Dark” Demo as our physical promo copies are long sold out.
TheNwothm: Are there any sacred or cursed lands you’re dying to tour first? Maybe a dream venue that screams “Midnight Sorcery must play here”?
Midnight Sorcery: Of course! Mexico City being our home town, our debut will be honored there although one of the places we would love to play would be Keep it True Festival in Lauda-Konigshofen, Germany along with Italy, Greece and USA were who best reacted to our demo and we would love to be at places like Up The Hammers Festival in Athens, Greece or even Hell’s Heroes in the USA.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kM6OLOaTRBM
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Midnight Sorcery: They would gladly be able to purchase our merch through our BandCamp website or by messaging is directly through social media or send us an email to [email protected]
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Midnight Sorcery: We’re available on Facebook as Midnight Sorcery, on Instagram as @4sorcerersms, on BandCamp as Midnight Sorcery
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Midnight Sorcery: We would like to thank Thenwothm.com for this interview!
We would also like to thank Thenwothmfullalbums youtube channel for the opportunity for upcoming bands to show the world what they’re made of! Also this would not be possible thanks to all you Metal Merchants and Heavy Metal Maniacs that keep this alive!
It was a surprise to us how far our demo went to lands like Mexico, USA, Canada, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, England, Wales, Spain, Germany, Italy, Greece and Portugal, thanks again for the amazing response and to the people we me personally and gave our demo to them in their hands and special thanks to the people to gave the demo a listen on digital platforms.
On the other hand we want to thank Father Sorcerer and Mother Sorceress for motivating us and always having faith in us, as your children your legacy will always be carried on and we will forever remember you in our hearts with much love and happiness as you gave to us…
Special Thanks to: Ed On Fire Designs for the design for the inlay J-card of our demo, Open Sepulcre for drawing our demo cover artwork, Khert Nether for designing our logo
PS: Special Special thanks to Bri (Spectral City, A Ferro E Fuoco – Underground Metal Circle) and Demonolatry for supporting us and for our upcoming demo re-release… more to be announced soon…
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MidnightSorcery
Bandcamp: https://midnightsorcery.bandcamp.com/album/tales-from-the-dark
#arcaneHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #mexicanHeavyMetal #midnightSorcery #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothmfullalbums #sorcererOfTheBlackSun #talesFromTheDark #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Interview: Midnight Sorcery (Mexico)
9 minutesThe Nwothm
Midnight Sorcery emerged from the shadows of Mexico City, conjuring epic heavy metal steeped in mysticism, prehispanic ritual, and fantasy lore. With cloaks, candles, and names like Sorcerer of the Black Sun, their debut demo Tales from the Dark channels both Tolkien-inspired myth and local spiritual depth. In this interview, TheNwothm explores the band’s origins, their arcane inspirations, and the spellbinding path ahead.
Interview
TheNwothm: Midnight Sorcery — the name alone conjures spells and shadows. Can you tell us where you’re from and how this mystic fellowship came together?
Midnight Sorcery: We believe in obscurity, in the arcane and in the epic where darkness and light are faced together in an eternal battle, we’re four sorcerers who share similar ideas to create something new, something mystic forged by steel and evil spells.
TheNwothm: What arcane ritual (or coffee-fuelled jam session) led to choosing the name Midnight Sorcery? Was there a long list of other magical monikers?
Midnight Sorcery: Everything was revealed in front of our eyes one night when we gathered, at the time we were only three members, and had a conversation about having a band with an obscure and epic touch to their sound and when it came to thinking names for what we wanted and it came to be “Midnight Sorcery”. Which at the same time according to the lunar phases and astronomical events there was a blood moon happening at that time and made perfect sense to the moment adding a bit of mysticism to the name.
TheNwothm: Being based in the heart of Mexico City, a place pulsing with history, myth, and chaos, how has the city’s atmosphere seeped into your music?
Midnight Sorcery: Well, one of our band members (Sorcerer Of The Black Sun) is into Mexican prehispanic culture and he has the deepest interests in our Mexican history which is celebrating life, celebrating death, joining energies with nature through chants and dances.
This at the same time is also a way to connect with music through mind and soul where you channel yourself and let your mind and feelings take you to a place you’ve never been away from everything. During our rehearsals we can say that all four of us are connected in some way, that even the way our music was created flows naturally between us.
TheNwothm: Mexico has a rich legacy of both indigenous mysticism and heavy music. Do you draw inspiration from local legends or spiritual beliefs in your lyrics and themes?
Midnight Sorcery: Our member Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is more fond of this topic, although speaking about inspiration the short answer is YES! We have all sorts of ideas coming from different artists from different periods in Mexico and history and not only related to Heavy Metal music.
In this case one of the ideas we have for future songs are acoustic intros/outros similar to our ending of your Demo (Takes from The Dark), but in this case we would even like to use prehispanic instruments like a Huehuetl (A drum-like handheld percussion instrument).
At the same time this will add to the mysterious atmosphere we want to create to keep our listeners on the edge.
TheNwothm: Is there anything about the Mexican metal scene that you feel the rest of the world doesn’t quite understand yet?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes, it is quite different from elsewhere. Not because of economic possibilities but instead I believe that whoever has the will and determination to create music they will find a way to do it. Here in Mexico not only in the metal scene we see constant street musicians and people cherish them! Sometimes you never know when you’re having a bad day and the musician might cheer you up!
We believe this could be one of the problems and solutions to the metal scene in Mexico, in the same place you can find people who listen and play metal music for a hobby, some because it’s in their family, others because they enjoy it and others because it’s their escape to the real world…
A majority of the metal scene in Mexico speaks about how hard it is really to be a musician fighting against anything really, sometimes music is the only thing we have to face up and make your stand and at the same time it makes us strong. The Mexican metal scene is not just music, it is about resistance and being true to yourself.
TheNwothm: Growing up were there any bands or musicians growing up that you truly idolised — posters-on-the-wall level obsession?
Midnight Sorcery: Definitely! Our Heavy Metal heroes will always be Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Heavy Load, Manilla Road, Saint Vitus, Witchfinder General! Classic Heavy Metal to the vein that will live forever as long as our music goes to 11!
TheNwothm: “Tales from the Dark” is your debut! What was the very first spark that set the concept in motion?
Midnight Sorcery: The idea came from the songs that made it to the demo, it was originally going to have 4 songs but each of the three songs are different from each other, different style, different mood and different vocal techniques were involved. This was done in order to make this as a small compilation of the fantasy world we want to create.
TheNwothm: The title “Tales from the Dark” feels like opening a cursed storybook. Are these tales drawn from personal myth, fantasy, or a blend of both?
Midnight Sorcery: It’s a compound of both, we all admire J.R.R. Tolkien’s work and fables so we decided to add a little bit of our own to our music, based on this we created the songs on the Demo which tell the story of creatures inside Tolkien’s tales making it “Takes from The Dark”
TheNwothm: If you had to pick one of the three trucks which would be your favourite and why?
Midnight Sorcery: Without any doubt “Evil Sorcerers” is our favorite since it was the first song we as a band created and forged the musical path we took until these days.
TheNwothm: With names like “The Dark Steel Sorcerer” and “Sorcerer of the Black Sun,” it begs the question; if you had real magical powers, what spell would you cast first?
Midnight Sorcery: Hahahaha you can’t name Houdini as a magician without magic, right? Once I thought of having magical powers to twist time and space at my will and also teletransportation.
TheNwothm: Outside of music, what’s something totally unexpected each of you is passionate about? (Taxidermy? Competitive chess? Dragon breeding?)
Midnight Sorcery: Surprisingly Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is a Mexica Dancer(Aztec Dancer) who is in constant touch with mystic energies that make ancient Mexico sacred.
Along with this The Dark Steel Sorcerer, Sorcerer Of the Dark Throne and The Sorcerer Of The Black Forest have interests in the occult generalizing all types of magic it involves, this feeding the band’s interest in topics about the occult, sorcery, alchemy, all types of magic, wizardry, spells, atmosphere, visuals, etc… all comes into place.
TheNwothm: Will your live shows channel theatrical or magical elements to match your epic themes; cloaks, candles, incantations?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes! In fact we are already planning a debut show which will feature us dressed in black cloaks, candles like our promo photos, rituals, smoke, swords, the visual aspects are a MUST when speaking about Midnight Sorcery.
TheNwothm: What realms will Midnight Sorcery venture into next musically? Are there any whispers of a full-length album on the horizon?
Midnight Sorcery: At this time finishing the upcoming songs for the first full-length album and while we do this we are also planning our first gig to debut, these new songs are in the vein of the same style as the ones from the Demo.
While we’re at this, we’re joining forces with an Italian Record label for a Pro re-release of our “Tales From The Dark” Demo as our physical promo copies are long sold out.
TheNwothm: Are there any sacred or cursed lands you’re dying to tour first? Maybe a dream venue that screams “Midnight Sorcery must play here”?
Midnight Sorcery: Of course! Mexico City being our home town, our debut will be honored there although one of the places we would love to play would be Keep it True Festival in Lauda-Konigshofen, Germany along with Italy, Greece and USA were who best reacted to our demo and we would love to be at places like Up The Hammers Festival in Athens, Greece or even Hell’s Heroes in the USA.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kM6OLOaTRBM
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Midnight Sorcery: They would gladly be able to purchase our merch through our BandCamp website or by messaging is directly through social media or send us an email to [email protected]
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Midnight Sorcery: We’re available on Facebook as Midnight Sorcery, on Instagram as @4sorcerersms, on BandCamp as Midnight Sorcery
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Midnight Sorcery: We would like to thank Thenwothm.com for this interview!
We would also like to thank Thenwothmfullalbums youtube channel for the opportunity for upcoming bands to show the world what they’re made of! Also this would not be possible thanks to all you Metal Merchants and Heavy Metal Maniacs that keep this alive!
It was a surprise to us how far our demo went to lands like Mexico, USA, Canada, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, England, Wales, Spain, Germany, Italy, Greece and Portugal, thanks again for the amazing response and to the people we me personally and gave our demo to them in their hands and special thanks to the people to gave the demo a listen on digital platforms.
On the other hand we want to thank Father Sorcerer and Mother Sorceress for motivating us and always having faith in us, as your children your legacy will always be carried on and we will forever remember you in our hearts with much love and happiness as you gave to us…
Special Thanks to: Ed On Fire Designs for the design for the inlay J-card of our demo, Open Sepulcre for drawing our demo cover artwork, Khert Nether for designing our logo
PS: Special Special thanks to Bri (Spectral City, A Ferro E Fuoco – Underground Metal Circle) and Demonolatry for supporting us and for our upcoming demo re-release… more to be announced soon…
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MidnightSorcery
Bandcamp: https://midnightsorcery.bandcamp.com/album/tales-from-the-dark
#arcaneHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #mexicanHeavyMetal #midnightSorcery #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothmfullalbums #sorcererOfTheBlackSun #talesFromTheDark #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Interview: Midnight Sorcery (Mexico)
9 minutesThe Nwothm
Midnight Sorcery emerged from the shadows of Mexico City, conjuring epic heavy metal steeped in mysticism, prehispanic ritual, and fantasy lore. With cloaks, candles, and names like Sorcerer of the Black Sun, their debut demo Tales from the Dark channels both Tolkien-inspired myth and local spiritual depth. In this interview, TheNwothm explores the band’s origins, their arcane inspirations, and the spellbinding path ahead.
Interview
TheNwothm: Midnight Sorcery — the name alone conjures spells and shadows. Can you tell us where you’re from and how this mystic fellowship came together?
Midnight Sorcery: We believe in obscurity, in the arcane and in the epic where darkness and light are faced together in an eternal battle, we’re four sorcerers who share similar ideas to create something new, something mystic forged by steel and evil spells.
TheNwothm: What arcane ritual (or coffee-fuelled jam session) led to choosing the name Midnight Sorcery? Was there a long list of other magical monikers?
Midnight Sorcery: Everything was revealed in front of our eyes one night when we gathered, at the time we were only three members, and had a conversation about having a band with an obscure and epic touch to their sound and when it came to thinking names for what we wanted and it came to be “Midnight Sorcery”. Which at the same time according to the lunar phases and astronomical events there was a blood moon happening at that time and made perfect sense to the moment adding a bit of mysticism to the name.
TheNwothm: Being based in the heart of Mexico City, a place pulsing with history, myth, and chaos, how has the city’s atmosphere seeped into your music?
Midnight Sorcery: Well, one of our band members (Sorcerer Of The Black Sun) is into Mexican prehispanic culture and he has the deepest interests in our Mexican history which is celebrating life, celebrating death, joining energies with nature through chants and dances.
This at the same time is also a way to connect with music through mind and soul where you channel yourself and let your mind and feelings take you to a place you’ve never been away from everything. During our rehearsals we can say that all four of us are connected in some way, that even the way our music was created flows naturally between us.
TheNwothm: Mexico has a rich legacy of both indigenous mysticism and heavy music. Do you draw inspiration from local legends or spiritual beliefs in your lyrics and themes?
Midnight Sorcery: Our member Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is more fond of this topic, although speaking about inspiration the short answer is YES! We have all sorts of ideas coming from different artists from different periods in Mexico and history and not only related to Heavy Metal music.
In this case one of the ideas we have for future songs are acoustic intros/outros similar to our ending of your Demo (Takes from The Dark), but in this case we would even like to use prehispanic instruments like a Huehuetl (A drum-like handheld percussion instrument).
At the same time this will add to the mysterious atmosphere we want to create to keep our listeners on the edge.
TheNwothm: Is there anything about the Mexican metal scene that you feel the rest of the world doesn’t quite understand yet?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes, it is quite different from elsewhere. Not because of economic possibilities but instead I believe that whoever has the will and determination to create music they will find a way to do it. Here in Mexico not only in the metal scene we see constant street musicians and people cherish them! Sometimes you never know when you’re having a bad day and the musician might cheer you up!
We believe this could be one of the problems and solutions to the metal scene in Mexico, in the same place you can find people who listen and play metal music for a hobby, some because it’s in their family, others because they enjoy it and others because it’s their escape to the real world…
A majority of the metal scene in Mexico speaks about how hard it is really to be a musician fighting against anything really, sometimes music is the only thing we have to face up and make your stand and at the same time it makes us strong. The Mexican metal scene is not just music, it is about resistance and being true to yourself.
TheNwothm: Growing up were there any bands or musicians growing up that you truly idolised — posters-on-the-wall level obsession?
Midnight Sorcery: Definitely! Our Heavy Metal heroes will always be Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Heavy Load, Manilla Road, Saint Vitus, Witchfinder General! Classic Heavy Metal to the vein that will live forever as long as our music goes to 11!
TheNwothm: “Tales from the Dark” is your debut! What was the very first spark that set the concept in motion?
Midnight Sorcery: The idea came from the songs that made it to the demo, it was originally going to have 4 songs but each of the three songs are different from each other, different style, different mood and different vocal techniques were involved. This was done in order to make this as a small compilation of the fantasy world we want to create.
TheNwothm: The title “Tales from the Dark” feels like opening a cursed storybook. Are these tales drawn from personal myth, fantasy, or a blend of both?
Midnight Sorcery: It’s a compound of both, we all admire J.R.R. Tolkien’s work and fables so we decided to add a little bit of our own to our music, based on this we created the songs on the Demo which tell the story of creatures inside Tolkien’s tales making it “Takes from The Dark”
TheNwothm: If you had to pick one of the three trucks which would be your favourite and why?
Midnight Sorcery: Without any doubt “Evil Sorcerers” is our favorite since it was the first song we as a band created and forged the musical path we took until these days.
TheNwothm: With names like “The Dark Steel Sorcerer” and “Sorcerer of the Black Sun,” it begs the question; if you had real magical powers, what spell would you cast first?
Midnight Sorcery: Hahahaha you can’t name Houdini as a magician without magic, right? Once I thought of having magical powers to twist time and space at my will and also teletransportation.
TheNwothm: Outside of music, what’s something totally unexpected each of you is passionate about? (Taxidermy? Competitive chess? Dragon breeding?)
Midnight Sorcery: Surprisingly Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is a Mexica Dancer(Aztec Dancer) who is in constant touch with mystic energies that make ancient Mexico sacred.
Along with this The Dark Steel Sorcerer, Sorcerer Of the Dark Throne and The Sorcerer Of The Black Forest have interests in the occult generalizing all types of magic it involves, this feeding the band’s interest in topics about the occult, sorcery, alchemy, all types of magic, wizardry, spells, atmosphere, visuals, etc… all comes into place.
TheNwothm: Will your live shows channel theatrical or magical elements to match your epic themes; cloaks, candles, incantations?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes! In fact we are already planning a debut show which will feature us dressed in black cloaks, candles like our promo photos, rituals, smoke, swords, the visual aspects are a MUST when speaking about Midnight Sorcery.
TheNwothm: What realms will Midnight Sorcery venture into next musically? Are there any whispers of a full-length album on the horizon?
Midnight Sorcery: At this time finishing the upcoming songs for the first full-length album and while we do this we are also planning our first gig to debut, these new songs are in the vein of the same style as the ones from the Demo.
While we’re at this, we’re joining forces with an Italian Record label for a Pro re-release of our “Tales From The Dark” Demo as our physical promo copies are long sold out.
TheNwothm: Are there any sacred or cursed lands you’re dying to tour first? Maybe a dream venue that screams “Midnight Sorcery must play here”?
Midnight Sorcery: Of course! Mexico City being our home town, our debut will be honored there although one of the places we would love to play would be Keep it True Festival in Lauda-Konigshofen, Germany along with Italy, Greece and USA were who best reacted to our demo and we would love to be at places like Up The Hammers Festival in Athens, Greece or even Hell’s Heroes in the USA.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kM6OLOaTRBM
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Midnight Sorcery: They would gladly be able to purchase our merch through our BandCamp website or by messaging is directly through social media or send us an email to [email protected]
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Midnight Sorcery: We’re available on Facebook as Midnight Sorcery, on Instagram as @4sorcerersms, on BandCamp as Midnight Sorcery
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Midnight Sorcery: We would like to thank Thenwothm.com for this interview!
We would also like to thank Thenwothmfullalbums youtube channel for the opportunity for upcoming bands to show the world what they’re made of! Also this would not be possible thanks to all you Metal Merchants and Heavy Metal Maniacs that keep this alive!
It was a surprise to us how far our demo went to lands like Mexico, USA, Canada, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, England, Wales, Spain, Germany, Italy, Greece and Portugal, thanks again for the amazing response and to the people we me personally and gave our demo to them in their hands and special thanks to the people to gave the demo a listen on digital platforms.
On the other hand we want to thank Father Sorcerer and Mother Sorceress for motivating us and always having faith in us, as your children your legacy will always be carried on and we will forever remember you in our hearts with much love and happiness as you gave to us…
Special Thanks to: Ed On Fire Designs for the design for the inlay J-card of our demo, Open Sepulcre for drawing our demo cover artwork, Khert Nether for designing our logo
PS: Special Special thanks to Bri (Spectral City, A Ferro E Fuoco – Underground Metal Circle) and Demonolatry for supporting us and for our upcoming demo re-release… more to be announced soon…
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MidnightSorcery
Bandcamp: https://midnightsorcery.bandcamp.com/album/tales-from-the-dark
#arcaneHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #mexicanHeavyMetal #midnightSorcery #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothmfullalbums #sorcererOfTheBlackSun #talesFromTheDark #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
-
Interview: Midnight Sorcery (Mexico)
9 minutesThe Nwothm
Midnight Sorcery emerged from the shadows of Mexico City, conjuring epic heavy metal steeped in mysticism, prehispanic ritual, and fantasy lore. With cloaks, candles, and names like Sorcerer of the Black Sun, their debut demo Tales from the Dark channels both Tolkien-inspired myth and local spiritual depth. In this interview, TheNwothm explores the band’s origins, their arcane inspirations, and the spellbinding path ahead.
Interview
TheNwothm: Midnight Sorcery — the name alone conjures spells and shadows. Can you tell us where you’re from and how this mystic fellowship came together?
Midnight Sorcery: We believe in obscurity, in the arcane and in the epic where darkness and light are faced together in an eternal battle, we’re four sorcerers who share similar ideas to create something new, something mystic forged by steel and evil spells.
TheNwothm: What arcane ritual (or coffee-fuelled jam session) led to choosing the name Midnight Sorcery? Was there a long list of other magical monikers?
Midnight Sorcery: Everything was revealed in front of our eyes one night when we gathered, at the time we were only three members, and had a conversation about having a band with an obscure and epic touch to their sound and when it came to thinking names for what we wanted and it came to be “Midnight Sorcery”. Which at the same time according to the lunar phases and astronomical events there was a blood moon happening at that time and made perfect sense to the moment adding a bit of mysticism to the name.
TheNwothm: Being based in the heart of Mexico City, a place pulsing with history, myth, and chaos, how has the city’s atmosphere seeped into your music?
Midnight Sorcery: Well, one of our band members (Sorcerer Of The Black Sun) is into Mexican prehispanic culture and he has the deepest interests in our Mexican history which is celebrating life, celebrating death, joining energies with nature through chants and dances.
This at the same time is also a way to connect with music through mind and soul where you channel yourself and let your mind and feelings take you to a place you’ve never been away from everything. During our rehearsals we can say that all four of us are connected in some way, that even the way our music was created flows naturally between us.
TheNwothm: Mexico has a rich legacy of both indigenous mysticism and heavy music. Do you draw inspiration from local legends or spiritual beliefs in your lyrics and themes?
Midnight Sorcery: Our member Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is more fond of this topic, although speaking about inspiration the short answer is YES! We have all sorts of ideas coming from different artists from different periods in Mexico and history and not only related to Heavy Metal music.
In this case one of the ideas we have for future songs are acoustic intros/outros similar to our ending of your Demo (Takes from The Dark), but in this case we would even like to use prehispanic instruments like a Huehuetl (A drum-like handheld percussion instrument).
At the same time this will add to the mysterious atmosphere we want to create to keep our listeners on the edge.
TheNwothm: Is there anything about the Mexican metal scene that you feel the rest of the world doesn’t quite understand yet?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes, it is quite different from elsewhere. Not because of economic possibilities but instead I believe that whoever has the will and determination to create music they will find a way to do it. Here in Mexico not only in the metal scene we see constant street musicians and people cherish them! Sometimes you never know when you’re having a bad day and the musician might cheer you up!
We believe this could be one of the problems and solutions to the metal scene in Mexico, in the same place you can find people who listen and play metal music for a hobby, some because it’s in their family, others because they enjoy it and others because it’s their escape to the real world…
A majority of the metal scene in Mexico speaks about how hard it is really to be a musician fighting against anything really, sometimes music is the only thing we have to face up and make your stand and at the same time it makes us strong. The Mexican metal scene is not just music, it is about resistance and being true to yourself.
TheNwothm: Growing up were there any bands or musicians growing up that you truly idolised — posters-on-the-wall level obsession?
Midnight Sorcery: Definitely! Our Heavy Metal heroes will always be Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Motorhead, Heavy Load, Manilla Road, Saint Vitus, Witchfinder General! Classic Heavy Metal to the vein that will live forever as long as our music goes to 11!
TheNwothm: “Tales from the Dark” is your debut! What was the very first spark that set the concept in motion?
Midnight Sorcery: The idea came from the songs that made it to the demo, it was originally going to have 4 songs but each of the three songs are different from each other, different style, different mood and different vocal techniques were involved. This was done in order to make this as a small compilation of the fantasy world we want to create.
TheNwothm: The title “Tales from the Dark” feels like opening a cursed storybook. Are these tales drawn from personal myth, fantasy, or a blend of both?
Midnight Sorcery: It’s a compound of both, we all admire J.R.R. Tolkien’s work and fables so we decided to add a little bit of our own to our music, based on this we created the songs on the Demo which tell the story of creatures inside Tolkien’s tales making it “Takes from The Dark”
TheNwothm: If you had to pick one of the three trucks which would be your favourite and why?
Midnight Sorcery: Without any doubt “Evil Sorcerers” is our favorite since it was the first song we as a band created and forged the musical path we took until these days.
TheNwothm: With names like “The Dark Steel Sorcerer” and “Sorcerer of the Black Sun,” it begs the question; if you had real magical powers, what spell would you cast first?
Midnight Sorcery: Hahahaha you can’t name Houdini as a magician without magic, right? Once I thought of having magical powers to twist time and space at my will and also teletransportation.
TheNwothm: Outside of music, what’s something totally unexpected each of you is passionate about? (Taxidermy? Competitive chess? Dragon breeding?)
Midnight Sorcery: Surprisingly Sorcerer Of The Black Sun is a Mexica Dancer(Aztec Dancer) who is in constant touch with mystic energies that make ancient Mexico sacred.
Along with this The Dark Steel Sorcerer, Sorcerer Of the Dark Throne and The Sorcerer Of The Black Forest have interests in the occult generalizing all types of magic it involves, this feeding the band’s interest in topics about the occult, sorcery, alchemy, all types of magic, wizardry, spells, atmosphere, visuals, etc… all comes into place.
TheNwothm: Will your live shows channel theatrical or magical elements to match your epic themes; cloaks, candles, incantations?
Midnight Sorcery: Yes! In fact we are already planning a debut show which will feature us dressed in black cloaks, candles like our promo photos, rituals, smoke, swords, the visual aspects are a MUST when speaking about Midnight Sorcery.
TheNwothm: What realms will Midnight Sorcery venture into next musically? Are there any whispers of a full-length album on the horizon?
Midnight Sorcery: At this time finishing the upcoming songs for the first full-length album and while we do this we are also planning our first gig to debut, these new songs are in the vein of the same style as the ones from the Demo.
While we’re at this, we’re joining forces with an Italian Record label for a Pro re-release of our “Tales From The Dark” Demo as our physical promo copies are long sold out.
TheNwothm: Are there any sacred or cursed lands you’re dying to tour first? Maybe a dream venue that screams “Midnight Sorcery must play here”?
Midnight Sorcery: Of course! Mexico City being our home town, our debut will be honored there although one of the places we would love to play would be Keep it True Festival in Lauda-Konigshofen, Germany along with Italy, Greece and USA were who best reacted to our demo and we would love to be at places like Up The Hammers Festival in Athens, Greece or even Hell’s Heroes in the USA.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kM6OLOaTRBM
TheNwothm: How can our readers buy your music and merch?
Midnight Sorcery: They would gladly be able to purchase our merch through our BandCamp website or by messaging is directly through social media or send us an email to [email protected]
TheNwothm: Where can fans follow you online?
Midnight Sorcery: We’re available on Facebook as Midnight Sorcery, on Instagram as @4sorcerersms, on BandCamp as Midnight Sorcery
TheNwothm: Anything else you would like to mention?
Midnight Sorcery: We would like to thank Thenwothm.com for this interview!
We would also like to thank Thenwothmfullalbums youtube channel for the opportunity for upcoming bands to show the world what they’re made of! Also this would not be possible thanks to all you Metal Merchants and Heavy Metal Maniacs that keep this alive!
It was a surprise to us how far our demo went to lands like Mexico, USA, Canada, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, England, Wales, Spain, Germany, Italy, Greece and Portugal, thanks again for the amazing response and to the people we me personally and gave our demo to them in their hands and special thanks to the people to gave the demo a listen on digital platforms.
On the other hand we want to thank Father Sorcerer and Mother Sorceress for motivating us and always having faith in us, as your children your legacy will always be carried on and we will forever remember you in our hearts with much love and happiness as you gave to us…
Special Thanks to: Ed On Fire Designs for the design for the inlay J-card of our demo, Open Sepulcre for drawing our demo cover artwork, Khert Nether for designing our logo
PS: Special Special thanks to Bri (Spectral City, A Ferro E Fuoco – Underground Metal Circle) and Demonolatry for supporting us and for our upcoming demo re-release… more to be announced soon…
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MidnightSorcery
Bandcamp: https://midnightsorcery.bandcamp.com/album/tales-from-the-dark
#arcaneHeavyMetal #heavyMetal #mexicanHeavyMetal #midnightSorcery #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothmfullalbums #sorcererOfTheBlackSun #talesFromTheDark #thenwothm #thenwothmCom
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Review: Hounds “Rise of the Immortals”
Release date: 21st November 2025
Label: Iron Shield Records
6 minutesThe Nwothm
Review
The sound of galloping horses and chains awakens Knightmare Fight before shouts of Knightmare warms us up. The song takes full charge with a sound that all feels so heroic. Big synths act as bed for vocals that have a lot of power and throat. Like a stampede the music comes at you with pace and energetic riffs like your going into battle. If your the type of person that likes to wield plastic swords and axes at shows this is the son that is going to give you that opportunity.
Warrior is next up and at seven minutes in length lets see what unfolds. It cracks open with a ripping riff before an explosive solo erupts. This midtempo banger uses a mix of quick picking nad fiery rhythms to carry the song. But what I love is that there is a lot of changes in structure. There are exciting choruses which use cymbal hits, snare rolls and shouts of Warrior to get fans singing along. And just like the first track there are synth beds to add to that epicness creating width and scale. If your a fan of mighty solos and lead licks there is a plenty. From soaring solos that go to the skies to more chilled and smooth licks that cry out your ears will be serenaded! However there are some sections of the song I particularly love and that is when the vocals take a more heartfelt and deep delivery over rung out chords delivering a sense of wonderful height and expression! Excellent!
A.O.R. (All Out Running) opens with classic pulsating synths and squealing laser like guitar notes. Chords come roaring in with the bass and rolling drums before getting into the thick of things. A little lead section cracks its whip before the 4/4 driving rhythm pushes the song forward. The chugging that is locked with the drums literally has me gently banging my head while I am sat here writing this review. But once again the chorus does it for me making me throw my fist in the air shouting the song title with passion. And just like songs before there are some gentle pads in the background adding some thickness to the song. There is even more great lead work that will have you air guitaring at different moments. And even an interesting repeating note sequence on a synth before eventually returning with another huge sounding chorus. And when i say huge they literally go all out!
Lohengrin drops down to a more mellow and heartfelt direction. Slow drumming and bass lines are present with an atmosphere that carries delicate piano notes and semi acoustic guitars through the mist. Chords come in adding some weight before a lead guitar comes in weeping and letting out all its deepest emotions. And it is all magnificent. There are some bitter sweet feelings radiating from the instrumentation with regards to the choice of chords and notes. While there is a lot of brightness there are also moments which feel sad. This is an instrumental that gradually evolves, especially in the lead work which gets more intricate and sparks more flair. The fade out is very gradual which is a fitting end to the sing.
Rise Of The Immortals opens with a lonesome piano and intermittent stabs of rung out chords and cymbal hits. Gradually the piano picks up before a lead solo joins. It soon roars with everything thundering in. But all the while the piano continues at moments having more presence then others. Funnily enough the background melody reminds me of the James Bond theme. One thing that is album has not fallen short on is vocals that delivered fantastic performances. You can really feel the passion and heart with every line sung. A little solo comes makes an appearance before we move back to another verse. The music builds up adding some more complex drum patterns and then as we approach the half way mark there are some guitar screeches and shouts to break things up. Yet soon enough, we land on a small yet feisty guitar solo. The song powers on revisiting another verse and more guitar screeches and vocal shouts. When we land around the six minute mark everything drops down to more piano taking all the intensity away so we can breathe for a moment. The 4/4 drum patterns come back in along with the bass guitar and vocals soon enough going all out for the last moments of the song, especially with a hug ripping solo!
More piano welcomes us with the start of Still Believe. However this time there are some excellent guitar melodies to begin with. And rather then opting for huge instrumental passage the vocals come pretty much straight in over a gliding acoustic section where drums and bass gracefully carry the guitars. The music erupts for moments with powerful guitar chords and passionate vocal lines to add some height and intensity. The almost mid song sparking solo breaks things up helping it to transition back to the flowing sounds of acoustic guitars and vocals. I always welcome songs that bring balance to an album rather then being all full guns blazing. The song continues to bounce between softer moments and ones with more oomph. Later in the song there is a small stint where the solo takes control on top of quick picking rhythms. It almost feels like an erruption of guitar notes. Excellent!
Fatal Destroyer is the closing song on the record and we return to that uptempo energy. This just like some of the earlier tracks has the momentum and charge you could want. Electrifying lead moments and the return of synths even gaining some of the spotlight. The vocals are full of heart and emotion, really going for it and putting on commanding performance. But mid way through it drops down to more acoustic guitars with sailing strings in the background to give the sense of drifting. The song transforms into a slightly hypnotic atmosphere, mellow and chilled with a bit of play in the guitar work. A very expected ending that helps the listeners ears to calm down after a huge adventure of an album.
Conclusion
This album closes with a strong sense of completeness, weaving together its heavier moments and softer passages into a journey that feels both expansive and carefully balanced. The interplay of synths, guitars, and vocals consistently delivers scale and emotion, while the shifts in pace and atmosphere keep the listener engaged from start to finish. By the time the final track fades, the record has offered not just energy and spectacle but also depth and reflection, leaving a lasting impression as a well‑crafted and rewarding listen.
TheNwothm Score: 8.5/10
Links
Bandcamp: https://houndsmetal.bandcamp.com/album/rise-of-the-immortals
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/houndsmetalband
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houndsmetal
Label: https://ironshieldrecords.de/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNOaqNRa3Pk
Read More Reviews
#HeavyMetal #Hounds #HoundsMetal #ironShieldRecords #NewAlbum #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #NWOTHM #thenwothmCom
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Review: Hounds “Rise of the Immortals”
Release date: 21st November 2025
Label: Iron Shield Records
6 minutesThe Nwothm
Review
The sound of galloping horses and chains awakens Knightmare Fight before shouts of Knightmare warms us up. The song takes full charge with a sound that all feels so heroic. Big synths act as bed for vocals that have a lot of power and throat. Like a stampede the music comes at you with pace and energetic riffs like your going into battle. If your the type of person that likes to wield plastic swords and axes at shows this is the son that is going to give you that opportunity.
Warrior is next up and at seven minutes in length lets see what unfolds. It cracks open with a ripping riff before an explosive solo erupts. This midtempo banger uses a mix of quick picking nad fiery rhythms to carry the song. But what I love is that there is a lot of changes in structure. There are exciting choruses which use cymbal hits, snare rolls and shouts of Warrior to get fans singing along. And just like the first track there are synth beds to add to that epicness creating width and scale. If your a fan of mighty solos and lead licks there is a plenty. From soaring solos that go to the skies to more chilled and smooth licks that cry out your ears will be serenaded! However there are some sections of the song I particularly love and that is when the vocals take a more heartfelt and deep delivery over rung out chords delivering a sense of wonderful height and expression! Excellent!
A.O.R. (All Out Running) opens with classic pulsating synths and squealing laser like guitar notes. Chords come roaring in with the bass and rolling drums before getting into the thick of things. A little lead section cracks its whip before the 4/4 driving rhythm pushes the song forward. The chugging that is locked with the drums literally has me gently banging my head while I am sat here writing this review. But once again the chorus does it for me making me throw my fist in the air shouting the song title with passion. And just like songs before there are some gentle pads in the background adding some thickness to the song. There is even more great lead work that will have you air guitaring at different moments. And even an interesting repeating note sequence on a synth before eventually returning with another huge sounding chorus. And when i say huge they literally go all out!
Lohengrin drops down to a more mellow and heartfelt direction. Slow drumming and bass lines are present with an atmosphere that carries delicate piano notes and semi acoustic guitars through the mist. Chords come in adding some weight before a lead guitar comes in weeping and letting out all its deepest emotions. And it is all magnificent. There are some bitter sweet feelings radiating from the instrumentation with regards to the choice of chords and notes. While there is a lot of brightness there are also moments which feel sad. This is an instrumental that gradually evolves, especially in the lead work which gets more intricate and sparks more flair. The fade out is very gradual which is a fitting end to the sing.
Rise Of The Immortals opens with a lonesome piano and intermittent stabs of rung out chords and cymbal hits. Gradually the piano picks up before a lead solo joins. It soon roars with everything thundering in. But all the while the piano continues at moments having more presence then others. Funnily enough the background melody reminds me of the James Bond theme. One thing that is album has not fallen short on is vocals that delivered fantastic performances. You can really feel the passion and heart with every line sung. A little solo comes makes an appearance before we move back to another verse. The music builds up adding some more complex drum patterns and then as we approach the half way mark there are some guitar screeches and shouts to break things up. Yet soon enough, we land on a small yet feisty guitar solo. The song powers on revisiting another verse and more guitar screeches and vocal shouts. When we land around the six minute mark everything drops down to more piano taking all the intensity away so we can breathe for a moment. The 4/4 drum patterns come back in along with the bass guitar and vocals soon enough going all out for the last moments of the song, especially with a hug ripping solo!
More piano welcomes us with the start of Still Believe. However this time there are some excellent guitar melodies to begin with. And rather then opting for huge instrumental passage the vocals come pretty much straight in over a gliding acoustic section where drums and bass gracefully carry the guitars. The music erupts for moments with powerful guitar chords and passionate vocal lines to add some height and intensity. The almost mid song sparking solo breaks things up helping it to transition back to the flowing sounds of acoustic guitars and vocals. I always welcome songs that bring balance to an album rather then being all full guns blazing. The song continues to bounce between softer moments and ones with more oomph. Later in the song there is a small stint where the solo takes control on top of quick picking rhythms. It almost feels like an erruption of guitar notes. Excellent!
Fatal Destroyer is the closing song on the record and we return to that uptempo energy. This just like some of the earlier tracks has the momentum and charge you could want. Electrifying lead moments and the return of synths even gaining some of the spotlight. The vocals are full of heart and emotion, really going for it and putting on commanding performance. But mid way through it drops down to more acoustic guitars with sailing strings in the background to give the sense of drifting. The song transforms into a slightly hypnotic atmosphere, mellow and chilled with a bit of play in the guitar work. A very expected ending that helps the listeners ears to calm down after a huge adventure of an album.
Conclusion
This album closes with a strong sense of completeness, weaving together its heavier moments and softer passages into a journey that feels both expansive and carefully balanced. The interplay of synths, guitars, and vocals consistently delivers scale and emotion, while the shifts in pace and atmosphere keep the listener engaged from start to finish. By the time the final track fades, the record has offered not just energy and spectacle but also depth and reflection, leaving a lasting impression as a well‑crafted and rewarding listen.
TheNwothm Score: 8.5/10
Links
Bandcamp: https://houndsmetal.bandcamp.com/album/rise-of-the-immortals
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/houndsmetalband
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houndsmetal
Label: https://ironshieldrecords.de/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNOaqNRa3Pk
Read More Reviews
#HeavyMetal #Hounds #HoundsMetal #ironShieldRecords #NewAlbum #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #NWOTHM #thenwothmCom
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Review: Hounds “Rise of the Immortals”
Release date: 21st November 2025
Label: Iron Shield Records
6 minutesThe Nwothm
Review
The sound of galloping horses and chains awakens Knightmare Fight before shouts of Knightmare warms us up. The song takes full charge with a sound that all feels so heroic. Big synths act as bed for vocals that have a lot of power and throat. Like a stampede the music comes at you with pace and energetic riffs like your going into battle. If your the type of person that likes to wield plastic swords and axes at shows this is the son that is going to give you that opportunity.
Warrior is next up and at seven minutes in length lets see what unfolds. It cracks open with a ripping riff before an explosive solo erupts. This midtempo banger uses a mix of quick picking nad fiery rhythms to carry the song. But what I love is that there is a lot of changes in structure. There are exciting choruses which use cymbal hits, snare rolls and shouts of Warrior to get fans singing along. And just like the first track there are synth beds to add to that epicness creating width and scale. If your a fan of mighty solos and lead licks there is a plenty. From soaring solos that go to the skies to more chilled and smooth licks that cry out your ears will be serenaded! However there are some sections of the song I particularly love and that is when the vocals take a more heartfelt and deep delivery over rung out chords delivering a sense of wonderful height and expression! Excellent!
A.O.R. (All Out Running) opens with classic pulsating synths and squealing laser like guitar notes. Chords come roaring in with the bass and rolling drums before getting into the thick of things. A little lead section cracks its whip before the 4/4 driving rhythm pushes the song forward. The chugging that is locked with the drums literally has me gently banging my head while I am sat here writing this review. But once again the chorus does it for me making me throw my fist in the air shouting the song title with passion. And just like songs before there are some gentle pads in the background adding some thickness to the song. There is even more great lead work that will have you air guitaring at different moments. And even an interesting repeating note sequence on a synth before eventually returning with another huge sounding chorus. And when i say huge they literally go all out!
Lohengrin drops down to a more mellow and heartfelt direction. Slow drumming and bass lines are present with an atmosphere that carries delicate piano notes and semi acoustic guitars through the mist. Chords come in adding some weight before a lead guitar comes in weeping and letting out all its deepest emotions. And it is all magnificent. There are some bitter sweet feelings radiating from the instrumentation with regards to the choice of chords and notes. While there is a lot of brightness there are also moments which feel sad. This is an instrumental that gradually evolves, especially in the lead work which gets more intricate and sparks more flair. The fade out is very gradual which is a fitting end to the sing.
Rise Of The Immortals opens with a lonesome piano and intermittent stabs of rung out chords and cymbal hits. Gradually the piano picks up before a lead solo joins. It soon roars with everything thundering in. But all the while the piano continues at moments having more presence then others. Funnily enough the background melody reminds me of the James Bond theme. One thing that is album has not fallen short on is vocals that delivered fantastic performances. You can really feel the passion and heart with every line sung. A little solo comes makes an appearance before we move back to another verse. The music builds up adding some more complex drum patterns and then as we approach the half way mark there are some guitar screeches and shouts to break things up. Yet soon enough, we land on a small yet feisty guitar solo. The song powers on revisiting another verse and more guitar screeches and vocal shouts. When we land around the six minute mark everything drops down to more piano taking all the intensity away so we can breathe for a moment. The 4/4 drum patterns come back in along with the bass guitar and vocals soon enough going all out for the last moments of the song, especially with a hug ripping solo!
More piano welcomes us with the start of Still Believe. However this time there are some excellent guitar melodies to begin with. And rather then opting for huge instrumental passage the vocals come pretty much straight in over a gliding acoustic section where drums and bass gracefully carry the guitars. The music erupts for moments with powerful guitar chords and passionate vocal lines to add some height and intensity. The almost mid song sparking solo breaks things up helping it to transition back to the flowing sounds of acoustic guitars and vocals. I always welcome songs that bring balance to an album rather then being all full guns blazing. The song continues to bounce between softer moments and ones with more oomph. Later in the song there is a small stint where the solo takes control on top of quick picking rhythms. It almost feels like an erruption of guitar notes. Excellent!
Fatal Destroyer is the closing song on the record and we return to that uptempo energy. This just like some of the earlier tracks has the momentum and charge you could want. Electrifying lead moments and the return of synths even gaining some of the spotlight. The vocals are full of heart and emotion, really going for it and putting on commanding performance. But mid way through it drops down to more acoustic guitars with sailing strings in the background to give the sense of drifting. The song transforms into a slightly hypnotic atmosphere, mellow and chilled with a bit of play in the guitar work. A very expected ending that helps the listeners ears to calm down after a huge adventure of an album.
Conclusion
This album closes with a strong sense of completeness, weaving together its heavier moments and softer passages into a journey that feels both expansive and carefully balanced. The interplay of synths, guitars, and vocals consistently delivers scale and emotion, while the shifts in pace and atmosphere keep the listener engaged from start to finish. By the time the final track fades, the record has offered not just energy and spectacle but also depth and reflection, leaving a lasting impression as a well‑crafted and rewarding listen.
TheNwothm Score: 8.5/10
Links
Bandcamp: https://houndsmetal.bandcamp.com/album/rise-of-the-immortals
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/houndsmetalband
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houndsmetal
Label: https://ironshieldrecords.de/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNOaqNRa3Pk
Read More Reviews
#HeavyMetal #Hounds #HoundsMetal #ironShieldRecords #NewAlbum #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #NWOTHM #thenwothmCom