In Memory of Legendary Houston Metal Scene Champion BILL BATES (1962-2016)

Bill "The Master" Bates (December 15, 1962 - February 21, 2016)

Bill "The Master" Bates was loved in the Houston, Texas metal music underground. He was important through his role as a host of the metal music show Sweet Nightmares at 90.1 KPFT, starting in the 1980s, a home for extreme metal music on the FM dial: thrash, speed, death and black metal, and doom and prog and some crazy experimental metal, too. Bill championed local metal: Helstar, deadhorse, and Imprecation and man others. He invited unsigned acts to bring in their demo tapes and promoting local club dates at venues like The Axiom and Fitzgerald's.

In the metal music scene in Houston, Bill was loved by musicians, metal music supporters and friends in general. Bill played all types of metal music on the Sweet Nightmares radio show on KPFT 90.1 FM, including Texas bands and there are many local Houston metal musicians whose songs Bill played.

Bill’s love of metal music and music in general goes back a long time and he was practically a walking library of knowledge. Bill was obsessed with metal and other like-minded people would recognize a kindred spirit in Bill, who affectionately was called “The Master,” which is a joke within the name Bill “The Master” Bates. Bill was also very funny and had lots of hilarious and embarrassing stories about your favorite bands, Texas bands, and himself. There is a reason why people genuinely loved Bill and it’s because he was kind. That is the Bill that many of us knew.

The older generation knew Bill through the original metal music show Sweet Nightmares that started in the 1980s and that was hosted by Bill and his friend Wes Weaver (1964-2021). Wes (ex-Imprecation, ex-Infernal Dominion) is the guitarist for the death metal band Blaspherian. For many, the names Bill and Wes, Wes and Bill, were said together as if they were twins. These two metal personalities have played a big role in turning people on to new metal music, especially extreme metal.

Below you will find comments about Bill, a Houston Press article about Sweet Nightmares after Bill died, and a YouTube audio of an old show in which you can hear Bill's voice between songs.

Many people have said wonderful things about Bill and it is impossible to put all those comments together in one place. These are some words that friends and musicians and others said about Bill at the time of his death:

Bill had not been well for a long time, and for the recent period dj Herman García has kept the show going. It is important that Herman has stepped up to do the show.

Many people have said wonderful things about Bill and it is impossible to put all those comments together in one place. These are some words that friends and musicians and others have said about Bill:

Bill The Master Bates, Houston has lost one of the undergrounds most influential radio personal in music. Not only was Bill Bates a radio personal that played some of the most brutal music to ever get radio time by anyone, he was also an energetic fan of the sounds of the underground. I first had the honor and pleasure of meeting Bill when I was in my early 20's Ive always been a fan Of what Bill Bates and Wes Weaver had accomplished on 90.1 Kpft Sweet Nightmares. What these guys did inspired me to be the musician that I became by playing the music that I wanted to hear instead of playing commercial music that was not getting my attention. Thanks Bill for being apart of the Houston Metal Scene and never giving up on the music. What you guys did up at KPFT was establish a ground zero for all local metal heads. Rest easy, and be at peace. \m/

Rivethead Magazine celebrates the life and mourns the passing of our old friend Bill Bates. Early RH staff writer and longtime host of the KPFT "Sweet Nightmares" radio show, Bill was and will always be a legendary icon to the underground Houston scene. Here he writes about Sweet Nightmares from RH Issue #8, June of 1989. Thanks for everything you ever did, brother. Someone should read the last paragraph of this at your funeral.

Herman: Last night was kind of tough. We played some of Bill's favorite bands including deadhorse, Helstar and Trouble. We talked about some of memories of Bill Bates and then what blew me away was Bill's mom calling to thank us for doing the show and to say she was still in awe of how important her son was to the community. Important indeed. No one can fit in those shoes. But we will keep going at it and I hope all of you continue to tune in. \m/ \m/

One thing a lot of us agreed. Bill Bates must have sensed this time was coming. He was going to shows, he set up shows and he made it to the radio station. It was almost like he was saying his goodbye as he made his final tour. He touched so many but he was trying real hard to show people no matter what you are suffering, you still need to make time for friends, family and most important do what you can to help your friends in the metal community stay strong. This last week I am seeing so many people stand united in their love for Bill. For that say thank you. He would want you all to know that. So tomorrow one more tough day to say our goodbyes. Then we can continue to share our memories of him. He may have passed, but he will never be forgotten.

Wes: Just got back from the Bill Bates viewing, he looked really good. I had to say a last goodbye since i missed him after his departure from the hospital. Was really sad, but they had him in his sweet nightmares t-shirt, and an astros jacket, kinda fitting with how much he loved the radio show and the astros, well sports in general....Good bye old friend, i'll see you on the other side some time.

sitting at home today, with the baby...remembering the old school days and thinking of all the crazy times with Bill Bates I remembered this video, shot by Sean Sitka, from Vinnie Labella's house (EXHORDER), in 1990 in New Orleans....with bills physical problems,i think the exhorder guys thought it a little funny so Vinnie wrote 'side actions blues' some good natured ribbing and Bill makes his appearance at the 5:25 mark unphased and having a great time...always laughing....

Rubén Elizondo: I was deeply saddened to hear the news on Bill's passing. He played a huge part in the Houston Metal Scene. He did so much for many people, including myself. In the late 80s he managed Dark Reign. In 1990 Bill got us on the whole Texas Tour with Morbid Angel. By 1991 he got us two dates with Death here in Houston and New Orleans. He supported many bands in Houston by giving them air play, as well as setting up shows. Bill even handled all of the paper work to purchase my house for me and my wife. Thank you for your 30 year friendship Bill, I was honored to get the chance to know you. There will never be another Bill Bates. R.I.P.

Andrew Apollyon: I hope I'm able to perform the Bill Bates tribute show with my old band Hideously Defleshed. It would be an honour to pay tribute and support a true Houston legend. Bill Bates was a true gentlemen and class act. He always supported hideously defleshed as you can see from the pic below and played our music on k.p.f.t TheEjacula SweetNightmares often. If we are unable to perform the show due to the fact I'm leaving to the Middle East soon and my job may not allow me to take time off from work at the last moment for the show I will make sure we will donate a nice amount of funds to his benefit. Thank you Mr. Bill Bates we ❤ you...

Jerry Warden: Bill Bates was on the air at KPFT in Houston when I hosted The Metal Show on KNON in Dallas from '86-'89 and he continued to host Sweet Nightmares into 2016. I knew him as a fellow promoter of metal at a time when community radio was the only source for metal music. Later, I was a fan as I listened to him in S.Texas penitentiaries. Upon my return home, I reacquainted myself w/ Bill and conveyed my respect for his longevity on the air. He asked my band, WarlockTexas, to open for Satan as the direct support band at Numbers in Houston and asked me more than once to attend his last show featuring Insecticide, a band we both played on the air and hosted in the '80s. I wish I would've attended your last show, Bill, bc I have the utmost respect for u. U are The ******* Master.

Joshua James Merritt: Bill Bates, family and friends. I want to apologize for not coming to the service today... I simply cannot do viewings anymore... I want my last visual memory of him to be that happy smile of his sitting on the side of the Fitz stage watching Venom Inc, not of him in a casket... my eyes are watering up just typing this.... and for the record, when I depart, NO VIEWING, please. I will have words for our fallen comrade tonight on my radio show. Bill, we love you and we are all missing you dearly.

Dobber Beverly: A preshow shot for Bill Bates tonight. A tie that has been the bind for so many of us since we were kids jamming 90.1. Being able to turn that radio on and jam with pals you know and friends you didn't know yet. I wouldn't know half the people I know now if it wasn't for Bill and he was a hell of a dude. Rest in peace my friend and see you cats tomorrow!

Richard Cagle: Voices came out in 1990... It was a collection of Metal Bands from around the region that I put out on Saturn Records... It was well received in Europe and helped promote the Texas/Louisiana metal scene... Joe Claytor (Band Manager/Local Promoter) and Bill Bates (Sweet Nightmares, KPFT Radio DJ), both helped me put this together... without them, I doubt it would have gotten done or been as successful as it was at the time. With the passing of Bill this week, I've been reflecting on how both Joe and Bill helped and influenced the whole Metal scene in the 90s. They will both be missed... I thank them for all that they did.. Rest in Peace my friends....

John Fossum: Extremely sad to hear of the passing of Bill Bates. A dedicated, passionate music scene pioneer, promoter, fan and friend. When I moved to the Houston area in 1984, Bill was one of the first people I met. I listened religiously to the "Sweet Nightmares" radio show on KPFT that he and Wes Weaver made into a Metal program staple. I'm glad to have known him. It was a true honour. I have no doubt that he is yucking it up with Lemmy right now. Rest in peace, brotherman.

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Sweet Nightmares: A KPFT Show That Delivers The Metal

DAVID ROZYCKI

SEPTEMBER 20, 2018 (Houston Press article)

Local metal fans bored with commercial rock radio stations here in Houston really need to check out Sweet Nightmares, a show hosted by Bryan Posey (aka DJ Metallord) and Gilbert Issac Castaneda (aka Kill Casta), which airs weekly on Thursdays from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. on 90.1 FM KPFT and on the web. Many new listeners are surprised to learn that the show has been on the air for 30 years and is one of KPFT’s longest running programs. A cool thing is if you are an early riser and can’t stay up late to listen live on Thursdays you can listen to a few weeks’ archived shows on the KPFT website.

The current hosting team of Posey and Castaneda will celebrate their one year anniversary on Sweet Nightmares together on September 20. For many of the show’s previous years Bill “The Master” Bates co-hosted the show with Wes Weaver of Houston death metal band Blaspherian and then on his own. Bates suffered from a number of health problems late in his life and passed away in February of 2016; he was much loved in the Houston metal community and an all-day memorial concert to help raise money for his family after his death was held at Scout Bar in March 2016.

“We all miss Bill Bates very much, may he rest in peace, but we try and keep this going on in his memory because he would want that,” explains Posey. “This show was very important to him and it’s important to a lot of people man. I really have realized how important it is now doing this on the other side now and it still is relevant to this day.”

A memorial plaque dedicated to Bill Bates is hanging on a wall at KPFT as well as a small pamphlet given out at his funeral. I asked Posey if the show has changed any since Bates passed.

“I always say we keep it updated without outdating it, you know,” explains Posey. “We try to mix the new with the old, and I’ve done polls on Sweet Nightmares Facebook page on what people would rather hear — the old stuff or the newer stuff — and usually it’s 50/50, a little bit of both, so we’re getting really good feedback. I think Bill would be very happy with the way it’s going and what’s going on with it, yes I do.”

Before Posey joined the show, Castaneda co-hosted the show for 3 years with Herman Garcia, who did an excellent job as well but had to leave due to Hurricane Harvey which devastated the lives of so many people in the Houston area.

“He lost his house and everything in the hurricane,” says Posey. “His girlfriend lives in Tennessee so he was like, screw it I don’t have nothing here I might as well move to Tennessee. He didn’t want to do it but they were planning on either her moving down here or him moving up there but there was no sense in her coming down here since the house was gone… He pretty much had to pick up the pieces and start over his life and move there. He really, really didn’t want to go and he hated leaving the show.”

Posey adds that Garcia asked him to replace him on the show since he thought Posey would be the best person to do it with his history within the Houston metal scene, his knowledge of the bands and his previous years of experience as an Internet DJ with Hard Rock Radio Live and his own Nuclear Rock Radio website. Posey also has booked Houston metal shows past and present with his Throne of Metal Promotions & Bookings.

“I didn’t jump on it right away, I thought about it,” explains Posey. “I actually spoke with previous host Wes Weaver before agreeing to do it and he said ‘I think you should take it’ and so that pretty much sealed the deal for me.”

The current hosts of Sweet Nightmares represent two different generations of metalheads, with Posey being in his 40s and Castaneda, who got the shortened nickname Casta because some of his friends had trouble pronouncing his last name, is in his 20s. Posey had been a fan of Sweet Nightmares for many years while Castaneda discovered it more recently.

“If it weren’t for Josh (Rivera) from Thraxis I wouldn’t even know about this gig,” explains Castaneda. “He told me I have a great radio voice and how would I like to put it to use? That’s how I got hooked up for this gig and ever since then I’ve loved it. Every week that I’m here I’m learning about new jams.”

Posey and Castaneda get up to the station an hour to an hour and a half before the show each week and talk about music and what they are going to play on the show; they work together like a well-oiled machine at this point.

I asked the guys how they became such big fans of metal music in the first place.

“When I was way young, when I was a kid, I grew up in a house full of girls with four sisters and my mom so they were always playing pop, hip-hop, or R&B, but I knew that none of that was my cup of tea,” explains Castaneda. “I remember what got me hooked was hearing on the radio on a classic rock station was Twisted Sister’s ‘I Wanna Rock’ and that was the song that was pretty catchy to me and I thought it was really good but I didn’t know what other music that was similar to that to listen to at that time. I was jamming to some hard rock and some alternative jams and I was just thinking like some of these are good but I feel like it needs more aggression, and I’m that type that started exploring more music on the Internet, and then I went to my cousin’s house and he had all these vinyl albums and CDs, stuff like Dethklok, Exodus, Warbringer, CKY, a variety of different types of metal that he got me hooked to. Then I got into some classic metal and the new wave of thrash metal and it just expanded from there.”

Years earlier Posey discovered metal music from a relative as well.

“When I was a kid, my uncle had all these vinyl albums — rock music, hard rock music. I’m talking stuff like Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, I mean literally like hundreds if not thousands of albums,” Posey explained. “I was just fascinated. I remember being 8 or 9 years old looking at Ozzy Osbourne’s Diary of A Madman album going ‘wow dude this looks cool!’ And then Kiss was the band that really started me into hard rock and stuff. As I got to be a teenager, I discovered Twisted Sister, Quiet Riot, all that stuff, and then it just got harder and more extreme. I was there for the birth of thrash metal, the second wave of punk, a lot of the New York City hardcore stuff, and death metal. It became an obsession and it’s a part of me, it’s like my being… rock metal music, it’s always been there for me and it’s helped me through a lot of things.”

Posey and Castaneda like metal so much they both became drummers, playing in several different bands over the years and they both agree the music is a very big and important part of their lives, not just some trivial or slight thing.

“This is me, this is how I am and I always will be until they throw the freaking dirt on me,” explained Posey. “I didn’t want to be a doctor, I didn’t want to be a lawyer. I wanted to be a freaking rock star.”

The extreme metal music played on Sweet Nightmares is an obsession to their listeners as well; people all over the world listen to the show via the Internet, in addition to the local fans who listen live on the radio and call in to win free tickets to shows each week. The program even has a number of fans who are serving time in prison; Posey showed me some of the letters they have sent in to the show thanking Sweet Nightmares for the music they play.

Posey and I are about the same age and we reminisced a little bit about how some people thought metal music was literally evil and earnestly satanic back in the 80s; the metal music scene was also more of a boy’s club back then while today it is a lot different.

“It’s really changed now because there are a lot of women fronting bands and there are certain women who are freaking shredders and just unbelievable guitarists,” explained Posey. “The ladies hold their own man. I know some gals that are heavier than some dudes you know that are into metal. The reason [my wife and I] got together was because of rock and metal music. We’ve been married for 20 years now.”

“In the metal community, everyone just makes you feel like family, especially when you’re at shows,” said Castaneda. “Sometimes people like to be judgmental just because they see a guy with long hair…but whenever you go to a metal show it just makes you feel like you’re with your family, with your brothers, your sisters. It’s a metal bond that everyone has.”

Sweet Nightmares airs weekly on Thursday nights starting at 11 p.m. on 90.1 FM KPFT and online at kpft.org

sweet nightmares bill bates

In Memory of TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA keyboardist Vitalij Kuprij (1974-2024)

Vitalij Kuprij (July 4th, 1974 - February 20, 2024)

Vitalij Kuprij was a classically trained pianist that studied at the Mykola Lyssenko Music Academy in Ukraine, the Basel Conservatoire in Switzerland and Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. Amongst metal fans, he is known for his work with TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA and lightning-fast neoclassical shred style. His metal discography includes progressive metal albums with Artension, such as Into the Eye of the Storm (1996), Phoenix Rising (1997), and Forces of Nature (1999). He was also in Ring of Fire, performing on The Oracle (2001), Dreamtower (2002), and their 2022 comeback Gravity, while releasing solo albums like High Definition (1997), Extreme Measures (1998), and Progression (2020). Below is the article from Blabbermouth

from BLABBERMOUTH

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA Keyboard Maestro VITALIJ KUPRIJ Dead At 49

February 21, 2024

Ukrainian-American maestro Vitalij Kuprij, a classically trained virtuoso who has played with progressive metal bands ARTENSION and RING OF FIRE and toured with TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, has died at the age of 49. No cause of death has yet been revealed.

Kuprij's passing was confirmed by his longtime friend, Finnish guitarist, songwriter, and producer Lars Eric Mattsson, who wrote on his Facebook page: "Woke up to really sad news this morning as my dear friend and keyboard maestro Vitalij Kuprij has passed away last night. The Ukranian born virtuoso was living in Philadelphia and recently came off another hugely successful tour with the TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA.

I have known and worked with Vitalij for over 20 years and he always talked about seeing me here in Finland to go fishing, which was his second love after music. We have recorded together several times, first time was for the debut album of BOOK OF REFLECTIONS 20 years ago and then later for my MATTSSON concept album War. My record label Lion Music Record Label has released a lot of his music including three solo albums, his band ARTENSION and more.

"You will be deeply missed my friend!"

Earlier today, TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA released the following statement: "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our dear friend and bandmate, Vitalij Kuprij. He was a world-renowned classical pianist and composer.

"In 2010, Vitalij joined TSO for the inaugural 'Beethoven's Last Night' tour and seamlessly became an integral part of the band. His flawless and energetic performances consistently captivated audiences, and many of you came to know and love him as much as we did. Beyond his musical prowess, Vitalij was an accomplished chess player, an avid fisherman, and simply a fun-loving soul. His absence will be profoundly felt by all.

"Rest in peace, Vitalij. You will be deeply missed."

Kuprij, born 1974 in Volodarka, Kiev, Ukraine, has international acclaim for his classical background and training while also transitioning seamlessly to neo-classical, progressive rock and metal.

A graduate of the Curtis School of Music in Philadelphia and a resident of Reading, Pennsylvania, Kuprij was an in-demand musician throughout the United States and abroad. He had performed in France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Poland, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union. The recipient of many distinguished musical honors in several countries, he won the prestigious first prize as the youngest person to compete in the All-Union Chopin Competition held in the Soviet Union, the gold medal in the Kiev Conservatory Competition and the Mykola Lyssenko Competition in the Ukraine. He also received first prize in the Geneva Duo Competition for Violin and Piano as well as the gold medal in the Piano 80 and Swiss Youth Competition, the Chicago Piano Competition, the New York Piano Competition, and the Cleveland Piano Competition.

In 1999, he was selected as the soloist to perform composer Liszt's Piano Concerto #1 with the New York Youth Symphony at Carnegie Hall. He later had his solo Carnegie Hall debut where he played two encores followed by performances at Alice Tully Hall and Avery Fisher Hall.

Although well-known for his classical training and technique, Kuprij's crossover ability into neo-classical and rock made him a famous name amongst his peers. He had numerous albums under the Marquee Avalon and Yamaha labels, hits on the Japanese charts, and has given master classes and workshops at colleges and universities across the country. He began touring with the TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA in 2009, after being discovered through Internet clips of his incredible keyboard work. The ORCHESTRA, although best known for its renditions of Christmas songs, is a touring progressive rock group which brought back the rock opera with its dazzling pyrotechnic light show.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Wish Liszt - Featuring Vitalij Kuprij and Jane Mangini (in memory of VK)

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - King Rurik (from the 2015 album Letters from the Labyrinth)

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Winter Palace

Vitalij Kuprij - Encores

Artension - The Forces of Nature

REVIEW - Cryptic Shift: Overspace & Supertime (lunatic prog-tech extreme metal)

Cryptic Shift

Overspace & Supertime

Metal Blade Records

February 27, 2026

In truth, I am too much of an ignorant to really understand this record. Look, have you ever seen the old episodes of Star Trek? Those the ones with the Captain Kirk? In those shows, they have some noises... how do you say? Garly space-age sounds. It is what the people, the population at large, they come to imagine are the noises of space: the travel of the stars, the big machines in the vacuum, the sounds of the alien planets, and all those things. Well, then. These Brits, they must have been thinking, "How do we play the metal? The extreme, technical, progressive metal?" And then they decided to throw all those science fictions into the music. It is a thing most strange, but there it is.

Metal Archives shows that this British prog-extreme metal band began in 2011, having released two EPs and one album in 2020 before this new one in 2026. I have been wondering why the album feels like too much, but this band went the route of self-indulgent prog-tech metal, and they are shameless about it all. The album is long, to say the least; I mean, just look at this information: "Cryogenically Frozen" (09:24), "Stratocumulus Evergaol" (29:26 --twenty-nine minutes!), "Hyperspace Topography" (09:40), "Hexagonal Eyes (Diverity Trepaphymphasyzm)" (10:05), and "Overspace & Supertime" (20:22 -twenty minutes!), totaling a massive 01:18:57. No wonder my small knuckledragger brain cannot process this album; I think we need Albert Einstein and the Captain Kirk to unravel this mystery.

This album is crazy enought to the Rush Gedddy Lee say aloud to this band, "Guys, perhaps you have too many rhythm changes maybe?! Don't get me wrong, I love it, but you know, I could be wrong, but this album is maybe too smart for the general population?" But this band does not care! They do what they want to! Therefore, while the Geddy Lee and I may have some problems understanding the music, these guys are like roaming hyenas in space looking for those listeners that want: Adventure! Excitement! Complexity! An album that will take six years to understand! Six years because that's how long they need until they make a new one. It took six years to make this one.

The jazz-metal-from-space has arrived and it is called Cryptic Shift. I need my helmet for this one! May the force be with you. Live long and prosper, Cryptic Shift.

Overspace & Supertime by Cryptic Shift

Cryptic Shift - Hexagonal Eyes (Diverity Trepaphymphaszym) (Official Video)

https://www.facebook.com/crypticshift

REVIEW - Impending Doom: Holy Death single (deathcore)

"Holy Death" is a new single for the long-running American deathcore band Impending Doom (2005-present). The Metal Archives shows that it was released on the February 6, 2026. Impending Doom's sound is, I would say, heavy-duty, groove-laden brutality with outrageously screamed-out animal-farm growled vocals. While the band is not going to make it to the top of commercial radio rock charts any time soon (Do they have any plans to cover Lynyrd Skynyrd's "Free Bird" or Black Sabbath's "Changes" ha!), the Metal Archives shows that they have been active for twenty years, releasing the albums, singles, and EPs.

On the new single, Impending Doom is doing the Impending Doom things: basement-shaking guttural screams and wall-rattling low-heavy frequencies. This music is so heavy (How heavy is it?!) that even the guitars sound like bass guitars. There is no sweet melodic songwriting to be found, only truly ugly, hideous music with intense faith-based lyrics. Impending Doom is about as subtle as a raging bull in a china shop. To accompany the pure ugliness that is their music, they have the lyrical imagery to scare away the weak-stomached: wolves and sheep, snakes, and devils. It's the band calling it as they see it.

Previously, in 2025, they set as their opening track "Christ Is King" for their EP Towards the Light. Well, in 2026, the new song continues with the sledgehammer strategy of attack on all fronts, from the sick production to the horrendous vocals, the subterranean grooves, and brutal lyrics. All of this to say that all is well with Impending Doom! Let's hear more of it in 2026. This single should please fans looking for some awesome deathcore. Here is the YouTube link. It looks like the song is not yet on Bandcamp, but it is available on the music services now.

Impending Doom | Holy Death (Official Lyric Video)

https://www.facebook.com/impendingdoom

ARCH ENEMY - To The Last Breath (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

Blabbermouth reports on the new Arch Enemy song with the new singer

Arch Enemy Recruits Ex-ONCE HUMAN Singer LAUREN HART, Shares 'To The Last Breath' Single

This in an excerpt from the Blabbermouth, which has the entire story.

Swedish/American extreme metal powerhouse ARCH ENEMY are charging into a new chapter as they unveil the first new musical piece after their latest album cycle with "Blood Dynasty".

The new single "To The Last Breath" is a testament to the band's legacy, and a step towards a new exciting era of ARCH ENEMY: "To The Last Breath" comes not only with powerful music but is also the first ARCH ENEMY song to feature the latest addition to the lineup — new singer Lauren Hart (ex-ONCE HUMAN).

Michael Amott, guitarist and founder of ARCH ENEMY, comments: "Connecting with Lauren has marked an important step in my journey. Working with her was an exceptional experience — her remarkable voice, coupled with her dedication and professionalism, brings a rare level of excellence. I look forward to continuing the collaboration."

While fans and media alike have been rapidly speculating about who might step into the role behind the microphone, the band remained tight-lipped as the anticipation built to a feverous pitch across the metal community. Now, ARCH ENEMY are back in full force, presenting their ferocious new anthem "To The Last Breath"

ARCH ENEMY - To The Last Breath (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

Siege Perilous "Becoming the Dragon" | Official Power Metal Music Video

Colorado power‑metal storytellers Siege Perilous are unschackling the official music video for “Becoming the Dragon,” the climactic title track from their upcoming concept album “Becoming the Dragon,” due out March 27, 2026.

The new video marks the band’s most ambitious visual project to date, capturing the album’s central transformation moment, where the protagonist embraces destiny, defies cosmic fate, and ascends into mythic power. The track arrives as the band continues to build momentum following the release of their first single, “As the Dragon Falls” (feat. Fabio Lione).​

​“‘Becoming the Dragon’ forms the critical climax of the story of our album. We wanted to capture something beyond just fantasy; it’s about defying fate, defying the stars, and embracing the power within. There are moments in life where we either transform or perish, and this song embodies that choice. It’s the moment our hero unlocks the true power inside him, and we think the track shows that transformation expertly,” says vocalist Shaughnessy McDaniel.

The song features thunderous drums, soaring vocals, shredding solos, and a standout bass interlude that drives the track toward its explosive finale. Musically, it represents the band’s evolution into a more cinematic, orchestrated, and emotionally charged sound.

A sweeping ten‑chapter concept record, “Becoming the Dragon” follows the “Child of Prophecy” through destiny, denial, destruction, and ultimately transcendence. The album blends classic heavy metal roots with modern symphonic power metal, drawing influence from Blind Guardian, Rhapsody, Iron Maiden, Avantasia, and Sabaton.

The record features guest performances from two major voices in modern power metal, Fabio Lione (Rhapsody, Angra) on “As the Dragon Falls”, and Kristin Starkey (Twilight Force, Temperance) on the power ballad “Echoes of Home”.

​“Creating a massive, sweeping power‑metal epic has been a dream since before we even formed this band. Having Fabio and Kristin join us, two artists who inspired us long before Siege Perilous existed, is beyond anything we imagined when we started this project four years ago,” says McDaniel.

Forged in Colorado’s fantasy‑driven LARP community, Siege Perilous formed after McDaniel, guitarist Scott Hancock, and drummer Mark Girard were inspired by a 2021 Unleash the Archers show in Denver. Joined by bassist Eric Fischer (The Stubby Shillelaghs) and later guitarist/arranger Ryan Flanagan, the band has built a reputation for crafting epic, story‑driven metal that blends myth, history, and cinematic world‑building.

Their sound, described in five words as Epic, Melodic, Powerful, Cinematic, Story‑Driven, has evolved through collaborative songwriting, theatrical live performances, and a commitment to narrative‑focused metal.

Recommended for fans of Wind Rose, Hammerfall, Sabaton, Blind Guardian, and Iron Maiden, “Becoming the Dragon” is due out on March 27, 2026 and available for pre-order / pre-save at the following link:

Siege Perilous "Becoming the Dragon" | Official Power Metal Music Video

Siege Perilous "As the Dragon Falls" (feat. Fabio Lione) | Official Power Metal Music Video

Based in Colorado, Siege Perilous is a power metal band that focuses on stories about history and fantasy. The group started out in 2021 with Shaughnessy McDaniel (vocals), Scott Hancock (guitar), and Mark Girard (drums). They later added Eric Fischer on bass and Ryan Flanagan on guitar to fill out their sound. The band members are big into history and roleplaying games, and they use those hobbies to come up with their lyrics and how they look on stage. The band is getting ready to put out their first full album, Becoming the Dragon, on March 27, 2026. It is a concept album with ten songs and features guest singers Fabio Lione and Kristin Starkey. After putting out a few EPs and singles over the last few years, like Creation's Call, this new record will be their first time telling a full-length story through their music.

Below are some samples of the press reaction so far:

“It gives me great pleasure to tell you that Creation’s Call is a blast. Siege Perilous has succeeded in creating what I would call Epic Power Metal for the Working Man. They don’t waste your time with overlong symphonic interludes between tracks, melodramatic narration, or overproduction that tests the limits of your sanity. The band gets right to the point and pulls you into their epic tales of heroic daring immediately. This is a nice breath of fresh air and if this EP is anything to go by, Siege Perilous has a great future ahead of them. Yes, this could be considered power metal but the no-nonsense approach and urgency to the songwriting makes this release absolutely worth checking out for those of us in the NWOTHM scene. Plus, it’s really just a lot of fun. This one is highly recommended. THENWOTHM SCORE: 9/10” – The NWOTHM

“‘Creation’s Call’ never gets boring, even on Heavy Rotation. Five gifted musicians have succeeded in creating a varied EP. The twin guitar solos are convincing the whole time. It’s just a shame that it ends after twenty-one minutes. It makes you wish for a full-length album. And, of course, a thrilling live performance. 9.3/10” – Metalheads Forever Magazine​

“solid power metal style that should satiate any LARP-attendees or Dungeons and Dragons mavens. Keep an eye on this quintet – wield thy sword as they lead the battle charge for more quality power metal from the states. 8/10” – Dead Rhetoric

“There are any number of quality bands like Siege Perilous active right now but the style is popular (and I love it) and these guys are as decent as the next similar act. They lean more the Metal side of the equation using the folk and orchestral moments as flavour, not the main style. CREATION’S CALL is a fine effort and I could easily see them on tour with Brothers Of Metal, All For Metal, Fellowship and other costumed Metal heroes. Worth checking out!” 4/5 – Metal Rules​

“Denver metal mob reckon that their goal on “Creation’s Call” was to build a world and tell a story in “three to five minutes.” It’s a world of fantasy, as “Oathsworn” proves, where metal rules and swords are held high. “Across The Rubicon,” however, is delivered with such skill that you can’t resist getting sucked in with them. Shaughnessy McDaniel has a brilliant “metal” voice, roaring on “Sons Of The Verdant,” and guitar duo Scott Hancock and Cody Martinez can knock out a NWOBHM riff like it’s 1982, as the title song underlines. “Brothers Of Five” brings the epic one last time, galloping in proper fashion, and it’ll be interesting to see how Siege Perilous develops. This is one hell of an opening statement, mind you. 8.5/10” – Maximum Volume Music

“Creation’s Call not only highlights Siege Perilous’ dedication to epic storytelling but also emphasises their versatility within the power metal genre. With influences ranging from historical events to high fantasy, this EP offers a rich and varied auditory experience that will captivate fans. Prepare to embark on a grand journey through myth and history as Siege Perilous delivers their latest saga.” – Amplify The Noise​

“Creation’s Call it is a cohesive and well-crafted work, where the combination of rich letters in history and fantasy, with a meticulous musical execution, it makes mandatory, regardless of its short duration. [82%]” – Via Nocturna

“Creation’s Call doesn’t get boring even in heavy rotation. Five gifted musicians have created a varied EP. The solos of the twin guitars are convincing across the board. It’s just a shame that it’s over after twenty-one minutes. You want a full-length album. And of course a sweaty live performance. 9.4/10” – Keep On Rocking​

“Colorfully mixed NWOTHM/Epic Heavy/Power Metal elixir that appeals to a broad range of fans between ALESTORM, BATTLEROAR, ETERNAL CHAMPION, GATEKEEPER, IRON MAIDEN, RUNNING WILD and WRATHBLADE. Awakens a huge appetite for a full long-play album. On this EP you can clearly see that the band has enormous potential and has already given a great taste of their skills. Conclusion: Strong-looking genretobak that falls out of the usual range! 8,5/10” – FFM-Rock​

““Oathsworn” simply explodes out of the gate. The band ratchets every possible dial up to 11 and charges into battle with an epic statement of intent.” – Nine Circles​

““Brothers Of The Five” offers classic power metal as you would appreciate it. The strain on the neck muscles is correspondingly high and in some places the number cannot deny a slight Maiden stable smell.” – Hellfire Magazin

Siege Perilous "As the Dragon Falls" (feat. Fabio Lione) | Official Power Metal Music Video

https://www.facebook.com/siegeband/

In Memory of AC/DC vocalist Bon Scott

Ronald Belford "Bon" Scott (9 July 1946 – 19 February 1980)

Bon Scott is the legendary frontman for AC/DC during their 1970s rise to the international world of hard rock and heavy metal. I think rock fans all probably know that hardcore AC/DC fan that prefers the Bon Scott era, even while still loving the Brian Johnson albums! Scott Ian from Anthrax thinks Bon Scott is the best there ever was! Bon sang on those classic albums like High Voltage, Let There Be Rock, and Highway to Hell. Bon was like a poet of the street with his lyrics: funny, ridiculous, real, and all on the rock 'n' roll lifestyle. However, his death is a cautionary tale: after a night of heavy drinking in London, he was left unconscious in a car and died from acute alcohol poisoning, having choked on his own vomit. This tragic end serves as a reminder of how an ego-driven, self-centered lifestyle and drugs will end.

AC/DC - Let There Be Rock (Apollo Theatre, Glasgow, April 1978)

Happy birthday to Seth Morrison from Skillet!

Seth Morrison was born on February 19, 1988, and is the lead guitarist for the American hard rock band Skillet. He joined the lineup in April 2011 as the replacement for Ben Kasica. He has worked with them in studio and touring. Seth has contributed lead guitar work to five consecutive Skillet studio albums: Rise (2013), Unleashed (2016), Victorious (2019), Dominion (2022), and Revolution (2024).

Skillet - Unpopular (Official Music Video)

Nevermore - The Obsidian Conspiracy (Vocal Cover - Berzan Önen)

Some five years ago before Berzan Önen became the new Nevermore singer he did this cover!

Nevermore - The Obsidian Conspiracy (Vocal Cover - Berzan Önen)

Nevermore - new singer video "Born"

This is how Nevermore found their new singer. He auditioned with "Born." Below is a live version with the original singer Warrel Dane.

BERZAN'S NEVERMORE AUDITIONS - BORN

Nevermore-Born live at Wacken 2006 HQ

https://www.facebook.com/nevermorefans

Buried - new album death metal from Holland

Rotterdam, Holland’s Buried in early February 2026 unleashed their new album. This is the title track/opening track of pure, unhinged death metal savagery: “Imagined Deformation.” This album is so ugly that if you see this album coming your way down the street, cross to the other side. There is a bunch of bands with the name Buried, but this is the one from Rotterdam. One way you can remember them is that they are the ones who have an album called IMAGINED DEFORMATION! For fans of old-school savage brutal death metal.

Imagined Deformation by BURIED

PRIMAL FEAR - Tears Of Fire (Official Music Video)

Primal Fear has reached one millions videos for the video "Tears of Fire"!

PRIMAL FEAR - Tears Of Fire (Official Music Video)

https://www.facebook.com/PrimalFearOfficial

Primal Fear - dates for Spain 2026

Primal Fear returns to Spain in October 2026

https://www.facebook.com/PrimalFearOfficial

Dark Tranquillity tour dates USA/Canada

Dark Tranquillity tour dates the USA and Canada. This is their announcement.

Some of you have been wondering what the setlist on the upcoming USA/Canada-tour is going to be like. We are going to combine the concepts of our latest European tours. So there will essentially be three acts: first some songs from ”The Gallery”, then some from ”Character” and then we finish off with a mixed bag of goodies. Sounds good to you? Tickets: darktranquillity.com/tour

https://www.facebook.com/dtofficial

Queensrÿche tour dates for Europe 2026

Queensrÿche has announced tour dates for Europe in 2026. See their announcement below.

📢 Announcement for our Euro friends!! Queensrÿche will be heading back to Europe this summer, starting on June 6th in Köln, Germany and ending on July 5th in Cartagena, Spain! Dates include a mix of headlining shows with our friends Rivers of Nihil opening, as well as Festival dates. We are super excited and can't wait to see Rÿcher Nation this summer

https://www.facebook.com/QueensrycheOfficial

Frozen Crown - MIRROR MIRROR (Blind Guardian FULL cover)

Frozen Crown covers Blind Guardian!

This cover is great fun!! This is Frozen Crown’s story of how this cover came to be.

—

Simply our favorite metal song ever. FULL VIDEO on our YouTube channel!

It was 2020, right after our tour as special guests for Dragonforce. The only Frozen Crown members left were Jade and Federico (the founding duo), dealing with a 17 years old Niso (young but already extremely talented) to have him join the band. We had to rebuild our band from scratch, literally.

During that period, Jade kept flirting with the idea of covering her favorite song ever from her favorite metal band ever, a song she would have loved to cover since forever. We started laying down the basic arrangement and actually recorded some guitars, but then our 3rd album Winterbane recordings kept us so busy that we unfortunately had to drop down the project, to prioritize our own song and to focus on that album promotion.

Since then, we worked 24/7 on the band as you know, day by day, but we always cherished this cover and the idea to finally be able to record it someday. And then that day came. Simply our favorite metal song ever. Arranged, performed and recorded in our way. Acoustic version? Folk version? Bluegrass version? Again, just our way (Federico’s Southern roots might factor a little here. For your interest, in this song there are up to 6 acoustic guitar layers, 1 bass track, and up to 12 (twelve) vocal tracks (where you see 6 people in the chorus, keep in mind that each track was actually sung twice).

Jade says: “This is one of the most significant songs in my life, for my growth as a musician and as a Tolkien lover. Today I’m proud to share with you this interpretation me and Federico worked on, and to me it is literally a dream coming true. I hope you enjoy it, you will find of my heart in it ❤️”

Mixed and mastered by our sound guy Andrea Sala Danna / The Central Studio (of which you can appreciate a lovely portrait in this same video... search well for it and you will find it) Of course all rights are reserved to Blind Guardian

Frozen Crown - MIRROR MIRROR (Blind Guardian FULL cover)

Metal Church 2026 tour dates

Metal Church has announced tour dates for 2026. Below is a picture from Facebook. They have a new album coming up in April 2026!

Metal Church

Dead to Rights

April 10th, 2026

Rat Pak Records

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialMetalChurch

In Memory of SENTENCED guitarist Miika Tenkula (March 6, 1974 – February 18, 2009)

Miika Tenkula (Sentenced) - Mar 6, 1974-Feb 18, 2009

When I think of Sentenced, I feel like they were the most unpredictable metal band ever, period. They weren't "crazy" or "experimental" in the traditional sense; they were just restless! One cannot simply ask, "What does Sentenced sound like?" Instead, one must change the question to, "What did Sentenced sound like in this or that year?"

They were not the only band changing during that era. For example, at times Paradise Lost seemed rather unpredictable as well. However, Sentenced's album-to-album shifts felt more abrupt, and for some reason, the quality remained remarkably high; the music was just consistently good. Eventually, their sound settled into a signature gothic-morose rock metal style. While they found their niche by 1996, the period from 1989 to 1996 was a total roller coaster.

Below, I have included some sample songs so you can hear the evolution for yourself. Just for fun, I am going to sequence these backwards—starting from the later days of gothic rock and heading back toward the brutal death metal of their early years. Get ready for a bumpy ride; this is not going to be a smooth transition!

Miika was born in Oulu, Finland, and founded Sentenced in 1989. The band's early output was pure death metal, beginning with the demos When Death Join Us... (1990) and Rotting Ways to Misery (1991), followed by their debut full-length, Shadows of the Past (1991).

After the Journey to Pohjola demo (1992), Miika shifted the band toward a more technical death metal sound on the landmark North from Here (1993) and The Trooper EP (1994). By the mid-90s, he led the music into melodic death metal territory with Amok (1995) and the Love & Death EP (1995), before finally moving entirely in a gothic direction.

Metal Archives says about Miika: Lead guitarist and main songwriter for the band Sentenced until it disbanded. He was also the band's original vocalist from 1989 to late 1992.

After Sentenced disbanded, Miika Tenkula withdrew from publicity and died 4 years later to a sudden heart attack caused by genetic heart disease at his home in the town of Muhos on February 18th, 2009. His former band members remembered him by publishing an obituary on the official Sentenced homepage on February 22nd, 2009:

"Sentenced mourn the loss of Miika Tenkula, a dear friend, a truly remarkable artist and musician, and the very soul of what used to be Sentenced. Rest now, brother – in your music and our hearts you will live forever. R.I.P. Miika Tenkula [1974–2009]"

An open memorial was held at Club Teatria in the city of Oulu on April 18th, 2009, the same venue where Miika Tenkula and Sentenced held their last concert before disbanding in 2005. During the ceremony, music from Miika Tenkula's favourite artists were heard. In addition, cover versions of Sentenced songs were performed by various Finnish artists and bands.

Sentenced - May Today Become the Day (gothic rock metal sound) (2005)

Sentenced - Bleed (remastered 2007) (the shift towards gothic heavy metal) (1996)

Sentenced - New Age Messiah (melodic death metal) (1995)

Sentenced - Capture of Fire (technical death metal) (1993)

Sentenced - Rotting Ways to Misery (old school death metal) (1991)

In Memory of Yngwie Malmsteen Keyboardist Mats Olausson (April 17, 1961 – February 18, 2015)

Mats Olausson - April 17, 1961 - February 18, 2015

Mats played keyboards on a vast number of albums, projects, and bands. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with all of those entities, but I do know his work with legendary guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen. Mats Olausson joined in 1990 for the Eclipse album and remained Yngwie's keyboardist for over a decade.

According to Metal Archives, Olausson’s tenure began with the 1990 singles "Making Love" and "Save Our Love," which paved the way for his full-length debut on the album Eclipse (1990), where he provided both keyboards and backing vocals. His involvement continued through the 1991 compilation The Yngwie Malmsteen Collection and a string of 1992 releases, including the "Dragonfly" and "Teaser" singles and the full-length Fire & Ice. In 1994, he was credited as "Mats 'Thailand' Olausson" on the landmark album The Seventh Sign and appeared on the Live at Budokan video and the "I Can't Wait" single. His mid-90s work included the 1995 full-length Magnum Opus and the 1996 covers album Inspiration (specifically tracks 2 and 6).

The late 90s saw Mats work on the 1997 studio album Facing the Animal and both the live album and video versions of Live!! (1998). He finished the decade with the 1999 studio release Alchemy and entered the new millennium with the Anthology: 1994-1999 compilation and the 2000 full-length War to End All Wars. Even after his primary tenure ended, his performances continued to surface on archival releases, including the 2009 video Live in Korea and the 2010 video Raw Live (specifically tracks 1–5 and 22).

Lastly, if I may, I would like to recommend an additional album (a non-Yngwie release)that Mats played keyboards on: Burn the Sun by the project Ark. This 2001 album, released on InsideOut Music, features a lineup consisting of legendary singer Jørn Lande, guitarist Tore Østby (of Conception), drummer extraordinaire John Macaluso, bassist Randy Coven (R.I.P. 2014), and keyboardist Mats Olausson (R.I.P. 2015). The album is a melodic progressive masterpiece that takes time to fully digest, but the quality of the musicianship is undeniable.

Ark - Torn

Mats Olausson - Keyboard solo live at Budokan

Yngwie Malmsteen - Eclipse

REVIEW: Aeon Gods - glorious power metal from Germany

Aeon Gods

Reborn To Light

Scarlet Records

20 February 2026

On this, their second album, these Germans (2022-present) rush out of the gates with totally, absolutely unapologetic glorious power metal, and I mean European power metal to the very marrow of their bones. Big melodies, like completely unapologetic Schlager-metal, that German super-melodic music that means to conquer the listener's loyalty with exactly one listen. Aeon Gods came here to win. They are not here to mess around with weird scales and notes. This is pure German power metal of the superior kind, the power metal supremacy that goes all out for the big melodies, the big singing, the driving riffs, and everything. Everything!

The band does this whole ancient Egyptian-themed thing, from the lyrics to their clothes. Egyptologist power metal?! I know, right?! Why not! The Americans have the great Egyptologist band Nile, a band with a flawless death metal discography, and now there is Aeon Gods from Germany! Isn't it interesting how things work out? American death metal bands are amazing, the best in the world, really, top of the line, believe me, and nobody does power metal better than the Germans; it's amazing. Aeon Gods have arrived with everything fans expect from German power metal. Terrific, really.

This album is as sweet as it is memorable; it is a total fulfillment of expectations for superior, high-caliber power metal. This is only their second album, so they are barely getting started. This album is wonderful, but their power metal masterpiece has not even arrived yet! That is coming in the future. They are just getting warmed up, and I'm here for it all. Here is a band that has zero time to waste, and gets to the point as quickly as possible and then stays on point for the duration of the album: they came here to deliver the power metal goods, and that's exactly what they do.

Reborn To Light by Aeon Gods https://scarletrecords.bandcamp.com/album/reborn-to-light

REVIEW: Domhain - atmospheric post-black metal from Northern Ireland

Domhain

In Perfect Stillness

These Hands Melt

20 February 2026

Domhain (2021-present; Northern Ireland; one EP in 2023 and some singles) operates in the field of something like atmospheric post-black metal, and they are something like one part mellow and soft music, and another part a blackmetal-derived form of extreme metal. I do not enjoy this album and I don't like this post-metal or post-black metal, but I admit that the band is very competent at their drawn-out form of sad, melancholic music. They feature both melodic and extreme vocals: the extreme vocals are mostly in the black metal style, I would say, and the melodic vocals are what in the United States some people would call, basically, alternative rock singing: sad, soft, emo, gentle, and a bit whiny, but not too whiny, mostly sad and soft, and kind of emo-ish.

Likewise, the music goes from unmelodic, semi-melodic, melancholic slow and midtempo passages, and then erupts into blackmetal-adjacent faster passages. Check it out, though, in the middle of "Footsteps II," in the middle of those midtempo passages, there are some wonderful melancholic melodies, and this part is, like, the perfect mix of the post and black metal, and it works very well for me. Well done, Domhain, well done!

In short, this band is, like, totally going for that atmospheric post-black metal shoegazy type of extreme metal, if that makes sense. There are plenty, and I mean a plethora, jefe, a plethora of smooth-soft emo segments that feel like a person is sad at the grey skies and rainy days. (I live in the Seattle area, and here people often look beaten down because we are in February and people feel like they have not seen the sun since September of the previous year. The sky is grey 24 hours a day, and there is no hope of seeing the sun and no hope of real warm weather until June. It is February, and June seems pretty far away.)

You know what, this album is starting to sound pretty good, come to think of it. Here, especially in Seattle itself, there are some metal shows in which people have their hoodies on and just kind of look down at the floor while vibing to this type of music. Come to think of it, this band would be well received by a large portion of the fans in this area, I would think.

I don't have the lyrics. Sometimes it seems like these type of bands often have lyrics that, to put it politely, are self-destructive, but I don't know about this particular case.

To conclude: If you like sad-intense post-metal, or if you are interested in that idea, then maybe you will enjoy this album. My two main complaints are (1) the lack of metal melodies and muscle (which post-metal bands don't like to do because they prefer subtle subdued semi-melodies), and (2) that the album feels too much like one big huge song of sad emotional post-metal. I would like more contrast, more transitions. On the other hand, I am a jerk, and I am not very smart, so, listen to this music and see what you think. Maybe I just introduced you to your new favorite band! You're welcome.

In Perfect Stillness by Domhain

In Memory of EXTREME NOISE TERROR Vocalist Phil Vane (1967-2011)

Phil Vane - March 15, 1967 - February 17, 2011

Phil Vane (1967-2011) is one of the two (the other one being Dean Jones) legendary screamers for grindcore pioneers Extreme Noise Terror, serving three distinct tenures with the band: 1985–1995, 1997–1999, and a final run from 2006 until his death in 2011. Phil's mighty screaming can be heard on the band's most essential releases, including the various versions of the genre-defining A Holocaust in Your Head (including the 1989, 1991, and posthumously released 2022 Original Holocaust editions). He can also be heard on the 1995 album Retro-Bution, the 1997 release Damage 381, and the 2008 album Law of Retaliation. As a foundational member of the UK crust and grind scene, Phil's insane back-and-forth vocal trade-offs with Dean brought an unprecedented amount of wonderful chaos to the already-intense instrumentation of Extreme Noise Terror.

Extreme Noise Terror (ENT) are a British extreme metal band formed in Ipswich, England in 1985 and one of the earliest and most influential crust bands. Noted for one of the earliest uses of dual vocalists in hardcore and for recording a number of sessions for BBC Radio 1 DJ John Peel, the band started as crust punks and helped characterise the early, archetypal grindcore sound with highly political lyrics, fast guitars and tempos, and often very short songs.

Extreme Noise Terror were formed in early 1985 in Ipswich, England, originally consisting of dual vocalists Dean Jones and Phil Vane, guitarist Pete Hurley, bassist Jerry Clay and drummer Pig Killer. Prior to ENT, Vane and Hurley had played with Discharge-influenced acts Freestate and Victims of War, whilst Jones had been singing with Raw Noise. Hurley claims that the band name came from an insert for an album by the Dutch band Lärm. Aside from Discharge, the band cite as early influences Anti Cimex, Rattus and Antisect.

Their first release was a split LP with Chaos UK in 1986, entitled Radioactive Earslaughter. Although there were still musical similarities between the two bands, ENT were already beginning to twist hardcore into what would later become known as "grindcore." In 1987, ENT came to the attention of John Peel. After seeing them live in Ipswich, Peel offered them their first of four Peel Sessions for BBC Radio 1.

During this period, the line-up changed as former Napalm Death drummer Mick Harris joined briefly before being replaced by Tony "Stick" Dickens. This line-up recorded ENT's debut album, A Holocaust in Your Head, which was later voted one of the essential European grindcore albums by Terrorizer magazine.

The band signed to Earache in 1994 and recorded Retro-bution, a compilation of re-recorded material that saw ENT take a slightly more metal direction. Founder member Phil Vane left to join Napalm Death in late 1996, and in a unique trade, Napalm Death frontman Mark "Barney" Greenway joined ENT for the recording of the album Damage 381. Vane eventually returned to the band in 1997.

In 2001, the band released Being and Nothing and continued to tour Europe, including a slot at Wacken Open Air in 2003.

In early 2009, ENT released Law of Retaliation, described as a return to explosive, hyper-speed hardcore punk insanity. While remaining fiercely political, the band became more open-minded regarding their beliefs over the years, with Dean Jones commenting on the progression away from the restrictive nature of the early crust scene.

On 17 February 2011, Phil Vane died in his sleep at the age of 46. The band has continued to tour and release music with frontman Ben McCrow, dedicating their 2015 self-titled album to Vane's memory.

Extreme Noise Terror - Conned Through Life (Peel Sessions) [Official Audio]

Extreme Noise Terror - I Am a Bloody Fool (Peel Sessions) [Official Audio]

Extreme Noise Terror - Carry On Screaming