METALTALK - HEAVY METAL NEWS

Kira Mac take a daring new direction at KK's Steel Mill, Wolverhampton, performing seven previously unheard songs with a darker, heavier edge. Meanwhile, White Skies deliver a masterclass in melodic rock, showcasing the power and infectious energy of their latest album, Shouting At The Hurricane. Sophie James reviews a night of bold musical ambition and outstanding musicianship.

Hard Rock Hell promoter Dark Watch has ceased trading, cancelling HRH19 and HRH Prog 16 in November 2026. As ticket holders face uncertainty, musicians including Jack J Hutchinson have spoken out about unpaid fees, while questions remain over refunds and the future of the festival brands.

Ukrainian metallers Ignea deliver a remarkable surprise with Monumental, an ambitious and deeply layered album that moves effortlessly between melodic metal, industrial aggression, jazz and orchestral passages. Paul Hutchings explores a bold, adventurous release that pushes the band's creativity to new heights.

Big Big Train delivered a spellbinding night at O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire, combining beloved classics and deep cuts with a complete performance of Woodcut. A breathtaking celebration of progressive rock, musical mastery and emotion.

Creeper transformed London's O2 Forum Kentish Town into a gothic wonderland of blood, coffins, guillotines and dark romance. With breathtaking theatrics, passionate fans and an emotional rendition of Misery, the Off With Their Heads Tour showcased a band at the absolute peak of their powers.

Guilt Trip brought their Armour Of Angels tour to a sold-out Electric Ballroom in Camden, delivering crushing riffs, explosive mosh pits and relentless energy. A powerful reminder that British Hardcore is in very capable hands.

Behemoth, Dimmu Borgir and Dark Funeral joined forces at O2 Academy Brixton for a spectacular night of Black Metal. With breathtaking stage productions, fiery performances and a crowd in full voice, the In League With Satan tour delivered an evening that was truly epic and blasphemous.

UFO - Mechanix may not rank among their greatest albums, but 44 years on, its quality still shines through. With Phil Mogg in fine voice, Paul Chapman delivering outstanding guitar work and a superb 1982 Hammersmith Odeon recording, this remastered edition is a reminder of just how good UFO were.

The Amity Affliction delivered a powerful night of Metalcore at London's O2 Forum Kentish Town, blending crushing breakdowns with emotional anthems. With support from Silent Planet, Varials and Orthodox, the House Of Cards tour brought intensity, energy and huge crowd sing-alongs.

Like a beast that refuses to die, Cirith Ungol return with All The Shadows, their seventh studio album and another defiant statement of Heavy Metal intent. With Tim Baker's unmistakable vocals, crushing riffs, brooding epics and the band's trademark darkness, these legendary veterans prove their fire is far from extinguished. Paul Hutchings discovers an album worthy of standing alongside their finest work.

Ten years after their debut album, Inglorious reunite the original lineup for an unforgettable night at KK's Steel Mill, Wolverhampton. With Nathan James in outstanding form, blistering musicianship and a set packed with fan favourites, this was a triumphant celebration of the music that started it all. Could there be more to come?

Eivør takes listeners on a mesmerising journey with Tungl, an album where haunting vocals, trip-hop rhythms and Nordic atmosphere replace crushing guitars and blast beats. Daryl Soar discovers a powerful, emotionally rich release that proves music doesn't need to be heavy to leave a lasting impact.

Alice Cooper brings his Devil On My Shoulder book tour to the London Palladium for an evening of outrageous rock 'n' roll stories, sharp wit and surprisingly personal revelations. From Keith Moon and Elvis Presley to the creation of his infamous stage persona, the legendary shock rocker offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Vincent Furnier, the man behind the monster.

Zorn of Zornheym takes on The MetalTalk Lowdown, with tales of drunken ski lifts, a memorable comparison to Yngwie Malmsteen, Eurodisco, unreasonable deadlines and moving mountains with a forklift.

Guns N' Roses are returning to Jakarta on 21 November 2026 for their third Indonesian concert. Promoter Rajawali Indonesia is preparing for its biggest international rock event yet, with nine legendary Indonesian guitarists set to open the show and tickets already selling fast.

Butcher Babies return with Nightbloom, an album shaped by survival, heartbreak and reinvention. With Heidi Shepherd taking centre stage, the band explore a more melodic, radio-ready sound without completely abandoning their heavier roots. Rhys Tagg examines whether this bold new direction delivers.