UK Heavy Metal band Cage Fight recently unleashed their new single Pick Your Fighter, featuring Julien Truchan of Benighted, ahead of their album launch show at Blondie’s on 1 May 2026. The band’s second album, Exuvia, is released via Spinefarm.
Fronted by Rachel Aspe, the track delivers a punch of groove-driven aggression paired with a playful, nostalgic edge. Inspired by classic 8-bit beat ’em up video games, the accompanying video captures the spirit of combat and determination that fuels the song.
“We wanted to write a fun, sing-along party song with themes of determination and fighting spirit,” Rachel Aspe said, “and the result is Pick Your Fighter. I also wanted to pay tribute to a French artist who marked my teenage years, and my dad suggested Nâdiya, an R&B singer who is huge back home.
“Musical and lyrical motifs in Pick Your Fighter nod to Nâdiya’s hit Et C’est Parti, a motivational party song that was a huge hit. The crowning touch is some very heavy guest vocals from my French friend Julien Truchan of the band Benighted. And there are pig squeals, many pig squeals.”
The track is further elevated by the ferocious guest vocals of Julien Truchan, adding extra intensity to an already explosive release.
Cage Fight collaborated with Enemy Of Boredom Academy on the video, giving video game design students hands-on experience creating the visual concept. Drummer Nick Plews, who works with the academy, described the project as a special moment and praised the students’ achievements.
Exuvia promises to expand the band’s sonic scope while retaining their hardcore roots. Recorded by Sam Bloor and mixed by Jim Pinder, the album blends heavy grooves, layered atmospheres and raw emotional weight.
Lyrically, the album explores deeply personal themes including grief, anxiety and resilience. The title track connects to the idea of shedding an outer layer, symbolising healing and transformation.
Pick Your Fighter follows on from the single Un Bon Souvenir. “Don’t bite the hand that feeds,” Rachel Aspe said. “This song is a reference to a previous experience in a band controlled by a toxic, manipulative person.
“It’s a reminder that bringing people down won’t elevate you. A challenging experience, but as he once said, it’s still a good memory, ça reste un bon souvenir.”
Cage Fight will celebrate the album’s release with a launch show at Blondies in London on 1 May, where fans can also sample a special Pick Your Fighter beer brewed for the occasion.
The band continue to build momentum with high-energy live shows, having previously toured with Sepultura and Napalm Death, and now hitting the road across the UK with Employed To Serve.
Cage Fight release Exuvia on 1 May 2026 via Spinefarm. Pre-orders are available from cagefight.lnk.to/exuvia.
