Monday, June 1, 2026

Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands?? 06/01/26 - 06/12/26 - @thebeast

🔥 Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands? 🔥
And who will dominate next month as Band of the Month on Metal Devastation Radio?

Last month’s winners, TRIVAN  , crushed the competition with a staggering  6,396,074 VOTES , claiming the title of Band of the Month on Metal Devastation Radio! You can check them out HERE !

This is the weekly championship edition of the Band Of The Month – Battle Of The Bands that we host every month on MDR!

How does it work?
Every Monday, we launch a new poll featuring bands that submit music each week on metaldevastationradio.com. Voting runs until Friday at 9PM EST .

Each Friday night , at the start of The Zach Moonshine Show , I’ll be spinning the Top Six weekly winners , and announcing the #1 band of the week live on air — getting thousands of listens on Mixcloud !

At the end of the month , all weekly votes are added up, and the band with the highest total votes becomes our Band of the Month !

Winning Band of the Month gets:

A featured post on our Facebook page, reaching thousands of fans

A front-page spotlight on metaldevastationradio.com , which pulls in hundreds of thousands of views every month

A free PR email blast from Metal Devastation PR, hitting 40,000+ contacts including labels, zines, stations, and more

Airplay every hour during general rotation

Tons of social media shares and exposure across our network

If you want the world to know who your band is, this is the easiest way to make it happen!

💥 Want in on the next battle?
Comment below with your band name and we’ll add you to next week’s poll — or email me at zach@metaldevastationradio.com with “Battle Submission” in the subject line.

Bands can compete as many times as they want , and if you enter multiple weeks in the same month, your votes combine toward the Band of the Month title!

👇 Click on the bands below to vote as many times as you like, or add your own! Poll closes Friday, June 12th at 9PM EST!








Who Will Rise as This Week’s Champion on the MDR Battle Of The Bands?? 06/01/26 - 06/12/26


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29045/who-will-rise-as-this-weeks-champion-on-the-mdr-battle-of-the-bands-06-01-26-06-12-26?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

TRIVAN CROWNED BAND OF THE MONTH AFTER RECORD-SHATTERING 6,396,074 VOTE VICTORY - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TRIVAN CROWNED BAND OF THE MONTH AFTER RECORD-SHATTERING 6,396,074 VOTE VICTORY

Croatia — Rising metal force TRIVAN have officially been crowned Battle of the Bands Champions and Band of the Month after amassing an incredible 6,396,074 votes, securing one of the most dominant victories in the competition's history.

Founded in 2018 by guitarist Vanja Šantak and bassist Ivan Bertović, TRIVAN quickly established themselves as an ambitious force within the Croatian metal scene. Like many bands around the world, their momentum was temporarily halted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but the group emerged from the disruption stronger, more focused, and determined to push forward.

Following the pandemic, Vanja recruited vocalist Tomislav Žiljak and drummer Robert Vlašić from Darkendome, helping shape the band's modern identity and expanding their sonic capabilities. In 2025, rhythm guitarist Marin Buljan joined the lineup, further strengthening the band's sound with additional layers of melody, power, and aggression.

The overwhelming support shown during the Battle of the Bands competition reflects not only the band's growing fanbase but also the emotional connection listeners have formed with their music.

That connection is perhaps most evident in TRIVAN's latest single, "Abyss of Crawling Shadows," released on April 24, 2026. While the song unleashes a barrage of crushing riffs, dark atmospheres, and haunting imagery, its origins are deeply personal.

The track was written by Vanja following the loss of his beloved Cane Corso, Amon, who had been his loyal companion for nearly thirteen years. Drawing from the grief and silence that follows such a profound loss, the song explores themes of sorrow, despair, resilience, and ultimately triumph over darkness.

What begins as a descent into emotional devastation transforms into a declaration of survival. Through vivid lyrical imagery and relentless musical intensity, "Abyss of Crawling Shadows" confronts grief head-on before emerging with a powerful message of perseverance. The song's closing declaration, "I rise unbound, defiant in abyss," serves as a personal promise and testament to enduring loss without surrendering to it.

Recorded, produced, mixed, and mastered at Studio Wormwood, the single showcases the band's continued artistic growth and commitment to creating music that is both emotionally resonant and sonically devastating. The production was handled by Dave Kaminsky, with mastering completed by Ryan Williams.

With more than six million votes behind them, TRIVAN's victory represents far more than a contest win. It marks a significant milestone in the band's evolution and demonstrates the tremendous support they have earned from metal fans around the world.

As TRIVAN continue to build momentum and reach new audiences, their record-setting Battle of the Bands triumph stands as clear evidence that this is a band whose journey is only beginning.

TRIVAN is:

Vanja Å antak – Guitar
Tomislav Žiljak – Vocals
Ivan Bertović – Bass
Robert Vlaši㠖 Drums
Marin Buljan – Rhythm Guitar



Abyss Of Crawling Shadows by Trivan


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29044/trivan-crowned-band-of-the-month-after-record-shattering-6396074-vote-victory?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Sunday, May 31, 2026

Eaten By Sharks Unleash Exclusive World Premiere Of "Capsized" On The Zach Moonshine Show - @thebeast

Eaten By Sharks Unleash Exclusive World Premiere Of "Capsized" On The Zach Moonshine Show


Canadian extreme metal wrecking crew Eaten By Sharks joined The Zach Moonshine Show on Metal Devastation Radio for an exclusive interview and the world premiere of their crushing new single, "Capsized," giving listeners the first chance anywhere in the world to hear the track before its official release.

The premiere offered fans their first glimpse into the band's upcoming full-length album, The Undertow Of Hate , scheduled for release on July 17 via CDN Records.

Fresh off the premiere, the band discussed the album's lengthy creative process, working with renowned producer Christian Donaldson, their love of guitar gear, the importance of real musicianship, and their plans for what they are calling the "Summer of Sharks."

The Best Material They've Ever Written


For Eaten By Sharks, The Undertow Of Hate represents years of work and refinement.

"We've been doing this for writing these songs for quite a while now," the band explained. "It's taking a while to get it all ready to go. We're very proud of the stuff that we have recorded now. We wrote a bunch of songs just to be able to come up with the eight songs that we have on the album. It's the best stuff I think we've come up with so far."

That dedication is immediately evident in "Capsized," a track that showcases the band's evolution from the already impressive Eradication era into something even bigger, heavier, and more ambitious.

When asked about hearing the finished product after spending countless hours writing and recording, the band admitted that perspective can become difficult.

"I've listened to some of these songs close to a few hundred, maybe a thousand times. By the time you're done recording and listening to mixes, you're so far removed from hearing it for the first time. I wish I could hear it for the first time like everybody else."

Fortunately, listeners on Metal Devastation Radio got exactly that opportunity.

Teaming Up With CDN Records


The new album marks the band's first full album campaign with CDN Records after previously releasing Eradication independently before partnering with the label.

"We're very happy working with the guys from CDN. They've really believed in our vision and what we want to do. They kind of latched onto our boat and said, 'Let us tug you guys along and we'll get you even further.'"

The partnership appears to be paying off, with multiple singles, music videos, and promotional campaigns already lined up ahead of the album's release.

Working With Christian Donaldson


One of the most fascinating parts of the conversation centered around the band's relationship with producer Christian Donaldson, known for his work with numerous extreme metal artists.

Rather than simply serving as an engineer, Donaldson has become an integral part of the band's creative process.

"Christian has become a friend now. I can't really see us working with anybody else."

The band described how the collaboration has evolved since recording Eradication .

"The first time we went out to record with him, we were just getting to know each other. The second time, all that's out of the way. Now we're just getting straight to work."

That familiarity allowed the producer to contribute creative ideas and arrangements that elevated the material even further.

"We'd be listening to something and he'd stop and say, 'What if we try this?' Or I'd have an idea and he'd say, 'Go ahead, let's try it.' We were adding a little extra gravy on top."

Reflecting on the final result, the band didn't hide their excitement.

"There was a point where we finished recording all the guitars and were listening to the rough mixes, and I remember sitting there thinking, 'Wow, this is some of the best stuff I've ever been a part of personally.'"

Old School Metal Mentality Meets Modern Technology


The interview also veered into a deep dive on guitar gear, modern modeling technology, tube amplifiers, seven-string guitars, and the never-ending obsession that guitar players share.

While the band embraces modern tools like the Quad Cortex and Neural DSP technology, they still maintain a traditional approach to live performance.

"We like tube amps. We like cabs on stage. We like to feel it."

At the same time, they appreciate the convenience modern technology provides.

"I can walk into a venue with two bags on my shoulders, both my guitars, and I'm good to go."

The band's current sound revolves around seven-string guitars tuned to drop A, allowing for greater range while maintaining the crushing heaviness fans expect.

"It's kind of like the way a seven-string is supposed to be used. You get that extended range while still having room for melodies and leads."

No Clicks. No Triggers. Just Pure Power.


One of the most revealing moments came when the conversation turned to the band's live performance philosophy.

Unlike many modern extreme metal acts, Eaten By Sharks keeps things raw.

"We don't use any triggers. He's just heel up and smashes the drums."

The band praised drummer Justin's intensity and physicality as a major component of their sound.

"We have a monster of a drummer. The guy is like 6'6". He just wails on the drums."

That natural chemistry remains central to how the band operates both live and in rehearsal.

"We don't use click tracks. We're just balls to the wall."

Real Musicianship In The Age Of AI


The discussion eventually shifted toward AI-generated music and whether technology can ever truly replace human creativity.

The band's answer was clear.

"It's all about the journey in between."

While acknowledging technological advancements, they emphasized the importance of genuine human experience in songwriting.

"People recognize that when they're listening to songs, whether they know it's there or not. You can tell when something is a lived experience."

The band compared the process of creating music together to taming a wild force.

"Sometimes you're trying to tame this beast, and then all of a sudden this flow starts happening. You can feel it like waves."

Moments like those, they believe, are impossible to manufacture.

"When it happens and everybody locks in, that's magic. That's music."

The Undertow Is Coming


With "Capsized" now unleashed, Eaten By Sharks are preparing for an aggressive release campaign leading into The Undertow Of Hate .

Additional singles, multiple music videos, live performances, and more surprises are already in the works.

"It's going to be the Summer of Sharks."

For fans of progressive death metal, technical brutality, crushing grooves, and bands unafraid to balance modern precision with old-school authenticity, The Undertow Of Hate is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated underground metal releases of the summer.

The exclusive world premiere of "Capsized" on The Zach Moonshine Show proved one thing beyond any doubt:

Eaten By Sharks aren't drifting with the current.

They're steering directly into the storm.

The Undertow Of Hate arrives July 17 via CDN Records.

Follow Eaten By Sharks on social media and streaming platforms for upcoming singles, videos, tour announcements, and more.

Track List:

Battle Of The Bands Top Six Winners:

1 - Trivan - Abyss Of Crawling Shadows - (466,621 votes)
2 - Heidbekka - Völva - (217,224 votes)
3 - Another Demon - Drawn and Quartered feat. James Murphy (Testament, Death, Obituary) - (177,202 votes)
4 - NIKOLA'S CAGE - RASCAL - (103,507 votes)
5 - Hypersphere - Cylapsis - (85,818 votes)
6 - Rakinua - SPIRITS OF WATERS - (74,341 votes)

The Zach Moonshine Intro

7 - Ozzy Osbourne - Never Say Die
8 - Ola Englund - The Ember Saga
9 - LEFT TO DIE - Archangel

Eaten By Sharks - interview featuring Capsized/Dead Weight/Megalodon

10 - Six Feet Under - Unmistakable Smell of Death
11 - NARGAROTH - Metalheart
12 - THY ANTICHRIST - Metal to the Bone
13 - Suffer (UK) - Soul From Flesh
14 - Filth - Rollin
15 - Nocturnal Ceremony - Seasons of hate
16 - Altared States - A Violent Consequence
17 - Cayne - OUTCAST
18 - Valar Morghulis - Bereft of Light

Full show streaming now on Mixcloud:





You can also enjoy the interview segment via YouTube, Spotify, Apple, etc.





Super massive shout out to the 349,243 metal maniacs from around the world that tuned in for the live broadcast with us Friday! 



Check out the new video at Slam Worldwide!


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29043/eaten-by-sharks-unleash-exclusive-world-premiere-of-capsized-on-the-zach-moonshine-show?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Friday, May 29, 2026

The Zach Moonshine Show via Metal Devastation Radio Featured by BraveWords and Blabbermouth Following Rick Rozz Interview - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE ZACH MOONSHINE SHOW VIA METAL DEVASTATION RADIO SPOTLIGHTED BY BRAVEWORDS AND BLABBERMOUTH FOLLOWING RICK ROZZ INTERVIEW

Jackson, Tennessee — The underground metal world continues to roar as The Zach Moonshine Show via Metal Devastation Radio receives major recognition from both BraveWords and Blabbermouth.net following a recent interview with legendary death metal guitarist Rick Rozz of Left to Die.

The interview aired Friday on The Zach Moonshine Show and featured an in-depth conversation with Rozz diving deep into early Death history, classic demos, memories of Chuck Schuldiner, old-school death metal chaos, and the upcoming Left to Die album Initium Mortis. Left to Die recently announced their debut full-length album through Relapse Records, continuing the legacy of Death’s formative era.

The full interview can be heard here:

https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29027/rick-rozz-talks-left-to-die-early-death-demos-chuck-schuldiner-memories-and-the-new-album-initium-mortis">
https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29027/rick-rozz-talks-left-to-die-early-death-demos-chuck-schuldiner-memories-and-the-new-album-initium-mortis

Blabbermouth.net featured highlights from the interview here:

https://blabbermouth.net/news/rick-rozz-on-left-to-dies-newly-recorded-versions-of-early-death-and-mantas-songs-theres-so-much-slayer-and-venom-influence-its-crazy

BraveWords.com also spotlighted the interview here:

https://bravewords.com/news/left-to-dies-rick-rozz-talks-early-death-history-chuck-schuldiner-and-more-on-the-zach-moonshine-show/

Metal Devastation Radio founder and host Zach Moonshine shared his appreciation for the coverage:

“Big shout out and thanks to our friends at BraveWords.com for featuring my interview with Rick Rozz from Left to Die on The Zach Moonshine Show via Metal Devastation Radio. Always good seeing my show get a spotlight. Respect.”

Moonshine also responded to the feature coverage from Blabbermouth.net:

“Super huge shout out and massive thanks to Blabbermouth.net for featuring my interview from Friday with the legendary Rick Rozz of Left to Die! Absolutely killer conversation diving deep into Death Metal history, old-school chaos, and everything underground. Fucking badass!”

The continued support from respected outlets like BraveWords and Blabbermouth highlights the growing reach and impact of Metal Devastation Radio within the worldwide underground metal community. Known for championing independent artists alongside legendary acts, The Zach Moonshine Show continues to serve as a destination for exclusive interviews, premieres, and authentic heavy metal conversations that keep the spirit of underground music alive.

For more information visit:

https://metaldevastationradio.com

Follow Metal Devastation Radio for more interviews, premieres, festival news, and underground metal coverage.


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29042/the-zach-moonshine-show-via-metal-devastation-radio-featured-by-bravewords-and-blabbermouth-following-rick-rozz-interview?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Mephisto Odyssey Raises Concerns Over Recent YouTube Copyright Strikes on “Crash” and “Crash Reborn” Videos - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Mephisto Odyssey Raises Concerns Over Recent YouTube Copyright Strikes on “Crash” and “Crash Reborn” Videos

Los Angeles, CA – May 26, 2026 – Mephisto Odyssey is addressing recent developments surrounding the temporary removal of its official “Crash” and “Crash Reborn” videos from YouTube following copyright claims filed by Bobby Cannon.

According to materials provided to the project team, including a recorded phone call and accompanying screenshots, Cannon allegedly references communications with individuals connected to the team producing an upcoming documentary centered on Wayne Static. Mephisto Odyssey notes that Cannon has not been previously affiliated with Static-X, Wayne Static, or associated publishing entities beyond past interactions with co-writer Mikael Johnston.

The “Crash” and “Crash Reborn” videos, which have collectively accumulated nearly two million views in just over four months, were removed following the disputed claims. A counter-notification has since been filed by Mikael Johnston, co-writer and rights holder associated with the composition, supported by U.S. Copyright Office registration PA0001050574, which lists Johnston and Warner-Tamerlane Publishing as rights holders.

Mephisto Odyssey states that it is currently pursuing standard legal remedies available under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and maintains that all filings are being reviewed through proper legal channels.

The same composition is also scheduled to appear in filmmaker Matt Zane’s upcoming documentary project focused on Wayne Static and Tera Wray.

Mephisto Odyssey emphasizes that it will continue to protect its creative work and publishing rights through appropriate legal processes.

View the related video statement and audio excerpt here:






About Mephisto Odyssey


Mephisto Odyssey is the electronic/rock project of Mikael Johnston, known for the 2000 release “Crash,” featuring Wayne Static and Koichi Fukuda of Static-X.




Media Contact


Mikael Johnston
Pop Twist Records
mephistoodysseyofficial@gmail.com


https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29041/mephisto-odyssey-raises-concerns-over-recent-youtube-copyright-strikes-on-crash-and-crash-reborn-videos?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Thursday, May 28, 2026

DIAMOND RAIN Announces Debut Album Chapter One Out October 23rd via Pride & Joy Music - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DIAMOND RAIN Announces Debut Album Chapter One Out October 23rd via Pride & Joy Music

A bold new force in melodic rock emerges with soaring hooks, dramatic atmosphere, and unforgettable anthems.

Drawing inspiration from legendary acts like Blue Öyster Cult , Roxette , and KISS , DIAMOND RAIN is preparing to unveil its debut release Chapter One on October 23rd through Pride & Joy Music .

Centered around the enigmatic figure known only as The High Priest, DIAMOND RAIN offers more than just music. It is a journey through melody, drama, power, and emotion. A cult of sound designed to enlighten, strengthen, and transport listeners into a world where heavy rock riffs collide with infectious pop sensibilities.

Together with his trusted Arch Lector and The Faithful Disciples, The High Priest has crafted Chapter One , the opening passage in what promises to be a larger musical saga. Blending elements of classic melodic rock, 70s arena swagger, and shimmering 80s hooks, DIAMOND RAIN proudly stands apart from today’s formulaic rock scene.

The debut single “Naked City” immediately leaves its mark with a massive chorus and undeniable energy, while tracks like “I Need Love” channel a rare and authentic 80s groove that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly alive. Elsewhere, “Rosalie” seamlessly merges vintage 70s rock attitude with irresistible pop melodies, delivering the kind of earworm that refuses to leave your head.

Unafraid to embrace the quirky, theatrical, and adventurous side of rock music, DIAMOND RAIN may very well be the black sheep melodic rock fans have been waiting for.

Chapter One arrives October 23rd.

Come along for the ride.

Check out the trailer: 





Follow DIAMOND RAIN Online


Facebook:


https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089817641288 />

Label:


https://www.prideandjoy.de/ />

https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29039/diamond-rain-announces-debut-album-chapter-one-out-october-23rd-via-pride-joy-music?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger

Wednesday, May 27, 2026

LIVEKILL JOINS “THE METAL SAINT TOUR 2026” WITH METAL CHURCH AND ARMORED SAINT - @thebeast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LIVEKILL JOINS “THE METAL SAINT TOUR 2026” WITH METAL CHURCH AND ARMORED SAINT

South Florida Metal Force Continues Rise Following Release Of Blistering New Single “Evil & Ecstasy”

South Florida, USA — South Florida heavy metal powerhouse LIVEKILL has officially been announced as direct support for “The Metal Saint Tour 2026,” joining legendary metal acts METAL CHURCH and ARMORED SAINT for a massive North American run this November.

The tour announcement, reported by Blabbermouth , marks a major milestone for LIVEKILL as the band continues to build momentum with the release of their crushing new single “Evil & Ecstasy,” available now on all major streaming platforms.

Listen now:

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy />
Dark, atmospheric, and brutally powerful, “Evil & Ecstasy” dives into the tension between light and darkness, transforming struggle, temptation, and personal conflict into an all-out sonic assault. Backed by massive production, punishing riffs, and relentless energy, the track further establishes LIVEKILL as one of the rising forces in modern American heavy metal.

For fans of Sepultura, Machine Head, and Chimaira, LIVEKILL delivers a vicious blend of groove, aggression, and modern heaviness while carrying forward the legacy of the Florida metal scene.

The Metal Saint Tour 2026 featuring ARMORED SAINT, METAL CHURCH, and LIVEKILL will hit major cities across the United States and Canada beginning November 2 in San Juan Capistrano, California and wrapping November 21 in Agoura Hills, California.

Tour Dates:

Nov. 02 - Coach House - San Juan Capistrano, CA
Nov. 03 - The Glass House - Pomona, CA
Nov. 04 - The Nile - Phoenix, AZ
Nov. 06 - Sunshine Theater - Albuquerque, NM
Nov. 07 - Sunshine Studios - Colorado Springs, CO
Nov. 08 - The Federal - Denver, CO
Nov. 10 - Neurolux - Boise, ID
Nov. 11 - The Newberry - Great Falls, MT
Nov. 13 - Dantes - Portland, OR
Nov. 14 - Redwood Theater - Bremerton, WA
Nov. 15 - Rickshaw Theater - Vancouver, BC
Nov. 17 - Great America Music Hall - San Francisco, CA
Nov. 18 - Goldfield Trading Post - Roseville, CA
Nov. 19 - Whisky A Go Go - Los Angeles, CA
Nov. 20 - Observatory North San Diego - San Diego, CA
Nov. 21 - Canyon Club - Agoura Hills, CA



ARMORED SAINT vocalist John Bush stated:
“If you call yourself a metalhead and you don't come to this show when we roll into your town, you better have a damn good excuse.”

METAL CHURCH guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof added:
“It’s incredibly exciting to be getting back on the road with our friends and an honor to be sharing the stage with one of America's finest metal bands.”

About LIVEKILL

Hailing from South Florida, LIVEKILL is a high-energy heavy metal force committed to evolving the region’s legendary metal legacy. Combining bold songwriting, crushing live performances, and modern production, the band creates an immersive heavy music experience that hits just as hard on record as it does on stage.

Production Credits

Mix / Master: Alastair Sims
Drums: Kevin Talley
Guitars / Music: John Snell

“Evil & Ecstasy” — OUT NOW

Presave / Listen:

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy />

For interviews, promo requests, or additional information:

Listen now:

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy">
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/livekill/evil--ecstasy />

https://metaldevastationradio.com/thebeast/blog/29038/livekill-joins-the-metal-saint-tour-2026-with-metal-church-and-armored-saint?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=blogger