Upcoming music releases and events are creating buzz across the industry as artists announce new projects and concert performances. Notably, Christian Olde Wolbers, recognized for his tenure with Fear Factory, has unveiled his new band, Ängst Fabrik. On February 24, 2025, he disclosed plans for this project, which is currently anticipated to launch its album in 2026. The name Ängst Fabrik serves as a working title, with notable drummer Adam Jarvis from Scour, Pig Destroyer, and Misery Index on board to lend his talents. While fans wait for new music, Wolbers also shared logos reminiscent of his previous work with Fear Factory, hinting at the band's stylistic direction.
Meanwhile, Deafheaven, the prominent Blackgaze band, is stirring excitement through the release of their new song, "Heathen," which is part of their upcoming album set to debut on March 28, 2025, via Roadrunner Records. Their promotional tour will feature several stops across North America, kicking off on April 19, 2025, at The Belasco in Los Angeles. Subsequent venues include popular spots like The Fillmore, Revolution Hall, and Irving Plaza, culminating with appearances at major music festivals such as Sonic Temple and Graspop Metal Meeting, ensuring widespread engagement with fans this spring and summer.
Enter Shikari is also making headlines as they prepare for their largest headlining show to date. The band has slated July 18, 2025, for this exclusive performance at the Südbrücke Open Air in Cologne, Germany. Ticket sales are set to begin on February 28 at 11 a.m., with pre-sale tickets already available to fan club members. Frontman Rou Reynolds expressed enthusiasm about the event, sharing sentiments of eagerness to perform under the stars along the riverside and reconnect with German fans. Ahead of their Cologne show, the group is also touring Australia and participating in the Knotfest festivals.
On the festival front, anticipation builds for the 2025 Rocklahoma festival, scheduled from August 28 to August 31, 2025, in Pryor, Oklahoma. The diverse lineup promises exciting performances each day, showcasing acts like Five Finger Death Punch, Marilyn Manson, Alice Cooper, and Shinedown, among others. Tickets become available on February 28, promising to draw large crowds eager to enjoy live music and festival ambiance.
Deathcore band Signs Of The Swarm has also been busy as they recently completed recording their sixth studio album. Collaboratively worked on with producer Josh Schroeder, known for his work with bands like Lorna Shore, the project has garnered excitement on social media, with the band hinting at performing new tracks during their upcoming tour with Chelsea Grin. Their followers eagerly await more details on this anticipated release.
Completing this roundup of exciting news is System of a Down, who are poised to significantly revamp their performances for 2025. Bassist Shavo Odadjian revealed plans for radical changes to their set selection, emphasizing the energetic and passionate atmosphere fans should expect during their concerts. With numerous shows scheduled throughout the year and two-hour sets lined up, long-time admirers will have the opportunity to hear varied songs from the band’s extensive catalogue, ensuring every performance feels unique.
With this flurry of activities, music fans have much to look forward to, from new album releases to electrifying live performances, ace up-and-coming and established artists are gearing up to make their mark throughout the remainder of 2025.