Upcoming Metal Releases: 5/17/26 – 5/23/26
Dimhav – Ondine
Label: Independent | Genre: Power Metal + Progressive Metal | Origin: Sweden (Stockholm)
As of now, no singles have been unveiled from Dimhav’s sophomore effort, Ondine. Fans can anticipate a continuation of the complex, operatic, and hyper-melodic style established in their debut, The Boreal Flame. The band is known for their intricate arrangements, seamlessly blending powerful heavy moments with melodic intricacies. This album promises to be an excellent addition to their discography.
–Kevin Zecchel
Witching Hour – Descending…Where Time Has Ceased to Exist
Label: Dying Victims Productions | Genre: Heavy Metal | Origin: Germany (Rehlingen)
Witching Hour stands out as a quintessential band under the Dying Victims label, paying homage to the spirit of heavy metal while refracting it through a darker, more epic lens. Their songwriting flows fluidly, abandoning traditional verse-chorus structures in favor of lengthy, progressive dirges that captivate listeners.
–Colin Dempsey
Shewolff – WE’RE ALL GONNA FUKKIN’ DIE
Label: Dying Victims Productions | Genre: Heavy Metal + Punk + Black Metal | Origin: Belgium
In a premiere of their track “Nail + Burn,” Colin Dempsey describes Shewolff’s music as a primal force that channels raw energy rather than highbrow intellect. This power-driven approach is reminiscent of early humanity’s discovery of fire, recreated through bass, drums, and guitar.
Noituma – Yhdeksän sairautta
Label: Independent | Genre: Folk Metal + Black Metal | Origin: Finland (Kokkola)
Noituma explores the darker, more somber elements of folk-infused black metal with their album Yhdeksän sairautta. The music balances anger and mourning, reflecting the heroic narratives typical of their Nordic heritage.
–Colin Dempsey
Immortal – To the North and Into Eternal Winter–Live in Darkness 1993-1995
Label: Darkness Shall Rise | Genre: Black Metal | Origin: Norway (Bergen)
Darkness Shall Rise is set to release a raw and unpolished live compilation from the early years of Immortal, titled To the North and Into Eternal Winter. This album captures the essence of black metal’s formative years through fan recordings from 1993 and 1995, showcasing a time when the genre was still fresh and on the fringes of the mainstream. Vinyl collectors should act fast as only 666 copies will be available.
–Dennis J. Seese
Dimmu Borgir – Grand Serpent Rising
Label: Nuclear Blast | Genre: Symphonic Black Metal | Origin: Norway (Oslo)
Dimmu Borgir’s upcoming album Grand Serpent Rising has sparked renewed interest among fans, particularly with the track “Ulvgjeld & Blodsodel.” While it carries the band’s signature overblown style, it is tempered by a grounded vocal performance and a powerful main riff, suggesting a more focused direction for the band.
–Colin Dempsey
Armored Saint – Emotional Rest Factory
Label: Metal Blade Records | Genre: Heavy Metal | Origin: United States (Los Angeles, CA)
Armored Saint returns with their ninth studio album, Emotional Reset Factory. The band’s bassist, Joey Vera, views each record as a new chapter in their legacy. Early tracks suggest a struggle to balance their historic sound with contemporary influences. While songs like “Close to the Bone” display energetic musicianship, they may lack the rawness expected from a band with such a proud history, and the production feels overly polished.
–Dennis J. Seese
Conclusion
The week of May 17th to 23rd, 2026, promises an exciting array of new metal releases spanning various genres and styles. From the melodic intricacies of Dimhav to the primal energy of Shewolff, each band offers a unique contribution to the metal landscape. As these albums drop, fans can look forward to both familiar sounds and innovative directions within the genre.
FAQs
Q: What are some notable upcoming metal albums releasing between May 17th and 23rd, 2026?
A: Some notable releases include Dimhav’s Ondine, Witching Hour’s Descending…Where Time Has Ceased to Exist, and Immortal’s To the North and Into Eternal Winter–Live in Darkness 1993-1995.
Q: Which band is known for their unique blend of heavy metal, punk, and black metal?
A: Shewolff is recognized for their hybrid sound that combines elements of heavy metal, punk, and black metal in their album WE’RE ALL GONNA FUKKIN’ DIE.
Q: Are there any live albums being released during this period?
A: Yes, Immortal will release a live album titled To the North and Into Eternal Winter–Live in Darkness 1993-1995, featuring raw recordings from their early tours.
Q: How can fans get their hands on exclusive vinyl releases?
A: Fans should act quickly for exclusive vinyl releases, such as Immortal’s album, which is limited to only 666 copies.
