Ex-ICED EARTH Members MATT BARLOW And FREDDIE VIDALES Announce Fourth ASHES OF ARES Album 'New Messiahs'
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ASHES OF ARES, the U.S. heavy metal duo featuring former ICED EARTH members Matt Barlow and Freddie Vidales, has revealed first details of its new studio album, titled "New Messiahs", that is slated for a release in Europe on July 18 and in North America on August 8, 2025 via ROAR!
A music video for the LP's first single, "Wake Of Vultures", can be seen here.
Matt comments: "'Wake Of Vultures' is derived from the idea 'misery loves company' but this goes one step further. This is the back side of involving yourself with the group of miserable people. Once you are a part of that group, you are either a vulture or you are the miserable piece of meat that they feast upon. Another cautionary tale… I'm seeing a pattern."
Formed in 2012 by Barlow and Vidales, alongside former NEVERMORE drummer Van Williams, ASHES OF ARES was born from a shared vision: to create a sound that reflects their personal influences, ideas, and visions. With their self-titled debut album released in 2013, the band quickly captivated audiences in the USA and Europe with their electrifying live performances.
In 2017, after Van's departure, Matt and Freddie continued undeterred, forging ahead with their creative journey. Their sophomore album, "Well Of Souls" (2018),showcased a more intense and expansive sound, cementing the duo's partnership in songwriting, followed by their third full-length, "Emperors And Fools" (2022),that marked a new milestone and evolution in the sound of ASHES OF ARES.
Now, ASHES OF ARES returns with "New Messiahs", continuing its relentless pursuit of sonic excellence and delivering a collection of 12 new tracks that push the boundaries of the band's signature sound. Featuring the blistering title track and standouts like "Two Graves" and "Wake Of Vultures", the LP brings an emotional intensity, sharp songwriting, and captivating melodies that reflect their journey as artists.
"New Messiahs" introduces notable collaborations, including Kyle Taylor on drums and guest appearances from Charlie Honig, Craig Blackwell and Todd La Torre (QUEENSRŸCHE). A surprise bonus track, featuring a powerful cover of Elton John's "And The House Fell Down", highlights the duo's ability to make any song their own. Recorded and mastered by Byron Filson at Villain Recording in Phoenix, Arizona, the album features stunning artwork by Kamil Pietruczynik, bringing a visual dimension to the sonic experience.
Spanning over a decade of evolution, ASHES OF ARES continues to honor their commitment to heartfelt, powerful music that transcends boundaries. With "New Messiahs", they solidify their place as masters of storytelling and architects of a sound that resonates deeply with fans worldwide.
"New Messiahs" track listing:
01. Novus Ordo
02. New Messiahs
03. Two Graves
04. Where You Go
05. Wake Of Vultures
06. Infection Deception (CD bonus track)
07. Atrophy
08. Keep On Walkin'
09. The Hawk And The Dove
10. Lust To Feed
11. From Hell He Rides
12. And The House Fell Down (CD bonus track)
As previously reported, ASHES OF ARES will celebrate the upcoming 30th anniversary of ICED EARTH's third album, 1996's "The Dark Saga", on a European tour in September/October 2025.
Vidales played with ICED EARTH from 2008 to 2012 and is featured on the band's 2011 album "Dystopia".
Barlow served two stints with ICED EARTH, from 1993 to 2003 and from 2007 to 2011.
Recorded in early 1996, "The Dark Saga" was a concept album based on the Todd McFarlane comic book character Spawn (who also appears on the album's cover). Upon its arrival, the LP was praised for Barlow's vocals, as well as ICED EARTH founder, songwriter, guitarist and producer Jon Schaffer and Randall Shawver's guitar playing. Eduardo Rivadavia called Barlow's vocal performance "impressive throughout", while Mike Stagno felt that "Barlow's deeper vocal style also helps the songs sound much more emotional". Rivadavia also named Schaffer and Shawver's interplay the highlight of "The Dark Saga".
(Source: www.blabbermouth.net)
