Formed: 1998
From:
Thessaloniki,
Greece
Last Known Status: Active
Latest Firewind News
Below is our complete Firewind news coverage, including columns and articles pertaining to the band. Some articles listed may be indirectly related, such as side projects of the band members, etc.
Note: We began associating news directly with bands in late 2003. Therefore, earlier band news may not be listed on this page.
Displaying records 1 - 20 of 213 1 2 3 ... 10 11 Last
Firewind Recording New Album; Ex Singer Returns
BLKIIBLK is thrilled to announce the signing of Greek power metal band Firewind. Led by guitar virtuoso Gus G. (Ozzy Osbourne, Dream Evil), the band have evolved into a powerhouse band with a devoted international fanbase and a string of acclaimed albums.
As the band enter this exciting new era, Firewind also announce major lineup updates. After his departure in late 2019, powerhouse vocalist Henning Basse is officially returning to the band. Basse’s history with the group goes back to 2007, when he first stepped in as a touring vocalist on the "Allegiance" tour, and later became a defining voice during Firewind’s post-hiatus era from 2016 to 2019, leaving a lasting imprint on the acclaimed album "Immortals."
At the same time, Firewind announce that Herbie Langhans is stepping down from vocal duties.
"We “borrowed” Herbie from Avantasia for as long as we could, but our schedules and needs kept clashing, with all the increasing touring obligations. We understand Herbie’s situation and we thank him for his time in the band, the awesome music we made together and wish him all the best," the band commented.
Gus G. expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter, by saying: "We’re all very excited, as we commence work on the upcoming concept album that will be the biggest and most epic thing we’ve ever done. And for this, we couldn’t have imagined a better label partner other than Frontiers Records new imprint label, BLKIIBLK. We’re honored to be label mates with Metal titans such as Megadeth and Biohazard and we can’t wait to unleash the new music to the world. Please stay tuned for more details on that and we will be seeing you on the road in 2026!" More...
Headline News
70,000Tons Of Metal Announces Destination Change
70000TONS OF METAL, The Original, The World’s Biggest Heavy Metal Cruise, has announced a change in the destination for its 2026 voyage. The upcoming edition of the festival at sea, taking place from January 29 to February 2, 2026, will now sail from Miami, Florida to Nassau, the Bahamas aboard Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas.
Originally planned to return to Labadee, Haiti, the decision to reroute the journey was made out of an abundance of caution and with the well-being of all Sailors, artists, and crew as the top priority.
"While Labadee has been a great port of call on past sailings, we are closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti and its surrounding regions," said Andy Piller, Skipper of 70000TONS OF METAL. "Ensuring the safety and comfort of our Survivors is non-negotiable. With that in mind, we’ve made the proactive decision to change course for 2026. Nassau provides a welcoming alternative that allows us to maintain the world-class experience our Sailors expect — both on board and ashore." More...
OpEd
Diamond's Mine: The Best Of 2024
2024 is finally pinched off from our collective sphincters and as is becoming a far too familiar gripe by now, the state of the world is akin to a two day old Big Mac; neglected, unappealing and probably infested by vermin. However, we once again have been able to rely on the music we love to get us through this dumpster fire of an existence and were given some treats too, not just in the form of incredible albums but also the Acid Bath reunion we all thought would never happen, as well as the equally surprising comebacks of Nevermore and Nailbomb, not to mention The Sword and Slayer. Of course, we also said goodbye to such bands as UFO, Misery Signals and Twelve Foot Ninja and sadly dealt with the passings of former Iron Maiden frontman Paul Di'anno, ex Great White singer Jack Russell and Blake Harrison of Pig Destroyer and Hatebeak, to name only three dearly missed comrades. Time and metal marches ever on though and as always, we begin this recap by welcoming some new names into the fold.
Best Newcomer
Though it's becoming ever more difficult for new bands to make a name for themselves, there were quite a few who were able to put themselves on the map this year. One early example would be Hellman, from the Chilean capital city, Santiago, who unleashed their debut full length, "Born, Suffering, Death" at the beginning of the year, a very good example of death n' roll, recommended for those of who miss Entombed. There were quite a few bands who released their first albums this year but for me, there was one clear winner... More...
Firewind Announces 2025 UK Tour Dates
Greek power metal legends Firewind has announced that they will be returning to England and Scotland next year for a headlining tour in support of their latest album, "Stand United." Support on the tour will come from Fury, who opened for Firewind in London earlier this year. A message from the band reads as follows:
"After our one off London show earlier this year, it was clear that we have to return for more UK dates! So here we go, 6 shows in February! Let us know where we will see you!"
Tour dates:
February 4th - Glasgow @ Ivory Blacks
February 5th - Newcastle @ Trillians
February 6th - Blackpool @ Waterloo
February 7th - Nuneaton @ Queens Hall
February 8th - Southampton @ Engine Rooms
February 9th - London @ The Underworld
Firewind Releases "Talking In Your Sleep" Video
Following the release of their much-acclaimed studio output Stand United (released in March 2024 via AFM Records,) lauded by both fans and music press alike, hard rock and power metal titans Firewind have just kicked off their European tour alongside Sonata Arctica, Serious Black and Tungsten! In December, they will be also joining forces again with label mates Masterplan.
Now, in time for the tour's start, the band with iconic guitarist Gus G is premiering a brand new music video for the song "Talking in Your Sleep", a cover version of the 80s pop rock classic originally recorded by The Romantics.
Gus comments: "During the recording sessions of the “Stand United” album we all wanted to record a cover song as it had been a while since we’d done that. We all love the classic gem “Talking in Your Sleep” by the Romantics and agreed unanimously to go for it. We gave it the Firewind treatment of course and it sounds bit heavier now!
"To celebrate the current European tour we just kicked off, we decided to drop a new video for this track featuring road footage from the first leg of our world tour, taken from our US and Japanese shows earlier this year. We hope you enjoy and hopefully you’ll catch us on tour, on what will be the last dates in support of this album cycle!" More...
Report
Firewind And Fury Rip Through The Underworld
Power metal isn't for everyone, that's for sure, but it definitely needs to be a part of the metal spectrum. There's a lot of people who love heavy music, but don't always want to experience the darkness and negativity of say death or black metal. There needs to be an outlet for head bangers who wouldn't mind feeling happy, and that's where power metal steps in. Undoubtedly one of the brightest names to emerge from the genre in the 21st century is Firewind and for over twenty years now, the band led by guitar virtuoso Gus G. has gone from strength to strength. At the beginning of the month, the Thessaloniki born group unleashed their tenth studio album, "Stand United" and fans were eager to hear these new songs live. They may have saved London for last when it came to their European tour, but the British capital proved to be worth the wait.
Heading down to The Underworld (which we'll be revisiting later this week,) it wasn't long before the crowd were treated to the special guests this evening, Fury. Not to be confused with Fury UK from Manchester way, the Midlands based band combines heavy metal with power, thrash and a little bit of old fashioned rock and roll to create a truly exciting sound. Honestly, the audience seemed almost as happy to see Fury as they were to see Firewind, and with good reason. From the opening notes of "If You Get To Hell First," Fury set the Underworld alight. Almost every song is filled with heart racing beats and wild guitars, complimented perfectly by the vocal partnership of founder Julian Jenkins and Nyah Ifill and the driving bass of Becky Baldwin. More...
Firewind Posts "Stand United" Video Online
Greek power metal veterans Firewind release their tenth studio album "Stand United" today and to celebrate, the band has unveiled a brand new music video for the album's title track. You can check it out below.
"Stand United" features nine brand new songs produced with Dennis Ward (Magnum, Unisonic), as well as a cover of the 80s pop rock classic "Talking In Your Sleep," originally recorded by The Romantics but giving it a metal twist in the style of Firewind. Their forthcoming, tenth studio album also bears testament to the band's sheer enthusiasm and lyrical topics that could not be more relevant. More...
Firewind Unveils "Chains" Lyric Video
While hard rock power metal titans Firewind are not only currently gearing up for the release of their brand new, forthcoming studio album "Stand United," but also an extensive tour throughout Europe, the US & Canada, the UK and Japan, today, the band is presenting a lyric video for their latest single, the powerful hard rock anthem "Chains!"
About their new single, "Chains," iconic guitarist and Firewind mastermind Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne, Arch Enemy, Dream Evil), says: "This is the last single we put out as we’re getting closer to the 'Stand United' album release. It’s leaning more towards the melodic hard rock side of Firewind. We hope you enjoy this track and get excited about the upcoming release! See you on the road soon!" More...
Firewind Releases "Fallen Angel" Music Video
Power metal titans Firewind, who are currently gearing up for an extensive European and US tour, among new live shows added in the UK and Japan (find all dates and infos listed below!), will release their much-awaited, tenth studio album, entitled "Stand United," on March 1, 2024 via AFM Records.
Following previously-released, first album singles such as "Salvation Day" or the powerful anthem "Come Undone", today, the iconic band formed by guitar legend Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne, Arch Enemy, Dream Evil) has shared a music video for their latest single "Fallen Angel!" Gus G reveals:
"'Fallen Angel' is a song about the eternal battle between good and evil, a song about the temptations of life. There's been so many interpretations of all this.
"Working again with director Rainer 'ZIPP' Franze, we gave a biblical touch on the visuals and there's even some choreography going on, for your viewing pleasure. Musically, I feel there's a good balance of modern and classic Metal elements which is where Firewind should be in 2024." More...
Firewind To Release New Album "Stand United"
Following their much-acclaimed anniversary live release, "Still Raging" (September 2023, AFM Records), iconic hard rock power metal titans Firewind have announced a brand new studio album, titled "Stand United," for a release on March 1, 2024 via AFM. Stand United will be available as CD, LP Vinyl, digital formats and highly collectable bundles including an autographed card, a Firewind cat patch plus a ticket for the band's upcoming European tour with Masterplan (see all dates listed below). For every ticket bundle purchase, fans will also get the chance to win a Meet & Greet. The album pre-sale has just started here.
In support of their upcoming album release, today, Firewind have shared a new single taken off "Stand United," the album opening track "Salvation Day." You can check out the video below.
For more than twenty years, Firewind has enthralled heavy music fans with their exciting blend of hard rock and power metal. Razor-sharp riffs by guitar legend Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne, Arch Enemy, Dream Evil), big hooks and solos meet the incredible vocal skills of charismatic singer Herbie Langhans (Avantasia, Radiant, Seventh Avenue, amongst others), who joined the band in 2019.
Their new offering, "Stand United," features nine brand new songs produced with Dennis Ward (Magnum, Unisonic), as well as a cover of the 80s pop rock classic "Talking in Your Sleep," originally recorded by The Romantics but giving it a metal twist in the style of Firewind. Their forthcoming, tenth studio album also bears testament to the band's sheer enthusiasm and lyrical topics that could not be more relevant. "I wouldn’t exactly call ‘Stand United’ a classic concept album, but the album title indicates what we’re about thematically," explains Gus G, who has also contributed with more lyric ideas on this one than any album before. "This world seems to be getting more and more out of balance, what with environmental disasters, the pandemic, the wars currently raging all over the globe. In such times, it’s more important than ever for mankind to stand close together instead of fighting each other. That’s what ‘Stand United’ is about!"
This basic idea is also reflected in the cover artwork courtesy of Costin Chioreanu (Grave, Mayhem, among others). Says Gus: "I always loved the artwork of our debut album, which was based on a real hand painting. With ‘Stand United’ being our tenth album, I wanted an equally authentic template and that’s how I came across Costin. The collage of faces on the cover represent war, greed, betrayal, but also love and unity, which are some of the album’s lyrical themes. I’m just as proud of the artwork as I am of the songs on our new album." More...
Firewind Shares "Ode To Leonidas" Live Video
Today, Firewind are celebrating the release of their new live album, "Still Raging." Available as a 2CD and Blu-Ray edition through AFM Records, the band's epic anniversary release, recorded in 2022 at a frenetically-acclaimed hometown show in Thessaloniki, Greece, is out now.
Band mastermind and guitarist, Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne, Arch Enemy, Dream Evil), comments: "Happy release day! Today Still Raging Blu-Ray is finally out and we wanted to share one more song with you. 'Ode To Leonidas' is from our 2017 concept album, Immortals, which has quickly become a staple at our live shows. We love playing this one, so crank it up and go check out the new live release!" More...
Firewind Posts "Mercenary Man" Live Video Online
Greek power metal favourites Firewind has debuted another sample of their forthcoming new blu ray release, "Still Raging," by way of the song, "Mercenary Man." You can check out the video below. "Still Raging" is set to be released through AFM Records on September 1st and can be pre-ordered here.
"'Mercenary Man' was the lead single off our 2008 album 'The Premonition' and it’s just one of those songs of ours that became a fan favorite through the years," guitarist Gus G comments, and adds: "We always enjoy performing it and we hope you’ll enjoy this current live version!" More...
Firewind Releases "Maniac" Live Video
September 1, 2023 sees hard rock power metal titans Firewind release their epic anniversary live album, titled "Still Raging," through AFM Records. Recorded in 2022 at a frenetically-acclaimed hometown show in Thessaloniki, Greece, "Still Raging" will be available on Blu-Ray and as a 2CD edition, the pre-sale has just recently started here.
Following a previously-released single, a new live version of "Orbitual Sunrise," today, the band is premiering a new video clip for their classic "Maniac!"
As Gus G comments: "'Maniac' is Firewind's biggest hit and we didn't even write it! Our Metal version of the "Flashdance" anthem goes back to 2008 straight out of 'The Premonition' album of ours and it was originally recorded for fun during the album sessions. Whenever we play it live, it instantly gets the crowd on party mode and you can see that on this video from our anniversary hometown show. Enjoy!" More...
Firewind To Release New Live Blu-Ray/Album
Following their latest, self-titled studio album in 2020, hard rock power metal titans Firewind have announced the release of an upcoming live album/BluRay, titled "Still Raging!" The release, that comes as a special BluRay and 2CD edition, will be available on September 1, 2023 through AFM Records.
Since more than twenty years, the iconic band founded by exceptional guitarist Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne, Arch Enemy, Dream Evil) enthralls heavy music fans with their exciting blend of hard rock and power metal. Razor-sharp riffs, big hooks and solos meet the incredible vocal skills of charismatic singer Herbie Langhans (Avantasia, Radiant, Seventh Avenue, amongst others), who joined the band in 2019.
"It's hard to believe that a band like Firewind has been around for 2 decades," Gus G comments. "In 2022 we had only planned a re-issue of our debut album, but with the pandemic slowly winding down, we were fortunate enough to start doing shows in America and Europe again. Come Fall of 2022 we played 2 headline shows in our homeland, Greece to celebrate our 20th anniversary."
Gus continues: "Prior to the Greek shows, my friends from OTSE film crew asked me about filming our hometown gig in Thessaloniki. In a way, the stars aligned, as we returned to the same venue (Principal Club Theater), with the exact same crew that filmed our DVD back in 2008 ('Live Premonition' anyone?). With this opportunity in front of us, I started thinking about a cool way to put this onto our beloved fans homes as a special thank you for the support you've shown us over the years. Together with AFM Records, we bring you a special BluRay + 2CD package. So yeah... Firewind Still Raging, 20 years later and it's all thanks to YOU!
"While we're currently hard at work on some new music, we hope this commemorative Live release will keep you good company, till our new Metal anthems arrive!" More...
See: The Biggest Shred Collab Song In The World #5
YouTuber Jared Dines (Sion, etc.) returns with his fifth entry in the annual ‘The Biggest Shred Collab Song In The World’ series. A total of 69 artists were have been recruited to accompany him on this latest collaboration.
The involved musicians include: More...
Firewind Working On New Album
Following Firewind's performance at the Brainstorm festival in the Netherlands, guitarist and founder Gus G. has taken to YouTube to update fans on the goings on with his project. During the video, Gus G. stated that, "We've been working on new songs. There will be a new album in 2023... We're in writing mode/pre-production mode." You can watch the statement in full below.
Firewind will be heading back out on the road in January, performing as special guests to Beast In Black on their "Dark Connection" European tour.
The tour dates are as follows: More...
Paul Di'Anno Announces Special Shows With Gus G.
Former Iron Maiden vocalist Paul Di'Anno has announced that he will be performing two special shows in the Greek cities of Athens and Thessaloniki on December 14th and 16th respectively, where he will be playing both albums he recorded during his time with Maiden. Joining him for these shows will be Firewind founder and Greece's own guitar hero, Gus G.
Says Gus G.: "Excited to see Paul after many years and honored to play some legendary Iron Maiden by his side. For 2 nights only! Where else?"
Firewind Cancels European Tour
Greek power metal veterans Firewind has announced that due to a multitude of reasons, they have decided to cancel their scheduled tour across mainland Europe, having recently played the Iberian peninsula. A message from the band reads as follows:
"Hello everyone,
"The pandemic circumstances of the last 2,5 years and the war in the Ukraine make it impossible for us to tour Europe in May 2022. Apart the fact, that more and more countries are lifting restrictions and supposedly return to freedom, we are still dealing with a lot of different restrictions, terms and conditions in several countries and even counties.
"A safe and smooth travel is not a given and playing shows in Eastern Europe is currently impossible.
We are deeply sorry that we are forced to come to this decision, but the situation has been out of our hands. All bought tickets can be refunded from point of purchase."
Firewind Added To Dragonforce North American Tour
As previously announced, DragonForce will headline the North American Extreme Power Metal tour in spring 2022, featuring Visions of Atlantis and Seven Spires. Today, DragonForce announces a lineup change, swapping previous opener Battle Beast for power metal legends Firewind.
Firewind will join DragonForce as a part of Firewind's 20th anniversary tour, performing a "best-of" set, as well as fan favorites from their catalog and songs from their most recent release. Featuring the guitar-wizardry of Gus G (Ozzy Osbourne, solo) and the epic vocals of singer Herbie Langhans (Avantasia), Firewind is sure to put on an unforgettable show.
"Unfortunately, due to unexpected circumstances, Battle Beast is no longer able to make it on tour. We will miss them, but we are beyond excited to share the stage with our good friends in Firewind," guitarist Herman Li says. "Firewind is legendary, Herbie Langhans has an incredible voice, and Gus G is one of the best guitarists around today. I can't wait to hear Firewind's 20th Anniversary set, I know the fans are going to love it."
See below for all dates. Tickets and extremely limited pre-show VIP upgrades are available here
The tour dates are as follows: More...
Firewind Releases New Music Video
"New Found Power", the title of their new single and music video, perfectly describes the current spirit of Greek power metal masters, Firewind.
The band’s latest incarnation, since 2019, of course led by former Ozzy Osbourne axeman Gus G. is fronted by singer Herbie Langhans (Avantasia), a powerhouse vocalist par excellence. Langhans‘ addition to the group’s ranks gave a new kind of energy to Firewind and after the release of the band’s latest (self-titled) album in May 2020, now the new single, "New Found Power", continues the Firewind legacy with a heavy, uplifting power metal track of highest quality.
"New Found Power" will also be part of the AFM Records label compilation, 25 Years Metal Addiction, which includes 30 rare or previously unreleased tracks and comes as 2CD digipak (out October 29).
"We recently met in our rehearsal room in Thessaloniki, Greece, to film what we all missed so much: playing together. That’s why the 'New Found Power' music video comes without fancy effects or anything: it’s just the four of us playing this cool new song and embracing it", Gus G. comments. "We really hope to see all our fans on the upcoming 20th anniversary tour. It’s been way too long and we can’t wait to celebrate 20 years of Firewind with a wild ride through our history." More...