The metal scene continues to thrive and evolve in 2025 with exciting news from legendary bands and fresh cultural moments that keep the spirit of metal alive and well around the world.

From daring fan antics to new album announcements and epic tours, here is a comprehensive update on what’s happening in the world of heavy metal.

Metallica’s recent concert in Perth, Australia, on November 1st was memorable not only for the music but also for an unexpected incident.

Two overenthusiastic fans decided to climb the central lighting tower at Optus Stadium during the show, half-naked and charged with trespassing.

Their bold stunt nearly caused the concert to pause, which could have sparked a riot among the 60,000-strong crowd attending Metallica’s first Australian show in over a decade.

The fans’ act seemed to pay homage to Metallica’s iconic ’90s era, reminiscent of their legendary “Cunning Stunts” live performances.

Despite the disruption, the show went on, highlighting the passionate dedication of Metallica’s fan base.

Slayer guitarist Kerry King recently revealed exciting news about his solo career.

He is deep into writing lyrics for his second solo album following last year’s *From Hell I Rise*.

King hopes to record and release the album by 2026 or 2027.

However, when asked about touring, he hinted that his solo band might never perform live, which raises questions about Slayer’s future.

Slayer is currently engaged in a series of reunion shows scheduled from 2024 through 2026, including a special 40th-anniversary celebration of their seminal album *Reign In Blood*.

This milestone could potentially spark a full-scale world tour.

Fans worldwide have warmly welcomed these reunion shows, fueling speculation that Slayer’s legacy will continue to be celebrated live, even if only sporadically.

In a stunning cultural crossover, 27-year-old Ignacia Fernandez made headlines during the Miss World Chile 2025 semifinals by delivering a death metal performance instead of the traditional ballad.

Wearing a flowing black gown, Ignacia transformed the elegant pageant stage into a mosh pit with eerie whispers and feral growls, stunning both judges and the audience.

Her performance earned a standing ovation and secured her a spot in the national finals.

Ignacia explained that metal music has been her refuge and a way to express her true self, breaking stereotypes by showing metal as a source of power rather than anger.

She is no stranger to the metal scene; her band Decessus recently toured Europe with Jinjer and Epica and released the album *Dark Flames*.

This moment was a powerful reminder of metal’s expanding cultural influence and its ability to challenge norms even in mainstream events.

Nergal, frontman of the Polish black metal band Behemoth, is set to perform the band’s 1995 debut album *Svartipeth, Storming Nirnbeldeg* live — but without Behemoth.

Instead, he will be joined by Icelandic black metal band Ms.

Burming, who will take on the role of Behemoth for this unique show at Beyond the Gates 2026 in Bergen, Norway.

This artistic reinterpretation highlights Nergal’s solo vision behind the original album, which was largely his effort except for drums by Baal Ravenlock.

While Behemoth remains active, this special performance has sparked debate among fans about its meaning, but it undeniably offers a rare treat for black metal enthusiasts.

AC/DC fans have reason to celebrate as the band announced the 2026 leg of their *Power Up World Tour*.

The tour will include 21 stadium shows across South America and North America, kicking off in São Paulo, Brazil, on February 24th.

The lineup features the classic members Brian Johnson, Angus Young, Stevie Young, Matt Laug, and Chris Chaney.

The tour will visit major cities including Chile, Argentina, Mexico, Canada, and the United States, with stops at colossal venues like New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, which can hold over 82,000 attendees.

The anticipation is high, especially in South America, where AC/DC concerts are legendary for their electrifying atmosphere.

While some bands didn’t get dedicated segments, several new releases deserve attention:

– Evergrey (Sweden) released the single *Oxygen*, blending crushing riffs with soaring melodies and themes of inner darkness and resilience.

– Omnium Gatherum (Finland) dropped their full album *May The Bridges We Burn Light The Way*, mixing melodic death metal roots with fresh energy.

– I Promised The World (Texas) released the single *Bliss* in seven languages, combining nostalgia with a renewed sound.

– Malefic Throne, a death metal supergroup featuring members from Morbid Angel, Angel Corpse, and Origin, released their debut single The Voice Of My Ghost ahead of their upcoming album.

– Tailgunner (UK) announced their sophomore album *Midnight Blitz*, produced by Judas Priest’s KK Downing.

King Diamond, the Danish horror metal icon, received a prestigious award from the Danish Arts Foundation, recognizing his decades-long contribution to music and visual storytelling.

Only five people in Denmark receive this honor annually, underscoring King Diamond’s unique impact on metal history and Danish culture.

Meanwhile, In Flames, pioneers of the Gothenburg melodic death metal scene, teased fans with cryptic social media posts hinting at a major event in their hometown.

Speculation suggests an upcoming Gothenburg Brunner Festival featuring past and present In Flames members along with other genre giants, celebrating the birthplace of this influential metal style.

Peter Criss, original drummer of KISS, announced his first solo album in 18 years, simply titled *Peter Criss*, set for release on December 19th.

The album features notable musicians like bassist Billy Sheehan and guitarist John 5. Criss continues to showcase his talents on drums and lead vocals, promising a strong comeback.

Iron Maiden marked their 50th anniversary with a special collaboration alongside West Ham United football club, celebrating both the band’s founding and the football club’s FA Cup victory, both from 1975.

The commemorative shirt features Iron Maiden’s logo and Steve Harris’s iconic number 11, worn by Harris himself during a London Stadium concert.

From daring fan antics at Metallica shows to Kerry King’s solo projects and Slayer’s potential touring future, 2025 is shaping up to be a dynamic year for metal.

AC/DC’s massive tour plans promise epic stadium shows, while cultural moments like Ignacia Fernandez’s metal pageant performance in Chile highlight metal’s growing influence beyond music.

With new albums from established and emerging bands, honors for legends, and festivals that celebrate metal’s roots, the metal community continues to thrive globally.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the genre, there’s never been a better time to dive into the power and passion of metal music.