METAL CHURCH – new song revealed and new album in 2026

US metal legends Metal Church are back with a newly formed lineup and an energetic new single that embodies the sound that has defined the band for four decades. The new lineup brings together founding member Kurdt Vanderhoof and longtime guitarist Rick Van Zandt with bass icon David Ellefson, exceptional drummer Ken Mary, and powerful new vocalist Brian Allen.

After their recent tour and return from Australia, the band was at a turning point. An unexpected creative spark ignited Kurdt Vanderhoof’s drive, prompting him to contact the musicians who are now writing the next chapter of Metal Church. The intense studio chemistry led to the creation of the brand new track “F.A.F.O.”—a song that immediately electrified the band and provided the impetus for further songwriting and recording. The single was produced by Kurdt Vanderhoof, with mixing and mastering handled by Zeuss at Planet Z Studios.

These sessions have now matured into a completely new Metal Church album, which is set to be released in Europe in 2026 via Reaper Entertainment. Further details will be announced shortly.

Kurdt Vanderhoof comments:
“After 45 years, it feels like a miracle that we’re releasing new music in 2025. There was a time when I didn’t know if Metal Church would continue at all—but we’re back, and this lineup is on fire. The new single makes this moment incredibly special for me. ‘F.A.F.O.’ is an aggressive thrasher, and I’m sure the fans will love it. We certainly do—otherwise, it wouldn’t be Metal Church.”

Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/X23RO0LjUk8?si=3hu0-k4l-bB_At20