British metalcore act Shields unleash venomous new single “Parasites”

British progressive metalcore crew Shields return with their hostile new single “Parasites”, a fierce preview of their upcoming album “Death & Connection”, which arrives on January 30, 2026 through Long Branch Records.

The song pushes the band’s sound into darker territory with sharp electronics and tight, stomping riffs. It shows how far Shields have evolved their dynamic blend of metalcore and progressive elements. The chorus hits fast, and the verses grind forward with raw energy. The track deals with emotional parasites and the weight of toxic ties, and the band shape that theme into huge hooks.

“Parasites” continues the path set by earlier singles from the album. Songs like “Abuser”, “Kill” and “Red & Green” already hinted at a more personal tone. The heavier cuts “Lacerate” and “Wolfskin” featured guests from Graphic Nature and Left To Suffer. Together they formed a picture of an album built on grief and the ghosts of past relationships.

Shields was formed in London in 2012 by vocalist Joe Edwards and guitarist-vocalist Samuel Kubrick Finney. They broke into the spotlight with the “Guilt” EP in 2015 and their debut album “Life in Exile” in 2018. Their story took a tragic turn with the passing of guitarist George Christie, and the band stepped away for several years. Their latest lineup, now including drummer Alastair Wain and bassist Krishan Pujara, marks a strong return.