Danish genre-breakers Gradience signs with Metal Blade Records

Author Teemu Hakala - 5.5.2025

The Danish metal scene just got a serious jolt as Gradience, one of its most talked-about newcomers, signed a record deal with none other than Metal Blade Records. And no wonder – this band doesn’t just bend the rules, they blast them to pieces. Their sound is a wild mix of black metal, deathcore, metalcore, and even trap-rap – and somehow, it all works brilliantly.

Gradience first made a real impact with their debut EP “Ironsight”, produced by Chris Kreutzfeldt (Cabal, MØL). The EP gained praise for its bold sonic direction and deeply personal themes, exploring feelings of alienation and inner conflict. “Ironsight” is now nominated for Release of the Year at the Danish Heavy Awards, while the band itself is up for Newcomer of the Year.

The signing with Metal Blade didn’t come out of nowhere either. Just before the official announcement, Gradience independently dropped a new single, “Lucid”, featuring fellow Danish progressive metalcore outfit Ghost Iris. The track already has a music video online – and it’s absolutely worth checking out. “Lucid” pushes the band’s sound even further: epic vocals, crushing grooves, and an emotional weight that hits hard. This is metal that’s not afraid to show vulnerability.

“We’re beyond excited to welcome Gradience to the Metal Blade family. Their innovation, intensity, and fearless creativity embody everything we stand for. The future of heavy music runs through bands like this.” Markus “Bart” Grasseck, Metal Blade’s European label manager, shared his excitement about the signing.

2024 has already been a banner year for Gradience. They kicked it off by performing at the When Copenhell Freezes Over showcase at the legendary VEGA club in Copenhagen. They also dropped two high-profile collaborations: “Crushed By The Tide” with Hexis and “Save Me” with UK band Love Is Noise. Especially the former has already been making waves on Denmark’s alternative radio channels.

One thing is clear – Gradience is on the rise, and they’re not slowing down. If you haven’t heard them yet, now’s the time to dive in.