Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
Finnish melodic metal force Gladenfold proudly announce their long-awaited new album “Soulbound”, set for release on February 27th, 2026 via Reaper Entertainment. The album is now available for pre-order in various formats.
To coincide with the announcement, the band unveils their brand-new single “Mercy” — the slowest and most atmospheric track on “Soulbound”. While not a ballad, the song represents the emotional and melancholic core of the upcoming concept album, offering a deep breath amidst an otherwise fast, dramatic, and heavy musical journey.
Watch the official video for “Mercy” here:
“Mercy” features a powerful vocal duet between Esko Itälä and guest vocalist Micha (Without Warning). Their contrasting voices amplify some of the song’s most intense moments. Musically, the track unfolds through expressive melodic lines, sorrowful guitar leads, and a keyboard solo with a touch of old-school prog flair.
Vocalist Esko Itälä comments:
“This song speaks through the voice of someone searching for ways to break free from cycles of exploitation and abuse. It sets in a world where compassion and forgiveness is extinct, and only death can show mercy. It’s a bleak tale, but a very important one in the album’s storyline.”
Keyboardist Paavali Pouttu adds:
“The original demo was written on piano — as one might guess from a keyboardist. Shaping it into a complete Gladenfold song for all instruments was both challenging and rewarding. The arrangement evolved a lot along the way, but the band’s collective effort and especially Esko’s lyrical touch brought it to life.”
With “Mercy”, GLADENFOLD present the second new single from “Soulbound”, following the previously released “For My Queen”. After their powerful Children Of Bodom cover “Towards Dead End”, the band further demonstrates their wide emotional and musical range.
ICYM:
“For My Queen” (official Video): https://youtu.be/MqF5frXgYCw
“Towards Dead End” (official Video): https://youtu.be/6DuEkVr_NwA
Tracklist:
1. Fire Wind
2. Wardens Of Time
3. For My Queen
4. Helix Of Hate
5. Mercy
6. Ghostlike
7. Chaos Waltz
8. Anthem Of The Broken
9. Soulbound Parallax
More info coming soon.
Discography:
From Dusk To Eternity (2014)
When Gods Descend (2019)
Nemesis (2022)
Current Line-Up:
Esko Itälä (vocals and acoustic guitars),
Matias Knuuttila (guitars),
Toke Gerdts (guitars),
Ville Vesa (bass),
Lauri Itälä (drums)
Paavali Pouttu (keyboards)
Official Links:
https://www.gladenfold.net
https://www.facebook.com/gladenfold/
https://www.instagram.com/gladenfold/
https://www.youtube.com/gladenfoldband
