Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
US thrash metal legends Metal Church have released the next piece of music from their 14th studio album, “Dead To Rights”, scheduled for release on April 10 via Reaper Entertainment. “Brainwash Game” is a clinic in metal that the new lineup featuring founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof alongside longtime guitarist Rick Van Zandt, joined by bass icon David Ellefson, powerhouse drummer Ken Mary, and dynamic new vocalist Brian Allen put on full display throughout the new album.
A performance video for “Brainwash Game” – directed by Rick Moyer – can be seen here:
Kurdt Vanderhoof states:
“‘Brainwash Game’ is really about the machinery behind the curtain. We’re living in a time where the modern media cycle and the internet move so fast that truth often gets twisted, filtered, and repackaged to fit whatever narrative sells the most clicks. It’s not always about informing people anymore — it’s about steering them. The song dives into that idea of manipulation, how repetition and outrage can blur the lines between fact and fiction until people don’t even realize they’re being conditioned. It’s heavy, it’s aggressive, and lyrically it’s meant to challenge listeners to think for themselves in a world that constantly tries to think for them.”
From the aggressive opening assault of “Brainwash Game” to the riff-driven finale “My Wrath,” Metal Church prove they still possess the same relentless drive that has earned them fans for over four decades. Tracks such as “Deep Cover Shakedown,” “The Show,” and “Wasted Time” deliver the signature sound the band has long been known for. The album’s first single, “F.A.F.O.,” was released last November, with its accompanying video surpassing 425,000 views to date. “Dead To Rights” was produced by Kurdt Vanderhoof and mixed and mastered by Zeuss at Planet Z.
Kurdt Vanderhoof adds:
“This new album is very special to me for one reason: the band was over, and I honestly didn’t see it being resurrected. But somehow, it brought itself back to life—again! I’m incredibly proud of these new songs; they hit hard. Brian Allen brings the classic Metal Church sound to the vocals, and adding a rhythm section with musicians of the caliber of Dave Ellefson and Ken Mary makes this a force to be reckoned with. If you enjoy classic Metal Church, you’re going to love this record.”
Pre-order “Dead To Rights” in various editions here:
Metal Church EU Shop
Tracklist “Dead to Rights”:
1.Brainwash Game
2. F.A.F.O.
3. Dead To Rights
4. Deep Cover Shakedown
5. Feet To The Fire
6. The Show
7. Heaven Knows (Slip Away)
8. No Memory
9. Wasted Time
10.My Wrath
Metal Church plan to tour extensively this year on the Dead To Rights Tour 2026. A few dates have been announced been announced with more to come. All information on touring plans and links to tickets can be found at https://www.metalchurchofficial.com.
Dead To Rights Tour 2026 Dates
Line Up
Kurdt Vanderhoof – guitarist
Rick Van Zandt – guitarist
David Ellefson – bass
Ken Mary – drums
Brian Allen – vocals
More about Metal Church:
Born out of the explosive West Coast metal scene of the early ’80s, Metal Church quickly established themselves as one of the genre’s most formidable and musically sophisticated bands. After signing with Elektra Records, the group released two landmark albums — their self-titled debut “Metal Church” and its follow-up “The Dark” — both of which remain essential listening in the heavy metal canon. As the U.S. metal wave surged, Metal Church hit the road with labelmates Metallica, further solidifying their reputation for precision, power, and uncompromising intensity.
Now entering a powerful new chapter, Metal Church features founding guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof, longtime guitarist Rick Van Zandt, bass legend David Ellefson, elite drummer Ken Mary, and dynamic vocalist Brian Allen. With renewed energy, a legacy spanning over four decades, and a rapidly expanding worldwide fanbase, Metal Church remains a driving force in modern heavy metal — still pushing forward, still evolving, and still unmistakably Metal Church.
