Hellripper Joins Century Media Records, Teases New Music
Scottish black/speed metal artist James McBain had some big news earlier today, as he announced that his solo project Hellripper joined forces with Century Media Records. It’s a huge step for the project, which has seen McBain release some killer tunes like 2023’s Warlocks Grim & Withered Hags.
With an eye on the future, McBain said he was excited to see where his newfound partnership with Century Media Records would take Hellripper.
“I’m very pleased to announce that HELLRIPPER is now working with Century Media Records! It’s a label that I’ve followed for a long time now and am honoured to become a part of such a great legacy. We share a common vision for the future of the band, and together, we vow to spread the word of the Goat Kvlt! I’m excited to embark on this new chapter of the band’s journey and I can’t wait to share it with you all! All Hail the Goat!”
In the accompanying announcement, McBain revealed that he’s been working on new Hellripper material for the project’s debut with Century Media. According to him, that release should come out “around the vernal equinox of 2026.” The first sample of which can be heard below.
Century Media’s Vice President of A&R Mike Gitter said the label’s partnership with McBain/Hellripper only serves to add some more explosivity to their already solid roster of performers.
“HELLRIPPER is the high-bar for thrash. Like an angry billy goat, with his beard washed in blood, James McBain is a feral force that brings together the best elements of metal, black metal, crusty, d-beat punk and speed metal. James’ sonic evil knows no boundaries and isn’t afraid to push the extremes of earslaughtering noise or unexpected guitar melodies. Century Media is proud to be a refuge for the Goat Horde!”
In the meantime, Hellripper has some live dates on its itinerary. If you’d like to catch ’em live, be sure to check out the list of dates below.
HELLRIPPER Festival Apperances:
16 August 2025: Essen (DE) @ Turock Sommerfest
17 August 2025: Eindhoven (NL) @ Dynamo Metal Fest
23 August 2025: Sheffield (UK) @ Cosmic Vibration Fest
05 September 2025: Huttikon (CH) @ Meh Suff! Metal Festival
19 September 2025: Villingen-Schwenningen (DE) @ Black Forest Festival
20 September 2025: Schrobenhausen (DE) @ Metal im Woid Festival
11 October 2025: Leiden (NL) @ Metal Experience Festival
09 November 2025: Manchester (UK) @ Damnation Festival
06 December 2025: Wolverhampton (UK) @ Bloodstock Winter Gathering
21 March 2026: Aalst (BE) @ Oilsjt Omploft Fest
28 March 2026: Bern (CH) @ emMetal Rocks
