With Plague Of Rats, German metal band BRAINSTORM presents their latest studio album, released on February 28, 2025, via Reigning Phoenix Music (RPM). This album marks another milestone in the band’s impressive career and sees them returning to the Indian-themed concept first explored on Soul Temptation (2003).
Produced by Seeb Levermann (known for his work with Orden Ogan and Angus McSix), BRAINSTORM successfully captures the raw energy of their live performances in the studio. The album cover was once again designed by longtime collaborator Gyula Havanczák, whose artistic touch has graced several previous BRAINSTORM releases.
Plague Of Rats is available in multiple formats, including a strictly limited 36-page Earbook, which features the CD with the bonus track Celebrate Youth as well as a 45-minute BRAINSTORM documentary on DVD. For vinyl lovers, a limited-edition white-black-turquoise splatter LP—restricted to only 300 copies—is exclusively available via the RPM mail order.
Lyrically, the band revisits their fascination with Indian culture, which is reflected in both the lyrics and melodies. Musically, the album delivers an aggressive and high-energy approach that perfectly captures the band’s current creative spirit. Notably, Plague Of Rats contains no ballads or slower songs, maintaining a relentless focus on powerful, heavy tracks.
With Plague Of Rats, BRAINSTORM once again proves their ability to blend traditional metal elements with fresh influences while staying true to their signature sound. This album is a must-listen for fans of powerful, melodic metal „Made in Germany.“