German power metal veterans MOB RULES have released their new single ‚Above the Maelstrom‘, taken from the forthcoming studio album ‚Stories From The Verdant Vale‘. The album is set for release on August 21 via ROAR – A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music.MOB RULES, the German power metal institution formed in Northern Germany in the early 1990s, have unveiled their latest single, ‚Above the Maelstrom‘, offering fans a first taste of the upcoming studio album ‚Stories From The Verdant Vale‘, due August 21 via ROAR – A Division Of Reigning Phoenix Music.
Described by the band as a profound and melancholic ballad of exceptional beauty, the track stands in deliberate contrast to the otherwise concise and dynamic feel of the album, providing a moment of calm that adds an additional emotional layer to the broader record.
‚Stories From The Verdant Vale‘ returns to the narrative world introduced on ‚Rise Of The Ruler‘ (2025), the band’s critically acclaimed tenth studio album. The material originated during the final stages of those recording sessions and was initially conceived as exclusive bonus content for an earbook edition. Due to high demand, however, the release will now receive a full vinyl and digital rollout.
As vocalist Klaus Dirks explained: „We were reluctant to use demo versions or similar material. This motivated us to write a few new songs. We were well aware of what we were getting ourselves into, but we also wanted to challenge ourselves a little.“
The resulting songs present a slightly more direct and compact approach compared to ‚Rise Of The Ruler‘, while remaining true to MOB RULES‘ signature blend of melodic power metal, atmosphere and storytelling. The album was mixed by Markus Teske, with artwork by Stan W. Decker. Notable guests on the bonus side include Udo Dirkschneider and Amanda Somerville.