California's hardcore giants Lionheart return with Valley of Death II via Arising Empire - heavier, darker, and more relentless than ever!
True strength is earned through struggle--and California's metallic hardcore titans Lionheart are no strangers to it. Formed in 2007, the Oakland quintet forged their name through aggression, grit, and a groove-laden heaviness that hits harder with every release.
After erupting with The Will to Survive (2007), Built on Struggle (2010), and Undisputed (2012), Lionheart cemented their place in modern hardcore with unrelenting tours and uncompromising energy. 2014's Welcome to the West Coast reached #1 on iTunes' metal charts, launching a trilogy that redefined their sound. Love Don't Live Here (2016) and Welcome to the West Coast II (2017) blended raw fury with reflection before 2019's Valley of Death delivered their darkest, most unyielding statement yet.
In 2022, Lionheart joined Arising Empire and dropped Welcome to the West Coast III, produced by Jamey Jasta (Hatebreed) and mixed by Will Putney (Fit for an Autopsy). The album became their boldest work to date--personal, punishing, and proudly Californian. Their subsequent European tour drew over 15,000 fans, with several sold-out nights proving their global reach.
Momentum only grew: on their 2024 headline run, Lionheart sold nearly 20,000 tickets across Europe, with 7 of 11 shows sold out. Now, extending their partnership with Arising Empire, the band enters its next era with Valley of Death II--due in 2026. Heavier, darker, and more relentless than ever, the record also features a powerful collaboration with Texas heavyweights Kublai Khan, pushing the boundaries of intensity even further.
To celebrate, Lionheart will storm Europe in January 2026 with Madball, Gideon, and Slope--a tour destined to shake foundations and reaffirm their legacy as one of hardcore's most dominant forces.
