Details: NoLifeTilMetal Records is very excited to release the new CD from Bay Area thrashers HELLBENDER titled Skumlordz! Founded in 2011 by lifelong friends Eric Strand (drums) & Clee (guitars), Hellbender was born out of a shared passion for the heavy sounds of legends like Maiden, Scorpions, and Metallica. Their mission was clear and simple: create a band that delivers unapologetic heavy music. In 2014, Hellbender joined forces with long-time ally Dollar Bill (vocals) and recorded their independent debut EP, Steal, Blood and Bone. By August 2013, Hellbender released their second EP, Falling Down, produced by Nick Botello and Julian Kidd. The band took the San Francisco, CA, Bay Area by storm, quickly building a dedicated local following. Two music videos from Falling Down catapulted the band into the spotlight, securing a tour with the legendary German thrashers Destruction. Hellbender also had the honor of performing at the now-infamous "Death Angel Christmas Show" at Slim's in San Francisco. Fast forward to 2019, Hellbender leveled up with the addition of drummer Rob Rampy of D.R.I. fame. With the same production dream team behind "Falling Down," the unleashed our first full-length album, American Nightmare on NoLifeTilMetal Records. The band released a music video for "Rosa," produced by Mike Sloat and Roaring Mouse Productions. The video and new album were a hit, and the band were crowned "Best Metal Band" in by The Bohemian. After weathering the storm of COVID-19, Hellbender regrouped in 2022, adding Sonoma County legend Eric Strand on drums. In April, they claimed victory as the Bay Area finalists in the worldwide 2023 "Battle for Wacken" contest. The band to collaborated with Craig Locicero and Chris Kontos of Forbidden fame. With Zack Ohren on board, the band entered Shark Bite Studios in Oakland and recorded, Skumlordz. Besides constant stage appearance to promote the album, Hellbender continues to promote their music with their latest video for "Mirror Black," once again brought to life by Mike Sloat. Don't miss out on one of the best metal releases of 2025.