ARMORED SAINT vocalist John Bush has confirmed the band's long-awaited ninth studio album will arrive in April 2026 via Metal Blade Records. The follow-up to 2020's "Punching The Sky" has been in the works for several years, delayed partly by the lingering effects of the pandemic and extensive touring commitments.
Bush described the new record as "a little continuation of what we've done over the last few records — 'Punching The Sky' and 'Win Hands Down' — but it also sounds kind of different at the same time." He added that he is "really proud" of the new material and considers it one of the strongest collections of songs the band has assembled. Guitarist Jeff Duncan has echoed those sentiments, teasing riffs that push the band's trademark blend of classic heavy metal and hard rock into fresh territory.
ARMORED SAINT hold a unique and deeply respected position in the American heavy metal landscape. Formed in Los Angeles in 1982 during the explosive NWOBHM-influenced movement, the band emerged alongside peers like METALLICA and SLAYER but carved a more melodic, hard rock-inflected path. Their 1984 debut "March of the Saint" and 1985's "Delirious Nomad" remain beloved classics of the era. The band has endured tragedy — most notably the death of founding guitarist Dave Prichard in 1990 — but has persevered with a commitment to quality that has earned them a fiercely loyal fanbase.
Bush himself is equally renowned for his tenure as vocalist of ANTHRAX from 1992 to 2005, during which he fronted the thrash legends on albums like "Sound of White Noise" and "Stomp 442." His powerful, emotionally resonant voice remains one of metal's most distinctive instruments. An official album title and tracklist are expected to be revealed soon, with pre-orders likely to follow in March.