Finnish heavy metal powerhouse BATTLE BEAST has given fans another glimpse of their new chapter, taking the stage at METALFEST OPEN AIR 2026 in Pilsen, Czech Republic on June 7 with their new vocalist MARINA LA TORRACA.
The Brazilian singer's second major European festival appearance with the band drew enthusiastic reactions from fans and press alike. La Torraca originally made her live debut with BATTLE BEAST on March 6 at WWWX in Tokyo, Japan — a trial by fire that proved the new lineup could hold its ground.
The transition came after the shock departure of NOORA LOUHIMO in December 2025. The Finnish frontwoman, who had helmed BATTLE BEAST for 13 years since joining in 2012, announced she was stepping away to "focus on her solo career." Founding bassist EERO SIPILÄ recalled the moment: "First reaction was absolute shock, because it totally came out of the blue, completely random to me."
The search for a replacement quickly zeroed in on La Torraca, who had previously fronted modern metal outfit PHANTOM ELITE and symphonic metal project EXIT EDEN. She was an obvious fit: powerful, versatile, and with extensive stage experience across the European metal circuit.
La Torraca herself was caught off guard by the approach: "When I first saw an e-mail with both BATTLE BEAST and my name in the subject line, I honestly thought it had to be a mistake."
Sipilä described the onboarding process as "a trial by fire," but was quick to add: "The mood in the band is super high." Early live footage and fan reviews suggest La Torraca has not only stepped into the role confidently, but is bringing her own energy and presence to the stage.
BATTLE BEAST's seventh studio album, Steelbound, was released in October 2025 via Nuclear Blast and remains the foundation of their current setlist. Their current European dates offer fans the chance to see the revitalised lineup up close — and the Metalfest performance suggests BATTLE BEAST are well into their new era.