ANGUISH FORCE – “ATZWANG II”
The return of a cult act from the Italian underground metal scene
Wanikiya Record/Promotion is proud to announce the upcoming release of “Atzwang II”, the brand-new and highly anticipated album by Anguish Force, a historic force within the Italian underground metal scene.
The album will be available starting May 20 in all physical formats (LP, MC, CD), as well as digitally, offering fans a complete experience faithful to the most authentic spirit of metal. Notably, the CD version will include an exclusive bonus track, not featured on the vinyl edition.
Ahead of the album release, the official music video for the track “Stones to Destroy” will premiere on May 11. This will be the first of two planned videos, ready to kick off a new sonic chapter filled with power and identity.
THE RETURN TO ATZWANG
With “Atzwang II,” Anguish Force return to explore the dark and captivating atmospheres of their narrative universe, continuing the journey that began years ago with the first chapter.
At the core of the concept once again lies Atzwang—a place both real and symbolic, steeped in legends, tragedies, and mysteries intertwined with the band’s imagination. The result is a work deeply rooted in memory, tradition, and the darker side of local history, transformed into an epic and immersive metal story.
The album cover further reinforces this vision: it features the historic Atzwang arch, depicted in a dark and unsettling form. In the Middle Ages, this location served as a mandatory passage point where travelers were required to pay a toll—a perfect symbol of transition, control, and fate, now reinterpreted through the band’s dark aesthetic.
AN UNDERGROUND LEGEND
Founded in 1995 in Campodazzo (Bolzano) by guitarist Luigi Guarino D., Anguish Force have represented one of the most authentic and consistent acts in the Italian metal scene for over three decades.
With a sound blending traditional heavy metal, speed, power, and thrash metal, the band has built a solid and recognizable identity over time, drawing inspiration from iconic ’80s acts such as Running Wild, Helloween, and Judas Priest.
The transition from Anguish to Anguish Force in 2002 marked the beginning of a new era, solidifying a mission that has remained unchanged:
pure, direct, uncompromising metal.
SOUND AND IDENTITY
From a sonic standpoint, “Atzwang II” stands as a compact, tight, and strongly conservative work—qualities that perfectly align with the attitude of a true “old-school” band.
This is an album that does not seek compromise with contemporary trends, but instead proudly embraces a direct, raw, and authentic approach, exalting the purest essence of traditional metal.
AN UNMISSABLE RELEASE
“Atzwang II” is not just an album, but a statement of intent: a powerful return that stays true to its roots while renewing itself through intense and engaging storytelling.
With sharp riffs, dark atmospheres, and an unmistakable epic charge, Anguish Force once again confirm their role as guardians of the true metal spirit.
Prepare to cross the boundaries of Atzwang once more.
The journey continues.
Metal never dies.
Metal Forever!
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