Pennsylvania’s Hard Rock Titans Redefine Their Legacy
Halestorm’s sixth studio album, Everest, released today, via Atlantic Records, is a bold, emotional, and genre-defying statement from one of hard rock’s most enduring acts. Fronted by the inimitable Lzzy Hale, alongside drummer Arejay Hale, guitarist Joe Hottinger, and bassist Josh Smith, the Grammy-winning quartet delivers a 12-track odyssey that captures their rawest instincts and most personal reflections. Produced by Dave Cobb (known for his work with Brandi Carlile and Chris Stapleton), Everest is a sonic summit, blending the band’s signature intensity with unexpected detours into soul, country, and cinematic soundscapes.
A Journey Through Light and Shadow
Everest is described by Lzzy Hale as “a story of our journey as a band, full of beautiful endings and new beginnings.” The album dives deep into themes of mental health, resilience, and redemption, reflecting the band’s two-decade climb from a Pennsylvania garage to global stages. Unlike 2022’s Back from the Dead, which channeled post-lockdown catharsis, Everest looks forward, planting Halestorm’s flag at the peak of their creative evolution.
The album opens with “Fallen Star,” a cinematic beast driven by Arejay Hale’s thunderous drums and a heavier edge than recent efforts. Its massive scope sets the tone for an album that feels grander, more ambitious. The title track, “Everest,” carries a soundtrack-like quality, weaving melancholy and hope into a deeply personal anthem. Lzzy’s vocals—alternately raw, soaring, and tender—anchor the song as a career-defining moment.
Standout Tracks and Sonic Risks
Halestorm takes bold risks on Everest, breaking their tried-and-tested formula. “Darkness Always Wins,” the lead single released on April 22, 2025, is a brooding journey from fragile introspection to fist-pumping strength, showcasing the band’s emotional range. “Rain Your Blood On Me,” premiered at Black Sabbath’s farewell show, is a primal, poetic war cry—born from a 3 a.m. jam session in Savannah, Georgia—that channels rage and empowerment, particularly for women navigating societal contradictions.
“Shiver” is a glorious power ballad, elevated by Joe Hottinger’s soaring guitar solo and Iron Maiden-esque twin guitar work. In contrast, “Like A Woman Can” opens with haunting piano and a soulful vibe inspired by Nina Simone, highlighting Lzzy’s vocal versatility. “Watch Out!” is the album’s heaviest offering, with a Godsmack-like alternative metal riff and Lzzy’s trademark screams, while “K-I-L-L-I-N-G” pairs mighty harmonies with unhinged energy, tackling mental health with raw honesty. “Broken Doll” lurks in darker shadows, exploding into a brilliant crescendo, and “I Gave You Everything” channels real emotion, its twists echoing the band’s survival.
Production and Maturity
Dave Cobb’s production brings a mature depth to Everest, capturing Halestorm’s live energy without over-polishing their raw edge. Unlike the streamlined, radio-friendly Back from the Dead (produced by Nick Raskulinecz), Everest feels expansive, with each track given room to breathe. Cobb’s influence—known for adding grit and soul to rock—shines in tracks like “Like A Woman Can,” where Lzzy’s raspy delivery meets subtle country undertones. The result is Halestorm’s most versatile album, balancing their hard rock roots with eclectic detours that nod to Motörhead, Skid Row, and even country influences.
A Band Poised for Greatness
The nEVEREST world tour, kicking off September 11, 2025, with North American dates alongside Lindsey Stirling and Apocalyptica, followed by UK and Europe shows with Bloodywood and Kelsy Karter & The Heroines, promises to bring Everest’s energy to life. UK fans can catch them in arenas this November, a testament to their growing dominance.
Everest is Halestorm at their most fearless, blending raw power with emotional depth. It’s not just an album; it’s a milestone that captures a band pushing their artistic limits. For longtime fans, it’s a reward for loyalty; for newcomers, it’s a blazing introduction to a band that’s both a hard rock titan and an evolving force. Whether you’re drawn to the primal screams of “Rain Your Blood On Me” or the soulful introspection of “Like A Woman Can,” Everest offers something for every rock fan.
Where to Listen and What’s Next
Everest is available now on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and other major platforms. Fans can grab vinyl pre-orders or stream the “Rain Your Blood On Me” music video via Halestorm’s official website, halestormrocks.com. With the nEVEREST tour on the horizon and whispers of festival slots at Download or Hellfest, Halestorm’s 2025 looks unstoppable. For the latest updates, visit rocknews.co.uk, your home for rock music news.
READ MORE….
Halestorm’s Everest Album Review: A Monumental Climb to New Heights @RockNews
