Metal act APOCÆLYPSE, fronted by guitarist Ira Black (Vio-lence, Lizzy Borden, Metal Church), has announced their debut album, "Fænix", due for release on 28 August 2026. The announcement coincides with the release of the band's new single "Black Box", accompanied by a music video, following the breakout success of their earlier track "Intell-I-Gents". The release matters as it marks the arrival of a new project from an established metal guitarist, drawing on veteran musicianship for a debut record.

"Black Box" is described by Black as his most personal song to date, exploring addiction, loss and survival, and was directed by Black alongside Vincente Cordero, produced by Black and executive produced by Andy Fetyko, with mixing by Kane Churko and mastering by Maor Appelbaum. The band's lineup includes Black's son Ira Black IV on guitar, bassist Matt Snell (formerly of Five Finger Death Punch) and drummer Lonny Pasillas (formerly of Deadsett and Kill Devil Hill). Their prior single "Intell-I-Gents" has amassed over 1.4 million video views and charted on Billboard's radio chart, setting the stage for "Fænix", which the band says explores themes of resilience and transformation.