KING KRAKEN share profound new single 'Hero'

7 days ago4 min read

Five men stand on a path with a medieval castle in the background. The sky is clear blue, giving the scene a dramatic and bold mood. — *Photo credit: Paul Hutchings*

Today, Welsh metallers KING KRAKEN have shared their brand new single and music video for 'Hero'. The track is an emotionally charged powerhouse that the band holds very close to their hearts, playing an important part in the story of their upcoming second album March Of The Gods, due for self-release on 18th April. Pre-save the album here and pre-order here.

Taking a step away from the thematic and sonic aggression of previous singles 'Chainsaw Saviour' and 'Berserker', 'Hero' is an incredibly personal track for KING KRAKEN. Written about the untimely passing of vocalist Mark Donoghue's father, the lyrics speak of the irreplaceable void left by a loved one and the enduring legacy that they leave behind. Watch the music video here.

On the new single, the band comment:

"This song came from a very personal place, a deep well of emotion. It's a tribute to Mark's dad, and it's about the profound impact a father has on his children. We stripped things back for this one. No bombast, just raw emotion, soulful vocals, and a stripped-down arrangement that lets the music breathe. You'll hear a side of us you might not expect, but it's honest, it's real, and it's deeply moving."

Vocalist Donoghue adds:

"'Hero' captures a snapshot in time that repeats itself every time a memory of my father is triggered. I knew I wanted to write something deeply emotional while at the same time not going overboard. I wanted to convey a message that was both raw and easy to understand. It certainly was a tough one to sing and still catches me off guard sometimes."

The band's new album March of the Gods is the eagerly awaited follow up to MCLXXX (2023). Rife with newfound musical depth, layers of texture and sublime dynamics, the album packs a hefty sonic punch that retains the power their debut established. From every slather of mythical grandeur and galloping triplet juggernaut to the pared back, heart on the sleeve, torch in the air moments, the band have found a masterful balance between light and shade. If 1180 was the year that the Kraken was first sighted, then 2025 should be the year that it’s well and truly heard.

"March of the Gods marks a bold new chapter for us - a high-energy, emotionally charged album that’s unapologetically packed with hooks, guitar-driven intensity, and larger- than-life storytelling," the band shares. "From zombies and Vikings to gods, destruction, and even the big red-horned one himself, this is our proudest, most electrifying work yet. With the album and our full UK tour kicking off in April, we can’t wait for you to hear it!"

2025 is already shaping up to be a busy year for The Kraken. With tours and standalone shows across the country and a special album launch party in the band's home town of Swansea, there's no better opportunity to exercise your neck muscles.

ABOUT KING KRAKEN

Two years since the release of their debut album MCLXXX, it’s time for the Kraken to rise once again. Not that the band, comprising vocalist Mark Donoghue, drummer Richard Lee Mears, bassist Karl Meyer, rhythm guitarist Pete Rose and lead guitarist Adam Healey, have been resting on their laurels for one minute. Oh no.

2023 saw the band gig hard across the UK, with a series of well attended club shows as well as invitations to play high profile festivals such as Call of the Wild, SOS Festival, Wildfire and Station 18. From Exeter to Edinburgh, Leicester to Carlisle, KING KRAKEN have delivered their high octane show to the ever-increasing army of fans.

Over the past two years the band have also supported a range of high-profile artists including Monster Truck, South of Salem, Fury, and legends Geoff Tate and Crowbar. In May 2024 the band pulled in the biggest crowd of the Station 18 Festival, where a stunning headline set saw the band win more new admirers. And in the summer, KING KRAKEN were invited to play at the prestigious Bloodstock Open Air Festival in Derbyshire. Going head-to-head with the mighty Clutch, the band deliver a phenomenal 30-minute set to a huge crowd. Two weeks later they were personally invited to the Stonedead Festival for a special meet and greet session.

Mere days after Bloodstock, the band were back in the studio, demonstrating their ferocious work ethic and never-say-die attitude. With returning producer Romesh Dodangoda keeping them in shape, their second album March of the Gods is planned for release in early 2025. With new songs already going down a storm, a new album and tour booked, 2025 is looking to be the best year yet. In fact, it might just be the Year of the Kraken.