Legendary California thrash metal pioneers DARK ANGEL made a triumphant return to the stage on March 23, 2025, at the Metal Beer Open Air festival in Santiago, Chile. The band debuted two new tracks, “Extinction-Level Event” and “Circular Firing Squad,” thrilling fans with their first new material in over three decades.

The performance was a significant milestone for DARK ANGEL, marking their first new album in 34 years. Titled “Extinction-Level Event,” the album is slated for release later this year via Reversed Records.

Drummer Gene Hoglan shared his excitement about the new material, stating, “We are going to be debuting a couple of new songs, some new material, at these upcoming couple of South American shows that we have. I know we are playing Buenos Aires [on March 21], and that’s two nights before the Metal Beer [Open Air] fest. So, at both of those shows we are debuting some new material, and we’re really excited to be able to play some new stuff after all this time.”

He continued, “And hey, man, hopefully that’s gonna lead to a whole bunch more stuff. And we’re very excited to be unleashing some new material on the metal world.”

Regarding the album’s release timeline, Hoglan expressed optimism, “Boy, you never know. We’re working and trying to make things happen. And so hopefully at some point — I’ve said this many times in the past — hopefully at some point we’ll be able to give some kind of exciting update on progress of anything. And so hopefully we’ll be able to do that somewhere in the near future. And everybody, keep your eyes peeled to DARK ANGEL. We’ll see what happens.”

The band’s return to the studio in July 2024 marked the beginning of their new LP’s production. Hoglan had previously hinted at the forthcoming material, stating, “I’ve been working diligently for the last couple of years on some projects that are gonna make DARK ANGEL fans really happy, I think. So, everybody, just sit tight.”

Reflecting on the band’s hiatus, Hoglan noted, “I had an entire DARK ANGEL album written that was ready to start getting recorded after the ‘Time Does Not Heal’ record, and circumstances occurred where the band just had to dissolve.” He emphasized the collaborative spirit in the band’s reunion, “When Jim Durkin and myself… put DARK ANGEL back together… we started talking about, like, ‘What do we wanna do for the future? Do we wanna write some new material?'”

Hoglan also highlighted the influence of the late Jim Durkin, the band’s original guitarist who passed away on March 8, 2023, at the age of 58. Durkin’s contributions to DARK ANGEL’s early sound were pivotal, and his legacy continues to inspire the band’s direction. Hoglan remarked, “Jim’s entire presence is all over the new DARK ANGEL material that I’ve been working on. And he’s a huge guitar influence on me, as well as a lot of people.”

In tribute to Durkin, Hoglan stated, “In tribute to Jim, DARK ANGEL’s new material will have a ton of his spirit all over it — his feel. Whether he actually wrote stuff on the new stuff or not, his spirit is very there.”

Looking ahead, Hoglan expressed confidence in the band’s future, “If I were to have any new DARK ANGEL material, I would want it to be an extension of where the band is at now and where I’m at now.” He emphasized the band’s commitment to delivering high-quality music, “I would be very, very excited with where DARK ANGEL’s new material would be if that would be able to confirm.”

DARK ANGEL’s performance at the Metal Beer Open Air festival was a testament to their enduring presence in the thrash metal scene. Fans eagerly anticipate the release of “Extinction-Level Event,” expecting it to be a defining moment in the band’s storied career.

For a glimpse of the new material, check out the fan-filmed videos of “Extinction-Level Event” and “Circular Firing Squad” below:

1. What is the release date for Dark Angel’s new album, “Extinction-Level Event”?

As of March 24, 2025, Dark Angel has not announced an official release date for “Extinction-Level Event.” The album is expected to be released later this year via Reversed Records.For the most current facts, please refer to the band’s official channels.

2. What are the titles of the new songs dark Angel debuted at the Metal Beer Open Air festival?

During their performance at the Metal Beer Open Air festival in Santiago, chile, Dark Angel debuted two new tracks: “Extinction-Level Event” and “Circular Firing Squad.” Thes songs are part of their upcoming album, marking the band’s first new material in over three decades.

3.Who is the current lineup of Dark Angel?

The current lineup of Dark Angel includes:

• Gene Hoglan – Drums
• Ron Rinehart – Vocals
• Eric Meyer – Guitar
• Michael Gonzalez – Bass
• Laura Christine – Guitar

Laura Christine, who is married to Gene hoglan, joined the band as a permanent member after the passing of original guitarist Jim Durkin in 2023.

4.How has Jim durkin influenced Dark Angel’s new material?

Despite his passing in 2023, Jim Durkin’s influence remains significant in Dark Angel’s new material. Drummer Gene Hoglan stated that Durkin’s presence is evident throughout the new songs,describing his influence as a “huge guitar influence on me,as well as a lot of people.” The band aims to honor his legacy by incorporating his spirit into their forthcoming album.

5. Where can I watch live performances of Dark Angel’s new songs?

Fan-filmed footage of Dark Angel performing “Extinction-Level Event” and “Circular Firing Squad” is available on YouTube. Please note that these videos are fan-made and may vary in quality.