While Australian fans are still celebrating the announcement earlier this week that Finnish power metal frontrunners Battle Beast are finally headed our way for a run of shows next March, the band itself currently have other things on their mind.
Also last week, Battle Beast unleashed their seventh studio album, Steelbound, with frontwoman Noora Louhimo claiming the record is their most empowering yet. Known for fusing classic heavy metal with symphonic flourishes, 80s-inspired rock, and soaring synths, the band continues to evolve while staying true to their mission of uplifting fans through music.
“This album deals with serious issues—life, death, and human rights,” Louhimo explains. “But at its core, Steelbound is about empowerment. We want to encourage people to fight through challenges, whether big or small, and to feel strong enough to go on.” Songs like Last Goodbye reflect this ethos, drawing inspiration from bassist Eero’s encounter with a fellow patient battling cancer. “It’s about that relentless hunger for life and never giving up,” she adds.
Louhimo’s own transformation into her stage persona, Mother Beast, embodies this spirit. With her striking horns; symbols she describes as “horns of courage” and elaborate stage outfits, she seeks to inspire fans to embrace individuality. “I want people to show their horns, to be their true selves. You are enough just the way you are,” she says.
For Louhimo, music is more than performance: it’s a lifeline. “Culture is vital for mental health. If we don’t have something to escape to, we don’t have the strength to carry on. Music brings people together and helps us heal.”
Vocally, she pushed her limits on tracks like Twilight Cabaret, which she calls a showcase of her full range. Yet, her focus remains on the bigger picture: uniting fans and advocating for equality. “Success doesn’t come from fame or money—it comes from expressing yourself freely. That’s my rebellion, and I hope to encourage others to do the same.”
With Steelbound, Battle Beast deliver not just metal anthems but a rallying cry for resilience, individuality, and joy. And one which will ring loud in our ears come March 2026.
Battle Beast March 2026 Australian Tour Dates – Tix: https://thephoenix.au/
Tuesday, March 10th, PERTH, Magnet House
Wednesday, March 11th, ADELAIDE, Lion Arts Factory
Friday, March 13th, MELBOURNE, Max Watts
Saturday, March 14th, SYDNEY, Manning Bar
Sunday, March 15th, BRISBANE, Crowbar
