Metalcore titans Crystal Lake have returned in full force with the release of their punishing new single, “Crossing Nails.” This marks the band’s first release of 2025 and continues the momentum following last year’s label signing with Century Media Records. The single not only showcases the group’s refined sonic aggression, but also arrives with the announcement of their long-awaited new album, set to drop in January 2026.
Currently storming through a run of European festivals and exclusive headline dates, the band is putting “Crossing Nails” straight into the hearts of fans old and new, with its high-octane nü-metal core wrapped in sharp visual presentation. A striking official visualizer has also dropped, offering a taste of the energy to come on their next full-length effort — their first since 2019’s fan-favorite Helix.
Crystal Lake vocalist John Robert Centorrino spoke on the meaning behind “Crossing Nails”, saying: “I have a very love//hate relationship with God and the church. Growing up in a super religious household + going to 2 Catholic schools – I saw first-hand how they use God as a weapon of control.
“I needed people to be there for me. To save me from myself. To love me, and they were never there. They made me fear & hate something I should have loved. Fear is not love. Hate is not power. Control is not faith. Believe in YOURSELF. Love YOURSELF. Control YOURSELF. Faith is not a weapon – it’s peace.”
Crystal Lake guitarist YD on the musical approach: “With this track, we’ve kept the heaviness that’s always been core to our sound, but brought the straight, speedy riff work to the forefront and wrapped the whole song in a more catchy structure.
“We also experimented with rhythmic and groove elements that haven’t really appeared in Crystal Lake‘s music before, allowing us to explore a new kind of expression. By blending parts of my personal musical background into the song in a playful way, I think we managed to mix that classic hardcore and metal vibe in a fresh and exciting form.
“‘Crossing Nails’ is a new kind of hybrid song that combines explosive live energy with a strong sense of unity everyone can enjoy. Hope you feel that when you hear it!”
Expect more Crystal Lake news, album details, and new singles in the coming months.
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