Austrian power metal stalwarts Dragony are back with a brand-new single, “Shadow and Flame,” marking a thrilling return to the pop-culture inspirations that first captured the band’s imagination. After two previous albums exploring fantastical retellings of historical events, Dragony now dive headfirst into the world of video games, drawing creative fuel from the critically acclaimed Elden Ring and its DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree. Crafted over the summer of 2025, the track is set to captivate both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
In a bid to fully realise their vision, Dragony have expanded their permanent lineup by welcoming the remarkable Maria Nesh as a second lead singer. Adding further brilliance, Brittney Slayes of UNLEASH THE ARCHERS lends her distinctive vocals to the single, elevating it to an epic new level. Danish maestro Lasse Elkjær once again orchestrates the sweeping, cinematic arrangements, while legendary producer Jacob Hansen ensures the song’s sound is as polished and powerful as fans have come to expect.
Frontman Siegfried Samer explains, “As a lifelong admirer of FromSoftware’s games, I’ve always been enthralled by Elden Ring. This song continues our homage to their universe — following our previous tracks, ‘Kiln of the First Flame’ and ‘Lords of the Hunt,’ inspired by Dark Souls and Bloodborne. ‘Shadow and Flame’ completes this thematic trilogy, and we’re thrilled to introduce Maria as a full-time member, alongside Brittney’s phenomenal contributions, which bring a unique texture to the piece.”
The cover artwork, once again created by Stan Decker, presents a dark, atmospheric vision of the “Scadutree” from the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. Interwoven with the image of a fiery serpent representing the pivotal character Messmer, the artwork perfectly encapsulates the haunting, otherworldly spirit of the song.
Dragony fans will also be pleased to know that the band is embarking on a major European tour in 2026, performing alongside Ensiferum and Freedom Call at venues spanning from London’s The Dome to Paris’ La Machine Du Moulin Rouge, and festival appearances including Full Metal Mayrhofen, Epic Fest, and Warriors Of Steel Festival. The tour promises a spectacular showcase of Dragony’s signature power metal, now infused with their latest cinematic and video game-inspired creations.
With “Shadow and Flame,” Dragony reaffirm their place as one of Europe’s most ambitious and imaginative power metal bands, seamlessly blending the worlds of gaming and metal into a thrilling auditory experience.