Multi-platinum metalcore outfit Killswitch Engage have begun streaming their new track “Blood Upon The Ashes“. That track is a b-side from the sessions for their latest album “This Consequence” and will appear on the upcoming ‘The Dogs Of Hope‘ benefit compilation. 100% of the net proceeds from that release will go towards the the no-kill animal shelter, Randolph County Animal Shelter in rural Wedowee, Alabama.
That compilation also boasts tracks from Snapcase, Deadguy, Testament guitarist Alex Skolnick, Quicksand, Rival Schools, etc. vocalist Walter Schreifels and more. It will be out on August 01st. Killswitch Engage vocalist Jesse Leach said of this track:
“‘Blood Upon The Ashes‘ is a song about struggle, sacrifice, and redemption. The lyrics read a bit like a story that’s inspired by what we go through in the human experience. I was picturing a war-torn city and people coming together to rebuild it—while the ‘blood’ signifies the sacrifice people make for each other in times of need. As much as it’s based on humanity and everything people are going through in a world riddled with war, it’s also a post apocalyptic story.”
The group’s bassist Mike D’Antonio added:
“For me, ‘Blood Upon The Ashes’ is ‘the one that got away.’ Although I was fighting hard for it, this track didn’t get the votes to be included in the final, 10-song ‘This Consequence’ record. So close. Alas, one of my favorite songs is now a b-side. Have no fear, however, ‘The Dogs Of Hope’ animal shelter benefit is the perfect place for it to live and regain new life. I’m really excited for people to hear it ‘cus every time I do, there’s regret for not including it on the album. Enjoy.”
“The Dogs Of Hope” track listing:
01 – Walter Schreifels – “Pigs On The Wing (Part 1)” (Pink Floyd cover)
02 – Alex Skolnick – “Disruption”
03 – Killswitch Engage – “Blood Upon The Ashes”
04 – Snapcase – “Back To Square One” (Zero Tolerance cover)
05 – Jeromes Dream – “The Seventeen Downton”
06 – Death Ray Vision – “Only Wolves Remains”
07 – Orange 9mm – “Pretend I’m Human” (2025)
08 – Deadguy – “Makeshift Black Metal Smasher”
09 – Lybica – “Phaser”
10 – Roman Candle – “How To Be Considered When You’re Not In The Room”
11 – Drought – “Abattoir”
12 – Enforced – “Radiation Sickness”
13 – Taken – “D4”
14 – Walter Schreifels – “Pigs On The Wing (Part 2)” (Pink Floyd cover)
