Independent melodic metal band RED SANDS announces the release of their new single “The Hunt,”. The track appears on the band’s highly anticipated EP Evocations, set for worldwide release on January 30, 2026.
“The Hunt” serves as an energetic and subconscious tribute to one of RED SANDS’ favorite metal acts, Iced Earth. Written by Eric Novelo (bass), with arrangements and lyrics by Daniel Novelo, the song blends galloping riffs, urgent pacing, and a sharp melodic edge. Although it is the most traditional track on the EP, it stands out as one of the most vibrant due to its direct songwriting and fast, unrelenting momentum.
Lyrically, “The Hunt” immerses listeners in the brutality and fervor of medieval warfare. While its themes resonate with nearly any era of armed conflict, the song draws particular inspiration from the Battle of Hattin in 1187, where Saladin’s forces defeated the Crusaders and reclaimed Jerusalem. Arabesque guitar solos, atmospheric backing vocals, and intricate sound effects depicting clashing swords and firing trebuchets create a vivid, cinematic portrayal of chaos on the battlefield.
Evocations features six tracks that explore themes of mortality, memory, and transformation. From the ominous opening “Mors Vincit Omnia” to the commanding presence of “The Coven,” the aggression of “The Hunt,” and the introspective melancholy of “My Beloved Ghost,” the EP traces a cycle of creation and decay. At its center is “System,” a new song that confronts modern corruption with sharp lyrical intent and complex musicianship. The artwork, created by vocalist and visual artist Jonathan Corral, reflects the record’s themes through surreal imagery featuring a being made from memories and relics carrying a dying bird on a blank musical score, symbolizing both unfinished creation and impermanence.
About RED SANDS:
RED SANDS formed in Mexico City in 2012 when brothers Daniel and Eric Novelo joined forces with their cousin Juan Carlos León. What began as a family project soon developed into one of Mexico’s most distinctive melodic metal acts. Over the years, the group shaped its identity through precise musicianship, layered compositions, and a deep sense of atmosphere. After a brief hiatus, the band returned in 2022 with a renewed focus and a new vocalist, Jonathan Corral, whose operatic range and theatrical presence expanded the band’s sound into symphonic territory. Drummer Ángel Asiain completed the current lineup, bringing power and control to the rhythm section.
The members of RED SANDS draw from contrasting musical backgrounds that converge in their songwriting. Daniel’s passion for classic heavy and power metal, influenced by ICED EARTH, IRON MAIDEN, and OPETH, intertwines with Jonathan’s symphonic and gothic inspirations from acts such as NIGHTWISH, THERION, and DRACONIAN. Together they create songs that blend melody, intensity, and emotional storytelling. Their lyrics often explore death, spirituality, and the human condition, while the arrangements combine soaring vocal lines, intricate riffs, and cinematic keyboards.
Since regrouping, RED SANDS have released a series of acclaimed singles, “My Beloved Ghost,” “The Hunt” featuring Stu Block, and “The Coven,” each of which expanded their audience and earned praise from critics and metal outlets across Latin America and Europe. Their work has been featured in the Top 100 Mexican Metal list, nominated for the Kalani Metal Awards, and included in international compilations such as Hell Spawn Vol. 8.
Beyond the stage, members of the band remain active in Mexico’s metal culture. Eric and Daniel host the podcast Metalópolis, dedicated to promoting the national scene and connecting audiences with emerging artists. This sense of community and independence continues to define RED SANDS, whose music stands as both a personal statement and a contribution to the evolution of Latin American metal.
RED SANDS is:
- Jonathan “Jona” Corral – Vocals
- Daniel Novelo – Rhythm & Lead Guitar
- Eric Novelo – Bass
- Juan Carlos “CJ” León – Piano & Keyboards
- Ángel Asiain – Drums
Connect with RED SANDS:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redsandsmetal
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redsandsmetal/
- X (Twitter): https://x.com/RedSandsMetal
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/redsandsmetal
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/intl-es/artist/1s2oL32tMDS8yq0FkdgVVG?si=5YyvjiZZQT2yF5hI_OAVrw
- Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/red-sands/1674098147
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@redsandsmetal
Evocations Track Listing:
- Mors Vincit Omnia
- The Coven
- The Hunt (feat. Stu Block)
- My Beloved Ghost
- System
- The Hunt (Alternative Version)