For decades, heavy bands lived and died by the album cycle, months in the studio, a huge release push, then years on the road.
According to Killswitch Engage frontman Jesse Leach, that model might not be the only way forward anymore (per Blabbermouth).
Speaking with Baby Huey from 107.7 The Bone, Leach revealed the band is keeping an open mind about how future music could be released, even if that means stepping away from the traditional full length format.
“I think you have to move with the times. I think the algorithm that digital media is in is now favoring singles. It’s now favoring smaller amounts of music. But I think if you have a vision as a band that you wanna just be the kind of band that puts out an album and that’s that, go for it. Stick to your guns.
“But I think we’re all really open to whatever works, whatever makes sense. So I wouldn’t be surprised if, moving forward, we did change up the format.
“But the important thing is, does the music speak for itself? Do the lyrics hit? Is it good quality? Is it something that we’re proud of? I think that’s more important, these days, than what type of a format it is, whether it’s an EP or an LP or a single. If it’s good, it’s good. Who cares? That’s how I feel.”
Moving with the times
It’s a notable shift in mindset for one of metalcore’s most influential bands, a group that built its legacy through landmark album releases but now appears willing to adapt to streaming era listening habits.
The conversation arrives while Killswitch Engage continue touring behind This Consequence, their latest record released in 2025 through Metal Blade. The album delivered a strong response from fans and produced standout tracks including Forever Aligned, I Believe, Collusion and Aftermath.
Australian fans won’t have to wait long to see what this next era looks like live, following overwhelming demand, Killswitch Engage recently expanded their 2026 Australia and New Zealand run, adding a second Auckland date and a brand-new Newcastle show.
Several performances are already sold out, with Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth continuing to attract strong ticket demand. Joined by UK metal heavyweights Sylosis, the tour shapes as the band’s biggest Australasian headline run to date, and possibly a glimpse into what Killswitch Engage’s future could sound like.
Killswitch Engage 2026 Australia & New Zealand Tour Dates
- Friday, October 30th – Auckland, Powerstation NEW SHOW
- Saturday, October 31st – Auckland, Powerstation SOLD OUT
- Sunday, November 1st – Wellington, Meow Nui SOLD OUT
- Tuesday, November 3rd – Brisbane, Fortitude Music Hall
- Thursday, November 5th – Newcastle, Bar On The Hill NEW SHOW
- Friday, November 6th – Sydney, Enmore Theatre
- Saturday, November 7th – Wollongong, Waves
- Monday, November 9th – Melbourne, Forum
- Tuesday, November 10th – Melbourne, Forum SOLD OUT
- Thursday, November 12th – Adelaide, Hindley Street Music Hall
- Saturday, November 14th – Perth, Metro Fremantle
Tickets are on sale here.
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