Every year there are albums eagerly anticipated, be it from hot young names, established legends or – and this is usually the most exciting of all the categories – those bands you know are on the verge of greatness.

As Dragonforce prepare to unleash their fourth album Ultra Beatdown, anybody who understands the world of metal can have any doubt that we are about to witness a band going from being ‘potential international stars’ to a ‘major global phenomenon’.

It’s not merely the culmination of a decade crafting and finessing a sound that has made them instantly recognizable across the world. It’s not even state-of-the-art for metal, nor just a gantlet being thrown down for everyone else. This is more than that. It’s Dragonforce experimenting, taking risks, being bold – precisely what you’d expect any masters of their art.

‘Through The Fire And Flames’, from previous album Inhuman Rampage has become a modern day power metal anthem, thanks to Guitar hero 3 and the legend that it is reportedly ‘impossible’ to perfect on expert level (although some have bravely tried). The band’s sales prowess combined with a live reputation that puts many of the peers to shame, Dragonforce have earned the cachet of being the most successful new British metal act in America for two decades!

But the release of Ultra Beatdown is not the only thing Dragonforce enthusiasts have to look forward to! Talking the excitement level past 11 is the news that Dragonforce have packed their mini trampolines and guitar risers ready for an official Australian tour this October!

With one of the most entertaining live shows on planet rock, tickets will sell fast, so don’t drag your feet.