Power Trip Releases First New Music Since 2020

Return to the Studio with Seth Gilmore

The Dallas-based Thrash Metal group Power Trip has officially returned with a double single featuring the tracks “Precinct 3” and “Scavenger.” This release represents the band’s first new music following the 2020 passing of original lead singer Riley Gale. The new material features Seth Gilmore on vocals, a longtime friend of the band who also performs with the groups Skourge and Fugitive.

The current lineup consists of the band’s four founding musicians: guitarist Blake Ibanez, guitarist Nick Stewart, bassist Chris Whetzel, and drummer Chris Ulsh. After confirming plans to reunite in 2024, the group enlisted Gilmore for a series of live performances throughout that year. These successful shows eventually led the quintet back into the studio to begin work on their third full-length album, which will be their first since 2017’s Nightmare Logic. The new music is being released via the band's new label, Blue Grape Music, which also plans to issue “Precinct 3” as a seven-inch single available in various formats. Additionally, a music video for the track “Precinct 3,” directed by Eric Richter, has been released alongside the audio.

Honoring the Legacy of Riley Gale

During the songwriting process for the new tracks, the band members focused on maintaining the spirit and vision established by their late frontman. Founding guitarist Blake Ibanez, who also served as a co-producer for the new music, explained that the group looked to Gale’s influence when crafting the lyrics and themes for the upcoming chapter of the band's career.

"When we were writing this, we wondered what Riley would have wanted to write about. So once we decided on that approach, it honestly came really easily– the lyrics were flowing and it just felt like the right way to kick off this new chapter and honor him. I think he would have been stoked to see it come to fruition."

— Blake Ibanez

Production at Empire Sound

Power Trip recorded the new material at Empire Sound studio in Texas. The sessions were led by producer Jacob Hansen, whose background proved to be a significant asset for the band’s specific sonic requirements. According to drummer Chris Ulsh, the band sought a balance between a modern production quality and their established underground roots.

"Recording worked out really well for us because [Hansen] has the knowledge of making these big records, but also comes from the late 80’s extreme metal underground. We’re tough to please because we want something that sounds current, but most importantly we want it to sound like us, however that comes out."

— Chris Ulsh

Upcoming Album and 2026 Live Dates

There are varying reports regarding the exact release window for the band's third studio album. While one source describes the project as a “2027-bound LP,” other press information indicates that the album is scheduled to arrive as early as next spring. Regardless of the specific date, the new double single serves as the primary introduction to this full-length work.

In addition to their studio return, Power Trip has scheduled several high-profile live appearances. The band is set to play three more shows in 2026, including a support slot for Slayer’s Reign of Blood 40th Anniversary event in Mexico City on October 21. Following the international date, the group will return to their home state for a performance at Sick New World Texas on October 24.