UK Prog Metal storytellers HeKz proudly present “Qisma,” the title-track and third single from their long-awaited new album, released on April 26, 2026.
As the beating heart of the album, “Qisma” does double duty: it introduces the story’s central character and roots the narrative deep within the sprawling technocratic city of Kybagrad, whilst simultaneously making the boldest possible statement about the band’s current sound.
Watch the music video for the title-track “Qisma” via the YouTube player below:
Frontman Matt Young puts it plainly: “Musically, I wanted to create a song that could serve as the ‘business card’ for the present iteration of the band. If an alien came to Earth and demanded to know what HeKz sounded like, this would give them a pretty clear indication.“
Drawing subtle influence from classic Deep Purple, “Qisma” threads driving energy through intricate arrangements before arriving at a standout solo section which showcases the twin lead interplay between guitarist Tolis Zavaliaris and violinist Lucia La Rezza: a dynamic musical duelling, fast becoming a synonymous part of the HeKz DNA.
The accompanying video, directed by Charlie Smith of Mind Visual Arts, brings the world of Qisma vividly to life. Shot in a green screen studio and composited into environments drawn directly from the album artwork, it weaves band performance together with narrative sequences following an animated version of the protagonist. In dreamlike visuals, she yearns to break free from Kybagrad and reach “The Great Out There,” a world of nature and open skies far beyond the city’s unseen walls. Hair and make-up artist Margherita Fabbro rounded out the full creative team, helping sharpen the visual identity of the project.
Young speaks to the thinking behind it: “We’ve tried to have all of the non-musical media tell the story alongside the music itself, and that really informed the direction for the Qisma video. The final result completes the visual journey that we’ve been building.“
And his pride in what the band has created is clear: “I am so proud of this album and all the work everyone has poured into it. We’ve created a prog metal adventure, a movie for the ears, and I hope listeners will play through it in its entirety and feel rewarded.“
HeKz have long been recognised for their unconventional, electrifying use of the violin. “Qisma” elevates this signature element to new heights. “We’ve never treated the violin as a backing instrument – it’s a lead voice in our music.” Young explains. “On this album, the interplay between violin and lead guitar is genuinely groundbreaking. We’re charting new territory.”
True to its name, “Qisma” weaves a gripping narrative thread throughout its 12 tracks. It’s a tale of self-discovery in a world that demands conformity, where modern systems prioritise control over creativity and compliance over courage. Yet the album’s message blazes with hope: with passion, belief and unwavering commitment, we can forge our own destiny and illuminate the path for others.
“It’s an allegory for the moment we’re living through,” Young reflects. “With everything happening in our world right now, we must hold on to hope. We must find the light in the darkness. Don’t let anyone convince you there’s only one way forward – there isn’t!”
Presented as a double album, “Qisma” features guest contributions from Prog Rock royalty:
– Adam Holzman (Steven Wilson, Trifecta, Jane Getter) / Keyboards
– Mark Bogert (Knight Area, Magoria) / Guitar
– Moyano el Buffalo (King Lizard, Diamond Black) / Percussion
– John Mitchell (Frost*, Asia, Lonely Robot, Arena) / Vocals, Co-Production, Mixing and Mastering
“Qisma” stands as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of independent artistry. HeKz have consistently resisted the gravitational pull of the mainstream industry, forging their own path with integrity and vision.
Young concludes with palpable pride: “This album is a celebration of the power of doing things your own way. There’s simply no chance we could have made an album like this as part of someone else’s system. We’ve made Qisma on our own terms and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with the world. Long may independent music thrive!”
Pre-Order “Qisma” here: HeKz Webhop | Bandcamp
Disc 1
The Gates of Kybagrad (2:01)
Qisma (3:55)
The Future is Here (6:22)
Defiance (4:31)
Captured (4:09)
Venom (6:43)
The Great Out There (23:53)
Disc 2
The Road Home (5:54)
Break The Spell (6:01)
Overlord (21:01)
Virtual Utopia (6:24)
A Leap Of Faith (6:19)
Lineup:
Matt Young / Vocals, Bass, Keyboards, Rhythm Guitar, 12 String Guitar
Tolis Zavaliaris / Lead and Rhythm Guitars, Fretless Guitar
Lucia La Rezza / Violin, Cello, Double Bass
Jerry Sadowski / Drums
Guest Appearances:
Adam Holzman / Keyboards, Moog
John Mitchell / Vocals
Mark Bogert / Lead and Rhythm Guitars, Acoustic Guitar
Jerry Sadowski / Drums
Moyano el Buffalo / Percussion
Stella D’ Angelo / Choir
Duncan Greenway / Choir