NZ heavyweights Sidewinder are back with ‘Tempest’, a brooding, riff-heavy single that signals a darker, heavier and more progressive ahead of the release of their third album, Dominion, in December.
Formed in Wellington in 2021, Sidewinder have built a reputation for towering riffs, monolithic grooves and blues-drenched heaviness, establishing themselves as a formidable presence in Aotearoa’s hard rock and stoner scene.
Following their 2022 debut Vines and sophomore album Talons, Sidewinder have continued to build momentum through explosive live performances and support slots with international heavyweights including Orange Goblin and Sasquatch. Their powerful stage presence has helped establish them as a band equally at home on stage and in the studio. Produced by Toby Lloyd at Tiny Triumph Recordings, mastered by Will Borza (Deftones, Smashing Pumpkins), ‘Tempest’ captures Sidewinder at full power, combining bone-dry stoner-doom swagger with swamp-soaked heaviness.
“Tempest is the third single from our upcoming album, Dominion. A throwback to one of our older songs, Tempest is the daughter of Mother Earth, called upon when mistreatment of the world goes too far. It’s a massive, hard-hitting track with a powerful message at its core.”
Their third album, Dominion, marks a new chapter for Sidewinder, introducing vocalist Jem alongside guitarists Ben Sargent and Thomas Rousell, bassist Si Randall, and drummer Grant Lister. Jem’s commanding presence brings a fresh dynamic to the band’s sound, pushing their songwriting into heavier and more expansive territory.
With Dominion, Sidewinder build on the foundations of their first two albums and further their reputation as one of New Zealand’s rising heavy-rock exports. Released worldwide on 4th December 2026 via Wyrmwood Records, stream and share new single ‘Tempest’ here.
“Riff City. Equal parts hard rock and smoky stoner metal, Talons is practically made to destroy your speakers.” METAL INJECTION
“The riffs are unstoppable, the vocals even more so. And the band makes it all sound so simple, so natural, fitting together so well yet including enough surprises and inventions it doesn’t get old fast.” ANGRY METAL GUY
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