Heavy metal fans across Europe are in for a powerful dose of nostalgia and intensity this fall as Ashes of Ares, the band featuring former Iced Earth members Matt Barlow and Freddie Vidales, announces a European tour set for September and October 2025. As well as a stop at Germany’s Keep it True Fest.

The tour will mark the 30th anniversary of Iced Earth’s landmark 1996 album The Dark Saga—a concept record inspired by the Image comic book antihero Spawn, known for its dark melodies, galloping riffs, and Barlow’s unforgettable vocal performance. Widely considered, The Dark Saga remains a defining moment in the Iced Earth legacy and a fan favorite of 1990s American power metal.

Barlow, who fronted Iced Earth twice, will once again breathe life into these iconic tracks alongside Vidales, who played bass and guitar with Iced Earth in the late 2000s. With Ashes of Ares, the duo has carved out their own sonic identity with three albums and an EP. Their last album, ‘Emperors and Fools’ was 2022. Nevermore drummer, Van Williams, has played on all releases and has done some touring with the band.

It marks the first time Ice Earth songs will be played since the band’s dissolution in 2021. In October 2024, Founder Jon Schaffer was sentenced to three years of probation and 120 hours of community service for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol riot. He pleaded guilty to two charges: obstruction of an official proceeding and entering a restricted building with a dangerous weapon.This year. Schaffer became one of approximately 1,500 individuals accused of crimes related to the riot who were pardoned by President Donald Trump.

While a full list of tour dates is forthcoming, as well as their touring lineup, the band has promised a setlist that includes The Dark Saga in its entirety, along with selections from Ashes of Ares’ discography.