German death metallers Heretics release Half-Life-inspired new single "Smell the Ashes"

German death metal band Heretics have released their new single "Smell the Ashes". The track was self-released on September 4th, 2026 and is available now in digital format.

"Smell the Ashes" is the third single from the band’s upcoming album Of Poets and Prophets. While the album is built around awe-inspiring works and discoveries, this song takes its theme from the Half-Life video game series, with the title referring to the opening scene of Half-Life 2.

The track follows that dystopian setting with heavy and fast-paced sections, leading into a grand finale. Heretics also bring orchestral elements into almost the entire song for the first time, giving it a larger and more dramatic feel. During the writing process, the band already saw "Smell the Ashes" as the closing track for Of Poets and Prophets.

The music video shows behind-the-scenes footage from the album recording, rehearsals, photo shoots and the video shoot for the first single. It also marks the departure of founding member Thomas Langehenke, who has decided to leave the band and focus on other projects. Heretics will continue, with shows in Germany planned around the upcoming album release.

Line-up:
Fabian Marx
Dennis Schnitzemeier
Tim Lobner
Thomas Langehenke

Recording info:
Recorded at New World Studios
Mixed and mastered by Tim Lobner

For fans of:
Amon Amarth, Kataklysm, Fleshgod Apocalypse, Septicflesh, Carach Angren

Links:
YouTube: https://youtu.be/ShKRj3f9wMI
Website: https://heretics.de/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4jHKaQ8efx29lwlAXq3SCU
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/heretics/208801982
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heretics_metal/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Heretics42