Black Athame release debut single »Ascent« featuring John Tempesta (The Cult, ex-White Zombie)

Black Athame have released their debut single, »Ascent«, featuring John Tempesta on drums. The track was released on October 16th, 2026 and is available now on digital platforms. Listen HERE.

The band consists of Barcelona-based Long Island native LeeLoo on vocals and Chicago-based British musician Andrew Bordoni on guitars and bass. »Ascent« also features John Tempesta (ex-White Zombie, ex-Testament, ex-Exodus, The Cult) on drums.

Black Athame grew out of Bordoni’s desire to combine several generations of heavy metal and hard rock influences. His reference points range from guitarists such as Ritchie Blackmore, Tony Iommi, John Norum and Yngwie Malmsteen to more recent bands carrying a strong 70s influence, including Castle Rat and Lucifer.

Finding the right vocalist was also central to getting the project moving. Bordoni says LeeLoo’s voice, range and shared ideas for the band’s lyrics and themes made the partnership an immediate fit.

Founder Andrew Bordoni comments:

“Black Athame was born from my desire to combine the many musical influences I’ve had over the years, from guitarists like Ritchie Blackmore, Tony Iommi, John Norum and Yngwie Malmsteen to more current bands with a strong ’70s vibe, like Castle Rat and Lucifer.

When it came to finding a singer to work with, LeeLoo ticked all the boxes with her incredible voice and range, but we also shared the same vision for the lyrics and themes. It was a no-brainer from the moment we got started, and »Ascent« is just the beginning.

We had a blast writing and recording this song with the help of the incredible John Tempesta on drums!”

Courtesy of Against PR

Bojan Bidovc // music enthusiast, promoter, misanthrop and sometimes a journalist as well