Formed in 1995, Orange Goblin built their reputation on a foundation of no-nonsense, hard-hitting heavy metal, blending elements of stoner rock, doom, and classic rock ‘n’ roll. Over the years, they have released ten studio albums, from their debut ‘Frequencies From Planet Ten’ (1997) to their latest and arguably most accomplished work, ‘Science, Not Fiction’ (2024). Throughout their career, they have been a staple in the metal community, earning respect for their relentless touring schedule and unwavering commitment to their craft.

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In a heartfelt statement, frontman Ben Ward reflected on the band’s journey, saying, “We feel that now is the right time to step away. We have always given our all to the fans, and we want to go out on a high note.” The reason for the split? The band’s instagram cited perhaps the most important reason of all: family. “It’s not been an easy decision for any of us, we have all given 30 years of our lives to this incredible band, but we feel that now is the right time for us to focus our attention on our families and other interests outside the band.” Despite their decision to part ways, Orange Goblin assured fans that they will fulfil all scheduled commitments, including appearances at major festivals such as Bloodstock and Hellfest. 

The departure of long-time bassist Martyn Millard in 2020 marked a significant turning point for the band. His replacement, Harry Armstrong, brought fresh energy and contributed to the songwriting process on ‘Science, Not Fiction,’ which many fans and critics consider a fitting swansong for the band. Orange Goblin’s music has always resonated with themes of perseverance, rebellion, and camaraderie, values they have embodied both on and off the stage. Their live performances, characterised by raw power and unrelenting energy, have been a testament to their passion and dedication. “We’ve always been an honest band,” Ward remarked. “We know what we are, and we’ve never tried to be anything else.”

Not a chance they call it a day imo,too much a fantastic band will definitely get the odd tour and special show to celebrate album anniversary’s.

If they are the last shows then it’s been a fantastic journey and they have made brilliant music along the way.

— mark skelton (@Skelly2505) January 22, 2025

While this chapter of Orange Goblin’s story is coming to a close, the band has not ruled out future one-off appearances or special projects. “Who knows what the future holds?” Ward teased, leaving a glimmer of hope for fans.

As they prepare to take their final bow, Orange Goblin’s legacy is secure. They will be remembered as one of the most steadfast and genuine acts in British heavy metal, leaving behind a catalog of music that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Paying tribute to Nirvana’s third and final album, the album artwork has been recreated on a pink background. Fans are being encouraged to visit the mural and to leave their messages for the band, honouring the 1993 album.

A mural has been unveiled in Camden to celebrate 30th anniversary of Nirvana’s third and final album, In Utero https://t.co/4JX5whFC8N pic.twitter.com/xQV9QpzHSO

— THE LINE of BEST FIT (@bestfitmusic) November 1, 2023

In Utero was an instant critical and commercial success, debuting at No.1 on the UK Albums Chart and No.1 on the US Billboard 200. The album included iconic tracks such as “Heart-Shaped Box,” “Dumb” and “Rape Me.” To celebrate its 30th anniversary, a special edition reissue of the album was released last week.  

The 30th Anniversary Edition of In Utero is out now! https://t.co/OOTiUVYqsR The Super Deluxe box sets contains 53 unreleased tracks, including two never before released complete concerts from the In Utero tour. Find your preferred format here: https://t.co/OOTiUVYqsR… pic.twitter.com/GtCAIwagvF — Nirvana (@Nirvana) October 27, 2023

Speaking on the album’s impact, Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic said, “When you listen to it, it goes somewhere. It’s dark, it’s beautiful, it’s all points in between. It’s bittersweet. We recorded it in about a week and a few of the songs were the first take. We were well-rehearsed and loved playing together. That was our glue as a band. We played live and it was live to tape.”

Novoselic continued, “It’s amazing what can happen when three people with instruments get together. You could make so much sound in a way that captures the imagination. That’s the beauty of music: you invite people in. The record can be pretty, but it can also be dark. Going back to this record, I was just reminded of our humanity as a group. There were a lot of different statements on there and that’s what you get: the post-’Nevermind’ Nirvana, after becoming a world-famous band.”

The 30th anniversary reissue of In Utero has been released in several formats, including a limited-edition eight LP super deluxe box set, a five CD super deluxe box set and a digital super deluxe edition, amongst others.

Novoselic shared his thoughts on the reissue, saying, “This one’s got a lot of cool things like backstage passes and little things you can hold, like The Who’s ‘Live At Leeds’ record.”

He continued, “I’m excited about the live shows on there, because they used AI. We took the digital audio tapes from the soundboard in Rome, Seattle and Los Angeles, then the AI can separate all the instruments and we got a really good mix out of it.”

The In Utero 30th anniversary reissue is available to purchase in various formats here.

Stream In Utero (30th Anniversary Super Deluxe) below.