Sanctuary Reveal First Song Since Warrel Dane's Passing

By Editorial Staff | Published: Apr 12, 2026 1:06 PM EDT

Metal veterans Sanctuary have delivered a brand new track called "Not Of The Living," which is their first new single since the sad passing of their original vocalist Warrel Dane and also the first release under their brand new deal with BLKIIBLK.

"Not Of The Living" was produced and mixed by Zeuss (Queensrÿche, Metal Church, Rob Zombie, and Witherfall), and features a guest guitar solo by Jake Dreyer (Witherfall, Demons & Wizards, Iced Earth).

Founding member Lenny Rutledge had this to say about their new deal, "Sanctuary is really excited to sign with BLKIIBLK. We are looking forward to working with our new team to bring future SANCTUARY music to metal fans all over the world!"

Mike Gitter, Global Head of A&R for Frontiers Label Group and BLKIIBLK Label Head, shared, “We’re excited to be working with Sanctuary. Already a legendary band, in 2026, they’re building upon that legend and taking it one step further. When [European head of A&R] Aldo Lonobile and I heard the songs, they had begun recording for their first full-length since their last full-length ‘The Year The Sun Died’ [2014], it was clear, Sanctuary were back making some of the most vital music of their career.

"Vocalist Joseph Michael (Witherfall) has stepped in for the late Warrell Dane (Nevermore) and carried the ball magnificently. Lenny Rutledge (SANCTUARY founding guitarist) is not only taking SANCTUARY’s legacy forward, but it already feels like he’s intent on exceeding it."

Vocalist Joseph Michael added, “The band and I are very happy to announce our partnership with heavy metal's PREEMINENT record label BLKIIBLK! We hope you enjoy this new chapter in the history of Sanctuary. We look forward to bringing you new music while also honoring the past.”