Published: May 2, 2026
The UK metal band led by Rachel Aspe present a new single from their second studio album, set for release on May 1
Cage Fight have released the new single and video “Oxygen”, taken from their upcoming second studio album “Exuvia”, scheduled for release on May 1 via Spinefarm.
Fronted by Rachel Aspe, the band continues the presentation of material from the album following earlier tracks including “Pick Your Fighter”.
“Oxygen” addresses themes of anxiety and mental pressure, focusing on the experience of being overwhelmed and the sense of urgency that accompanies it.
According to Rachel Aspe, the song reflects a state in which thoughts become difficult to manage, turning everyday actions into challenges. The lyrical concept centers on a struggle against time and the feeling of suffocation created by internal tension.
The video incorporates imagery tied to the album’s visual concept. The mask featured originates from a radiotherapy device used by Aspe’s grandmother during cancer treatment, serving as a symbolic element connected to endurance, identity, and transformation.
Within the context of the track, the mask represents mental confinement and the weight of intrusive thoughts, reinforcing the song’s themes of fear and pressure.
“Exuvia” was recorded by Sam Bloor at Lower Lane Studios and mixed by Jim Pinder, whose previous work includes Sleep Token and Malevolence.
The album maintains elements of hardcore and metal while incorporating broader arrangements and melodic layers across its eleven tracks.
The lyrics, written by Rachel Aspe, explore personal themes including anxiety, grief, and confrontation. The track “Élégie” addresses the loss of her grandfather, while “Pig” focuses on online harassment. The title track “Exuvia” was inspired by her grandmother, who also contributed to its lyrical development.
“Pick Your Fighter” features guest vocals by Julien Truchan of Benighted, introducing an external collaboration within the album’s structure.
TRACKLIST
1 Confined
2 Oxygen
3 Pig
4 Pick Your Fighter
5 Un Bon Souvenir
6 Deathstalker
7 Le Déni
8 Exuvia
9 The Hammer Crush
10 IHYG (I Hate Your Guts)
11 Élégie
Un Bon Souvenir (Single Version – Digital only)
In connection with the album release, Cage Fight will host a sold-out launch event on May 1 at Blondie’s in London.
The band has also toured with acts such as Sepultura and Cromags, and supported Napalm Death and Employed To Serve, alongside appearances at festivals including Summer Breeze and Bloodstock.
LIVE — 2026 APPEARANCES
1 May — London — Blondie’s (Album launch party)
Festivals:
2 May — Dark Reign, UK
27 Jun — Basinfire Festival, CZ
26 Jul — Mozhell Open Air, FR
31 Jul — Radar Festival, UK
1 Aug — Xtreme Fest, FR
2 Aug — Sylak Festival, FR
14 Aug — Motocultor Festival, FR
22 Aug — Barbeuk Festival, FR
23 Aug — Furiosfest, FR
29 Aug — Beastfest, Gravesend, UK (headline)
23 Oct — Firemaster Convention Festival, FR
24 Oct — Margate Rock Festival, UK
LINEUP
Rachel Aspe — vocals
James Monteith — guitar
Will Horsman — bass
Nick Plews — drums
Through “Oxygen,” Cage Fight continue outlining the thematic and musical direction of “Exuvia”, presenting its core elements ahead of the album’s release.
Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist
Photo Credit: : Andy Ford
Watch “Oxygen” below:
