Blue Medusa’s debut single “Checkmate” has been released online following an initial premiere on SiriusXM. The video was co-directed by Vicente Cordero (Cradle Of Filth, Hollywood Undead) and the band’s frontwoman Alissa White-Gluz. Previously known for her work with Arch Enemy and The Agonist, she officially introduced this project earlier this year. White-Gluz also co-produced the track with Kile Odell, who handled mixing and mastering.
The new band, which White-Gluz unveiled on International Women’s Day earlier this year, features guitarists Alyssa Day (Mindscar, Absentia) and Dani Sophia (ex-Till Lindemann), with Alicia Vigil (Dragonforce, Vigil Of War) on bass and Delaney Jaster (Stitched Up Heart) on drums for live shows.
White-Gluz described the project as a long-awaited evolution of her artistic vision: “After twenty years performing on the world’s biggest stages, I’m entering a new creative chapter. Blue Medusa is the next evolution of everything I’ve been building toward; a project where my full artistic vision can exist without limits. You’ll hear blazing guitar solos, crushing riffs, brutal vocals, fast and aggressive drums, thoughtful melodies, and deeply introspective lyrics layered with meaning.”
Blue Medusa emerges after White-Gluz’s departure from Arch Enemy, which was officially announced on November 23, 2025.
Immediately following her exit, White-Gluz released her first solo track, “The Room Where She Died,” composed by Oliver Palotai (Kamelot) with all vocals, writing, and recording handled by White-Gluz herself. The song signaled a bold creative shift and hinted at the freedom she would explore with Blue Medusa.
In her personal statement, Alissa reflected on her 12-year run with Arch Enemy and thanked supporters who have followed her through countless tours and four studio albums. She wrote at the time: “After 12 years in Arch Enemy, we have parted ways. I am forever thankful to the thousands of amazing fans I have met along the way. Thank you, Beastlings!”
