Blades of Steel Joins Prika Amaral in "Riders of the Night," an Anthem About Freedom, the Road, and Resilience in Metal

The new single from São Paulo’s Blades of Steel, released on July 25th, delivers more than just sharp riffs and speed: "Riders of the Night" is a manifesto of freedom, a celebration of the bonds born in the underground, and an ode to the road — both literally and symbolically. To shape this journey, the band invited Prika Amaral, guitarist and current vocalist of Nervosa, in a guest appearance that carries weight, history, and affection.

Prika is not only a renowned name in Brazilian metal — she’s also a personal friend of vocalist Yara Haag, and that bond is woven into the DNA of the track. “We’ve known each other for years. She’s always been that person who encourages you, gives advice, believes in you when the rest of the world doesn’t seem to see it,” Yara shares. The result of their partnership is a song that sounds like an engine revving up: intense, direct, and vibrant.

More than a collaboration: a tribute

The idea for the track came from a conversation offstage, away from the spotlight. "It was one of those moments when you’re just chatting with a friend and feel the need to create something together. Not for personal gain, but for truth," says Yara. The truth, in this case, was the desire to translate Prika’s essence into music: the free biker, the woman who moves forward without asking permission, the artist who survived and thrived in a still predominantly male scene.

“This song is about that. About people who hit the road without looking back. Who live freedom their own way. And Prika embodies all of that,” she affirms.

Composition at the speed of the wind

Guitarist Jonas Soares describes the process as "one of the most unique experiences" of his career. The goal was to blend the classic weight of heavy metal with the visceral attack of thrash, balancing Yara’s melodic vocals with Prika’s more aggressive tone. Alongside guitarist Rafael Romanelli and bassist Filippe Tonini, the band crafted a sound that feels like Motörhead, Warlock, and Nervosa riding the road together.

The drum track was recorded by Val Santos (Viper, Toyshop, Brutal Brega), who also produced the song, adding his experience and signature sound to the project. “Val’s contribution gave the song an even stronger and more defined identity,” the band comments.

Former drummer Bruno Carbonato appears in the official music video, released on the same day. His participation marks the band’s lineup transition, which is expected to be updated soon.

The music video: speed, brotherhood, and lots of gasoline

Shot guerrilla-style, the video brought together real bikers and close friends of the band, such as Gabriela Rodrigues and Paula Herrera (from Guerreiras Motoclube) and Milene Galesco, a mechanic for big bikes who also inspired parts of the song. Amid engine roars, dusty trails, and determined looks, the video captures not only the aesthetics of the road but also the spirit of those who choose to live on the edge of convention.

“It was crazy rush: location, bikes, everyone’s schedules… Everything could’ve gone wrong. But I knew it would work. It was like a mission from the heart,” recalls Yara.

Prika: “a new voice for a new moment”

For Prika, the collaboration also marked a symbolic moment. “This song is very special because it caught me at a moment of discovery. I started singing recently, and here I could explore a new side of my voice, in a different style. And it’s still about something I love: riding motorcycles!” she says. “The lyrics perfectly capture that feeling of freedom. Start the bike, hit the road, forget the world.”

The video, filmed on a day full of dust and friendship, ended with beer and laughter. “Everyone was there for the same reason: love for music and the road. That’s priceless.”

Next miles ahead

With “Riders of the Night,” Blades of Steel continues the cycle from their album released in February, reaffirming their mission to keep heavy metal alive, authentic, and connected to its roots. The band promises new surprises soon, including an announcement of their new lineup.

If metal is still alive in 2025, it’s thanks to names like these — who keep speeding through the night with courage, truth, and noise.