Behind The Artworks: DEAD KIWIS - EXTREME METAL (2026)

For EXTREME METAL, we once again collaborated with David, who has played a major role in shaping DEAD KIWIS' visual identity. Together, we've continued developing our neon-soaked, retro-futuristic cyberpunk universe while maintaining a strong visual continuity with our previous releases.

The artwork depicts a lone, faceless protagonist battling monstrous creatures inside a world heavily inspired by classic arcade and early PC video games. The idea was to create something resembling our own version of Iron Maiden's Eddie—not as a recurring character with a defined personality, but as an anonymous figure anyone can project themselves onto.

The biggest influence is unmistakably the cover artwork of the original DOOM (1993)—a fitting tribute, as 1993 also happens to be the birth year of every member of the band. The monster in the bottom-right corner deliberately mirrors the pose of one of the demons featured on the legendary DOOM cover.

Sharp-eyed fans may also spot a subtle nod to the Warhammer 40,000 universe through the cybernetic creature positioned on the left side of the artwork.

Ultimately, the cover captures exactly what DEAD KIWIS is about: relentless action, overwhelming chaos, dark humour, and the feeling of fighting impossible odds while somehow still enjoying every second of it.

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