In a world where metal has long been dominated by dark imagery and aggressive energy, Runesaber is rewriting the rules — melding the divine power of feminine energy with the relentless force of thrash metal. Hailing from Oceanside, California, this female-fronted melodic thrash band, led by guitarist and vocalist Shaynie Rhoads, is carving a unique space in the genre with what Rhoads calls “pink metal.”

The Birth of Runesaber: Where Fantasy Meets Fury

Forged from Rhoads’ deep-rooted passion for heavy metal, fantasy, and an unapologetic love for the color pink, Runesaber brings spellbinding storytelling to life through electrifying riffs and soaring vocals. Their music is a sonic battleground where mystical creatures, magic, and raw emotion collide, creating a sound that is both ferocious and enchantingly melodic.

With influences spanning from metal titans such as Megadeth, Metallica, Judas Priest, Testament, Diamond Head, and Iron Maiden, Runesaber channels the spirit of classic heavy metal while injecting a fresh perspective that sets them apart in a male-dominated genre.

‘Last Bite’: A Taste of Runesaber’s Lethal Edge

On February 13, 2025, Runesaber unveiled their latest release, Last Bite, a track that encapsulates their ability to weave dark, seductive storytelling with blistering thrash intensity. The lyrics paint a haunting picture of a love that ensnares and consumes: “Do you have regrets? Like climbing into my web? I know what’s best for you, I told the others, too.”

Last Bite showcases the chemistry of Runesaber’s powerhouse lineup: Rhoads on guitar and vocals, Ian Bassett on guitar, Cory Noonan on drums, and Jeff Morrison on bass. The track’s relentless drive and hypnotic melodies make it a standout anthem for the band’s evolving sound.

Shaynie Rhoads: The Pioneer of ‘Pink Metal’

Beyond Runesaber, Shaynie Rhoads is an artist redefining what it means to be a metal musician. As a self-proclaimed “guitar-slinging headbanger” from Oceanside, she blends high-voltage rock energy with a pop-infused vocal approach, creating a unique hybrid that resonates with fans across genres.

“I was always a bit of a misfit, and not the cool kind,” Rhoads shared in an interview with SD Voyager Magazine. “I was the girl that showed up to class in blue eyeshadow and faux fur platform boots. I drove a crusty old car and worked at Vons so that I could buy band shirts and concert tickets.”

Her journey from an outcast teen to a formidable frontwoman has been fueled by a relentless commitment to her craft. As the founder of Hotcakes Records, she has taken full creative control of her music, releasing tracks independently and pioneering a sound that blends the grit of 80s metal with a vibrant, modern twist.

On the Road: Runesaber’s Upcoming Shows

Following their explosive performance opening for Faerie Qveene at Brick by Brick on March 8, 2025, Runesaber is set to hit the stage at several high-profile events:

• April 19, 2025 — Wacken Metal Battle @ San Diego, CA
• May 16, 2025 — Til-Two Club @ San Diego, CA
• September 6, 2025 — Solaris Beer & Blending @ Murrieta, CA

With a growing fanbase and a sound that defies convention, Runesaber is proving that metal’s future is as diverse and dynamic as ever. Whether through thunderous riffs, ethereal melodies, or the unmistakable energy of Rhoads, one thing is clear — this is just the beginning for pink metal’s trailblazers.

For more on Runesaber, visit thebandrunesaber.com or follow them on Instagram, YouTube, and Bandsintown.