In 2026, Combat Records, a heavyweight in the heavy metal scene of the ’80s, is staging a grand return. Under new leadership with Robert Dujmusic and Alex Stojak at the helm, the iconic label is reviving its legacy after more than 40 years of shaping the thrash and punk genres. Originally founded in New York City in 1982, Combat Records quickly became synonymous with music innovation, introducing American audiences to global metal acts like Venom, Slayer, Kreator, and Celtic Frost, while nurturing homegrown legends such as Megadeth, Exodus, Nuclear Assault, and Circle Jerks.
Combat Records has a tumultuous history, with ownership changes and periods of dormancy. After stints under Relativity Records and Koch Records, the label went silent in the mid-2000s, with its catalog largely absorbed by Sony. A brief revival in 2016 saw the brand brought back under EMP Label Group, led by Megadeth’s David Ellefson and Thom Hazaert. Now, Dujmusic and Stojak are steering Combat Records from its new headquarters in Göttingen, Germany, expanding beyond mere branding to include distribution, public relations, festival production, and touring.
Key figures supporting Combat Records’ relaunch include Nicole Wendeborn, former partner at Eternal Sound Records, stepping in as A&R manager, and Christian “Opus” Lawrence, former Cro-Mags drummer and current drummer for Dead By Wednesday and Tantric, managing U.S. operations. While the label was known for chart-topping releases, Combat Records’ innovative physical releases also made a mark, including camo-themed labels, glow-in-the-dark vinyl, picture discs, and live compilations like “Combat Tour Live: The Ultimate Revenge” (1985), featuring Exodus, Venom, and Slayer.
With an official website and social media channels set to launch soon, fans can look forward to updates on new releases, tours, and exclusive content from one of heavy music’s most storied institutions. As Combat Records steps back into the spotlight, the thrash and punk community has much to celebrate.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.