When Sanctuary returned in 2014 with The Year The Sun Died, the result was far more than a reunion album. It was a triumphant return from one of metal's most respected and influential bands, delivering a dark, powerful, and emotionally charged collection that stood proudly alongside their classic releases.

Featuring the unmistakable voice of Warrel Dane, whose work with Sanctuary and Nevermore helped shape generations of metal fans, The Year The Sun Died combines crushing riffs, haunting melodies, and thoughtful songwriting into one of the strongest albums of the band's career. The performances are inspired throughout, with founding guitarist Lenny Rutledge and guitarist Brad Hull providing a dynamic musical backdrop for Dane's commanding vocals.

Critics and fans alike praised the album for capturing the spirit of Sanctuary's early work while embracing a darker, more mature sound. Tracks such as "Arise and Purify," "Frozen," "Exitium (Anthem of the Living)," and "The World Is Wired" demonstrate a band operating at an exceptionally high level decades after their original formation.

Brutal Planet Records proudly presents the first-ever U.S. Deluxe CD pressing of The Year The Sun Died as part of the Metal Icon Series. Officially licensed from Century Media Records and remastered by Rob Colwell, this collector's edition includes a deluxe O-ring collector sleeve, exclusive band collector card, full-color 16-page booklet, and the bonus track "Waiting For The Sun," Sanctuary's powerful interpretation of the classic song by The Doors.

For fans of Nevermore, Testament, Metal Church, Iced Earth, Queensrÿche, and progressive power metal with depth, intelligence, and atmosphere, The Year The Sun Died remains an essential chapter in the legacy of Sanctuary and the late, great Warrel Dane.