HARD ROCK INFO

REVIEWS SEPTEMBER 2026

KONGH: Dissolved In Time

Trust No One Recordings on Sept. 25 - LP, CD, Digital
What we have here is the 4th album by Swedish sludge/doom heavyweights KONGH. Between 2007 to 2013 they released 3 albums, before they went on an extended hiatus. But now they are back.
We just get 3 tracks, but they are from 7 minutes to as long as almost 19 minutes. They don't want to recreate the past, but develop their sound and sharpens it with a blend of crushing heaviness, vast atmosphere and hypnotic repetition, while incorporating electronics, layered textures and some of the most ambitious compositions in the band's history. That's what the press info says anyway. To me it sounds monotonous and very heavy, and the songs last for an eternity. But if you like that, then you're probably the right person for this.
The album also features contributions from several key figures in the Scandinavian heavy music scene, including 3 members of CULT OF LUNA. Christian Augustin performed drums and engineered the vocal sessions, and additional backing vocals are provided by Jörgen Sandström (GRAVE, ENTOMBED etc).
kongh.net | tnor.se

OCCULT MASTER: Occult Master

Inverse Records - CD, Digital
OCCULT MASTER is a heavy/doom metal band based in Oulu, Finland, founded in 2012. This is their first album though, where they offer a broad and diverse mix, ranging from straight-forward heavy metal assaults to multi-part progressive and contemplative epics. It even includes 1 classical guitar track. The music is strongly rooted in 1970s and 1980s heavy metal and progressive rock. It's mainly dark and heavy, but there's also some faster moments, as well as more quiet. The sound is raw and old-school, so it almost sounds like an old demo recording (just almost though).
Most of these 9 tracks are good stuff, so it could definitely be worth a try.
facebook.com/occultmasterband | inverse.fi

MOLOKEN: Moloken

Discouraged Records on Sept. 25 - LP, CD, MC, Digital
MOLOKEN is a Swedish sludge metal band from Umeå. They formed in 2007, and this self-titled album is their fifth.
These guys always push the boundaries, and it's a wild mix of doom, death, black, sludge and post metal. It's heavy and monotonous, and actually not always so funny to listen to (but we all have different taste of course). I would guess that this fits better for those who want an experience and a challenge. So you should probably just sit down and listen to get the whole picture (which I probably have not).
It seems to be 6 years since the last sign of life from this band. And with this new album they are said to return with a more primal, doom-laden foundation, while expanding their sonic palette, while clean vocals, acoustic passages, and subtle traces of Nordic folk music are woven into the whole.
bit.ly/4ykhHP4 | moloken.net

MAD PAINTER: Debt Collector

Epictronic Records - Digital Single
Yeah, I like this song. It has a vintage sound and is catchy and easy to like.
MAD PAINTER is a veteran rock band from the States, and this single is taken from their upcoming album "Island Poetry", due for release on October 9. It's driven by gritty vocals, infectious basslines, and an explosive garage rock attitude, and delivers a swagger-filled blast of classic rock energy. Built on a tight, swinging rhythm section, sharp guitar hooks, and a playful sense of mischief, the track captures MAD PAINTER's ability to blend vintage influences with their own distinctive personality. The music is rooted in 1970s British rock, and blends Hammond-driven hard rock, boogie, progressive textures, theatrical arrangements, and heavy riffs. A must to check out if you like what they call retro rock.
youtu.be/fDHuNf2KPRY?si=2ltDvymCwVnaDmMD | orcd.co/islandpoetry | madpainter.co.uk | epictronic.com

MACERATION: Mercy To The Miserable

Emanzipation Productions - Digital Single
Danish death metal veterans MACERATION returned with the title track from their upcoming 4th full-length about a week ago. With this song they balance old-school death metal brutality with sharp melody and an instantly memorable edge. It opens with a riff that grabs the listener with its striking melodic yet aggressive character, before the track evolves into an even faster and more brutal assault, driven by crushing guitars and relentless intensity. You could say that the old school meets the new school, and they have a nice meeting. It kicks ass anyway, no doubt about that.
macer.bfan.link/mercy | emanzipation.dk

LOVE IN CHAINS: Good Lovin'

Idora Entertainment - Digital Single
LOVE IN CHAINS is a melodic hard rock band, and this is the title track from an upcoming album, which will be released on October 16. The song "is built on the melodic, hooky and catchy harmonies foundation, but sears the soul with a robust and modern production", they say. It's highly inspired by legendary bands like KISS, FIREHOUSE, EUROPE, WINGER, WARRANT, WHITESNAKE, DOKKEN and STRYPER. Simply the sound of the 80s with a modern touch. And this is a really good song, so it's a very promising taste of the album. You should really give this a chance.
facebook.com/LoveInChainsUSA

KINGCROWN: Moonfall

Rockshots Records - LP, CD, Digital
French melodic heavy/power metal band KINGCROWN was founded by the brothers Jo and David Amore (both ex-NIGHTMARE) in 2015. They have previously released 4 albums between 2018-2024.
This new album sounds just like it should when it comes to this genre. They have a powerful, yet melodic, sound in the classic tradition, and the songs are of a very high quality. You should not be dissapointed when you listen to this, and there's not that much else to say about that.
wp.me/pciNW-oM9 | linktr.ee/kingcrown_off

K-MAN & The 45s: We Won't Stop

Stomp Records - Digital Single
O.k., this single have been out for a few weeks now, but there's extremely much now. Anyway, this is the first taste of their upcoming album, "Heed The Call", out on October 9.
K-MAN & The 45s are a ska punk band from Montreal, Canada. They have already been around for over a decade, so they obviously know what they are doing. Which can be heard if you listen to this catchy and energetic song, where they blend 2-tone ska with punk and rock n roll. It's loud, direct, and made for a packed bar. This is simply a party anthem that you just got to love. So check it out right now!
orcd.co/kmanwewontstop | stomprecords.com/bands/k-man.... | facebook.com/kman45

HEXBANE: From Hell

The Circle Music/Hell's Fire Records - 7" EP, Digital EP
HEXBANE is a new black metal band, featuring scene veterans The Magus (ex-NECROMANTIA, ROTTING CHRIST, solo, THOU ART LORD), George Emmanuel (LUCIFER'S CHILD, ex-ROTTING CHRIST), Tas Danazoglou (FRIENDS OF HELL, ex-ELECTRIC WIZARD, MIRROR, SATAN'S WRATH), and Faust (DJEVEL, ex-EMPEROR, BLOOD FIRE DEATH). This is their debut EP, where we get some true primal black metal that honours the nostalgia and aggression of the era that started it all. So it's a trip back to the early days of black metal. This is raw and totally free from any symphonic or atmospheric elements. Not bad at all, so you should give them a try.
thecirclemusic.lnk.to/FromHell | thecirclemusic.gr | hellsfire-records.com | facebook.com/profile.php?id=6158....

HAERDSMAELTA: The Kids Are Alt-Right

Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital Single
The latest single from this Swedish underground band sounds like the death punk that TURBONEGRO used to play during the Hank Von Helvete-era, but possibly more raw and dirty. It's a short, sharp and dangerous, yet catchy and energetic, punk song that we get, with a dancebale chorus as an extra twist.
With this song we get yet another chapter of the upcoming album, "Haerdrock", which will be released on October 23. The track is said to be about power and the horror of losing it, the little man who suddenly start to fight against the big man. Sounds like a revolution to me.
found.ee/kidsarealtright | found.ee/haerdrock | facebook.com/groundzerooneeight | icea.se

DOMINO DRIVE: Cosmic Theater

Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 18 - CD, Digital
This is a melodic rock group from Sweden. They released their debut album, "Smoke And Mirrors", in 2023. Now it's time for their second album, and it's said to reach new heights, showcasing a more powerful and modern-sounding band. This evolution combines their trademark style of melodic, catchy anthems with atmospheric and evocative compositions.
Since last time, the band have found a new lead guitarist, Jonatan Berg (LIPZ). The album also features a guest appearance by Fredrik Folkare (UNLEASHED).
DOMINO DRIVE have created an album that sounds more like melodic hard rock to me than melodic rock. They seems to mix the 80s style with a modern sound, but without sounding too modern. The material is really strong, so I can recomend you to give them a try.
youtu.be/zqoaudxMYH4 | facebook.com/dominodrivesweden | prideandjoy.de

MYSTERY MOON: Way Beyond

Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 18 - CD, Digital
This is the second album from MYSTERY MOON, a melodic hard rock project featuring German multi-instrumentalist Markus Pfeffer (BARNABAS SKY, LAZARUS DREAM, WINTERLAND etc.) and Swedish vocalist Rob Lundgren (MENTALIST). Musically, Pfeffer has refined the sound. The album features an even stronger focus on catchy hooks and melodies. Enhanced keyboard accents and deliberately incorporated 80s elements lend the album an additional sonic dimension. Guest musicians on the album include drummer/percussionist Thomas Rieder and keyboardist Timo Becker.
This sounds very melodic, but also very experienced. They have many good songs on this album, so there's not that much to complain about. If you like melodic hard rock, then you should really give this a try.
youtu.be/qdkWJyYAo9Y | facebook.com/mysterymoonofficial | prideandjoy.de

VOODOO HIGHWAY: The Satan Inqviesta

Pride & Joy Music on Sept. 18 - CD, Digital
VOODOO HIGHWAY was formed in Ferrara, Italy in 2010. Their self-produced debut album, "Broken Uncle's Inn", was released the same year. Just a few months later, they were back in the studio to record the follow-up, "Showdown", which wasn't released until April 2013. It was followed by touring across western Europe, a EP in 2015 and another album in 2017. Between 2018 and 2025, VOODOO HIGHWAY performed only occasionally in their hometown. In 2025 they recorded a live album, "Made In Kachot", which was self-released later that year. They also began to record a new album that year, and "The Satan Inqviesta" is the result of that.
So, what we get from this band is classic and melodic hard rock. They have lots of really good songs on this album, like the single "The Serpent's Choir" for example. So yes, they can be really proud of this album, and you should absolutely give this a try.
youtu.be/864nGG7f3hQ | facebook.com/WhoDoHighway | prideandjoy.de

LORD SONNY THE UNIFIER: The Escape Plan Handbook

Lord Sonny The Unifier - Digital Album (LP soon)
Well, Lord Sonny have not developed his sound that much since the last album. This is more or less the same thing again, some kind of alternative disco rock that I for some reason wants to call porno rock, as it's like he's trying to sound sexy or something. It's o.k. music, but not much else as it doesn't give me that much. And the material isn't exactly of the most varied kind.
This Brooklyn-based group are said to play psych-tinged rock n roll and biker punk. It's the artistic brainchild of Greg Jiritano, a multi-instrumentaist musician, vocalist, lyricist, painter, biker, rebel and a downright nuisance to the uninspired status quo. He blend dark storytelling and gritty, untethered rock.
lordsonnytheunifier.com

KÄRBHOLZ: Sturm Zieh Auf

Metalville Records on Sept. 18 - CD, LP, Fan Box
Somehow some of these songs sounds familiar, like I have already heard them before. But I guess that these German rock bands sounds more or less the same?
Anyway, we get 13 tracks, all in German. The album is said to draws on the harder elements of the band's history. The vocals is raw and there's many catchy sing-along choruses. I would say that it's powerful and energetic rock with elements of metal. They have some good stuff among these 13 tracks, so it could be worth a try.
metalville-shop.com

The ETERNAL: Obscured Horizons

Reigning Phoenix Music on Sept. 18 - CD, LP, Digital
O.k., so there's a Greek thrash band called ETERNAL (new album in the end of the month), and now here's a Australian/Finnish dark progressive metal band called The ETERNAL.
But anyway.. This band's music is gloomy and melodic, and is a mix of dark progressive metal, doom metal and gothic metal. "Obscured Horizons" is their 8th full-length album, which is said to be the most immersive and definitive work to date. They pushes even further into uncharted territory here, they say. It's a little like an adventure in darkness, you could say. And if that sounds like something that you would like, then I guess this could be worth a try.
facebook.com/TheEternal | reigningphoenixmusic.com

DEAD EXPRESS: Almost Forever

Dead Express on Sept. 18 - LP, Digital
It's 3 years since these Swedish action rockers released their last album, "Game Changer". But now they are back for another dose of high-energy Scandianvian rock.
"Almost Forever" is their fifth album, and the debut for new singer Marcus Rylander. We get 10 tracks of raw power and melodic punch, and it almost sounds like we were back in the late 1990s/early 2000s sometime. There's no weak moments here, just high energy rocking and good song after good song. This is how it's supposed to be done.
orcd.co/dex006 | facebook.com/p/Dead-Express-....

DANCE COMMANDER: Time In The Sun

SODEH Records - Digital Single
I expected some energetic rock in the same tradition as DANKO JONES, AC/DC and TURBONEGRO, but instead I got something that sounds more like pop/rock. This is in other words a pretty kind song, and not so energetic and direct as I wanted it to be. So yes, I'm a little dissapointed actually. But after listening a few times, I can't say that it's a bad song, just not what I expected.
DANCE COMMANDER is a Norwegian rock band, and this song is "a protest song aimed straight at digital obsession and the anxious pull of the screen". It's their call to put the phone down and step back into the light.
bfan.link/time-in-the-sun | sodeh.ca

BLACK BLOOD STHLM: Black Blood Sthlm

Black Blood Sthlm on Sept. 18 - EP
BLACK BLOOD STHLM was formed by musicians with decades of international experience in the hard rock and metal scene. The lineup features Matti Alfonzetti (JAGGED EDGE, BAM BAM BOYS, SKINDTRADE) on vocals, Stefan Bergström (SKINTRADE, BALTIMORE, Zinny Zan, Martina Edoff) on guitar, Johan Kullberg (LION'S SHARE, ZAN CLAN, THERION, HAMMERFALL) on drums, and Jarmo Lindell (CLOUD CIRCUS, Andreas Johnson, solo artist) on bass/vocals. The band is rooted in the tradition of 1970s hard rock, with a strong focus on songwriting, arrangements and a sound that combines classic weight, melody and character.
This EP features 4 tracks, and it sounds experienced. Their songs are absolutely not bad at all, so if you like hard rock in the 70s tradition, then I can really recomend you to give this a try.
facebook.com/p/Black-Blood-Sthlm-....

AMYL & THE SNIFFERS: Truth Or Consequence

Rough Trade - CD, LP, Film, Digital

Press photo
When Australian punk group AMYL & THE SNIFFERS release a live album and film, they don't do it like everybody else. No, instead they set up with a group of friends at the iconic El Coyote Mexican Restaurant in Los Angeles to film and record a one of a kind performance - reimagining their songs as stripped back, country versions. Except for fan favourites, the set also features 2 unreleased songs and a cover of SLIM DUSTY's "Lights On The Hill".
This is intimate, loose and full of fun, and captures the band in a way you have never seen or heard before. But somehow they menage to make it work, so it's absolutely not bad at all. It's just "Facts" and "Caltex Cowgirl" that wasn't so funny to listen to.
amylandthesniffers.com | roughtrade.com

SUFFERING QUOTA: Sisyphean Life

Tartarus Records/7 Degrees Records on Sept. 18 - LP, MC, Digital
For more than 15 years, this Dutch quartet have been a part of the European grindcore underground scene. Now they will deliver their 4th full-length album, "Sisyphean Life".
We get 12 tracks between 34 seconds to 2:19 minutes. It's really fast and intense grindcore, and I guess it's not so hard to figure out that it's over pretty fast. So full-length? I don't know.. Yet they succeed to fill those short songs with different tempos. But most of all it's a wild and intense ride that we get, where it's hard to tell if it really is grindcore, death metal, crust punk or hardcore. It's simply a little bit of all I guess.
If you like it violent and extreme, then you should give this a try.
facebook.com/suffferingquota | tartarusrecords.com | 7degrees-records.de

RUNEMAGICK: After Chaos: Nocturnal Vigil

Hammerheart Records on Sept. 18 - 2CD, 2LP, Digital
RUNEMAGICK blends death and doom metal with ritualistic atmospheres, meditative passages and cosmic depth. The album explores themes of rune magick, animism, continuity and becoming. And guest vocalist Dísa Draugurinn contributes shamanic trance-like invocations that further strengthen the album's dreamlike and immersive character.
This is said to be something for fans of CELTIC FROST, the Viking era of BATHORY, CANDLEMASS, EVOKEN, HOODED MENACE, and WINTER. As it's a double album with 8 tracks, most of the songs are pretty long, from 7:45 to 13:24 minutes. This means that the album last for a very long time. But what you will get is a journey in the dark and heavy soundscape. And if that's what you like, then I guess that this could be worth a try.
"After Chaos: Nocturnal Vigil" was entirely composed and performed by Nicklas Rudolfsson (The FUNERAL ORCHESTRA, UNFORMULAS, ex-SACRAMENTUM), and it was mixed and mastered by the legendary Andy La Rocque (LEX LEGION, ex-KING DIAMOND). The solo band was formed in Sweden in the early 1990s, so this is hardly his first record.
runemagick.lnk.to/afterchaos | hammerheart.com

REVEL IN FLESH: Flesh For The Kult Of Death

War Anthem Records on Sept. 18 - CD, LP, Digital
With this album, death metallers REVEL IN FLESH are said to open a new chapter that marks an uncompromising return to their roots. This time they focus on dark, riff-driven death metal deeply rooted in the classic Swedish sound. It's a massive blend of chainsaw guitars, morbid melodies and a sinister atmosphere. It's often fast and intense with harsh vocals, but it can sometimes also be a little heavier.
This album is very good, and is definitely something for fans of old-school death metal from Sweden.
But even if they have a Swedish sound, this band hailing from Germany, and formed in 2012. "Flesh For The Kult Of Death" is their 6th full-length album.
war-anthem.de | instagram.com/official_revelinflesh

HANGING GARDEN: Dream Death

Transcending Obscurity Records on Sept. 18 - LP, CD, Digital
HANGING GARDEN is the brainchild of guitarist Dylan Cruz (NOXIS, SCUMBAG, DISSONANCE), and he's the only member.
The music is a progressive kind of death metal, that is technical, extreme and intense, almost hysterical sometimes. But there's also some atmospheric and melodic passages here and there, so it's not brutal all the time. It's a wild mix of various influences that's been thrown in to this blender. There's many different dimensions and layers, so this is hardly any easy-listening music.
If you want it straight and simple, try something else. But if you like when there's much going on, then this might be something for you.
hanginggarden-label.bandcamp.com/album/dre.... | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com

GodFrost: Hanging Doll

Brutal Records on Sept. 18 - Digital and physical EP
GodFrost is a Tokyo-based industrial metal project led by Frost, also known for his work with the Japanese grunge/goth metal act GODS OF DECAY. They get their sound by fusing mechanical industrial precision with metal and a dark cinematic atmosphere. And these 5 tracks might not be the most extreme industrial metal that I have heard, but is sometimes pretty kind and modern actually. It sounds good though, so no problem there.
Among the best songs here are the opening track, "Nefarious".
godfrost.mystrikingly.com | brutalrecords.com

NEMESIS: Hell's Last Kiss

Nemesis - Digital Single
This is a thrash band from Houston, Texas. They will release their sophomore album, "Eye For An Eye", in late summer/early fall. And this little song is a taste of that album.
NEMESIS draws heavily from the classic 1980s thrash movement, while delivering their sound with a modern underground intensity built on relentless riffs, breakneck tempos, razor-sharp musicianship, and pure pit-ready aggression. It sounds very good and professional, so this is very promising for the new album. You should really check out these guys.
The band released their debut album, "False Reality", in 2023.
youtu.be/3R9gpCPVlJg?si=BXJwZJP14hjYiYno | nemesisriffs.com

Phil Soussan: Fading Out

BraveWords Records - Digital Single
This is the first single from an upcoming EP, "Cosmo Fighter Part One", which will be released on November 13. It will be the first part of a trilogy of EPs.
British-born singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and performer Phil Soussan has been playing for more than 40 years. His main instrument seems to be bass, but he has also written songs for artists such as Ozzy Osbourne, Vince Neil, Steve Lukather, and TOTO. Phil is also a member of the band LAST IN LINE.
Well, this is a melodic blues rock song, that sounds more rock than blues. The sound is modern without losing its soul. Not such a bad song actually.
youtu.be/2rEoB0y8Fco?si=oyVycAQCy5o3KtwJ | philsoussan.com | bravewordsrecords.com

PRYMÅ: John Doe

Mighty Music - Digital Single
PRYMÅ is a band from the UK, and their new single is "built around a driving, groove-heavy riff and the band's trademark hard-hitting approach", they say. It's anger, confrontation and the refusal to stay silent, a answer to a music industry insider who claimed their singer couldn't sing and judged her appearance. But rather than simply answering its unnamed target, the band turn the experience into a broader statement about standing your ground, refusing to be defined by someone else's judgement and finding strength in pushing back.
PRYMÅ is a hard-hitting metal band, renowned for their explosive groove-thrash sound and commanding female-fronted live presence. This song sounds o.k. to me. A hard and aggressive verse is combined with a melodic chorus.
pryma.bfan.link/johndoe | prymabanduk.com | mightymusic.dk

QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE: Insignificant Other

Matador Records - Digital Single
I'm not so impressed with the softer side of QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE, but like their early stoner rock stuff more instead. But this is a band that have never been afraid of exploring new sounds, so you never really know what you're going to get from them.
Anyway, they will released their 9th album, "Perfecth", on October 30, and "Insignificant Other" is the latest single from that album. A soft thing that might make fans of that side of the band happy, but I'm not so impressed. It might not be totally useless, but I have heard much better stuff with this band.
youtu.be/1jGT1UvmBi0 | qotsa.com

PISS: Time Loop At Hot Slit

Sub Pop - Digital Single
PISS is a noisy, genre-bending 4-piece from Canada, and they will release their debut album, "you made me / skin on linen", on October 30. And this single is a taste of the album. It's a noisey punk attack, and it might not be something for every fan of punk or noise rock, but it sounds o.k. anyway. And I don't really know what else I should say..
The band will be on tour in North America from late September to late October. After that they go to Europe in November.
music.subpop.com/piss_you....

NEVERTEL: Last Breath

Epitaph Records - Digital Single
NEVERTEL are among the modern bands who are on the border to pop. But it's probably supposed to be nu metal. It might not be the worst that I have heard in my life, but these 3:33 minutes doesn't really give me that much either, so I don't have that much to say.
Vulnerable and sensitive vocals is mixed with a fusion of nu-metal, rap-rock and alt-rock. Old people like me might not get this, but I would guess that the younger generation like this kind of pop/rock.
youtu.be/DsF44Sh8hhE | epitaph.com

ODDLAND: Unilluminate To Illuminate

Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, LP, Digital
Finnish progressive metal band ODDLAND released a new album a few weeks ago. Get ready for intricate compositions and a fearless approach to songwriting. With "Unilluminate To Illuminate" they take everything up a few levels, sharpening their performance edge and strengthening their sense of dynamics and impact. It's more focused, confident, and mature. In other words a very adult album for those who like a musical adventure. The album shifts seamlessly between crushing heaviness and cinematic expanses, and everything is done with razor-sharp precision.
This album catch a creative band that are full of ideas, so it's almost a shame that I don't remember anything after I've finished listening. But that might on the other hand give you an idea about what this is all about. But let's just say that it's adventurous and cinematic music.
ffm.bio/oddland-unilluminatetoilluminate | oddlandband.com | frontiers.it

GRAND: Guilty Pleasure

Frontiers Music s.r.l. - CD, Digital
Swedish AOR band GRAND has released their third album. And this time they blend their AOR with 80s rock and pop. This is full of joy and sounds a little like the soundtrack to a summer in the 1980s. It's catchy and melodic, the kind of stuff that makes you feel good. You're young and wild, and there's no pain in your body - Anything is possible. Or maybe just a nostalgic trip to a better time, to be honest. It sounds really good anyway, no doubt about that.
They have succeeded to make a modern AOR album without being too modern or too much pop. But then it's mainly rooted in the classic sound, which I prefer.
The band formed as a trio, if I get it right, but in 2025 they grew into a 5-piece act.
ffm.bio/grand-guiltypleasure | grandtheband.com | frontiers.it

VACUUM: En Fördummad Tid

Vacuum - Digital EP

Local (Borås, Sweden) punk band VACUUM return with a new 4-track EP after approximately 30 years. They play a pretty simple and straight kind of punk rooted in the Swedish tradition, and all songs are in Swedish.
They begin with "Alla Är Födda Sämre Än Mig", which is not such a strong beginning. I'm not really sure why I think so, but they should have had a more uptempo song as the first song.
After that they continue with the title track, which would have been a better track to begin with. This is a much better song, and how I want this band to sound like. Easily among the best tracks here.
Next song is "Die Die Spotify". And it's a little funny that this EP is available on Spotify when they hate them so much. Double standards still live on in punk, haha. Another good song, which features a guest appearance from Swedish singer/songwriter Stefan Sundström.
The last track is "Rekviem För Knarrholmen", which features guest vocals from Henrik Wallgren. A pretty o.k. song that sounds like a more punk version of some song by an old singer/songwriter (not sure who it would be though).
vacuumbrs.bandcamp.com/album/en-f.... | facebook.com/share/1Zc3asCarW/....

BAD WAITRESS: Lovin' Kind

Stomp Records - Digital Single
BAD WAITRESS is a art-punk quartet from Toronto, Canada, and now they return after 5 years. This is the first advance single from the upcoming album "In The Hollow", out October 30.
It's said that the new record takes their already volatile punk somewhere darker, stranger and more inward. There's some L7 and BABES IN TOYLAND as well as some YEAH YEAH YEAHS and heavier post-punk like METZ and FUGAZI. Sometimes it's playful, sometimes threatening. And I guess that this song lives up to that description. It sounds alternative anyway.
This is a o.k. song, so give it a try.
orcd.co/lovinkind | linktr.ee/badwaitressband

WINE LIPS: TV Dinner

Stomp Records - LP, Digital
This Toronto, Canada band is said to play psych-punk, but I hear more than that on this album, which is their fifth LP.
They mix equal parts fuzz, hooks, humour, and modern-day anxiety, and take inspiration from the energy of The HIVES, OSEES, FRANKIE AND THE WITCH FINGERS, BAD NERVES, and the melodic punch of NIRVANA. This end up in a collision of garage punk, psychedelia and fuzzed rock n roll. It's loud and raw, and they doesn't seems to take themselves too seriously. But there's also frustration.
They have some good punk and garage rock songs here, but unfortunately also these boring songs in the end of the album. So it's the first half that is the best according to me. But those less interesting songs are luckily few though, so this is still worth a try.
orcd.co/tv-dinner | stomprecords.com/bands/wine-lips | winelips.bandcamp.com

The GET AROUNDS: Going Out Tonight

The Get Arounds - Digital Album
Vancouver rockers The GET AROUNDS has delivered their second full-length album, which is said to sharpen their sound into something tighter, louder, and more self-assured than their debut, "I Wanna Live". Their music is built on power pop, alternative rock, and pop punk foundations, with big guitars, punchy rhythms, and choruses to sing-along to.
There's lots of good stuff among these 13 tracks, and their music seems to have a cool attitude. I would guess that this could fit many different kinds of music lovers, but mainly those who like raw rock, punk rock and alternative rock like L7 and similar. You should give it a try anyway.
thegetaroundsarenumber1.bandcamp.com | instagram.com/thegetaroundsband

FAKE NAMES: Until It's Normal

Epitaph Records - Digital Single
The American/Swedish supergroup FAKE NAMES - with members from bands like BAD RELIGION, REFUSED, MINOR THREAT, OFF! etc. - are back with a new single for the first time in 3 years. This is a 3-minute mix of D.C. post-hardcore and power pop, you could say. It's guitar-driven and airs frustration with those who believe in today's fascist propaganda. And in the end it sounds like a catchy punk rock song. Absolutely not bad at all, and it grows the more you listen to it.
A new album, "Punk Ruins", will be released on October 23, and this is the first taste of that album, which will be their third. Their first European tour ever starts in January 2027.
youtu.be/3nNpow-vbvc | epitaph.com

DOMIC: Messenger Of The Last Words

Domic - Digital Single
Chilean band DOMIC presents the third and final promotional single ahead of the release of their album "Where Echoes End", scheduled for release this month. Their music is built on the power of neo-classical heavy metal, and it makes me think of early Yngwie Malmsteen for example. So this is in other words a very good song, and you should absolutely check it out if you like Yngwie and similar stuff.
This band is actually celebrating their 25th anniversary this year.
youtube.com/watch?v=q3sQR2ERMlE | instagram.com/paulodomic

STILETTO: You Know...Like The Shoe. Or The Knife. We Don't Know Yet

Stiletto - Physical EP, Digital EP
STILETTO is a new melodic rock band from Stockholm, Sweden. After a couple of singles, they have now released their first EP, where we get 6 tracks. They take inspiration from the golden era of melodic rock while adding their own modern edge, and aim at delivering songs that combine memorable hooks, emotional depth, and high-energy performances. Their focus is not only on strong melodies and polished production, but also on writing songs with meaning - music that resonates both musically and lyrically. The group features 4 members of STRYKENINE, who have teamed up with vocalist Noelle Barton.
This sounds really good, without a doubt. It's catchy like something from the 80s, but with a modern sound. These people know how to make great songs, and you should really give this a try, because I'm very sure that you won't be dissapointed. You can begin with a song like "Going Under" for example.
share.amuse.io/album/stiletto-you.... | facebook.com/stiletto.the.band

VOID MOON: The Runes That Bind

Obelisk Polaris Productions - MCD, Digital EP
VOID MOON is a epic doom metal band, formed in southern Sweden. What we have here is a 3-track EP. And with this release they welcome guitarist Fredrik Theander as a full-time member. The EP also features guest piano on the track "Constellation" by Joakim Strandberg Nilsson of DARK TRANQUILLITY.
The music is of course heavy and not that fast, while the vocals is clean. So I guess you could call this doom metal in the old tradition. And if you like that, then this is absolutely worth a try, because these 3 songs are really good stuff.
youtube.com/watch?v=1T-tFbJQkBo | void-moon.bandcamp.com/album/the.... | void-moon.com

VOODOO QUEEN: Violet Crown

Voodoo Queen - LP, Digital
This is a French fuzz stoner/heavy blues rock outfit, and "Violet Crown" is their debut album. This group blend vintage fuzz rock with desert rock and modern stoner influences, which makes it sound like an old hard rock album from the 70s, but with a modern sound production. The music is built around powerful riffs, hypnotic grooves and an immersive atmosphere.
They really seems to give it all here, so there's lots of passion. And these 7 tracks are really strong, so this is a band that you definitely should check out.
facebook.com/voodooqueen.band

BOMBUS: Bombus (reissue)

Black Lodge Records on Sept. 11 - CD, LP, Digital

The self-titled debut album with Swedish metal band BOMBUS was originally released in 2010. Although it's been sold out for years, it has for some reason never been re-released before. But now that is about to change..
Already on this album they had found their own unique sound, which is a blend of heavy rock, sludge and metal, and almost progressive and a little alternative. They simply blend in influneces from whatever they want to, which gives us a fusion of aggressive riffs, melody, and punk energy. It's playful and heavy with a raw intensity and an unpolished sound and attitude. And I don't really know how to describe it better than that..
The first time I saw this band live, I wasn't so impressed. But a few years later I saw them again, and then it was better. Since then I have heard some of their albums, and it's really good stuff. This album is a strong debut and absolutely worth listening to. People who like alternative and progressive metal should like this.
A new album, "No Magic", will be released early next year.
orcd.co/blod198 | bombusmusic.com

DIAMOND DOGS: Similar Shakes, Different Distortion

Wild Kingdom Records on Sept. 11 - CD, LP, Digital

Press photo
A new album with DIAMOND DOGS is always party time, because you know that it will rock really good. And they mainly deliver, even though they decide to slow down after a few songs, which is not so entertaining. But that just last for 1 or 2 songs before they are back on the right track again. So in the end they have made another great album. This is recomended for everybody who are into good old rock n roll and glam rock.
DIAMOND DOGS is a Swedish veteran band, and this is their 16th album. The band is on top of their game, with no intention to slow down. And that's just the way I want it.
They are going on a short tour in Spain in September.
orcd.co/king141 | wildkingdom.se | facebook.com/everylittlecrack

MOTHER OF MILLIONS: T

Vicisolum Production on Sept. 11 - CD, LP, Digital
Greek band MOTHER OF MILLIONS return with a new ambitious album.
This band play a very melodic and modern kind of progressive rock/metal, and it's honestly not that good according to me. I guess it's a little too modern and ambitious for my taste. A funny thing here is that 8 of 10 song titles begin with The.
It's said that they with this album deliver their most ambitious and emotionally charged work yet. They push their sound even further. It's a sweeping and cinematic odyssey that I guess is just for those who really like this kind of music, while the rest of us understand nothing of what they are doing. But those who get this will probably have a good time anyway.
orcd.co/vsp212 | motherofmillionsband.com

TIL THE END: Til The End

Lifeforce Records on Sept. 11 - CD, Digital
TIL THE END is a international melodic death metal band, influenced by the Gothenburg sound. The group features members from Greece, Finland and USA, and they comes from bands like NIGHTRAGE, ARMAGEDDON, MYSTIC PROPHECY, ORGY etc. They started in 2023, and after a few singles in 2024 and 25, they released their first EP, "Dark Kings", in 2025. Now it's time for their full-length debut, which is self-titled.
We get 10 really good songs here, so there's not much to complain about. The songs are powerful and melodic, and it sounds exactly like it should. You should give this band a try, and I don't have much else to add.
facebook.com/tiltheendofficial

OFFERNAT: The Ecstasy Of Death

Night Of Sacrifice Records on Sept. 11 - Album
This is the third album from this Danish black/doom metal band. Their own label on the music is "progressive blackened doom metal", but this album draws on a wider range of inspiration from extreme metal genres, like more traditional heavy metal and ambient. The shortest track here is 8 and a half minutes. The rest is from 12 to 17 and a half minutes long. I would say that some songs are pretty straight black metal, while others are doom metal, and some contains both and then some.
Over the course of approximately 53 minutes, they take the listener on a melancholic and introspective journey through faster tempo, heavier grooves and more hypnotic soundscapes than on previous works. I guess you could describe this as a progressive journey in extreme metal and atmospheric soundscapes. It's a varied material anyway, no doubt about that.
linktr.ee/Offernat

GODSLAVE: Godslave

Metalville Records on Sept. 11 - CD, LP
After 5 years, GODSLAVE are back with a new studio album. During a difficult period it could have been the end of the band though. But through a return to their roots with the tribute album "Champions" (2025), the 5 German musicians found their way back to each other, both as a band and as individuals.
This band's music is described as "German thrash metal with a positive attitude". But that doesn't mean that it sounds happy. This is just as fast and aggressive as thrash metal use to be. The lyrics deal with stuff like fighting your way back, foregiveness, depression, the search for a sense of belonging etc. The album spans the spectrum from uncompromising thrash to the grand, epic melodies that GODSLAVE have made their trademark.
They are doing this very good, so there's nothing to complain about. This is simply a great album.
The album features a guest appearance from Laura Guldemond (BURNING WITCH) on 1 track.
metalville-shop.com | godslave.de

SPACE CHASER: Razorblade Bay

Testimony Records on Sept. 11 - CD, LP, Digital
SPACE CHASER was founded in Berlin, Germany in 2011, and this is their 4th studio album. It's classic thrash riffing the German way, with distant echoes of legends like KREATOR, SODOM and DESTRUCTION. But there's also a dash of punk-ish energy, as well as some speed metal in this band's music. And when it comes to the lyrics, it's science fiction stories filled with horror.
Since the last album, "Give Us Life" (2021), frontman Siegfried Rudzynski has left the band, and guitarist Leo Schacht has taken over the role as lead vocalist.
Well, let's just say that if you're into old school thrash metal, then you should really give this album a chance, because it&39;s really good. There's not one single bad song here, and the energy is often pretty high.
spkr.store/collections/space-chaser | facebook.com/testimonyrecords | facebook.com/SpaceChaserBand

KILLER: The Grand Finale

High Roller Records on Sept. 11 - CD, LP
Belgian heavy metal band KILLER were originally formed in 1980 by guitarist and singer Paul "Shorty" Van Camp and drummer "Fat" Leo (who unfortunately passed away on February 13, 2026). Prior to that, both had been active in a rock/blues formation named MOTHERS OF TRACK. The classic lineup of KILLER was completed by guitarist Ivo "Spooky" Van Doren.
They were heavily influenced by NWOBHM and especially MOTÖRHEAD. 3 albums was released before they split up for the first time in 1987. A few reunions and 5 more albums followed. And now they are back again, but this is said to be their very last studio album. "Shorty" is the only original member left, and he is joined by Ian Anthony on bass and Vanne on drums.
That this is their last dance is a little sad of course, because this album really kicks ass. We get true old school heavy metal with lots of energy, just like it was done in the late 70s/early 80s. And the influences of MOTÖRHEAD can really be heard in some of these songs. It's simple but honest, catchy and delivered without any compromises. Simply damn good and a must to check out.
Special guest on 2 tracks are a Lloyd "Lemmy", singer of a tribute band by the name of MOTORHEADZ.
hrrecords.de | killer4you.be

TYGERS OF PAN TANG: Electrifyed

Mighty Music on Sept. 11 - LP, CD, Digital
The legendary British band TYGERS OF PAN TANG are said to return to a heavier and more aggressive sound on this new album, while retaining the melodic identity that has defined them throughout its long career. So it's heavy rock/heavy metal built on powerful riffs and memorable melodies. No old fan should be dissapointed when they hear this anyway, because the songs are just as strong as they use to be.
"Electrifyed" draws inspiration from the raw energy of the band's early years, particularly their landmark debut album, "Wild Cat", while showcasing the chemistry and creativity of the current lineup. The album also introduces new guitarist John Footitt, who fits in perfect.
After more than 4 decades, the group is still very vital and far away from a tired old band. They combine their roots in the NWOBHM with a modern production, and the result is an album full of great songs.
tygersofpantang.com | mightymusic.dk

CoreLeoni: Generection

Reigning Pheonix Music on Sept. 11 - LP, 2CD, Digital
CoreLeoni is led by GOTTHARD member Leo Leoni, and "Generection" is the band's 4th studio album since its formation in 2017, and the second featuring vocalist Gent Bushpepa. This album seems to be built on previously unreleased songs, but they are hardly any weaker because of that. With good chemistry and skilled musicianship they continue to define their hard rock sound. At the same time it&39;s said to be their heaviest and hardest-hitting album to date. You can expect ingredients like powerful riffs, soaring vocals and dynamic songwriting, which is balanced with raw energy, warm emotions and atmosphere. I can really recomend you to check this out.
The CD edition also includes a bonus disc featuring the "Live At Hallenstadion" concert, recorded in Zürich, Switzerland, in July 2025 and previously available only as a digital release. The digital album edition includes the bonus track "Lady Marmalade" (a cover).
coreleoni.com | reigningphoenixmusic.com

ÅSKVÄDER: Aim High

Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital Single
It seems like the new album, "Wax" (out on October 2), from this Swedish band will be among the more interesting rock albums this year. The previous singles have all been really hot, and this latest taste, "Aim High", is hardly any colder.
With inspiration from Scandinavian bands like The HELLACOPTERS, TURBONEGRO and THUNDERMOTHER, they add their own identity, where they unite blues riffs, punk intensity and sing-along choruses. The result is somewhere between hard rock and garage rock, you could say. Or you could just call it explosive Scandinavian rock. No matter what, it's damn good and a must to check out.
found.ee/aim-high | found.ee/askvaderwax | linktr.ee/askvaderband | icea.se

PlusMinusZero: Runner's High

Downfall Records - Digital Single
Finnish hard rock/metal band PlusMinusZero gives us their third single, "Runner's High". And like the 2 previous singles, it's melodic and modern. This is a uptempo song, and just like their previous singles it's not so bad at all. This song might actually be a little better than the previous singles.
As usual they mix the classic sound with a modern sound, and it's catchy and melodic, yet powerful.
instagram.com/plusminuszeromusic | facebook.com/downfallrecords666

POWERLÖAD: In The Pocket

Luv Machine Records (LP) / Night Strike Records (MC) / Nice Load Records & Marital Aid (CD)
POWERLÖAD hailing from Edmonton, Canada, and on their new album they deliver 8 tracks of unapologetic, high‑octane sleaze rock. It's sex, drugs and rock n roll all the way. But this is more than just sleaze rock, as there',s also some AC/DC in 1 song, MOTÖRHEAD in another, etc. Add a punky street attitude to that, and you have the sound of POWERLÖAD. It's raw, dirty and loud.
I really like what I hear and the energy. This is something that you really should check out if you want some high-octane hard rock.
youtube.com/watch?v=EnoG43vlJy0 | facebook.com/POWERLOADYEG

REVLIN PROJECT: Mad Drive

Pride & Joy Music - Digital Single
Peruvian melodic rock group REVLIN PROJECT have released the first single, "Mad Drive", from their upcoming album, "Rising Hope", out on November 13.
The band was founded by songwriter, producer, and keyboardist Nilver Pérez. They have released 3 studio albums so far, and are dedicated to crafting a sound that blends memorable melodies, strong songwriting, and high-quality production, inspired by the essence of classic melodic rock, AOR, and hard rock.
This is catchy and melodic of course, and sounds mainly like something in the old tradition, yet with a contemporary sound. It's a good song, so it could be worth a try.
youtu.be/4ZUz9XZBTs0 | facebook.com/revlinproject | prideandjoy.de

RISE FROM YOUR GRAVE: Like Mother Said

Rise From Your Grave - Digital Single
..and here's another single with Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania's horror punks RISE FROM YOUR GRAVE. It's the final single from their upcoming 7th album, "Choose Your Scare", arriving September 18. As usual they blend the raw energy of classic punk with crushing heavy metal influences and vivid horror storytelling. And as usual they have also succeeded to create another great song. So there's really not that much to talk about here. If you like horror punk, then you check this out - Simple as that!
distrokid.com/hyperfollow/risefromyourgrave/like.... | linktr.ee/rfyghorrorpunk

SATAN TAKES A HOLIDAY: Bang

Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital Single
It seems like this Swedish rock trio will release every damn track of the upcoming covers album, "Covering Our Tracks", as a single. There have been many singles from them lately anyway, but this is said to be the last taste before the album is released on September 18.
This time it's a cover of a song by YEAH YEAH YEAHS. And while many of the latest singles have been less interesting (to express it kindly), this is actually a little better. Maybe not a smash hit, but pretty good anyway. That it's a rock song this time and not a pop song might help of course. These guys obviously have a wild taste in music anyway, no doubt about that. And there's nothing wrong with that.
found.ee/stahbang | satantakesaholiday.com | icea.se

Seraina Telli: Green Live

Metalville Records on Sept. 4 - CD, LP, Digital
Not the best beginning according to me - First a intro and then a pop song. It's not until the third track, "Addicted To Color", that we get some more rock action. And after that it's not so bad at all.
Swizz singer Seraina Telli is a versatile artist who mixes rock and pop like it was the most obvious thing to do. I might not like every song, but with a powerful voice she show us all that she really can sing. So in the end you sit there and listen anyway. But luckily there's more good songs than bad on this live album. It's honest, direct and real.
She has so far released 3 studio albums.
metalville-shop.com

SOHO DUKES: Don't Spare The Horses

Duchess Records on Sept. 4 - CD
SOHO DUKES follow up their critically acclaimed studio album "Nighthawks, Acrobats And Everything Under The Moon" with a live album. It was recorded on the closing night of a UK tour, opening for The QUIREBOYS, where they raced through a 13-song set drawn from each of their 3 studio albums. And at one point they were joined by Spike from The QUIREBOYS for the song "A Stone's Throw".
No matter if you were there or not, this is a perfect opportunity to relive what happened that night. I was not there, but it sounds like they gave the audience a good rock show anyway. There's many good songs here, so if you would like to know this rock n roll band's music better, then this is the perfect album for you.
cargorecordsdirect.co.uk/products/soho-dukes

SPIRIT MOTHER: Thistle

Sound Of Liberation Records on Sept. 4 - Album
U.S. heavy rock outfit SPIRIT MOTHER gives us their third album, "Thistle". Their sound is anthologized through a folk-informed and classical lens, which is mixed with a driving backbeat, atmospheric strings and clean vocals. It's a hybrid of many different genres that we get here, where they can throw in elements of American as well as shoegaze, for example.
Well, it seems like they have found their own sound, so I don't really know what I should compare them with. It sounds pretty good though, so it's worth a try if you like heavy rock with melodic vocals and sometimes a melancholic mood.
They are also doing a cover of the JETHRO TULL classic "Locomotive Breath".
(no link)

MAD MAX: Stories Of Destiny

ROAR on Sept. 4 - LP, CD, Digital
MAD MAX celebrate their 45th anniversary with a new studio album. The record reflects the band's long history, while opening a new chapter with UK singer Alan Clark (DARK HEART). At the same time, the album also brings back original MAD MAX vocalist Andreas Baesler for the first time in 45 years, creating a direct link between the band's earliest days and its present.
The band was founded in Münster, Germany back in 1981, and have been a constant name in the European melodic hard rock and heavy metal scene since then. They are known for their powerful guitar driven sound, strong melodies and classic hard rock attitude.
"Stories Of Destiny" is built around songs that guitarist/songwriter/bandleader Jürgen Breforth had the honor to co-write with respected names from the rock and metal world, including Sascha Gerstner (HELLOWEEN), David Readman (PINK CREAM 69), Andreas Broon (The SISTERS OF MERCY), and Michael Voss (Michael Schenker). These songs have now been reimagined and recorded in the MAD MAX style.
But the album also includes 2 previously unreleased songs from 1991, and a new version of "Piece Of Candy" (which is based on the very first guitar riff Jürgen ever wrote for the band in 1981). It's now performed as a duet between Alan Clark and Andreas Baesler, and there's also a Spanish version, "Dulces Falsos".
Well, this sounds really good. It's melodic hard rock of a very high quality, mainly in the good old tradition, but with a modern sound production. Absolutely worth a try if you like that.
madmax-germany.com | reigningphoenixmusic.com/all-artists/roar-artists

PIRATE QUEEN: Sailing Around The World

Despotz Records on Sept. 4 - CD, LP, Digital
The first all-female pirate metal band from The Bermuda Triangle return with their second album.
Their first album, "Ghosts", was released in 2024. And after several good singles I actually felt a little dissapointed when I heard it, as it was a little too short. There was also 3 versions of the title track, which was very stupid according to me. It was like they had burned their best powder on those singles, so there was no more songs that was that good.
This time we get 8 tracks, and none of them appears more than once. But 2 of the tracks are just short intros/pieces (1:41-2 minutes), so we actually just get 6 real songs. But I guess it's better to keep it short and good than filling the record with less good material. Anyway, just like last time it's mainly heavy and power metal with a pirate theme that we get. So get ready for an adventurous ride across the 7 seas.
Well, PIRATE QUEEN have succeeded to make a great album, so it's obviously full of highlights. It sounds very professional. You should really give these ladies a try.
despotz.bigcartel.com/artist/pirate-queen | facebook.com/piratequeenofficial | despotz.se

GRIMNER: Stormvingar

Despotz Records on Sept. 4 - CD, LP, Digital
I wrote about the latest single, "Runstenen", a few days ago, and now it's time for the album.
After nearly 4 years, Swedish band GRIMNER return with a new full-length album. And since last time there has been some changes in the lineup - singer/guitarist Marcus Asplund Brattberg has returned to the band, and they have also recruited the brothers Anton (drums) and Axel Elowson (bass).
With renewed strength they gives us a folk metal journey inspired by Swedish folklore and GRIMNER's own interpretation of Norse mythology. They continue to blend the aggression of old school melodic death metal with Nordic folk traditions, alongside elements of classic heavy and power metal. Harsh verses and catchy choruses is nothing unusual here. The result is a powerful album that should make every fan happy.
despotz.bigcartel.com/artist/grimner | facebook.com/Grimnerswe | despotz.se

SCALD: Relics

Cruz Del Sur Music on Sept. 4 - MCD, MLP, Digital
Russian epic metal band SCALD deliver a new EP, where they give new life to old songs with new vocalist Hrafn (VENDEL). 3 of the 5 songs were written after the recording of the album "Will Of The Gods Is Great Power" (spring 1996 to fall 1997, the year former vocalist Agyl died). At that point, the band chose to step away from traditional epic doom and, as an experiment, create songs with a more diverse style while still maintaining the original SCALD atmosphere. They were inspired by the work of the Norwegian SAMI singer Mari Boin, progressive metal bands like FATES WARNING and DREAM THEATER, as well as SANCTUARY's album "Into The Mirror Black" and their singer Warrel Dane (rip) with his soulful vocals. These songs had never been recorded in a studio before, but they were occasionally performed at concerts in the past.
The song "Falcon" was written by Agyl for his pre-SCALD band called ROSS, in 1991-1992. To honor the memory of the vocalist, SCALD decided to record a cover version of this song, and on "Relics", in addition to the English version, they recorded it in Russian - the language Agyl performed it in.
This is heavy, so there's still some doom and darkness here. But I guess we can call it something like epic and progressive heavy metal. It reminds me of what they call U.S. metal. Absolutely not bad at all and worth checking out.
cruzdelsurmusic.com | facebook.com/scaldepicdoom

MAIDENHEAD: Maximum Clonage

Maidenhead - CD, Digital
This is a thrash/death metal band from Massachusetts and Rhode Island, USA, formed in 2013. "Maximum Clonage" is their sophomore album, which is said to mark the band's most ambitious and technically accomplished work to date, merging the relentless speed of classic thrash with the precision, atmosphere, and brutality of old-school death metal. Their sound is rooted in the traditions of MEGADETH, SLAYER, MORBID ANGEL, and DEATH, while carving out an identity all their own.
The album features guest performances from former MEGADETH guitarist Chris Poland and Glen Drover, alongside Rich Gray from ANNIHILATOR, who provides bass on 6 of the 8 tracks.
Well, I can't say that I was so impressed the first times I heard this album. But after a while it became better, and I discovered some jewels here and there. The music is of course hard and heavy, as well as aggressive and brutal. And if that sounds like your thing, then you should give this a try.
maidenheadusa.com

GODSLUT: The Art Of Deconstructure

Selfmadegod Records on Sept. 4 - CD
This is Polish death metallers GODSLUT's first full-length album in 3 years. The trio formed in 2021, and released their debut album, "Procreation Of God", in May 2023.
This time we get 8 tracks of uncompromising, technical thrash/death metal. The first track, "Scent", is really fast and intense. But after that it's not always so fast, yet the energy is still very high, so it hardly goes slow. It sounds professional, and I would really recomend you to give this a try, because this is a damn good death metal album.
facebook.com/godslut | selfmadegod.com

FEBRUUS: Construction Of Conflict

Transcending Obscurity Records on Sept. 4 - CD, Digital
Here's a band who doesn't take the easy way, but prefer to make it a little bit more complicated, you could say. They are obviously very skilled though, so they know what they are doing.
This is the second album from this Swedish death metal band. It's full of weirdness and packed with surprises. So yes, there's a lot going on in each song here. This is progressive death metal, and hardly the classic old school stuff. And an interesting thing is that it's just 1 man who is doing everything, Andreas Karlsson.
If you want something brutal and different from the rest, then I guess this could be worth a try. But it's not brutal all the time, as there's some atmospheric moments here and there too.
februusdm.bandcamp.com/album/con.... | transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com

CASTLE: Carrie Chains

Hammerheart Records on Sept. 4 - CD, Longbox 2CD, LP
This is the 7th album from San Francisco doom metal trio CASTLE. It's raw, epic and riff-driven, yet catchy and not extremely heavy. Influences are taken from 70s and 80s bands like BLACK SABBATH, JUDAS PRIEST and MERCYFUL FATE, so you know that you're going to get something really interesting here. And these 8 tracks are really good stuff. This is a must if you like good old heavy and doom metal.
CASTLE will be touring in U.S.A. in September/October, Japan in December, and Europe in March 2027.
castlesf.lnk.to/carriechains | hammerheart.com

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