REVIEWS JANUARY 2026
«December 2025 | Index | February»ASTERISE: Twilight Opera
Inverse Records - Digital EPOn this EP, power metallers ASTERISE reimagine the classic spirit through a modern sound. They blend melodic storytelling, dynamic riffs, and a fresh production approach to give traditional ideas new life. In the end it sounds powerful and melodic, and damn good. These guys seems to know how to make really good songs, and this 4-track EP has a really strong material. You just have to check this out!
Not much else to add there..
facebook.com/asteriseband | inverse.fi
ASARU: V.O.I.D.
Schwarzdorn Production - CD, LP, DigitalFounded back in 1995 by Frank Nordmann, ASARU was one of the very first black metal bands to emerge from Southern Hesse, Germany. It has from the beginning been uncompromising black metal deeply rooted in the Norwegian tradition, yet always bearing its own distinctive and characterful signature. The band has undergone numerous lineup changes, but the constant driving force has always been Frank Nordmann. They has previously released 2 demos, a mini-CD and a full-length album (or is it 2?). After more than a decade they now return with this new album, called "V.O.I.D.".
Most songs here have titles in English, but there's also 1 in German and 1 in Norwegian. And this sounds just like it should. It's cold, aggressive and raw with lots of energy. There's no symphonic or atmospheric elements here. Fans of old school black metal from the 90s should enjoy this.
youtu.be/m5AWoftPN5o?si=hWKHwp4BDv3JngpR | schwarzdorn.de
SISTA BRYTET: Sista Brytet
Luftslott Records/Beluga Records/Kamel Records - LP, DigitalAfter 6 years of silence, Swedish band SISTA BRYTET are back with their third album. It's said to be bigger, bolder and more elaborate than ever, with lyrics that moves on the border between the deeply personal and the political.
SISTA BRYTET was formed in 2010 by Fredrik Lindkvist (ex-TOTALT JÄVLA MÖRKER, KNUGEN FALLER). After a few years as a trio, they became 4 in 2014. Except for 2 full-length albums, they has also released 3 EPs.
This band play a very catchy and melodic kind of punk rock. Sometimes it could just as well go as singer/songwriter rock or something like that. The lyrics are mainly in Swedish, but 1 song is in English. Although they are not among the wildest and most noisey punk rock bands, they are doing what they are doing really good anyway. But if they could have had a song that I actually could remember after hearing the album, then it would have been even better. Still worth listening to, without a doubt.
luftslottrecords.com | belugarecords.com | kamelrecords.se
SATANIC SQUIRREL: Squirrel Crusher
Satanic Squirrel - Digital EPThis is a German thrash metal duo from Hamburg and Berlin, who are rooted in the classic Bay Area style from the late 80s and early 90s. They deliver fast and aggressive riffs with a modern and heavy production. They has previously released 2 EPs - "Toxic World Invasion" (2023) and "Crush Everyone" (2024).
Well, if you like the description above, then you should give these guys a try, because this kicks ass. It's just the intro that I don't like, as I find most intros totally useless nowadays (intros was cool in the 80s when I was a kid, and they were much better then - think ACCEPT's "Fast As A Shark" and IRON MAIDEN's "The Number Of The Beast" for example).
satanicsquirrel.bandcamp.com
SATAN TAKES A HOLIDAY: Covering Our Tracks: Part 1
Icons Creating Evil Art - Digital EPThis EP collects covers from various genres and eras. But filtered through this Swedish rock trio's energy, garage rock and punk attitude, it sounds like SATAN TAKES A HOLIDAY.
We get songs originally done by RAMONES, BABY GRANDE, The DIRTBOMBS, Link Wray, and a song from the movie Grease. There's also guest appearances from people like Rockenrollex, Nicke Andersson (The HELLACOPTERS, ENTOMBED, IMPERIAL STATE ELECTRIC, LUCIFER etc), and X Shady Lady & The Malefactor. The band's drummer, Danne McKenzie (ex-MUSTASCH etc), is singing on one of the tracks. This is the first part in a larger album project they say.
They put their own twist on these songs, which makes them sound like the dancebale rock that these guys use to play. Unfortunately I have already got tired of the GREASE song, and the instrumental song was not so funny. But there's at least 3 songs left that I like.
found.ee/coveringourtracks1 | satantakesaholiday.com | icea.se
MEGADETH: Megadeth
BLKIIBLK - 2CD, LP, MC, DigitalWell, as you probably know already, this is said to be the final studio album from American thrash legends MEGADETH. The band have been around for more than 40 years now, and this is their 17th studio album. They might not always have been the most funny band to listen to, to be honest, but they have their classics without a doubt.
This new album sounds really vital, and far away from tired and boring. It's also a very diverse album where they hardly repeat themselves. It sounds very professional of course, but what else would you expect from a band that has been around for so long? The songs are mainly of a high quality, so this is a really strong album that they say farewell with. I will definitely listen some more.
shop-eu.megadeth.com/collections/megadeth-album | megadeth.com
KISSING KAOS: Chaos Inside
Mighty Music on Jan. 30 - Digital SingleThis American band features current and former members of bands like ASPHALT VALENTINE and KICKIN VALENTINA. They combine punk rock with heavy melodic rock, and this song is mainly a melodic rock song, but done with street attitude. It sounds good for the future anyway, so you should absolutely check it out.
KISSING KAOS will release their debut album later this year, so now you have something to look forward to. I do anyway.
bfan.link/kk-chaos
DEATH LENS: Monolith
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleSouthern California punk rockers DEATH LENS has announced that they will release a new album, "What's Left Now?", on April 24. And what we have here is a taste of that album, which is also the opening track.
This is obviously the new school of punk rock and far away from the good old school stuff, yet it's not so bad, but I have heard better than this. I'm not really sure how to describe this song, so you will have to listen for yourself if you're interested in what they could sound like.
epitaph.com | youtu.be/xpNiC4ywP30
BÖDEL: Deprimerad
DiSTAT Records on Jan. 30 - Digital Single
Swedish crust punks BÖDEL release their debut album, "Dödsbringaren", on Friday, January 30 (digital on Feb. 6). This little song is the second single from that album. It's a uncompromising 1 and a half-minute explosion straight in your face. 90s hardcore/punk from a time when it was more or less a trend to begin the band name with DIS (DISFEAR, DISMACHINE, DISSOBER, DISCHANGE, DISKONTO etc etc). In other words a hell of a ride, but oh so beautiful - Love this band!
This track take up the greed of the pharmaceutical industry, which should be a sign that it's not any teenagers that we have here. All but the singer (who is 19) are veterans in the Swedish punk and metal scene, while the singer is the daughter of one of the members. They come from an area that has shaped bands like ANTI CIMEX, ASTA KASK and WOLFBRIGADE for example.
You should really check out the new album. And you should also read my interview with the band if you have not done that already (it's available in both Swedish and English).
linktr.ee/bodelpunk
ARCHITECTS: Broken Mirror
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleI don't know how it is in your country, but here in Sweden they use to say that a broken mirror is 7 years of bad luck.
The beginning sounds like a pathetic pop song of the modern kind. Towards the chorus it becomes a little better, but it still sounds too much like a pop song according to me. So if you're looking for the metalcore that this British band use to play, then I would not recomend you this song. That's just the hard truth.
This track appear on their 11th studio album, "The Sky, The Earth & All Between", which has now surpassed 90,000 album units sold they say.
epitaph.com | youtu.be/tYAR-Jcj1uQ
STARGAZER: Trouble
Mighty Music - Digital SingleNorwegian hard rockers STARGAZER delivered a new single a couple of weeks ago, and it's good old hard rock just as usual, and it sounds just as expected. In other words excellent and therfor just as it should. This is a must to check out for every fan of the old school.
The song is described as "an explosive, larger-than-life arena rocker that hits with immediate impact". "Trouble" simply captures the band when they are as best.
This is said to be a bonus track connected to the latest studio album, "Stone Cold Creature" (out now).
STARGAZER are going on a tour as support act for Michael Schenker in March. The tour will begin in Lithuania and Estonia, before they continue in Scandinavia (Finland, Sweden, Norway).
bfan.link/str-trouble
TENTACLAUS: Calamari
Tentaclaus - Digital EPTENTACLAUS is a provocative punk band from northern Virginia, USA. They released this EP in November last year, and another in December (review of that later).
We get 5 tracks that fuses classic punk elements with a modern twist. I would also say that there's elements of metal here, and the music is not always that straight and simple. They have their own special sound, and everybody might not like it. But it sounds o.k. to me anyway.
The songs are pretty short, 1 to almost 2 minutes, so this is over pretty quick. Best song is the last song, "Golden Sneakers", which has a ska vibe and is more melodic.
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063443124819
ILLVILJE: La Meg Sjå Alt Omkring Meg Falle
Downfall Records - CD, DigitalThese hyper active boys play a fast and intense kind of old school black metal, which is sometimes on the border to chaos. Think of the Norwegian bands from the 90s. If you like that, then these 7 tracks should be something for you.
ILLVILJE is a Danish trio, and this is their debut album, where all lyrics are in Danish. Very good stuff that you really should check out, and not much else to add there.
youtu.be/Eo6k3LfR6qE?si=UnFBtDawwseX38a_ | downfallrecords.bandcamp.com/album/la-meg.... | facebook.com/illvilje
WITCH: The Hex Is On... And Then Some
Lost Realm Records on Jan. 30 - 2CD, LPWITCH formed in Huntington Beach in 1983, and this album is a collection that captures every studio recording from their tumultuous 1984–1989 run, alongside previously unreleased 1996 sessions produced by Howard Leese (HEART, BAD COMPANY) under the GOD BOX moniker (only on the 2CD).
With a mix of raw power and theatrical excess, they created a sound that fused the heavy riffs of JUDAS PRIEST with the flamboyant theatrics of MÖTLEY CRÜE and KISS. Yet it doesn't really sound like any of those bands, but more like TWISTED SISTER, QUIET RIOT and similar acts around the same era.
The sound quality on these songs are so low that it makes me think that this is old demo recordings. But it could be worth to turn up the volume, because this is actually not so bad at all. They have many good songs here, and if you get the double CD, then you will get as much as 20 tracks.
lostrealmrecords.com | witchtheband.com
WICKED LEATHER: Season Of The Witch
Lost Realm Records on Jan. 30 - CD, LP, DigitalWICKED LEATHER was formed in Barcelona, Spain in 2023 with a mission to channel the spirit of traditional heavy metal through their own vision, infused with raw power, dark atmospheres and an occult edge. Their music draws heavily from the foundations laid by the pioneers of the genre, yet embraces a more shadowy and arcane approach, evoking themes of witchcraft, steel and fire.
"Season Of The Witch" is the band's debut album, and it actually sounds a little Japanese to me, as the vocals reminds me of some Japnaese band from the 80s. You could say that they have 1 foot in the old tradition, and the other in a dark and unknown territory. It's not complete darkness though, but most of all good old heavy metal. And this sounds o.k. to me anyway, so maybe you should give them a chance?
lostrealmrecords.com | instagram.com/wicked_leather_official
RAVE IN FIRE: Square One
High Roller Records on Jan. 30 - CD, LP, DigitalRAVE IN FIRE are a female-fronted traditional heavy metal band, formed in Madrid in 2015. Their first EP, "Chronicle Of A Timeless End", was released in 2018, and followed by their first full-length album, "Sons Of A Lie", in April 2022. Their sound is inspired by old Spanish bands like BARÓN ROJO and OBÚS, but also newer acts like WITCHTOWER, LEATHER HEART, STEELHORSE and HITTEN.
Just like their last album, this new record is a fully self-produced album. It sounds like something from the 80s, which is nothing unusual, but sometimes they also throw in elements of thrash, progressive or speed metal. Sele have a powerful voice, and sing her lungs out. But Jonjo (guitars), Sara (bass) and Jimi (drums) are also doing a really good job here. So they can be proud of what they have created, because these 9 tracks are damn good and something that you really should check out if you like good old heavy metal.
hrrecords.de | facebook.com/raveinfire
LONE WANDERER: Exequiae
High Roller Records on Jan. 30 - CD, LP, DigitalI can't really get why High Roller want to release something like this. They use to concentrate on heavy and thrash metal, but not funeral doom as this is.
This is really heavy and slow with deep death metal vocals. The shortest song is 8:39 minutes, while the rest is from 10:44 to as long as 24 and a half minutes (and they begin with that long journey). But if you want something melancholy and depressive instead of party anthems, then I won't stop you from giving this a try. To me the sound of LONE WANDERER is almost like the sound of a thunderstorm. And that's not so funny to listen to (not to me anyway).
"Exequiae" is Latin for funeral rites, which is a suitable title for this third album, which last for as long as 72:20 minutes. The group hailing from Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany.
hrrecords.de | facebook.com/lonewandererdoom
Fili Bibiano's FORTRESS: Death Is Your Master
High Roller Records on Jan. 30 - CD, LP, DigitalFORTRESS are a traditional heavy metal band, formed in Whittier, California in 2016. After the release of a EP, they released their debut album, "Don't Spare The Wicked", in 2021. To differentiate between all those bands bearing the same name, it was decided to use the moniker Fili Bibiano's FORTRESS from now on, relating to the band's founding member (who is also playing with INTRANCED).
Now their second album, "Death Is Your Master", is ready to be released. Apart from Fili Bibiano (who is handling guitar, bass and synth on the record), there's also Joey Mancaruso on drums and Juan Aguila on lead vocals. Former vocalist Chris Nunez can be heard on "Blackest Night".
Fili's guitar playing can be described as neo-classical, so he's a very talented man, and it's not impossible that fans of the early albums with Yngwie Malmsteen will enjoy this, even if it's not the exact same thing this band is doing, as it's more pure heavy metal that we get here. And this is a very strong and powerful album, which is full of great songs. You should really check this out, becuase you should not be dissapointed when you hear this band.
hrrecords.de | facebook.com/Fortressheavymetal
VANDOR: The Ember Eye Part 2 - The Portal Of Truth
DragonForged Records on Jan. 30 - CD, DigitalThis is the third album from Swedish power metallers VANDOR. This time they go all in with an ambitious concept album, which is both majestic and powerful at the same time. Yes, this sounds very professional. And luckily they also have fantastic songs to back up their talent with, so this is nothing but a really strong and great record. Do I have to add that you really should check this out?
Put this record on at your next party, and your friends will love it.
Short but sweet, because I'm not a poet, so I have nothing else to say.
youtu.be/vuPDVRc0WlE?si=C7GsCry4layUdFu9 | facebook.com/vandorband
GREYWIND: Severed Heart City
FLG - CD, LP, DigitalMy first thought was "No, this is way too modern and too much pop for my taste". I wasn't impressed at all. But luckily for them I continued to listen, and there was actually some harder stuff here and there which I liked much better. This is in other words a diverse album with many ups and downs. It mainly sounds very modern, so I guess this is not for old people like me in the first hand. But after listening a few times now, it was actually not so bad as I first thought it was.
GREYWIND is a Irish emo duo with a brother and a sister. Their debut album, "Afterthoughts", was released in 2017, and a EP, "Antidote", was released last year. Inspiration comes from bands like JIMMY EAT WORLD, FALL OUT BOY, and MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE.
ffm.to/greywindwaterfall | ffm.to/greywindshc | greywindband.com
The FAKE FRIENDS: The Way She Goes
Stomp Records - Digital SingleMontreal's The FAKE FRIENDS will release their debut album, "Let's Not Overthink This", in February. And what we have here is another taste of that album (they released the first single in December). It's said to be a sharper, colder cut. "Where the first single leaned into big guitars and anthemic punch, this one takes the new wave high road, nodding to PYLON, ULTRAVOX, and WIRE while still keeping the band's melodic instincts front and center", they say.
This band is a mix of new wave, post-punk, dance punk and indie rock, which might not sound like the coolest music to soem of you. But I must say that this is actually not so bad at all. Dance punk is a suitable name for this song, but so is indie rock I guess.
orcd.co/thewayshegoes | stomprecords.com/bands/the-fake-friends
COURSE OF FATE: Behind The Eclipse
ROAR on Jan. 30 - LP, CD, DigitalCOURSE OF FATE hailing from Norway and play progressive metal. This is their third album, and it's said to be their heaviest record to date. It features a very diverse set of compositions with numerous progressive twists and turns. And after a silent intro the adventure begins. But to my surprise, the first track sounds almost like darker metal instead of progressive metal. It's absolutely not bad though. But as the album progresses, you also discover the other details in the music. It's in other words a very varied album that we get, from a band that seems to know exactly what they are doing. But to explain exactly how they really sound is not so easy, so I guess you have to find out for yourself instead (but o.k., if you know what progressive music use to sound like, then you have a pretty good idea anyway).
facebook.com/courseoffate | reigningphoenixmusic.com/all-artists/roar-artists
BETHESDA: Bethesda
Roxx Records on Jan. 30 - LP, CDThis is a new Christian metal supergroup, featuring Germán Pascual (NARNIA, ESSENCE OF SORROW) and Torbjörn Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE, AudioVision, CELL 9) as the band leaders. But new isn't entirely correct as the band formed back in 2014 already. On the other hand, life came in the way, so it wasn't until 2022 that they began to record something. They were soon joined by Thomas Weinesjö (VENI DOMINE, SAVIOUR MACHINE, NUBIAN ROSE) and Gabriel Ingemarson (VENI DOMINE), and the band was complete.
The music that this band has created is described as "a hot cup of water, mix in a little BLACK SABBATH, throw in a dash of LED ZEPPELIN, poor in some VENI DOMINE and add a little splash of NARNIA". It's in other words melodic metal that we talk about here, and it sounds really good. You should absolutely check this out if you like it melodic. You can really hear that these people are experienced and not any amateurs that have just began to make music.
SWEATMASTER: More!
Svart Records on Jan. 30 - CD, LP, DigitalI think I got a CD with this Finnish rockers something like 20 years ago. Nice to hear them again, but why as much as 14 tracks? Luckily most of all these songs are good, so in this case it's not such a big problem. I can hear elements of DANKO JONES and WHITE STRIPES in their music, but what they really play is energetic garage rock without any kind of modern elements.
I'm not sure how long this band has existed, but after their last album, "Dig Up The Knife" (2010), they decided to take a break. Now they are back with their fifth album, which is raw and unpolished, pretty straightforward and full of energy. Yet they have succeed to make a varied album. Most of the songs are around 1 and a half minute to 3 minutes. In other words just like it should be.
svartrecords.com | facebook.com/sweatmaster
The DARTS: Midnight Creep
Adrenalin Fix Music - Digital SingleThe DARTS is an all-female band from Seattle, and they don't play grunge but garage rock. I'm not sure how long they have been playing, but something like a decade I think. This song is a first taste of their new album, "Halloween Love Songs", which will be out on March 3.
"Midnight Creeper" begins like a lullaby, but after that we get a cool garage rocker in the 60s tradition with a pinch of horror pop. And even if it's almost 10 months away or something like that, this is the perfect song for Halloween. But it works very good now in January as well, as it's simply a good song. That new album can be interesting to hear.
youtu.be/itmm1CMg_yQ?si=5ePA5_dqMbCSFiD8 | thedartsus.bandcamp.com
The CASKET KIDS: Midnight
The Casket Kids - Digital SingleFrom the shadows of Huntsville, Alabama comes The CASKET KIDS. This track is a blend of dark metal and horror punk, and it's a first taste of their upcoming album, "Black Miasma" (release date unnown to me). Think a mix of MISFITS and DANZIG with a touch of some hard rock and metal, and you will get a pretty good idea about what this could sound like.
After a little too long beginning with bells and stuff, the song finally begins. And it sounds really good and promising for the new album, so I look forward to hear some more. You should really check this out.
thecasketkidsofficial.bandcamp.com/album/midnight-single | facebook.com/TheCasketKids13
BÖDEL: Dödsbringaren
DiSTAT Records/Flyktsoda/Cimex Records on Jan. 30 - CD, LP (Digital on Feb. 6)Swedish crust punks BÖDEL return with what they call their debut album. But I would not call this a full-length though, becuase fact is that most of these 12 songs are between 48 seconds to 2 minutes, so the playing time is just 21:18 minutes, which is a EP or possibly a mini-album.
Anyway.. The music kicks ass as usual. Fast hardcore/punk, angry vocals, damn good songs. What else can you ask for? If you call yourself a crust punk, then you just have to get this album, and that's it. No excuses!
BÖDEL have their roots deep in the Swedish crust punk of the 90s, and features members from bands like The CROWN, DENY, PASTORATET, The LIPTONES, VÄNSTERNÄVEN etc. Since last time their drummer Mats "Masken" Sjögren (SUBALERT, ANTABUS) has decided to take a break from the band, so now we find Micke from The CROWN, ADEPT and IMPIOUS behind the drums. These veterans are joined by the young lady Leya (daughter of one of the members), who have a very powerful voice that fits perfect for the band's music.
The CD version also includes all previous recordings, which gives a total of 23 tracks, and that makes that verison a full-length anyway.
Also check out my interview with the band. It's available in both Swedish and English.
hypeddit.com/distat15 | bodel.bandcamp.com
CASKET: In The Long Run We Are All Dead
Neckbreaker Records on Jan. 23 - CD, LP, Digital / Slime Inhaler Records - CassetteCASKET formed back in 1990 and released a few demos between 1991-1996. In 1998 it was time for their debut album, "Under The Surface". And that seems to have been the last breath for a while, because it took 10 years before they were back again. A few more records has been released since then.
CASKET play a brutal death metal that is raw and basic. Just as many other bands in this genre, they blend fast, heavy and mid-tempo parts. And they do that very good, so you should not get bored while you listen to this. It's simply a good album that they have made, and there's not much else to say about that.
casket.de | facebook.com/casketdeath
TURBO'S TRIBUNAL: Mills Of Tribunal
Jawbreaker Records on Jan. 23 - CD, Digital"Mills Of Tribunal" is the debut album from this Danish heavy metal band, which is the brainchild of Andreas Thunbo (vocals and all instruments), who channels over 3 decades of dedication to classic heavy metal into 1 project. And what we get here is riff-driven, melodic heavy metal forged in the true traditional style. It's heavy, pure and with an epic touch. The sound draws deep inspiration from legends like RUNNING WILD, WARLORD, JUDAS PRIEST, IRON MAIDEN, MANOWAR and HEAVY LOAD, yet with its own distinctive edge. It sounds more 1986 than 2026 you could say.
This is really good stuff, so every fan of good old heavy metal from the 1970s and the 80s should give this guy a try.
jawbreaker.se
NITE STINGER: What The Nite Is All About
Pride & Joy Music on Jan. 23 - CDNITE STINGER is a Brazilian hard rock group, and this is their second album. With explosive riffs, high-energy vocals, and a full-throttle attitude they revives the glory days of hard rock with a modern edge. Much of their inspiration comes from icons like MÖTLEY CRÜE, RATT, DEF LEPPARD, and POISON. It's catchy and melodic with big choruses that will make the audience raise their fist in the air and sing along.
Yes, this is good stuff. And if you're into hard rock from the 80s, then you should really give these guys a try. Not much else to add there..
youtu.be/fxz5_bgk56k | facebook.com/nitestinger | prideandjoy.de
AUTUMN'S CHILD: Melody Lane
Pride & Joy Music on Jan. 23 - CDSwedish melodic rock group AUTUMN'S CHILD return with a new album, which is their 6th full-length. The band was founded by singer Mikael Erlandsson (PHENOMENA, SALUTE, SECRET SERVICE) shortly after LAST AUTUMN'S DREAM decided to take a break in 2018.
As far as I can remember, the previous albums that I have heard was good. And sure, the quality is high this time too. But for some reason I got a feeling that some of these songs were a little too soft and melodic for my taste the first times I heard this album. It begins very good though, with "Heartbreak Boulevard" and "Pray For The King". And now that I listen 1 more time, I don't really know why I thought it was too soft. Fact is that a couple of these songs are actually hard rock, so there's a harder and heavier side too. This seems to be done with the right passion, and everybody are experienced musicians, and in the end this is another good album from this band. So I'm pretty sure that fans of melodic rock and AOR are going to like this a lot. And even some fans of melodic hard rock will like this.
youtu.be/WvEzc9I0nqE | facebook.com/Mikaelerlandssontheone | prideandjoy.de
The 69 EYES: I Survive (ft. Steve Stevens)
BLKIIBLK - Digital SingleFinnish rock band The 69 EYES have signed to BLKIIBLK, the heavy metal imprint of Frontiers Label Group. This is the first song from the band on the new label, and it features a guest appearance from Steve Stevens, best know as Billy Idol's guitarist.
Not that I have heard that many song with The 69 EYES through the years, but this sounds energetic and not as dark as they use to. A good song that reminds me of Billy Idol in the 80s somehow. Not bad at all and absolutely worth listening to.
The group was formed in Helsinki back in 1989, and they still have the same lineup. Their biggest hit is "Lost Boys" from 2005. Their music have 1 foot in glam rock and 1 in goth rock. They has released 13 albums through the years.
youtu.be/8kWbkYVb1Vs | 69eyes.com
sunn O))): Glory Black
Sub Pop - Digital SingleHeavyweight veterans sunn O))) have signed with Sub Pop, and they will release a self-titled album on April 3. This adventure is a taste of that album, and it last for as long as 10:26 minutes, so it's more or less a EP instead of a single.
Pretty odd to play a song with just downtuned guitars and no drums. And there's no vocals either. Not so funny to listen to. But after 3 minutes there's more sounds, before it gets silent after something like half a minute or something. Then comes a piano and it sounds very eerie. And that last for several minutes before that guitar is back again and repeat the same riffs over and over again.
For nearly 30 years this band has pushed the boundaries of heavy music by mixing avantgarde and rock to something completely their own. The group is going on a headline tour in North America in April.
music.subpop.com/sunn_o | sunn.southernlord.com
HELIX: Scrap Metal
Perris Records on Jan. 23 - CD, DigitalThis release features 5 unreleased tracks that retain the "classic" 80s HELIX sound. The remaining 5 tracks are a collection of classic HELIX songs from other releases that didn't sell that much (so how classic are they really?). I'm not sure how funny that sounds to you, but a funny thing to me is that I got 12 tracks and not 10.
They begin with 2 tracks that doesn't really sound like the HELIX that I know from the 1980s, while some of the other songs here reminds me of the old band at least. Mainly good stuff after a couple of listenings, and some songs are even really good, while a few are not so interesting. So in the end it's a o.k. album for being what it is - leftovers.
"Fast & Furious" must be one of the fastest songs they have ever made - Talk about high energy! They end the whole thing with a cover of "The Pusher" by STEPPENWOLF,
youtu.be/2BiOmKYAAbk?si=wKbuwH8FOuvlis_I | perrisrecords.com | planethelix.com
SHADOWMASS: Wastelands
Floga Records on Jan. 19 - LP, CD, MC, DigitalGreek heavy/thrash metal trio SHADOWMASS deliver an album built on classic heavy metal foundations, but pushed into a much harsher, more extreme territory. Focus is on strong, direct songs and a cold, cohesive atmosphere they say. It sounds powerful, and the vocals is raw, but it's done with a melody in mind.
These 9 tracks are not bad at all. They have made a strong album, and you should really give it a try.
youtube.com/watch?v=fEViB0McrDc | facebook.com/shadowmassgr
CONVERGE: We Were Never The Same
Epitaph Records - Digital SingleFor more than 3 decades, CONVERGE has delivered a mix of hardcore, punk and metal. And what we get here is another song from their upcoming album, "Love Is Not Enough", which will be released on February 13. They have really found their own sound, so it's not so easy to describe this alternative adventure that's "We Were Never The Same". It sounds mysterious somehow, or however I should describe it? But at the same time it's not so bad at all. Interesting stuff..
CONVERGE will be performing at select European/UK summer festivals this year.
youtu.be/yNfRyuSMiBc | epitaph.com
The CASUALTIES: People Over Power
Hellcat Records - Digital SingleI'm actually not really sure if I have heard this band before, but I have seen their name many times through the years. This song kicks ass anyway, no doubt about that. I really like what I hear. It's an intense punk anthem that have both old and new ingredients. You should really check out this little bastard at once!
This single is the first new music from The CASUALTIES in 8 years. It's also their first release via Hellcat Records. They describe it as a protest song - You listen and get angry, get your crew together and go out in the streets.
The band formed back in 1990 with a mission to revive the sound of pioneers like The EXPLOITED and SEX PISTOLS. They has released 11 full-length albums, 3 EPs and 3 live albums. They will be touring in Europe this summer.
youtu.be/UYuMRi-kbnk | epitaph.com
The MAHARAJAS: Just Drink Wine
Rogue Records on Jan. 19 - 7" Single, DigitalSwedish group The MAHARAJAS formed in Stockholm 30 years ago, so they are far away from a new band. They are devoted to the raw sound of the 1960s, and bring together a wild mix of garage rock, R&B and beat music. They are loud, fast and dressed to kill (with their music) - These guys live and breathe the attitude of the era.
Their songs have a primitive energy, and these 2 songs are no exception. It's up-tempo and energetic, just like garage rock should be according to me. In other words absolutely worth checking out, so do that!
linktr.ee/disquesrogue
The BASEMENTS: Feelings
Rogue Records on Jan. 19 - 7" Single, DigitalThis might sound like 2000 other garage rock bands, but it sure ain't bad because of that.
The BASEMENTS was formed in Thessaloniki, Greece in 2009. They combine influences of bands such as The SEEDS and The 13th FLOOR ELEVATORS with the myriads of bands assembled on such compilations as "Teenage Shutdown" and "60s Garage Punk Unknowns". They has previously released 3 LPs, a EP and a 7".
On this latest 7" vinyl we can find "Feelings" (a fuzz- and Farfisa-driven mid-tempo groover) and "Foolish Lies" (a wild garage punk freakout). That it sounds good is obvious, so you just check this out and that's it.
linktr.ee/disquesrogue
ANTI-SAPIEN: At The Mercy Of The Merciless
Terminus Hate City on Jan. 16 - 12" EP, Vinyl Box Set, Digital EP"At The Mercy Of The Merciless" is a 22-minute blast of sewer-filthy death/crust. It's fast, ugly, hyperactive, hard and political. They blend death metal with crust punk and hardcore, and are proudly anti fascist and openly political.
ANTI-SAPIEN formed in Brooklyn in 2021. They have through the years been touring hard in the States, but has also been to Australia, Korea and Japan.
The 6 songs on this EP are brutal and intense, but never too much, which makes it listenable. And as they mix death metal with crust punk, it should be of interest for fans of both genres.
terminushatecity.com | facebook.com/AntiSapienBand
DEATHRAISER: Forged In Hatred
Xtreem Music on Jan. 22 - CD, LP, MC, DigitalNearly 15 years after their debut album was released, Brazilian thrashers DEATHRAISER return with their second album. It's fast and hard, as well as explosive and hateful. They attack with full force - DEATHRAISER is not here to build but to destroy. It sounds like a classic thrash album from the 80s, so if that's what you're looking for, then you just have to check this out, because it's a damn good album. Probably the best so far this year (but then the years has just begun). And I don't have much else to say..
facebook.com/DeathraiserOfficial | xtreemmusic.com
CARRION VAEL: Slay Utterly
Unique Leader Records on Jan. 16 - AlbumCARRION VAEL is said to be a melodic death metal band, and this is their fifth album. Their music is raw and ferocious, but at the same time technical and actually not so melodic. Listening to this is an intense experience, and sometimes they are on the border to chaos. Yet it's not too much and actually listenable, so don't be afraid to give this a try if you like it fast and brutal.
Since 2017 CARRION VAEL has been on a mission to understand disturbing events that may baffle the sane. Each album and each song explores an aspect of true crime history, often focusing on the stories of individual serial killers and their victims. Each song on "Slay Utterly" explores the story of a different serial killer. The perspective jumps between the killers themselves, and the experiences of the victims.
KRUSHOR: Taste Of Hatred
Inverse Records - Digital EPFinnish thrashers KRUSHOR has just released their debut EP, "Taste Of Hatred". And even if they are a thrash band, they are not afraid to blend in other genres in their compositions. These 4 tracks are really good stuff, and if they can make more songs like this, then they will have a very bright future - No doubt about that. You just have to check this out!
These guys are very good at what they are doing, both when it comes to playing and songwriting. What else I should say is unknown to me..
facebook.com/krushorofficial | inverse.fi
UNBOUNDED TERROR: Demo 1993 + Bonus
Abstract Emotions on Jan. 16 - CD, MC, DigitalSpanish death metal band UNBOUNDED TERROR was formed back in 1991 by guitarist Vicente J. Payá, and they released a few demos before they split up just a couple of years later.
This release is a collection where we get the rare 1993 demo "Through The Dark Desperation (Evil Laughs Stronger)", the 1992 demo "Growing On Sorrow", an unreleased live track, and a full 1993 concert. It's very raw and direct but not so bad at all. And for obvious reasons it sounds like a product of its time, so in other words just like death metal used to sound in the early 90s, both when it comes to music and production. Worth checking out anyway. But I prefer the demo recordings, as the live recordings have a more noisey sound.
facebook.com/UnboundedTerror
TOTAL ANNIHILATION: Mountains Of Madness
Testimony Records on Jan. 16 - CD, LP, MC, DigitalTOTAL ANNIHILATION celebrates their 20th anniversary with this album, which is their 4th. It's said to deliver all the Swiss precision and trademark elements their following has come to expect of them. But also more tempo and serious speed, more brutality, more power, more thrash, more death, as well as more harmonies, more melodies, and more musicality.
Much talk, but does it really live up to all that talk? Well, what do I really know? I don't think that I have heard this thrash/death metal band before, so then it's pretty hard to compare with their previous works. But this sounds really good and powerful anyway, there's no doubt about that. And I'm ready to believe all that sell talk about more of everything. You should really give this a try anyway, because it's a very explosive and strong album that they have made.
spkr.store/collections/total-annihilation | facebook.com/testimonyrecords | facebook.com/Total.Annihilation.thrash
PERMACRISIS: The Untrue Endeavour
Permacrisis - Digital SingleThis is a thrash band from Fife, Scotland, formed in 2023. They combine razor-wire riffs, technical but soulful leads, punishing rhythms, venom-laced vocals, and melodic hooks. And they also blend in elements of groove metal, metalcoe, melodic death metal, nu metal and progressive metal to create their own identity.
"The Untrue Endeavour" is their latest single, and it begins symphonic before it becomes a true thrash attack with a melodic chorus. This is not bad at all, so give it a try. That's all I have to say..
IRA SATANA: Black Mass Orgy
Studios13 - Digital AlbumIRA SATANA is a 1-man project, and this is the debut album. It's violent and raw black metal with an occult atmosphere that we get here. The sound is rooted in the underground, and it sounds old school and just like it should. If you prefer the bands and the sound from the 90s, then this could absolutely be something for you, becuase it's not bad at all. And I actually don't have much else to add..
studios13.bandcamp.com/album/black-mass-orgy
The ETERNAL: Celestial
Reigning Phoenix Music on Jan. 16 - MLP, DigitalThe ETERNAL is a Australian/Finnish dark progressive doom metal band, and "Celestial" is a 6-track EP.
They continue with their signature fusion of melancholic atmospheres, doom-laden heaviness, and progressive depth, and delivers an emotive and cinematic journey through sound and spirit. They are unafraid to embrace both beauty and bleakness while charting new creative horizons.
What else can I say then? Well, this sounds really good on a dark winter day, so it's definitely worth a try if you like it dark, melancholic and melodic. But I'm not sure how it will work on a sunny summer day (on the other hand, it's a few months away before it's summer here in the north).
facebook.com/TheEternal | reigningphoenixmusic.com
SOULBOUND: sYn
Metalville Records on Jan. 16 - CD, LP, Fan BoxThis is the 4th studio album from this melodic industrial metal band, and it's said to be their most uncompromising work to date. It has a dark tone, but is yet catchy - Uncomfortable and nice at the same time you could say. As usual they combines hard riffs, brute synths, pounding beats and anthemic choruses. It's said to be "somewhere between NDH, metalcore and electronically distorted world pain". Instead of bold provocation, it's about attitude.
Well, I don't think that too many of these songs sounds industrial actually, even if some of them have elements of that. It's simply a little too kind for that genre. So I would prefer to call this something like modern melodic metal instead. It sounds pretty good anyway, and that's the most important thing.
metalville-shop.com
The GUILT: Naked Rat Dance
Icons Creating Evil Art on Jan. 15 - LP, CD, DigitalSouthern Swedish duo The GUILT deliver a new album on January 15. Many songs here are intense, but in a song like "CBB" they show us that they can be more laidback too. Everything might not be anthems, but there's plenty of good songs anyway, no doubt about that.
As usual it's electro-punk together with grrrl-riot. But there's also some goth rock, post-punk and other elements. Heaviness and melodies are chasing each other to the sound of synths and electronic drums, as well as guitar and vocals. It's defiant, absurd and epic, as well as raw, fun and pain in some strange way.
Dance the night away to the new revolution called "Naked Rat Dance".
guiltswe.bandcamp.com/album/naked-rat-dance | icea.se
HYPERION: Cybergenesis
Fighter Records on Jan. 15 - CD, DigitalThis is the third full-length album from this Italian heavy metal band, which was formed in Bologna in the fall of 2015 by veterans of the local metal scene. There has been some lineup changes through the years, but with a revitalized formation they have now created a new album.
And this album should make fans of the traditional heavy metal happy, because that's what you're going to get here. And just like so many other bands in this genre, they are powerful and have a strong material. So this is worth a try, without a doubt.
youtu.be/U57MUq5Bf8A | fighter-records.com | facebook.com/hyperionbandheavy
CHAOS OVER COSMOS: The Hypercosmic Paradox
Chaos Over Cosmos - CD, DigitalWhat we have here is an international technical/melodic death/prog band, with a duo from Poland and Pakistan. For obvious reasons, the album was entirely made online. These 33 minutes are filled with a blend of highly technical lead guitar work, cosmic sci-fi–inspired atmospheres, and progressive structures. If you like flashy and technical solos and shredding, then I guess that this could be something for you. This is not something that you put in just 1 genre, but people who are into technical and progressive extreme metal might be the right audience for this. Long instrumental parts and entirely instrumental tracks with long solos are nothing unusual here, so I guess that we can call this a guitar album. 3 of these 5 tracks are 8 and a half to 9:45 minutes long.
chaosovercosmos.bandcamp.com/album/the-hypercosmic-paradox
LEÒNIDAS: As Loud As You Can
Leònidas - Digital SingleAs you might have heard, Italian guitarist Francesco Marras has left British heavy metal/hard rock band TYGERS OF PAN TANG, and now he has a new band called LEÒNIDAS. "As Loud As You Can" is the debut single from this new band, and except for Francesco the band also features Daniele Ledda (TWILIGHT-ZONE, ex-SCREAMING SHADOWS) on vocals.
This song is melodic and powerful, as well as hard and heavy. But most of all it's an energetic heavy metal anthem in the classic tradition. It sounds very good and promising for the future. You check this out, and that's it!
youtu.be/BhAi19WDdp8 | facebook.com/LeonidasMetalBand
Dan Lucas: Losing Myself
Pride & Joy Music - Digital SingleGerman singer Dan Lucas has released the first single from his upcoming album, "Age Is Just A Number", which will be out on March 27, 2026. The song tells the story of a singer who feels his memories and identity slipping away piece by piece - a quiet struggle between the past and the present, while the music is melodic rock.
This is a good song that have echoes of the 80s, which is nothing unusual in this genre. The strongest part is the chorus. Fans of good old melodic rock will probably like this a lot. No doubt abou that.
youtu.be/L5cwVSUNcHM | danlucas.de | prideandjoy.de «December 2025 | Index | February»
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