 MECHANIK WAR III 'Divine Annihilation' INDEPENDENT As raw and rusty as a combustion engine, Mechanik War III bellow out thick black smoke with their latest effort 'Divine Annihilation', this black smoke is full of chunky bass lines, harmonised vocals, ravaging riffs and drums so menacing, it churns your stomach endlessly. By bazooka, who'd have thought that cyber industrial Metal could take on such a militaristic and futuristic sound and image? Because this is exactly what the American quartet Mechanik War III have done, their latest effort 'Divine Annihilation' was designed to 'divinely annihilate' your eardrums whilst serving itself as the ideal soundtrack to a full-out nuclear war; if the next war is to be dominated by machines and cyber warfare, then this album will be the radio broadcast. Fear Factory eat your heart out, the next generation of cyber industrial metal bands is upon us with Mechanik War III. For fans of: Deathstars, Fear Factory, Sybreed Download This: "At War With The Nazarene" - click to listen ''Divine Annihilation' is out now via an independent release. [7.5/10] RHYS STEVENSON  SEMI-CIVIL 'Cult Of Masses' INDEPENDENT Breathing in elements of Whitechapel, Monuments and Emmure, it's hard to really ignore Semi-Civil despite their underwhelming underground status... granted they've only just dropped their debut single 'Cult Of Masses'; and probably are very new to the scene, but this stuff just blows! Whether you like your progressive metalcore / deathcore factions cliche or not, Semi-Civil have brought both aspects to the table - classic formulaic rhythms and vocals meeting unsuspecting time signatures and the unnerving style of breakdown - let the background synths rip your veins to shreds. The solo part though, in a strange way glides over nicely the rhythmic downtempo riffs and allow for the vocals to make a rampant return. It's early days, but if Semi-Civil keep on building their sound up and produce songs in this style, then give it a year or two and they'll nail a label deal. Download it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KW9QvK5XUtw For fans of: Monuments, Whitechapel & Emmure. 'Cult Of Masses' is out now via an independent release [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  GRANDE FOX 'Empty Nest' INDEPENDENT Greek psychedelic / stoner rock metal outfit Grande Fox return to deliver their 2nd effort in 'Empty Nest', which at it's core is a foot tapping soundtrack to your next drinking session... Jack Daniels at the ready! Riffs dominate the album like no tomorrow and leave no taste untested; there's the downright dirty and then there's the sexily snazzy, both oozing so much sensuality it's almost 'musica erotica'. What's really amazing is that the band clearly has no rulebooks for their own branded style of music... the album flits from the mesmerising sounds of Muse to the gritty notes of Black Stone Cherry, whilst simultaneously flirting with the heaviness of Van Halen and AC/DC... all the more of a reason to make 'Empty Nest' your next listening adventure. Download This: "Brutal Colors" - click to listen For fans of: Muse, Van Halen, Black Stone Cherry, Corey Taylor 'Empty Nest' is out now via an independent release. [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  SYMBTOMY 'Demo #1' INDEPENDENT Sometimes it's good to go back to where something began, back to the golden days, back to the bare basics. This is exactly what the Czech-British trio Symbtomy have done, here you will not find any flashy insane guitar solo's, nor anything that deviates from the old school death metal sound. Instead, you'll be greeted with the finesse that once emanated from within the 90's era of death metal - straight edge guttural gut-wrenching vocals, blazing and savage riffs, and thunderous drumming that made the Swedish style of death metal so formidable. 'Demo #1' is a tour-de-force and a spectacle to behold, it's a brilliant start from the trio in Symbtomy and provides a foundation for more of that good stuff to built on. Check the demo out here:- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrTIldYmBK0 For fans of: Unleashed, Entombed and Dismember 'Demo #1' is out now via an independent release [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  BLOODY SKIES 'Demo' INDEPENDENT Not much is known about Bloody Skies, the melodic black / doom / death metal duo from Albania, other than they formed in 1995 and have just released their debut demo... it has taken a very long time for them to emerge out of the shadows but alas here they are. What is quite refreshing about their sound, is that they've incorporated elements of traditional Albanian music and as such, made their own unique blended style. The demo, is exceptionally raw (at least the start and then reaches a more polished sound), thereby sticking true to the path of honing ones craft. The downside naturally is that you have to crank up your speakers to hear it (be warned it gets louder), just a minor inconvenience for the brilliant musicianship presented herewith, sure it's not going to break ground and become an overnight sensation, but it will do well to satisfy those seeking true underground extreme metal. Download This: "Why Care At All" - click to listen For fans of: My Dying Bride, Woods Of Ypres, Catamenia 'Demo' is out now via an independent release [7/10] RHYS STEVENSON  ILDARUNI 'Beyond Unseen Gateways' BLACK LION RECORDS Shamanic yet grandiose sermons await on the debut album by Armenian pagan black metal conjurers Ildaruni. 'Beyond Unseen Gateways' takes the genre to a lands unexplored with the blending of Armenian folklore and the utilisation of musical scales found within that part of Western Asia. The quintet have delivered an album that is a thorough romp through their homeland, skirting the modern Yerevan and diving head-first into the ancient pasts of extinct cities such as Ani (now in modern Turkey), one that should be embraced both lyrically and musically. This is not nationalism, this is bringing to the fore a folklore that seemingly is forgotten by the world, nay lest it be known that Armenia is considered one of the oldest countries in the world. The new wave of Armenian metal is upon us as Ildaruni alongside The Adana Project become flag-bearers of the Armenian metal scene. Download This: "Exalted Birth" - click to listen For fans of: Kroda, Ruins Of Faith, Melechesh 'Beyond Unseen Gateways' is out via Black Lion Records [8.5/10] RHYS STEVENSON  INDIGNACION 'Amuyta Lakharu' INDEPENDENT Often when people read the genre death metal / grindcore, they think of blast-beats galore and rampaging riffs, however if you ask Bolivian outfit Indignacion about this, they'll respond with 'we will dictate the pace OK?', just take for example their second album 'Amuyta Lakharu', it is so unorthodox and so unpredictable that you cannot headbang to it; well you can try, but be prepared for severe neck-ache from the ever-changing pace of the music. Featuring what could be called radio clips, the album addresses environmentalism, the current COVID pandemic and humanity's destruction of planet earth and could arguably seen as a protest soundtrack, but whether that is or is not the case one thing is for sure, the album is very well put together.... open the pit up. Check out the album here:- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vLYfcYaiU8 For fans of: Napalm Death, Gorguts, Psyopus 'Amuyta Lakharu' is out via an independent release [8.5/10] RHYS STEVENSON  BESTIA ATER 'Anno Bestia Chrysallis' INDEPENDENT Legends of the Bulgarian metal scene come together to form Bestia Ater, a bestial death metal band who are full of ferocity and resilience, so much so their debut album 'Anno Bestia Chrysallis' arguably pays homage to the immeasurable seriousness of the Bulgarian extreme metal scene. Very much tuned to the Gothenburg / old school death metal sound, 'Anno Bestia Chrysallis' takes death metal back to it's roots and has no flashy guitar solo's, no fancy elements, just pure filthy rotten guttural vocals, precise percussion and riffs designed to shred your senses to pieces. You have been warned, prepare your hearing for total annihilation at the hands of this leviathan called Bestia Ater... open the pit up. Download This: "Haures" - click to listen For fans of: Unleashed, Obituary, Morbid Angel 'Anno Bestia Chrysallis' is now out via an independent release [7.5/10] RHYS STEVENSON  DENGEL 'Promised 重啓.應许' INDEPENDENT / MORT PRODUCTIONS Stamping their authority on the gothic metal style with their own unique take on the genre, is Chinese sextet Dengel. Their debut album comes 14 years after the band's debut EP and the wait could well be justified, the sensational balance between the oriental flavours in both the music and lyrics, as well as the full force of darkness bestowed on each song, ultimately positions Dengel in a league of their own. This is a refreshing take on the overtly saturated gothic metal style and ultimately paves the way for 'Oriental Gothic Metal' to be born, the various elements found scattered across the entirety of the album is enough to satisfy everyone's tastes - there are elements of symphonic metal, melodic metal, HIM's 'love metal' and of course classic Chinese music... Dengel are flying the flag for the Chinese metal scene. Download This: "Wandering Soul" - click to listen For fans of: Within Temptation, HIM, Lacuna Coil 'Promised 重啓.應许' is out digitally via an independent release / physically via Mort Productions. [9/10] RHYS STEVENSON  TROBEROTH
'Fallen Angel' GRIMMDISTRIBUTION If you're searching for something that goes beyond breakneck speed, has the thunderous sound of a volcanic explosion and enough power to keep your brain charged for 24 hours, then look no further than Troberoth and their 2nd album 'Fallen Angel'. The Costa Rican quartet have busted guts and sweat profusely to deliver an album that puts the greats like Slayer and Metallica to shame, it comes laden with machine gun-like drums, vocals so brutal they make your last hangover rather pitiful and riffs so barbaric, they make the dark ages look tame. Overall this album is the perfect example of how modern thrash metal should be done, it does not get any better than this... the album may be called 'Fallen Angel', but Troberoth is the 'Rising Devil' of the Costa Rican metal scene... open the pit up. Download This: "My Will Is Gone" - click to listen For fans of: Power Trip, Vektor, Gama Bomb 'Fallen Angel' is out now via GrimmDistribution [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON
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 DUSK OF DELUSION 'Watch Your 6' FANTAI'ZIC Conceptually the second album by Dusk Of Delusion is wonderful, musically though at times it slacks badly. There are some really amazing elements that work wonderfully, but there are some elements which in all honesty shouldn't have even be used. Granted they're a Nu / Alternative Metal band and those genres demand countless influences and sounds, but at times during some of the songs the elements clash too much and arguably becomes a clusterf*ck. 'Watch Your 6' is a conceptual work regarding the First World War and delivers stories from all fronts, with songs in Russian, French, German, Serbian and English, with that in tow the album is rather brutal and unrelenting, but it falls short of being extraordinary and just about ticks the boxes of being listenable, they're on the right path, just. Download This: While He Sleeps For fans of: 36 Crazyfists, Slipknot, 5 Finger Death Punch 'Watch Your 6' is out now via Fantai'zic [7/10] RHYS STEVENSON  VIROCRACY 'Irradiation' BLACK SUNSET / MDD If you're looking for your next successful Death Metal export from Germany, then stop at Virocracy. For a band who has been around since 2018 and only dropping their debut album this year, you would have thought they would be seasoned pro's given the unforgiving brutality 'Irradiation' comes loaded with. Lead by the savage Anika Ov Moseberg (who might as well be a reincarnation of Angela Gossow; truth be told), Virocracy have nailed every criterion of what makes a debut album a statement album, it is sure to give them considerable attention across Europe and festival slots next year... you read it hear first, Virocracy are leading the next wave of German Extreme Death Metal. There is not one song on this album that offers any kind of weakness, it's designed to crush your cranium with maximum effect. Download This: Initio For fans of: Arch Enemy, Suffocation, Gojira 'Irradiation' is out now via Black Sunset / MDD [9/10] RHYS STEVENSON  ELCROST 'Benighted & Unrequited' INDEPENDENT Ask anyone about the Extreme Metal scene in the Far East and they'll tell you how dark, atmospheric and unforgiving it really is. Elcrost are a living proof of this as this trio's debut album is laden with atmospherics that are so unnerving, they leave you wincing in pain whilst the crackling vocals, barbaric riffs and seismic drums leave you in wonder as to what hit you. 'Benighted & Unrequited' is a raw journey through the darkest metal known in the Vietnamese Metal scene and sets itself apart as arguably one of the most darkest releases to emerge from said scene. If you think China has an impressive Black Metal scene, then just check out Elcrost for they are the band that Vietnam has long been craving. Download This: The Worm For fans of: Urgehal, Carpathian Forest, Naglfar 'Benighted & Unrequited' is out now via an independent release [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  CORROSIÓN 'Matar Para Vivir' INDEPENDENT Sung exclusively in Spanish, the debut album 'Matar Para Vivir' by Uruguayan Death / Groove Thrashers Corrosión is laden with slickness so slick, it will let your senses slide into complete dysphoria. Granted it's nothing new in terms of the sound, but it does offer a refreshing reminder of the power conjured up in the Death / Groove / Thrash crossover genre. The only relative downside is the production level as it seems a little too raw for it to be considered a globally-worthy release, that said it will certainly satisfy those who love their metal unpolished and heavily dirty. Time will tell as to whether this Uruguayan unit salvage bits of the wreckage in time for their possible follow-up. Download This: Zapatos de cemento For fans of: DevilDriver, Sepultura, Machine Head 'Matar Para Vivir' is out via an independent release [7/10] RHYS STEVENSON  SVENGALI 'Sayonara' INDEPENDENT Svengali return locked and loaded with their second album 'Sayonara' with two new members in vocalist Adnan Mryhij and drummer Joshua Saldanha, boy what a force they have become. If you think you know Metalcore, think again, Svengali will impale your body for breakfast and spit-roast you for dinner with this new effort, it's like letting off an atomic bomb. The great thing about this release is that there is something for everyone, there are fist-punching anthems and there are toned-down metallic ballads (core style), but none of those cheesy, flashy riffs, lame bridges or uber predictable breakdowns; basically 60% of most Metalcore bands these days. It goes without saying that Svengali are the next best band to emerge from the Emirati Metal scene; even though by nationality the band comprises of Emirati, Jordanian, Lebanese and Iranian musicians, effectively becoming a part of the 'New Wave of Middle Eastern Metal'. Download This: This Is Kombat For fans of: Whitechapel, Hatebreed, Miss May I 'Sayonara' is out now via an independent release [9/10] RHYS STEVENSON  ZIFIR 'Demoniac Ethics' DUPLICATE RECORDS Veterans of the Turkish Black Metal scene Zifir hold nothing back with their fourth album 'Demoniac Ethics' as the darkness seeps through this raw and atmospheric opus. It's not exactly a secret that Turkey has a rather potent and bleak Black Metal scene, brimming with bands of all eras and yet Zifir, a trio that has been going for 14 years haven't given up at all. This shows in the brilliance exhibited with this latest effort, an echo of the first wave of Norwegian Black Metal albeit in the vein of Turkish attitude. 'Demoniac Ethics' no doubt will tickle the senses of those who prefer to have their Black Metal filthy, raw and atmospheric; even pleasing the elitists (such a thing still exists sadly), rest assured Zifir are not going anywhere anytime soon and will almost certainly conjure up another slab of Turkish Black Metal for people to savour. Download This: Spirit of Goats For fans of: Immortal, Carpathian Forest, Naglfar 'Demoniac Ethics' is out via Duplicate Records [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  YMYRGAR 'Where The Oak Drowns Its Roots' INDEPENDENT Tunisian Pagan Black Metallers Ymyrgar unleash their second offering in 'Where The Oak Drowns Its Roots', 6 years after their debut album graced planet metal. This time it's bigger, it's bolder and it's double the length of their debut album and so thus more to cheer about. In all honesty this should give them some considerable attention across the region and into Europe as it's a big step-up since their debut. There is something for everyone on this album, whether you're into the Pagan style of Black Metal or prefer Folk Metal tunes that have enough bounce to give you a spring in your step, 'Where The Oak Drowns Its Roots' has it all. Let this septet take you on a magical journey through the dark nights of the Tunisian sands and across the folkloric streets of Tunis, the capital of Tunisia. Download This: Throne of the Damned For fans of: Arkona, Arallu, Barbaros 'Where The Oak Drowns Its Roots' is out via an independent release [8/10 RHYS STEVENSON  ABSENTATION 'Antimatter Rites' INDEPENDENT Originally from Syria, the now Germany-based one-man project Absentation (Salah Alghalayeeni) has unleashed his 4th album 'Antimatter Rites' a year after his critically-acclaimed 3rd album 'The Intellectual Darkness'. Absentation brings more of the tantalising and brutalising style of Death Metal we have grown accustom to with this Syrian musical genius. 'Antimatter Rites' is full of juicy riffs, outrageous drumming (although at times it does sound like a drum machine was used; it's that fast) and an unsteady atmosphere that is sure to make you feel sick to the stomach. Expect nothing more than a full smack to the face with this album, if you expect anything less then prepare for your ears to bleed internally outwards... it is not for soft people, word. Download this: The velocity of relativity talisman For fans of: Modern Death Metal, Scarab, Aborted 'Antimatter Rites' is out via an independent release [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  UTEN HÅP 'Lys' INDEPENDENT Since 2017, the one-man Black Metal project Uten Håp has pumped out 1 album, 6 splits, 1 compilation and a whopping 15 EP's, the latest being 'Lys', a three-track atmospheric black metal work of art. Originally hailing from the Norwegian archipegalo of Svalbard, musician Danthor Wildcrow relocated to Spain and carried on with his Black Metal projects including Uten Håp which should carry on, because as this latest EP goes, the musical creative spark is still well and truly alive. 'Lys' is in the vein of the 'True Norwegian Black Metal' sound and rarely deviates, keeping true to an authentic sound and one that will resonate with this musician for many years ahead. Download This: Falling In Fear For fans of: Raw Black Metal, True Norwegian Black Metal 'Lys' is out via an independent release [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  THE FALLEN PROPHETS
'Relentless Killing Motivation' MMD RECORDS Grab hold of your guts, wrench them until you yourself vomit them out and then digest yourself from the inside-out, because if you don't then The Fallen Prophets will. This South African outfit are not to be taken lightly as shown on their second album 'Relentless Killing Motivation', it comes with a mosh and headbang warning, said activities are expected instantaneously for the vicious form of Melodic Death Metal / Deathcore this horde produces demands it. Embrace the chug-a-thon, chill to the freely-flowing vocals and be captivated by the machine-gun drumming, this is no run of the mill music, hell no, this is the new face of South African Metal... Seether? Your time is up. With 'Relentless Killing Motivation', The Fallen Prophets may well have booked themselves European festivals for next year... Download This: Stench of Death For fans of: Whitechapel, Born Of Osiris, Hanging The Nihilist 'Relentless Killing Motivation' is out via MMD Records [8.5/10] RHYS STEVENSON  STEIGNYR 'Myths Through The Shadows Of Freedom' ART GATES Spanish Viking Metallers Steignyr return with their fourth album 'Myths Through The Shadows Of Freedom' and what is presented here is a rather solid effort, however it's the case of we've been here before, seen it, heard it, etc, etc. In no way is the album generic but it lacks something to make it stand tall and proud. Maybe it's the gravelly vocals that mar the whole album, or it's the lack of diversification in the song structure, whatever it is, it doesn't give the album that much needed oomph. It feels like the vocals are being pushed behind the wall of riffs and so end up becoming even more distorted without the fact being the growls aren't easy to understand. There is little idea where Steignyr are heading with their sound or indeed whether their next album is going to fall behind this effort, but it goes without saying that the band has seen better days. Download This: "Arrows Of Time" For Fans Of: Huldre, Arkona, Myrkgrav [6/10] RHYS STEVENSON  ELUSION 'Singularity' ART GATES Symphonic Metal always seems to do well in the Benelux region, the latest evidence of this is Belgian quartet Elusion and their debut album 'Singularity', which is created with much aplomb, that it already has pushed Elusion into the same league as Epica and Within Temptation. In fact, with this album they could easily be Belgium's answer to the leviathans of Symphonic Metal in the neighbouring Netherlands. There is solace, there is grace, there is even power and ferocity throughout the album, it's these emotions and dramatisation of the music that empowers Elusion to stand on their own two and be free of being dubbed just another 'Symphonic Metal' band. Eagle-eyed metalheads will recognise guitarist Domingo Smets from his time with Pagan Metal veterans Ancient Rites, with this experience in the room and the charisma to match it from every single member, it won't be long before Elusion break out of the Belgian Metal scene and knock on the doors of Wacken Open Air, you read it here first. Download This: "My War Within" For Fans of: Epica, Delain, Within Temptation [8.5/10] RHYS STEVENSON  FRIJGARD 'Chapter Zero' ART GATES Frijgard deliver what you would expect from a Pagan Black Metal release, after all it's taken 5 years for their third album 'Chapter Zero' to surface, so you would expect them to know what they should be doing. The answer is yes. 'Chapter Zero' is bristling with blackened riffs, unholy vocals and funnily enough, standard Pagan Black Metal drumming. It's straight to the point and yet whilst it may keep some people drained and weary, those used to such extreme music will be singing these songs in their sleep. The album is hallowing at it's best and damn right dank at it's worst, ironically it's worst parts are also it's best parts and vice versa. There are moments where you tend to expect one thing and instead are slapped with the opposite, mind you the album does bode well for this Swiss quartet, let's just hope they can maintain it into the next album. Download This: "Haven" For Fans Of: Arkona, Drudkh, Graveland [7/10] RHYS STEVENSON  BEYOND INFINITY 'Welcome To Infinity' ART GATES For anyone, a long time to wait for an album to drop is always agonising and yet Beyond Infinity took 7 years since their inception to drop their debut album... but damn the wait was worth it! The Austrian Modern Metallers hold nothing back when it comes to delivering their riveting blend of thunderous Metalcore drums and vocals, which in turn are battling harmonic Power Metal vocals and tackling some Death Metal elements here and there. There is not one song on the album that will leave you bored, they are loaded with insane metal music that is guaranteed to crush every single bone in your body when you headbang or mosh to this sexy piece of audio amusement. 'Welcome To Infinity' is a solid start for Beyond Infinity, so let's hope they continue this magic and dabble even further in the world of Modern Metal.... the clock is ticking. Download This: "Beyond The Shadows" For Fans of: Mnemic, Amaranthe, Arch Enemy [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  HAVAMAL 'Tales From Yggdrasil' ART GATES You may well be thinking 'not another Viking-inspired Melodic Death Metal band' and to be fair you would be mistaken, Havamal opt to lean towards a more atmospheric blend instead of the cliche Amon Amarth sound. Their debut album 'Tales From Yggdrasil' proves this and shows that the Swedish quintet know how to escape the cliche trap of being classed as a clone of another band. Melodic guttural vocals lead the charge whilst the keyboards provide an electric atmosphere, the guitars deliver the thunderous crack of savage riffs and the drums blast your senses apart... literally (well not literally). They are not melodic as Scar Symmetry nor are they heavily driven on the Death Metal aspect, in fact you could argue Havamal have devised their own sound to an extent. Either way 'Tales From Yggdrasil' is a delightful listen and will surely perk a few ears up across planet metal. Download This: "Blood Oath" For Fans of: Omnium Gatherum, Norther, Eluveitie [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  WORMED
'Metaportal' SEASON OF MIST Veterans of the Spanish Metal scene, Wormed leave their mark in 2019 with a scintillating and mesmerising slab of Brutal / Tech Death Metal in the form of their EP 'Metaportal'. With new drummer V-Kazar (Gabriel Valcázar) unleashing a barrage of blast beats and double bass drumming, some could say Wormed are reinvigorated, whilst others would say they are as tight as they have ever been. There is nothing short of pure brutality on this EP, it should come with a health warning as it's potency is savage enough to leave you with a rather stiff neck from unrelenting headbanging. They may call this Brutal / Technical Death Metal, but the genre 'Sci-Fi Death Metal' would seem more apt for the quartet. As you would expect there is quite a lot of pig squealing going on, let's just hope Wormed have enough in the tank to curate a follow-on album. Download This: "Bionic Relic" For Fans of: Prostitute Disfigurement, Augury, Cattle Decapitation [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  HARMASAR 'Din Pământ' INDEPENDENT Nothing says truly authentic than metal music being sung in your own national language, welcoming to the fore is Moldovan Pagan Metallers Harmasar with their debut album 'Din Pământ'. The five-piece ensemble are a bunch of jolly chaps, who with this effort clearly wallow down the same path as their fellow Pagan and traditional Folk Metal contemporaries, with their compositions of uplifting and soul-blessing sound of traditional folk metal. Expect to be on your feet, dancing away wherever you may be when listening or let's say 'indulging' in this epic masterpiece, in fact this music would certainly go down well in front of a camp fire. 'Din Pământ' certainly should be in your music collection as it's demanding attention will certainly prevent you from turning a blind eye, give it a year and Harmasar will be snapped up by a label. Harmasar are flying the flag for the Moldovan Metal scene. Download This: "Tapae" - Click to listen For Fans of: Ensiferum, Korpiklaani and Litvintroll [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  SONS OF CAIN 'Seven' INDEPENDENT The Channel Islands rarely get a look-in when it comes to metal music, yet here are some thriving island scenes with enough talent to be knocking on the UK-mainland door. Guernsey's Sons Of Cain are a prime example whose debut album ''Seven'' would be a blessing when listened live, who knows maybe at next years Bloodstock? Saddled between classic Hard Rock and the NWOBHM sounds, Sons Of Cain know their craft well and are well and truly capable of amassing a number of songs with such bounce and beauty, that it mimics the happiness of the Guernsey Islanders. 'Seven' is a concept album and comes off the backbone of a former cover band, not bad for a group of musicians from one of the more isolated yet inhabited parts of the UK no? Download This: "Magic Man" - Click to listen For Fans of: Iron Maiden, Van Halen, AC/DC [7/10] RHYS STEVENSON  VENDETTA INC. 'Blight' INDEPENDENT Lashing together the funk of Groove Metal and grittiness of Metalcore (in the vocals department), you'd begin to think that you're mistaken for checking out the Vendetta Inc. syndicate, well you would be mistaken. This band is heavier than your last hangover and has far more passion than your last shag in bed, truth be told Hungary's Vendetta Inc. are set on making a statement and with their debut effort 'Blight' leading the way, there is nothing that'll stop this quartet from crushing planet metal under their ballistic weight. It was never designed to be pretty, but that's what it is and boy it's pretty as f**k - this is the real deal and you better believe it. Brutally heavy, slick in composition and precise at every second, Vendetta Inc. may well just be Hungary's answer to Lamb Of God. Download This: "Wretched Mind" - Click to listen For Fans of: Lamb Of God, DevilDriver, 5FDP [7.5/10] RHYS STEVENSON  TEARS OF REGRET 'The Darkness Prophecy' DEPRESSIVE ILLUSIONS The Jordan / Iraq-based horde known as Tears Of Regret might have just become the most exciting underground act to emerge from the Middle East. Coming together are musicians of Iraqi, Jordanian, Russian and Emirati backgrounds to create and unleash a sound that is both hallowing, bone-chilling and raw to the core. 'The Darkness Prophecy' is this band's debut album and it's potent enough to make your ears bleed inside out, spewing out stark comparisons with Darkthrone, Dimmu Borgir and to a certain extent Septic Flesh. Ultimately the album should be a tasty treat for those who indulge in extreme metal and or metal from exotic locations. As for the album, it's bombastic, raw and unsuspecting nature is one that will be tough to beat. Download This: "Time Ignorant" - Click to listen For Fans of: Middle Eastern Black Metal, Darkthrone, Immortal [7.5/10] RHYS STEVENSON  LANDMINE 'Reject The Destiny' INDEPENDENT It's early days, but you could probably consider Landmine as South Korea's answer to Sonata Arctica, their epic vocals leading the charge whilst the music itself delivers a crossover mix of Heavy Metal and Power Metal. Why on earth is the South Korean Metal scene largely ignored remains a mystery, given treasures like Landmine are waiting to be discovered by western metal media (cough like us). 'Reject The Destiny' is the quartet's premier EP and is a sure sign that much more is to come, for a first-time effort it's pretty solid and thus Landmine should be the next band you should check out. 20 minutes of beautifully-crafted Heavy Power Metal surges through your speakers and into your ears, just be sure to avoid wetting your pants at the amazing nature of this band. Download This: "After Love" For Fans of: Sonata Arctica, Iron Maiden, Helloween [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  BLAAKYUM 'Line Of Fear' INDEPENDENT Firstly Acrassicauda from Iraq, then Motor Militia from Bahrain and now Blaakyum from The Lebanon, who'd have thought Thrash Metal would touch the hearts of the Middle Eastern folk? Additionally the Arabian vibe flows throughout the band's second album 'Line Of Fear', echoing comparisons with Tunisia's Myrath and Israel's Orphaned Land in the Oriental Metal department. Truth be told this Lebanese five-piece are ready to smash Europe to bits. One can see the likes of Nuclear Blast snapping this lot up, after all, there are times where you can question the European Metal scenes' level of creativity and when Blaakyum have nothing to lose, they go head-on and immerse themselves in originality, giving them the reason as to why they are the flag-bearers of Lebanese Metal. Download This: "Baal-Adon" For Fans of: Motor Militia, Myrath, Orphaned Land [8/10] RHYS STEVENSON  SLEEPERS' GUILT 'Kilesa' INDEPENDENT Think you know Melodic Death Metal? Feel you've heard enough flouncy melodies and brutal riffs to keep your sanity in check? You must be f*cking joking. Luxembourg's Sleepers' Guilt don't dish-out that kind of bullsh*t, instead they're capable of smashing your senses into a thousand pieces and then some. 'Kilesa' serves as the quintet's premier album and is one album destined to gain attention far and wide, it's infectious hooks and almost entrancing ability to captivate is paramount, in fact 'Kilesa' may as well be a sharp contender for Luxembourg Metal release of the year as this is probably the strongest album to come out of this country all year. With nearly 80 minutes worth of solid Modern Melodic Death Metal at the helm, this is one album that is certain to quench the thirst of most metalheads. Download This: "Supernova" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Arch Enemy, In Flames, Deals Death [7.5/10] RHYS STEVENSON  BLIND SAVIOUR 'The Master Plan' INDEPENDENT Malta is one of those metal scenes who seems to struggle at times in gaining any international attention, but when you have bands like Blind Saviour emerge on the scene and drop a scorching album such as 'The Master Plan', you know the band means business. 'The Master Plan' is a riotous slab of Power Metal that rampages at a canter whilst whipping up vocals so heavenly, even the angels have started a moshpit. Make no mistake they're not your sappy power metal cohorts, not even when their vocalist is female, of whom does a stellar job at unleashing a voice so emphatic, guys should feel ashamed. Perhaps next year will be Blind Saviours year with this effort firmly underneath their belts, waiting to unleash it upon the European masses... and perhaps beyond. Download This: "The Day After" - Click to listen For Fans of: Twilight Force, Kobra & The Lotus, Sonata Arctica [8] RHYS STEVENSON  MINDAHEAD 'Reflections' REVALVE Modern Metallers MindAhead take no prisoners with their algorithmic approach to music construction, by lashing together elements of Progressive, Melodic, Technical and Death Metal, this Italian sextet are preparing to launch themselves into the unknown. 'Reflections' may be a unique album, it may be a damn good one also, but the truth is it's going to push MindAhead into the spotlight. Such an experimental yet eclectic band and album should bode well in the future because truth be told, this sort of music is what metal needs; to open up and explore new avenues. Ultimately if you thought Modern Metal was about the groove, the riffs, the heaviness, then you're mistaken... stare into your own 'Reflections' and see that the truth is found deep within... the desire to invent, inspire and above all, reflect... Download This: "Emerald Green Eyes" For Fans of: Amaranthe, Nightwish, Epica [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  TRALLERY
'Spiritless' ART GATES Hailing from the Balearic Islands, Thrashers Trallery hold nothing back in attempting to better their debut album, the result? Completely filthy Thrash Metal designed to split your spine in two. 'Spiritless' is a reckless and relentless ride through pacey riffs, brutal drums and vocals so vicious that you'll need life insurance to pass this orgasmic musical spectacular. 'Spiritless' gleams with breakneck Thrash Metal designed to conjure up any moshpit at such short notice, moreover Trallery seem to understand how to create your own unique sound as they wallow in between the ferocity of Slayer and the precision of Metallica whilst giving a slight nod to the Teutonic sound. Ah this album is cool, there's hardly anything worth scrutinizing about... it's not long enough. Download This: "Evil Pride" For Fans of: Savage Messiah, Evile, Slayer, Metallica [8] RHYS STEVENSON  KHROMA 'Stasis' INVERSE Khroma might as well become Finland's answer to Japan's Crossfaith, an explosive rule-bending mix of electronic brutality, metalcore heaviness and an atmosphere to pierce your brain at it's very core, for their latest effort 'Stasis' will leave your mind completely f*cked. By lacing together elements of Metalcore, electronic music, Groove Metal and Alternative Metal, this hotly-tipped outfit are sure to tear Europe apart with their uniquely fashioned and original s. From start to finish, 'Stasis' will have you moshing your braincells to death, raving your sweat out and drinking alcohol like water, seriously this is proper hard party music. If Crossfaith, 5FDP and The Defiled ever had a three-some, then Khroma would be the offspring, a cataclysmic, unrelenting brand of Modern Metal. This shit is crazyyyyyy!!!!! Download This: "Brace Yourself" For Fans of: 5FDP, The Defiled, Crossfaith 'Stasis' is out now via Inverse Records [8] RHYS STEVENSON  12 GAUGE OUTRAGE 'Deadly Sins' INDEPENDENT No let's not indulge in the Irish puns, even though the Guinness demands it. Hailing from the South-East coast of Ireland, the Heavy Metal trio 12 Gauge Outrage do more than just invent an interesting and rhyming band name, they're also capable of bleeding out a debut album that will almost certainly appeal to the metal masses. Pounding drums lead the backline as the riffs slit your throat right at the deadliest point, actually come to think of it have they managed to whip in some Melodic and Thrash Metal elements? Whatever you make of their debut album, 'Deadly Sins' is a joyous and satisfying nod to the classic sounds of Heavy Metal. Whilst it might not be as fast as Slayer or melodically heavy as Iron Maiden, the album will surely book the band their ticket across the Irish Sea and into the UK. Download This: "Greed - Drag Me To Hell" - Click to listen For Fans of: Kaine, Diamond Head, Metallica [8] RHYS STEVENSON  HALIDOM 'Purity Corrupts' INDEPENDENT You might get stuck in the groove when checking out the premier EP by Israel's Halidom. The new kids on the block kick off their career with their EP 'Purity Corrupts' and whilst it offers something fresh, at times it becomes stagnant, that's not to say it's not enjoyable but rather the 'been here done that, sold the t-shirt' feeling. However through bolting together some flash riffs, thick and heavy bass, gritty vocals and an atmosphere primed to get any pit open, Halidom might be on to something, whatever it is they haven't found it yet. 'Purity Corrupts' serves as a respected nod to the Groove Metal movement, but nothing more, in fact their next release needs to be an improvement to enable the band to gain considerable attention from outside of Israel, or the Middle East. Download This: "Turncoat" - Click to listen For Fans of: Gojira, DevilDriver, Lamb of God [7] RHYS STEVENSON  ROMAN KHRUSTALEV 'Our New Sun' INDEPENDENT When you think of Kazakhstan, you generally would not consider it a metal music nation and truth be told whilst it's scene can be traced back to the early 1990's, there are very few bands or projects going around. One such musician, Roman Khrustalev, has been releasing music since 2008 under different guises. However he now goes under his real name and has released his latest instrumental Progressive / Power Metal album 'Our New Sun'. From start to finish, this marathon run of epic riff shifting and abrasively loud atmospherics certainly demands a lot of attention as this work of art deserves it. Forget the flashy and technical wizardry Herman Li of Dragonforce can deliver, because Kazakhstan have got their own answer through Roman Khrustalev. His futuristic outlook is channelled through his music and ultimately could serve well as background music for the next sci-fi blockbuster. Download This: "Cold Roots Of Earth" - Click to listen For Fans of: Instrumental Metal, insanely godly music, epic music [8] RHYS STEVENSON  BLEEDING TEARS 'The Fall Of Lucifer' INDEPENDENT Hailing from Venezuela, Bleeding Tears are a Dark Metal band whose sound features a lashing of Gothic Metal beauty, the dank atmospherics associated with Doom Metal and a sprinkling of menacing Death Metal. 'The Fall Of Lucifer' sadly is nothing new as it appears to have elements that some would agree sounds too similar to other bands in the said combined genre. However despite the near-evident comparisons, the music in question is one that will captivate you no matter where you are in the world, perhaps the EP was built to put Venezuela on the metal map or perhaps just to stand on it's own two as a decent release. Whatever the future holds for this sextet, with this effort they are sure to gain some attention from outside of their own country, perhaps even land a record deal.... Download this: "Premoniziones" - click to listen For Fans of: Macbeth, Tristania, Darkwell [7] RHYS STEVENSON  TROLLWALD' 'У гушчарах (U Huszczarach)' INDEPENDENT Formed out of the ashes left behind by Litvintroll, Belarusian Folk Metal maestros Trollwald carry on from where their predecessor left off. 'У гушчарах (U Huszczarach)' is the band's debut EP and it remains in touch with their folk heritage, utilising folk instruments normally associated with Pagan Metal. Unfortunately Trollwald aren't as with it as Litvintroll were and make light use of what could have been a potentially arousing EP, their inept self just does not enable their EP to reach it's fullest potential. Granted they've stuck to their mother tongue, being Belarusian, but this does not give the EP that needed kick up the backside that otherwise may well have demanded a more positive reception. Overall despite the lack of convincing elements, 'У гушчарах (U Huszczarach)' is an EP that marks the transition from Litvintroll to Trollwald. Download This: "Bywaj!" - Click to listen For fans of: Arkona, Litvintroll, Pagan Metal [7] RHYS STEVENSON  WASTED HEROES 'Wasted Heroes' INDEPENDENT Returning after their debut album 'Between The Worlds' was released six years ago, Ukrainian Melodic Death / Metalcore horde Wasted Heroes justify the time spent in crafting their second offering. This self-titled album deploys all what you would expect from a band from said genre combination, full on smack-down brutality, infectious riffs, emotional vocals and a vision that should enable them to stand tall as possibly the most exciting Metalcore-based bands to emerge out of Eastern Europe. But with this comes their own form of Modern Metal influence, which almost breaches the 'Post Metalcore' territory, but it definitely aims to shove over the dominance of Black and Pagan Metal the Ukrainian Metal scene has been arguably enjoying for far too long. 'Wasted Heroes' is the band's calling card to the record labels, if you want us, come and get us. Download This: "Burn Down This World" - click to listen For Fans of: Imminence, In Flames, Zonaria [8] RHYS STEVENSON  OHOL YEG 'Humanize' INDEPENDENT Emerging out of the deepest darkest depths of hell in Turkey is the one-man Black Metal project Ohol Yeg masterminded by Sazakan. 'Humanize' is a delightful listen with enough raw elements found across the entire release to ensure that it stands out as a kvlt release. By harmonizing together mid-paced drums with quick-fire riffs, spluttering vocals and audio clips taken from nature's own backyard, Ohol Yeg manages to create a truly authentic and inspiring sound. Given the project relies upon non-professional equipment and thus bolsters its obvious DIY production sound, homage must be paid to Ohol Yeg for developing a sound that is far from being artificial and rather closer to being completely pure. For the seasoned Black Metal fan, this ought to tickle your ears with delight, for the generic metalhead its a chance to experience something truly unique to the Turkish Black Metal movement. Download This: "Becoming The Reality" - Click to listen For Fans of: Carpathian Forest, Moribund Oblivion, Moonblood [8] RHYS STEVENSON  MOURNING SUN 'Último Exhalario' INDEPENDENT Chile's Mourning Sun might as well become the scene's most exciting export of 2016 because their debut album 'Último Exhalario' is so emotionally enriched that it really taps into the mind and soul, calming and soothing the listener at the same time. Constructing a delicate balance of Avant Garde and Doom Metal, this sextet (now trio) harmonise the traumatic and emotional side of life and the wilderness to develop a sound that either you could fall asleep to or ultimately classify as 'easy listening metal'. 'Último Exhalario' gleams with a vibrant array of atmospherics, elements and emotions that coalesce to leave the listener in a state of entrancement. It won't be long before Mourning Sun are snapped up by a record label, because that is exactly what this album deserves, it needs to be heard far and wide. There's a storm brewing across the Andes... Download This: "Hoowin (Mythic Ancestors)" - Click to listen For fans of: Paradise Lost, Mar De Grises, Doom Metal [8] RHYS STEVENSON  SOULBURNER
'The Throne of Armageddon' INDEPENDENT Fast paced Death Metal thundering out of the back streets of Bogota D.C., Colombia. That is the shortest way to explain Colombian Death Metal maniacs Soulburner and their long-awaited third album 'The Throne of Armageddon'. Released 10 years after their second album, 'The Throne of Armageddon' is a non-stop assault of guttural vocals of the most extreme kind, unrelenting and unforgiving blast-beats and some of the most grizzly riffs ever to be shat out of a guitarist. Designed to crush your cranium in such a way that it would make a simple punch to your skull seem an upgraded tickle. Consequently you need to be in the right mood to be blasted by this audio wave of mass constriction, fear it because you won't have heard anything like it (unless you're a metal elitist, in which case, you're not kvlt enough for this bruising music). Download This: "World To Ashes" - click to listen For Fans of: Crackdust, Abhorrent Decimation, Corpse Garden [8] RHYS STEVENSON  AGORAPHOBIC NOSEBLEED 'Arc' RELAPSE Starting a chain of four EP's linked together, Grindcore veterans Agoraphobic Nosebleed waste no time in setting the musical express in motion. 'Arc' emblazons the very sound that the American quartet set out to create, master and guide into leaving a lasting legacy. Featuring three tracks of extremely hard hitting vocals, thick bass elements and sensational drum programming, this is one EP that will tickle the sense of those who like their music tantalizingly brutal and uncompromising. With each EP in this four-piece series representing each member of the band, you would not want to guess who came up with this soul-destroying epic, place your bets at the door and prepare your brain for mass, imminent carnage. Agoraphobic Nosebleed once again deliver what they do best, decently engineered music. Download This: "Deathbed" For Fans of: Pig Destroyer, Anal Cunt, Jesus of Nazareth 'Arc' is out 22nd January via Relapse Records [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  WOLFHORDE 'Towards The Gate Of North' INVERSE Fifteen years it took for Finnish Pagan Metallers Wolfhorde to drop their debut album and despite all their best efforts it sounds as generic as they come, albeit it is rather decent. 'Towards The Gate Of North' delves into the over-explored Viking mythology and corresponding world and realistically speaking reconstitutes what has already been done. Sure it's bouncy and energetic elements colliding with much slower and deep sounds give the atmosphere electric dynamics, it just does not cast itself off as a groundbreaking or completely exciting release. Authentic to it's creators, this release features traditional instruments native to Finland that otherwise would seem unnatural when singing about Vikings (lets face it were Vikings in Finland?). Other than that the album is one for those fans of Pagan / Folk Metal, just raise those horns and drink from them simultaneously. Download This: "Death-Long Due" For Fans of: Eluveitie, Korpiklaani, Arkona 'Towards The Gate Of North' is out 22nd January via Inverse Records [7] RHYS STEVENSON  INFERNAL TENEBRA 'As Nations Fall' MASSACRE Infernal Tenebra are without a shadow of doubt the finest metal band to ever emerge out of the Croatian Metal scene. Unleashing their fourth masterpiece 'As Nations Fall', the quartet hold nothing back when it comes to creating music that not will only enthrall those who endeavor to listen to it, but ultimately crush their soul to minuscule pieces. Unrelenting Death / Thrash Metal roams throughout the album's veins and pumps it with endless energy, gritty vocals, thumping bass and emphatically ascending and descending atmospherics. Put it like this, Infernal Tenebra are going places and if you are not willing to follow them and or check out their beautiful masterpiece called 'As Nations Fall', then you might as well stop listening to metal music right now! Download This: "Legally Insane" For Fans of: Persefone, Opeth, Be'lakor 'As Nations Fall' is out 22nd January via Massacre Records [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON  LIKE ANIMALS 'Feral' INDEPENDENT Get your groove on and hit the dance floor, Like Animals' latest offering 'Feral' dishes out some rather tasty riffs, crunchy bass, thumping drums and harmonic vocals, coming together to deliver a sound that would quench anyone's thirst for something unique. Math Rock clashes with Melodic Metal on their EP which in turn sends out sounds so gracefully heavy that it would take you days to recover from this epic music onslaught. Whilst they might not be as mathematically creative as perhaps their Mathcore counterparts, their timed groovy riffs set par for the course and essentially could push the band into the uniquely created genre called 'Funked-up Math Rock. Seriously there is not one second where you will get bored as the band always seem to drag out the unexpected on each song, now that is really 'Feral' for you. Download This: "The Lion's Share" For Fans of: Psyopus, 'Math Rock' 'Feral' is out 22nd January via an Independent release [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  ONE MORNING LEFT 'Metalcore Superstars' IMMINENCE It is apparent that the 'electronicore' or Electronic Hardcore Music movement has gained momentum over the last decade or so and with One Morning Left delivering a thousand-voltage-loaded third album, this barrage will never end anytime soon. 'Metalcore Superstars' is the latest cyber-assault by Finnish Trojan armada One Morning Left and whilst some metal fans may turn their nose up at the suggestion of the band being 'scene' or 'emo' influenced, open-minded metalheads may well cum in their pants or shit on their thong. Metal needs to evolve and this latest development certainly will become a staple evolving sound as it drags in and rolls up the wide array of electronic music styles. Granted it's unlikely bands like One Morning Left would dabble in club music but it's certainly not out of anyone's reach. Focusing back on the album, 'Metalcore Superstars' has already nominated itself as an automatic contender for 'Finnish Metal release of the year'. Download This: "¡Derailed!" For Fans of: Eskimo Callboy, I See Stars, The Browning 'Metalcore Superstars' is out 22nd January via Imminence Records [9] RHYS STEVENSON  ECLIPSE 'Clandestine Resurrection' INDEPENDENT Eclipse are one of India's hidden metal gems having remained steadfast and head-strong for over a decade in the North-East, where metal music appears to be very few and far between. Dragging together the very essential elements of Heavy Metal and throwing in some Power Metal sounds, Eclipse deal justice to their elongated wait for a debut album to surface. 'Clandestine Resurrection' is a well-crafted release that will quench the thirst of those who revel in enjoying classic Heavy Metal; even with a twist. Granted it's nothing new but for the Indian Metal scene it is rather refreshing, with this effort you could imagine some record labels knocking at this band's door but sadly it might become a short-lived career, who knows? Majestic, elegant and unforgettably electric, 'Clandestine Resurrection' is a treasure to behold. Download This: "Rise Of The Dead" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Sonata Arctica, Iron Maiden, Freedom Call [8] RHYS STEVENSON  SOREM 'Legion Ov Tengger Land' WIZARD Black Metal has always enjoyed thriving success in the Far East, the latest addition to the underground cult movement is bestial trio Sorem hailing from Indonesia. 'Legion Ov Tengger Land' is their debut album and it comes laden with sickening, cursing and abrasive music that is designed to plague your soul with dark and disturbing thoughts. To think that Thrash Metal dominates the scene gives bands like Sorem the ultimate chance to make a name for themselves, maybe not so internationally nor nationally but certainly locally. Thick and raw Black Metal is the sermon-bearer on this one and for those brave enough to sell their soul to the horde known as Sorem, you will be richly rewarded as 'Legion Ov Tengger Land' is a true testament to the ever defiant Indonesian Metal scene. Download This: "Sorem" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Emperor, Impiety, Immortal [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  GIRLZEROTH 'Kingdom Warrior' PLATD The debut album by Death Metal horde Girlzeroth leaves sadly a lot to be desired, falling short of being dubbed 'uninspiring Grindcore with Death Metal influence', 'Kingdom Warrior' is an album that certainly is capable of creating a division among those who listen to it let alone their homogeneous Indonesian Metal scene. Despite its lack of ability to convince, the album does however deliver a decent smacking of tight riffs, unrecognizable vocals, brutal drumming and sensational speed, all in all coming together to create a sound that so many other bands in said style produce. For the seasoned underground Death Metal lover this might just be the cherry on the cake, but for the general metalhead it may well allow them to ask questions about the integrity of the album. Download This: "Samaruk Gantend" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Cannibal Corpse, Deathbound, 'Underground Death Metal' [7] RHYS STEVENSON  PADRA 'Hezartooye Tanafor' INDEPENDENT Hailing from Iran, Padra are not only unique in that they sing solely in the Farsi language, but also because they are sure to become another successful Iranian music export. Their debut album 'Hezartooye Tanafor' exhibits sections of both old-school and modern Thrash Metal, that when combined as a whole really make the album worth listening to. For those who want crunchy riffs tarnished with attitude, joined alongside by blistering drums and ballsy vocals, Padra may well just be that band who would fulfill that criteria. From the start to the very finish, 'Hezartooye Tanafor' is a truly remarkable album to behold and is sure to propel Padra out of the Iranian Metal scene and into the wider international scene if not the Middle East. Download This: "Shabe Mordegane Zende" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Gama Bomb, Evile, Acrassicauda [8] RHYS STEVENSON  GEIST OF TRINITY
'Chains' INDEPENDENT Wallowing in Japan's heavily burgeoning metal scene is Melodic Death / Metalcore outfit Geist Of Trinity, who have emerged out of the shadows to drop their debut album 'Chains' and boy does this album rock the socks off you. With as much versatility across the album as a ninja army high on meth, the bar is set for other bands in the said sub-genre to match this emphatic effort. Blasting drums provide the spine of this release for the crushing riffs and volatile vocals to rest upon and form the flesh and tendons, of which are pulled and tightened by this musical group. Sure it too nine years for this album to emerge out of this highly successful metal nation, but it is evident the wait was well and truly worth it. They might not explode massively on the international circuit, but with 'Chains' leading their path to success they will become a sharp sounding beacon from the far flung nation of Japan. Download This: "Violent Demise" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Scar Symmetry, Mnemic, The Dead Lay Waiting [8] RHYS STEVENSON  LYNCHPIN 'God Complex' INDEPENDENT It might well be presumptuous to call Lynchpin leaders of the Caribbean Metal scene, but they certainly are strong enough to carry the scene forward. Hailing from Trinidad & Tobago, this Progressive Death unit wager themselves against fate as their latest effort 'God Complex' catapults them into the limelight with their recent announcement of them competing for a slot at Wacken Open Air 2016. Far from your glitzy tech-laden European Progressive Metal style, Lynchpin opt for a more practical approach and instead join allegiance with the likes of Gojira, Opeth and Machine Head. 'God Complex' gives Lynchpin some hope at cementing their place at Wacken, but for now they stand tall as unarguably the finest Trinidadian music export the Caribbean island nation has ever seen. If you love your Gojira, you'll love Lynchpin hands down. Download This: "Softest Floor" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Gojira, Machine Head, Opeth [8] RHYS STEVENSON  PYRAWEED 'Inside Green Chaos (live @ Le Chateau)' INDEPENDENT What makes a live album decent depends on two things, how clear is the music and how organic the recording is. It needs to be clear but not too much in order to avoid being accused of being 'refined', on the other hand it needs clarity to avoid it becoming trashy and not organic. Pyraweed's debut live album certainly carries the hallmarks of a D.I.Y live album, you know it's as if you were in the crowded-out Le Chateau rock bar. Never letting a note go awry, Azerbaijan's Pyraweed deliver a delicious slab of live Sludge / Stoner Metal that would appeal to any fan of the said genres. With thick bass elements holding up the gritty riffs and angry vocals, this is a live album to savor. Given the relatively small but ever-strengthening Azerbaijani Metal scene, Pyraweed certainly know how to deliver a rather sensational live performance, even if it's recorded. Download This: "Green Bullet" - Click here to listen For Fans of: The Melvins, Baroness, Kylesa [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  MA'ANISH 'Under The Fig Tree' INDEPENDENT 'Under The Fig Tree', the band dub it Technical Progressive Death Metal, we call it 'Experimental Death Metal'. There are a ton of genres going on here and to think that you can headbang to the beat would be a generous overstatement. Despite the inability to keep to time, the album does however reward its listeners with over forty minutes of Tech / Progressive slapped Death Metal that would please anyone who dares listen to it. There's the slow and progressive "Let It Burn" and then there's the absolutely crazy and mindbogglingly fast "Revolution \ Evolution", both evidently offering a wider choice than at first conceived when going through the album. Whilst this is a solid and decent effort, it will require a tad more effort and greater accuracy when experimenting to establish a name well and truly outside of Israel, the Middle East and perhaps Eastern Europe. Download This: "Revolution \ Evolution" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Periphery, early-Sepultura, Testament [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  THE ORDER OF ELIJAH 'War At Heart' LUXOR When Metalcore reached it's peak it became harder for bands to evade the generic over-cliche sound of riffs and breakdowns romancing each other, then came Motionless In White with their Gothic-tinged outlook and now it's The Order Of Elijah's turn. Who'd have thought that mixing Technical Metal and elements of Melodic Metal would conjure up what you could theoretically call 'Experimenticore'? Because let's face it with the sudden shift in riff pace and sound, coupled with the brutality of the rampaging vocals, and the drums providing the final smacking, you would automatically admit that the latest effort by this Missouri machine has stapled itself to the very hear of 'Experimental Metal'. Make of it as you wish, 'War At Heart' is one album to be taken seriously as it demands utmost attention. Deathcore has Whitechapel, but Metalcore now has The Order Of Elijah. Download This: "God's Unwanted Children" For Fans of: Whitechapel, Born Of Osiris, The Browning 'War At Heart' is out now via Luxor Records [8] RHYS STEVENSON  DENIGRATE 'Hollowpoint' INDEPENDENT Possibly considered as a one-off release, 'Hollowpoint' certainly stirs up the emotions as the melancholic and emphatic sounds caress your soul and mind with every passing second. Making a comeback is never easy, but given the strength of the album Denigrate certainly seem to have a lot more to give to the Finnish Gothic Metal movement. Whilst perhaps not as dark or hallowing as fellow countrymen HIM, Poisonblack or the late Vanguard, Denigrate don't lay a finger wrong on this album and as a result unleash a record to be proud of. With harmonic vocals leading the charge and the musical elements providing a solidified atmosphere, this is an album that deserves a nod or two. Twelve years have passed since their debut, and yet they manage to whip out a delicious release, what more can you ask from the quartet? Download This: "My Corrupted Soul" For Fans of: Poisonblack, The 69 Eyes, Paradise Lost [8] RHYS STEVENSON  ELIZIUM 'Elysium' STF It's sad to see that sometimes, bands do not know when exactly it is their time to pack up their instruments and disband. Despite the effort demonstrated on 'Elysium', the album as a whole does not make the cut, it fails to ignite any interest and instead gives itself a bad name as a supposed 'Gothic / Doom Metal' release. For the Dutch band Elizium, this is quite detrimental to their lengthy career but it seems as if the curtains are ready to be drawn to a close. Quite frankly you could easily fall asleep to this release and not regret missing a bit, again the effort is there but without the rousing ability to make jaws drop, this album will just fall to the wayside as a pitiful waste. 'Elysium' may well appeal to the hardened Gothic Doom contingent, but for the average metalhead it's just another yawn away from boredom. Download This: "Elysium" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Draconian, Paradise Lost, My Dying Bride [5] RHYS STEVENSON  HORDAK 'Padre' CASUS BELLI MUSICA 'Celtiberian Pagan Metal' has officially become a new form of Folk Metal, well given it's pioneers appear to be one of few bands who actually could use the term, it seems apt then for Hordak to adopt it. The Spanish contingent return to deliver their next installment in their career with the raucous sounds of 'Padre' at the forefront. Album number four, 'Padre' stamps its authority with a convincing sound, it's raw infectious elements gnaw at your ears with the savage bite begging for your anticipation. With the vocals as gritty and grueling as they are, it only makes sense that the music be as bleak and hostile as the Celtiberian and Roman conflicts. 'Padre' is a well-made Pagan Metal and will certainly give Hordak a boost across the European landscape. Good job they made their own genre, because that is the best way to describe them. Download This: "Soaring" For Fans of: Arkona, Heidevolk, Celtiberian (of course) [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  ARCANE SYMPHONY 'A New Day Begins...' INDEPENDENT Symphonic Metal with female vocals is always a godsend and Arcane Symphony are no exception, the Russian quintet muster together a sound that is just as powerful as Anna Volodina's vocals are angelic. 'A New Day Begins...' is the band's debut album and it heralds praise from the moment you kick off the first song, brimming full of elegance, power and eroticism, Arcane Symphony have it all sussed out. With the atmospherics as cold as a Siberian winter, guitars as savage as aged vodka and vocals as majestic as the Moscow State Circus, it would be stupid to knock off this lot as just another Female-fronted Symphonic act. Open up the heavens, let the rain pour and enjoy what this quintet have conjured up. Arcane Symphony are a band to watch in 2016, they will be knocking at your door with their infectious sounds. Download This: "A New Day Begins" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Tarja-era Nightwish, Lanewin, Within Temptation [9] RHYS STEVENSON  SHOW ME WOLVES 'The World They Took Over' FALSE BEING PRODS. If you didn't feel dazed and confused before listening to this release, you probably will be once you're finished. Creating some rather freakishly eerie sounds and instating a spine-chilling atmosphere is what Show Me Wolves clearly intended to do on their second offering 'The World They Took Over'. Masterminded by Icelander Hörður Lúðvíksson, the evident wafting in and out of Progressive, Black and Avant-Garde Metal seems all too paramount when summing up the album, but it has been done in such a way that you cannot begin to comprehend how Hörður Lúðvíksson conjured up the music ideas in the first place. By drifting from slow atmospherics and gritty vocals to fast, sometimes Metalcore-like and progressive-laden sounds, 'The World They Took Over' is a treasure to behold, the magic is there all right, just let it in. Download This: "Mother" For Fans of: She Must Burn, Ne Obliviscaris, Ihsahn 'The World They Took Over' is out 16th January via False Being Productions. [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  MARIO TURIS
'Luminance' INDEPENDENT Space Metal is a relatively new conceptual genre, even though it can bounce off of the likes of Modern Metal and Cyber Metal it has a distinctive element to it. Take for example the premier EP by Slovakian instrumentalist Mario Turis, 'Luminance' lashes together elements of Progressive Metal and Symphonic Metal to develop a sound that demands its own unique recognition. It's all you could wish for from an agile release, it's fast, heavy and flashy, yet it lacks vocals with could hinder it somewhat. However Mario's tenacity towards creating a sound so technically simple has enabled the EP to escape any considerable comparison against other bands indeed releases, so if you're thinking of wanting a space-like feel to any game or film soundtrack, forget the Hollywood catalog and go for a musical-genius-in-development as Mario Turis will certainly make a name for himself given this effort. Download This: "Stardustborn" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Cypher16, Dol Ammad, The Kovenant [7] RHYS STEVENSON  THE ERKONAUTS 'I Did Something Bad' ERKONOS You would find more solace and entertainment in watching paint dry than subjecting yourself to this extremely dismal debut album by The Erkonauts. Despite all of the Swiss quartet's best efforts, 'I Did Something Bad' does not carve itself out as a decent release, it lacks atmosphere, dwells too much on trying to become the next Dream Theater and ultimately weeps at the seams. Let's hope this album is short-lived and that the band pick up the pieces and redesign their blueprint, whether the album producer thought to themselves 'I Did Something Bad' is one possibility, the other being the thought belongs with the individual musicians. Check out if you dare. Download This: "Nola" - Click here to listen. For Fans of: Dream Theater, Periphery, Prog Metal [5] RHYS STEVENSON  CENTRATE 'Tiger Force' INDEPENDENT Cometh the modern wave of Teutonic Thrash Metal, sure Centrate's 'Tiger Force' is nothing new in terms of bringing something fresh to the over-saturated Thrash Metal style, it does however accomplish what it was created to do, that is deliver insanely heavy Thrash Metal. 'Tiger Force' is a four-track EP that glimmers with seismic drumming, maniacal riffs, ferocious vocals and an attitude that combined together sticks a few fists up your anus, knuckleduster in-tow. For the seasoned Thrash addict, this EP will tickle your taste-buds without leaving any desire to turn it off, meaning it might not appeal for those who love a wide array of metal. It is however a decent effort. Download This: "Tiger Force (promo)" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Holy Moses, Slayer, Tankard [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  PROFUNDAE LIBIDINES 'El Viaje Definitivo' INDEPENDENT If you wish to be detrimental towards Profundae Libidines' second album 'El Viaje Definitivo', you can be. Because it strides the boundary of being insanely weird and insanely shit, point being it has too many influences fighting each other to gain supremacy over the entire release. The only decent aspect of this release besides it's creative artwork, is the intuitive-sounds developed on the release through the use of a violin and fret-less bass. France has a rich heritage in underground Black Metal, but unfortunately this album does not stand up to it's former pedigree and thus will be left to rot in the abyss of decaying metal releases. You could be slightly more detrimental by admitting it's stabbed the Avant-Garde / Black Metal partnership in the heart. Download This: "El Viaje Definitivo" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Avant-Garde / Black Metal, Andy Warhol, 'strange music' [4] RHYS STEVENSON  PRAVIA 'Pravia' INDEPENDENT Behold the purveyors of 'Pagancore', Pravia are Poland's latest export and they come in the form of a five-piece Pagan Melodic Death Metal / Deathcore outfit. By wielding together the grit and brutality of Deathcore, with the flashiness and eccentricity of Melodic Death Metal and lashing it together with the Slavonic perspective of Pagan Metal, Pravia are set to become hot property within the year ahead. For added flavor, if they added some folk instruments native to their Polish and / or Slavic heritage, then the added dimension will certainly hoist them up as a genre innovator. In fact due to the sheer excitement reverberated across this release, 'Pravia' might as well be 'Polish Metal release of the year' for this in all sincerity carries all of the hallmarks of a band destined to achieve great things. Download This: "Forest Brethren" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Eluveitie, Arkona, Heaven Shall Burn [8] RHYS STEVENSON  LAPPALAÏNEN 'Kraken's Awakening' INDEPENDENT Once again the whole 'we are not Nordic but let's do Viking Metal anyway' attitude comes to the fore with France's latest export Lappalaïnen. The difference being, it seems this bard sextet want to merge both Celtic Metal and Viking Metal together, so far it seems to be paying off but for how long? 'Kraken's Awakening' brings to the table a bouncy, LOTR anthem-like sound to the forefront and will surely appeal to the Folkloric Metalheads worldwide. Whilst perhaps not as majestic as their opposite numbers like Eluveitie and Tyr, they however are much akin to the likes of Nightcreepers. Fast, bouncy and highly energetic is what 'Kraken's Awakening' can be summarized as, just wait for the second coming as it will need to be something special to beat this effort. Download This: "Riding On The Load Of Hay" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Eluveitie, Nightcreepers, Tyr [8] RHYS STEVENSON  BUKO 'Elefantes' INDEPENDENT Madrid shook heavily on the grounds as the Spanish quintet Buko emerge out of the pits with their highly anticipated debut album 'Elefantes'. Smothered by the Spanish language, this Heavy / Groove Metal release comes laden with Death Metal influences from the American kind. Despite it's lack in breaking the ice, that is making it an instant it, Buko's 'Elefantes' will certainly delight anyone who listens to it. There's a lot of influences roaming around this album and to pigeonhole it into one genre is practically asking for suicide, but with the evident 5FDP groove, DevilDriver Death Metal pinching and Avenged Sevenfold Heavy Metal riffs, Buko's 'Elefantes' is a truly unique release, rest assured. Download This: "Huérfanos" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Five Finger Death Punch, DevilDriver, Avenged Sevenfold [7] RHYS STEVENSON  DEPRESSED 'Afterlife In Darkness' INDEPENDENT If you asked for raw Death Metal put your hands up, otherwise sit down, shut up and listen to perhaps the most rawest Death Metal emerging out of Brazil over the last decade. 'Afterlife In Darkness' serves as Depressed's long-overdue debut album, which comes a whopping sixteen years after their first demo back in 1999, and boy was the wait worth it. Vocals so guttural that they will bleed your brain dry, whilst the riffs rip into you like barbed wire caressing your skin and the drums just simply, finish you off. Granted this band might be short-lived, but for the underground fetishist and the metalheads who dig exotic metal, then 'Afterlife In Darkness' is for you. Brutal, snazzy, erotic and completely 100% Brazilian. Download This: "Reborn In Hellfire (Live)" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Cannibal Corpse, Suffocation, Krisiun [7] RHYS STEVENSON  IRONRAT 'Monument' VOLTAGE If they had better studio quality then the album would be pretty decent, but ignoring the said flaw the album still is a delightful listen. Of course taking seven years to drop a debut album you'd think that Yorkshire's Ironrat would want to make it as gorgeous as possible, sure it might not be smelling of sweet roses but it certainly doesn't stink of sweat either. Whether the passion boiled down prior to the recording or the band were high off their tits, 'Monument' is still a rampant Stoner / Groove Metal album that carries all the hallmarks you would expect from a said-genre album. Funky, heavy and gritty, now the question is where's the sex? Unless you can give CD's oral, you can give CD's oral, right? Download This: "Feed The Pigs" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Machine Head, Monster Magnet, Electric Wizard [7] RHYS STEVENSON  MINDPATROL 'The Marble Fall' INDEPENDENT Mindpatrol is the Derren Brown of the metal world, full of magical trickery, progressive illusions and a shadowy atmosphere, after all their second album 'The Marble Fall' plays into the minds of the listener, developing a world beyond mere imagination. With at least an hour's worth of listening to cascade through, at every turn there is a musical element you was not expecting and it is this that places Mindpatrol's 'The Marble Fall' as a huge contender for not only 'Luxembourger Metal release of the year' but also 'European Metal album of the year'. There is no doubt that the Luxembourg Metal scene is shaking at it's very foundations, with Mindpatrol being the latest band to emerge from this tiny nation. Mindpatrol are a band to watch out for in 2016. Download This: "Tabula Rasa" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Born Of Osiris, Cypher 16, Periphery [9] RHYS STEVENSON  DEEP RIVER ACOLYTES
'From The Voids Of Chaos' INDEPENDENT Wave your head from left to right and back again to the tune of Deep River Acolytes' premier EP 'From The Voids Of Chaos' because this Heavy / Doom Metal monster demands you to do so. Hailing from the cold north of Finland, this quintet do not fail to impress nor serve up a delightful release. Well stretching out at nineteen minutes across three tracks, your attention won't drift away too soon and in fact this EP sort-of pays homage to the founders of Heavy / Doom Metal, Black Sabbath. Whilst they may not be as illustrious as the sadly-splitting band, nor as inventive, Deep River Acolytes certainly know how to start off on the right foot. They may just yet become your new favorite Finnish Metal export, if not one to watch out for in 2016. Download This: "Dwellers In The Mist" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Black Sabbath, Candlemass, St. Vitus [8] RHYS STEVENSON  MORNIR 'Entfesselt' INDEPENDENT Germanic Paganism is certainly nothing new, but when it comes to mixing it with metal, it's more recent than you think. Carrying on this noble style is German Pagan Metallers Mornir with their premier EP 'Entfesselt' ('Unleashed'), through the maze of adventurous riffs that ride this EP with such fluidity to the gruffness of the vocals that embody the typical German Pagan Metal sound as a whole. Singing exclusively in their native German language, this quintet have got a promising future ahead as long as they keep the oomph in their music up and on top of what they aim to achieve. Mixing the classic Pagan Metal sound with a violin is not easy, yet as you let the EP play through it's entirety, the magic behind such a crossover becomes more and more crystal clear, simply spellbinding. Download This: "Erdenblut" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Arkona, Helrunar, Wolfchant [7] RHYS STEVENSON  SIRION '2014 EP' INDEPENDENT This American lot are tipped for big things, well when you take the time to indulge in their 2014 EP you cannot escape the urge to place it on repeat for infinity, pun-intended. When you consider their concoction of Swedish Melodic Death Metal heaviness, Power Metal melodies, Modern Metal atmospherics and vision to create a unique sound, you wouldn't be wrong for calling Sirion the offspring of Scar Symmetry and Children Of Bodom. On the strength of this EP, we tip this exciting quintet for a record label deal within a year's-time. Lyrically adopting the Modern Futuristic Metal approach of singing about space, the apocalypse and artificial intelligence through some hefty cybernetic verbiage, Sirion have certainly got their act together and with their impending debut album on the cards, their next release will be closely monitored with interest. Download This: "Interstellar" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Scar Symmetry, Children Of Bodom, Wintersun [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON  IN VACUO 'In Vacuo' INDEPENDENT If you ever felt insanely depressed or down, trodden and saddened, then go ahead indulge in In Vacuo's self-titled album, because this would only make you feel that much worse. 'In Vacuo' is the self-harming equivalent in the music world, it seriously lacks any kind of feeling and thus loses the intended ability to wow listeners. Despite this, the riffs are very bland, so bland you feel like stabbing your ears vigorously to save your hearing from the dreadful monstrosity herewith presented. For all the intended might, the album simply does nothing to excite or captivate and should be avoided with ease, that is, go ahead listen to it, but you will regret it. Forget going back to the basics of Black / Doom Metal, this is too bad for the basics. Download This (if you dare to): "Urpower" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Black / Doom Metal [4] RHYS STEVENSON  POWER OF GROUND 'The Butcher' SALUTE Slamming and slaughtering are just two adjectives that can be used to describe the Premier EP by Bangladesh's latest metal export Power Of Ground. 'The Butcher' EP employs a corpse-spread of Brutal Death Metal marred with some rather eccentric Technical Metal influences weaving in and out of the gory onslaught. Pig squeals and guttural vocals front this maddened release and are joined by said riffs and thumping drums. This EP is not only perfect for those who get boners over Extreme Metal, but also for those who love exotic metal, aside from this 'The Butcher' is a really good starter by this Chittagong horde, bestial at it's most extreme as well as brutally menacing. Fury, grit, gore, whoring-riffs and mathematics at their most extreme make this EP what it is, and so be prepared to face the abattoir of 'The Butcher'. Download This: "Murder Is An Art" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Psyopus, Suffocation, Severe Dementia [8] RHYS STEVENSON  DILIGENCE 'Amendment' INDEPENDENT 'Amendment' summarizes what you would expect from a Deathcore / Death Metal band, unrelenting drums, crunching riffs, bellowing vocals and an atmosphere designed to crush your senses. Enter Czech metallers Diligence with their premier EP released last year. Fronted by the sensationally talented Daniela Neumanová, this quartet emblazon their image with the perceptions of Modern Death Metal and in doing so prep themselves to become the next successful Czech Metal export. 20 minutes of unruly brutality may not seem enough, but by the time the last song closes you begin to realize it sounded longer than it actually did. It would be surprising if labels like MetalGate don't snap up this hot property, because damn this Death Metal / Deathcore combination certainly demands immediate attention. 'Amendment' is one EP any adventurous metal fan should own, forget what you love, Diligence's 'Amendment' is the real shit. Download This: "Ways Grown Obsolete" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Cerebral Bore, Arch Enemy, Whitechapel [9] RHYS STEVENSON  KILL ROBOT KILL 'Aeon Of Damnation' INDEPENDENT Deathcore is like a plague, it contaminated the world and every once in a while it needed to mutate in order to survive, sadly such mutations end up with the output more shit than your average fecal matter. Thankfully Austrian horde Kill Robot Kill avoid that pitfall and unleash a menacing onslaught of Death Metal-infused Deathcore. Whilst their debut EP 'Aeon Of Damnation' might not be the best this outfit can produce, it certainly has the force of a thousand atomic bombs and as such will pummel your face into wasted skin. Crunchy riffs lead the attack, whilst the drums send seismic shocks through the infrastructure of this formidable effort and the vocals lead the final blow to what can be perceived as the dawn of the new wave of Austrian Deathcore. Watch this band with interest at all costs. Download This: "Still The Ashes Reveal" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Whitechapel, Betraying The Martyrs, Kin Beneath Chorus [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  OVERDOZES 'E.P.' INDEPENDENT Hailing from one of the least explored metal scenes on the international stage (in terms of press coverage), Thrash Metal unit Overdozes aim to please with their premier 2015 EP. Despite it's epic pace-shifting Thrash Metal sound, the Thai quartet immerse their sound in raw, DIY atmospherics and end up giving possibly a nostalgic feeling to veteran metalheads, reminiscing of the 80's Thrash Metal fury. Whilst this is nothing new, the raw sound and almost-apparent lack of respect for the guidelines to making a groundbreaking release, make this EP a release anyone should own, because it simply has enough oomph to make anyone headbang incessantly. Their EP might well just become Thai Metal release of the year; watch this band with interest. Download This: "Goat Divinity" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Nuclear Assault, Sodom, Slayer [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  INSURRECTION 'Catatonic' BIG BAD WOLF Insurrection's debut EP 'Catatonic' takes its time to kick into full swing, and yet when it does it becomes clear that some elements are missing. It lacks that convincing punch to make it a stellar release, but that's what EP's are for right? Granted the unrelenting pace the drummer sets is matched by the guttural velocity of the vocals and the uncompromising riffs, but the atmosphere is as boring as watching paint dry. Hence the atmosphere is one of the major substances this EP lacks in, the other pitfall is when you take on too many sub-genres and fluff it, which in Insurrection's case is Melodic Death / Thrash; there is too much going on for the band to formulate a sound that will define this band, but despite this the effort is there and if the Dutch quartet play their cards right, they could make a buzz on the continent if not the Benelux. It's not the best of starts for the band, but they have potential. Download This: "Apotheosis" - Click here to listen For fans of: The Arcane Order, The Haunted, Malefice [6.5] RHYS STEVENSON  THUNDERSTEEL 'The Exorcism' TMINA If not the most exciting metal act of 2015 to emerge from the Serbian Metal scene. That is what comes to mind when listening to Thundersteel's debut album 'The Exorcism'. By mixing together the hallowing sounds of Speed Metal in the style of Sabaton and Judas Priest, with the emphatic slow melodies and majestic sounds of Iron Maiden, this quartet set the bar higher in the Heavy / Speed Metal arena. 'The Exorcism' has given Thundersteel a solid platform to walk upon, not only because of their imminent label deal, but because this effort will perk the ears of Europe up, it has the potential to push Thundersteel onto the conveyor belt for the likes of Bloodstock and beyond. In addition we could be looking at a sharp contender for Serbian Metal release of the year as well, keep an eye on this lot. Download This: "Past Time Lords" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Sabaton, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest [8] RHYS STEVENSON  ELVELLON
'Spellbound' INDEPENDENT With the Symphonic Metal movement having gained rapid momentum over the last two decades and since it's first emergence in 1990, the need for bands to distance themselves from the established-household names has become paramount. Elvellon manage to escape this entrapment, just. Granted they have not included any Power Metal, nor any cliche elements that seem to have been exhausted these days, but the similarity between them and the likes of Turunen-era Nightwish cannot be mistaken, not that is a bad thing, it just means that 'Spellbound' has given the band a decent platform to stand on. With 'Spellbound' being the band's debut EP, we can expect a lot more from this German quintet and here's hoping they become a successful metal export, because they certainly have the vision and musicianship to do so without anything holding them back. Swishing symphonies and angelic vocals combined with thunderous drumming and savage riffs, if you're ravenous for some 'Dramatic Symphonic Metal' then 'Spellbound' is for you. Download This: "Born From Hope" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Turunen-Era Nightwish, Delia, Within Temptation [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON  ACROSS THE ABYSS 'Silhouettes Of A Perfect World' EQUATORIAL STORM Whilst Oriental Metal may not exactly be new, with the likes of ChthoniC, Melechesh and Orphaned Land leading it, searching further down the line you will find a new cluster of bands to step into the breach. One such band is Across The Abyss, of whose debut album 'Silhouettes Of A Perfect World' ticks all of the boxes that guarantees itself as a successful release, one that metalheads worldwide ought to tune into. Hailing from Singapore, this Polish-Singaporean contingent certainly have got a vision to make 'Far Eastern Oriental Metal' as distinguishable as possible through the eccentricity of the riffs used, the atmospherics developed and of course by mashing it with Symphonic Metal elements, keeping the traditional music sounds in-mind. Across The Abyss are flying the flag for the Singaporean Metal scene and are set to become the natural successors to fellow countrymen Impiety on the international circuit. Download This: "Lost Moon" - Click here to listen For Fans of: ChthoniC, Crescent Lament, Shangren [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON  DIVINE DISORDER 'Garden Of Dystopia' INAZUMA PRODS. The debut album by Divine Disorder cannot remain unnoticed by the masses, simply because their ferocious combination of Progressive Metal and Symphonic Death Metal delivers a tantalizingly brutal onslaught that epitomizes the Middle Eastern Metal scene and gives hope for the smaller nations in said region. 'Garden Of Dystopia' is a juicy 60-odd minute adventure that takes listeners on a journey through cascading riff velocities, Arabic-like atmospherics and dynamics so fluid, the River Jordan would develop jealously traits at the mere sound of it. Fluctuating through various speeds across eleven tracks, Divine Disorder have positioned themselves perfectly to become the finest metal band Kuwait has ever seen, and in doing so gives them automatic right to fly the flag for the Kuwaiti Metal scene. They are destined to achieve big things, watch this band very closely. Download This: "The Puppeteer" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Fleshgod Apocalypse, Gojira, Septicflesh [8.5] RHYS STEVENSON  MIDVEST 'Reinkarnation' INDEPENDENT Two worlds collide when the majestic darkness of Symphonic Black Metal comes crashing into the visual representation of Steampunk. This pretty much sums up Midvest, the German five-piece who released their premier EP this year. Singing exclusively in their native German language, this gloomy industrial-like production really crafts a well-constructed atmosphere that absorbs your soul into a deep and darkened paralysis. Whilst there is considerable comparisons evidently present on the EP, meaning the sound is nothing new, does not disregard the EP as a decent release. Sure the vocals need a bit of work in terms of clarity, but the dramatic characteristics exhibited give the release that welcomed feeling of potential success on the European Black Metal circuit. Midvest in fact have brought a new metal sub-genre to the table, welcome to the dawn of 'Steampunk Black Metal' Download This: "Reinkarnation" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Dimmu Borgir, The Men That Will Not Be Blamed for Nothing, Carach Angren [8] RHYS STEVENSON  MOSHNIX 'Black Monk' INDEPENDENT Sad to say it seems that Moshnix have fallen into the trap of delivering a generic Thrash Metal release, sure it holds promise for the Swedish newbies, but it lacks that killer edge that otherwise would give them the edge to reclaim the Thrash Metal crown for Sweden. 'Black Monk' is the band's premier EP and for those brave enough to check it out, some will turn it off quicker than the first riff played on the release. That said, by bringing in Heavy Metal influences on 'Kill Her Quick', the band may have just saved themselves the embarrassment of going through a whole EP of delivering the same old same old Thrash most bands seem to be pummeling out these days. Despite all their last-shot might, 'Black Monk' is a flash in the pan and is a disappointing release. Time to put the kettle on and take a break. Download This: "Black Monk" - Click here to listen For Fans of: 'Thrash Metal' [6] RHYS STEVENSON  WINTERHEART 'Facing What I'm Becoming' INDEPENDENT Black Metal in Hungary has a rather rich heritage and so when new bands emerge on the scene, there is a certain amount of expectation riding on them. One band who knows about this is Winterheart, as their second album 'Facing What I'm Becoming' delivers a raw and depressive slice of Black Metal that would dampen anyone's mood. Whilst the bass drum has too much presence, the fuzziness of the riffs fill in the void and couple with the raspy vocals, give the release a good platform to stand on. Granted its not the best release, but what more can you expect from an underground band? Despite the said negativity, 'Facing What I'm Becoming' features 8 tracks which equate to 49 minutes-worth of listening. Certainly its an album for the die-hard Black Metal collectors, but for the average metalhead who peers over various sub-genres, it would be seen as a disappointment. Download This: "And Finally... I Just Hate Myself" - Click here to listen For fans of: Underground Black Metal, Raw Black Metal [6.5] RHYS STEVENSON  LEATHER PHANTOM 'Electric Leather Land' INDEPENDENT Bringing a brighter side to Thrash Metal, is Germany's Leather Phantom with their premier EP 'Electric Leather Land' released last year. Whilst not as conventionally fast as most Thrash Metal releases, the band instead adds funk and Heavy Metal elements to it, giving the EP a rather unique sound. Not partially because of the sonic keyboard sounds included, but also because they've clearly taken the time to endow in creating their own signature sound, which is what some bands tend to fall short at these days. 'Electric Leather Land' may only be a shot in the dark for this German quartet, but for the underground it is pretty damn good. If you're seeking new music to check out that defies the rules and challenges taboo when it comes to Thrash Metal, then you've found your band. Bring on their debut album. Download This: "Urgent Needs" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Evile, Guns 'N' Roses, Machine Head [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  ARKHAM 'Weapons Of Mass Destruction' INDEPENDENT Over a decade has passed since the inception of Arkham to when their premier release dropped, which seems too long to wait, but boy was it worth it. Despite the immensely long wait, their debut EP 'Weapons Of Mass Destruction' is a good solid example of Heavy Thrash Metal at it's finest. The Spanish quintet have made a good job of making their first release one to capture a lot of attention, whilst also giving themselves and immediate platform to perhaps launch their one and possibly only album (referring to the years lost - 13). None the less the EP does offer listeners a good experience through some rather heavy yet monstrous riffs, coalescing with sharp vocals and thick bass playing alongside solid drumming. They may be a flash in the pan, but they are certainly a good one. Download This: "Full EP" - Click here to listen to the full EP For Fans of: Slayer, Municipal Waste, 'Heavy Thrash Metal' [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  CYBERNETIC WITCH CULT 'Morlock Rock' INDEPENDENT Despite the band name sounding like another way of describing a robotic army of wicked witches, the Cybernetic Witch Cult is a Stoner Metal trio with enough oomph in their bones to raise the dead nationwide. Psychedelic with every second passing by, this trio's debut album 'Morlock Rock' comes loaded with funky, bluesy riffs and happiness as you light a spliff to 'chillax' to this epic record. In fact it would be so apt if the Cybernetic Witch Cult did the score for a ghost-horror film along the likes of The Sixth Sense or Paranormal Activity, because the music exhibited on their debut album is of that guild, that is, it sends chills down your spine whilst enthralling your senses with a musical concoction that makes Stoner Metal what it is. 'Morlock Rock' should be in anyone's collection because of its sheer beauty, as for the English trio, they have a bright future ahead and so keep an eye on them. Download This: "Tyrannosaurus Hex" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Electric Wizard, Orange Goblin, Ghost [7.5] RHYS STEVENSON  PHEAR 'Insanitarium' INDEPENDENT Could this be the most exciting Heavy Metal band to emerge out of Canada since Kobra & The Lotus stormed the globe? Phear's debut album 'Insanitarium' not only boasts a plethora of sensational guest musicians, but also the music to give them international attention on an unprecedented level. With the likes of Glen Drover (Megadeth, Testament) and Bjorn 'Speed' Strid (Soilwork) offering their services alongside fellow Canadians Jon Howard, Travis Montgomery (both Threat Signal) and Rick its ferocious power. 'Insanitarium' is without a doubt the Ontario-based band's finest hour, knowing that they will capitalize on this moment and with their infectious vocals, gnarly riffs and all-round sexy musical persona present, will bode them well in times ahead upon new releases and sequential ventures. Download This: "Don't Scream" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Iron Maiden, Testament, Megadeth [8] RHYS STEVENSON  THARAPHITA
'Ülestõus' VAARANG With their name deriving from the god of thunder 'Taarapita' in Estonian mythology, Tharaphita are a Pagan Black Metal band from the Rakvere / Tallinn area. Celebrating 20 years activity this year, their fifth full-length album pays homage to the bands successful and lengthy career in the underground metal world. 'Ülestõus' sees the quintet stick to singing in their native Estonian and by doing so, continues to drag in traditional values as well as the fabled Baltic Paganism. But the language barrier has never been an issue for most Estonian bands, sure some sing in English, but fellow countrymen Metsatöll sing in Estonian and so it just goes to show singing in your own language can have its positives. As for 'Ülestõus', the album itself is sheer beauty in terms of its level of creativity and diversity, what Tharaphita have done here is created a work of art that in no doubt will stand the test of time and enthrall future Pagan and Black metal newbies. Download This: "Viimsepäeva Koidik" - Click here to listen For Fans of: Tarm, Sõjaruun, Skyforger [8] RHYS STEVENSON |
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