In 2023, Citizen released their fifth album, Calling The Dogs. Mat Kerekes shared his fourth solo LP, To Dream Of Something Wicked, the following year. Now the Toledo emo band is back with the announcement of Halcyon Blues, arriving in August. “It’s about unexpected change,” Kerekes says of the record. “You think you know everything,…
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Reviewed by Eric Clifford
It’s always worth remembering where you came from. Apparently, Devenial Verdict too found themselves in a nostalgic mood because they’ve gone and excised a few of the older tracks in their back catalogue, blown the dust off, and polished them ‘til they gleam. It’s a celebratory gesture – 2026 marking twenty years of Devenial Verdict, and following the very strong critical reception to their debut and sophomore releases (which you should absolutely go and listen to now if you haven’t already) they’re entitled to don the rose tinted glasses, gaze wistfully into the past, and drag it’s screeching revenant into the present. So then; how does the old stuff hold up?
This is an inchoate version of the sound, but the elements that their current work coalesces around were there early. To my ear it feels like these older songs had more of a slam or hardcore influence than their more recent work makes obvious – especially on the first few tracks, Devenial Verdict come out swinging with giant palm-muted grooves not unlike something Dying Fetus might loosen teeth with. As the album goes on though, the elements that the band would focus on by the time they were writing “Ash Blind” become apparent – and the moment that evolution solidified for me was “Elysium”. A refurbished cut originally from the “Corpus” Ep in 2014, it’s the point when a sense of unwelcoming melody really sinks it’s fangs in with these hovering sustained notes that circle overheard like carrion feeders, the point when they step the technicality up with some sublime, flowing riffwork at 1.22 and 3.01 – to say nothing of the deeply tuneful solo the song contains (which wasn’t on the original recording). You can hear flirtations with melody and atmosphere on “The Unborn God” (an even earlier song), but even so – “Elysium” seems to be where the band has something of a lightbulb moment regarding what sort of band they want to be.
It makes sense that “Elysium” is the only selection from “Corpus” that they’ve gone with as it is probably the best of the bunch on that one, even if you can definitely hear the roots of the band they would become stirring awake throughout the EP as a whole. The subtle accretion of those same elements that seem to get the band lumped into the “Disso-death” category a fair bit, which I’ve never thought quite described them especially well – not least because the band don’t rely on dissonance quite so often as you might think. This is frequently very consonant music, often beautiful in a distraught sort of way – “Fall of Faith” folds sparkling darts of lightning harmonies through dour cloudbeds of furious riffs and blasts, while “Thrones” hauls this grieved sense of bitter rumination along with it like a cross, webs of tremolo lines and minor arpeggios draped over it, simultaneously stirring, introspective and deeply, deeply angry.
Much of this material comes from the “Soulthirst” EP released in 2016. The band formed in 2006, so while there had been a decade for the band to hone their songwriting acumen, it’s still impressive to hear the band grow into an outfit capable of releasing (the very good) “Ash Blind” and (outstanding) “Blessing of Despair” albums a few more years later. On the promo sheet the band reflect on how “It was really eye opening to realise that all the influences were there all along”, and by the time the Immolation-esque apocalypse heraldry of “Despoiler” slithers to a closure it’s hard to argue that they aren’t vindicated. Those same influences would be honed over time, textures added and song structures expanded. There’s ambition to the work on this release that the band would go on actualise, and maybe because of that an additional layer of interest applies, sort of in the same way that it might if you were digging into the history behind an heirloom or something else that’s meaningful for you. This will probably be a horrendously pretentious way to put it, but “Old Blood – Fresh Wounds” is something of an autobiography in a way, a literal recording of where the band has been and what brings them to the point they’re at now. Sort of. These are re-recordings after all, and some tweaks have been made – the solo on “Elysium” for one, and obviously the production differs. That means that mileage might vary when it comes to which version of a given song you prefer – personally, I rather like the rougher vibe on the original “Corpus” EP, but the current interpretation they’ve gone for still gets the job done either way.
I like everything else on this album more than the first two songs – which isn’t to say that those initial songs are bad, but nonetheless every other track here retains the features that this opening duo does well but crams in additional melody, technicality and atmosphere. With that said, saying that the relatively straightforward “Rituals of Ignorance” and “Swarms of the Mindless” hold the release back wouldn’t be fair, because this isn’t being presented as a single cohered unit of itself – it’s a celebration of sorts, a band turning 20 looking back at where it’s been and how it grew over the years. I think of it more along the lines of the demo compilation Abigor released last year, as an illustration of a group developing their identity. So while this isn’t totally smooth sailing, it wasn’t meant to be – and it’s still more than good enough to be worth picking up on it’s own merits. I would recommend either of Devenial Verdict’s full lengths as a better starting place, but you can’t really go wrong with this band. Pick anything you like. Just…make sure you pick something, because these guys deserve your time.
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In 1991, three kids from Aberdeen, Washington, didn’t just release an album; they reset the clock on rock history. The grunge era officially killed the hair metal dragon and replaced it with raw, feedback-drenched introspection.
From the basement-born grit of Sub Pop to the massive arena-filling choruses that defined a generation, we have ranked the 13 albums that are the absolute lifeblood of the genre. Whether it’s the atmospheric, metal-fused sludge of Alice in Chains or the technical, arthouse heaviness of Soundgarden, these are the records that built the foundation of modern alternative rock.
To truly grasp the grunge era, one must look beyond the media-driven “anti-style” narrative. The grunge music style was a volatile chemical reaction between the unpolished aggression of punk rock and the down-tuned, “Sabbathian” sludge of 70s metal.
In 2026, this raw expression has seen a massive resurgence. A new generation is seeking the “unfiltered” feel of the grunge rock bands listed below—ditching synthetic pop for the high-gain energy and emotional honesty that defined the Pacific Northwest.
Before the genre was a commercial juggernaut, it was defined by “gritty vocals and roaring Marshall amps.” Mudhoney were the purists who kept the sound intentionally dirty and unrefined. Named after two of the most popular distortion pedals of the era, this release acts as the definitive bridge between 70s garage punk and the emerging Seattle Sound.
Mark Arm’s slurred, growling delivery helped establish the grunge music style before it was ever polished for MTV rotation. If you want to hear the raw, feedback-laden energy that first defined grunge rock bands—before the major labels got their hands on it—this is your essential starting point.
Grunge was never just a “boys’ club,” and L7 proved they could out-riff anyone in the Northwest flannel pack. Produced by Butch Vig (the same architect behind Nirvana’s Nevermind), this album is a masterclass in heavy, distorted jangle-pop infused with a fierce punk edge.
It represents the grunge era at its most confrontational and unapologetic, blending catchy hooks with a “venomous bite” that resonated with a generation tired of synthetic 80s pop. Tracks like “Pretend We’re Dead” showcased that the band could balance radio-ready melodies with a low-slung, dirty guitar tone that remains a benchmark for the genre.
Often called the “Testament of Grunge,” Screaming Trees featured the legendary baritone of Mark Lanegan, adding a psychedelic and bluesy depth that many of their peers lacked. Sweet Oblivion stands as their most polished work, featuring the massive anthem “Nearly Lost You” and proving that the genre could be soulful and melodic without losing its distorted, heavy teeth.
Lanegan’s hauntingly weathered voice gave the band a unique gravitas, positioning them as the sophisticated, darker poets of the Seattle scene. While they never reached the skyscraper heights of the “Big Four,” this record is a mandatory pillar for any serious collector.
Released just four days after the death of Kurt Cobain, this album is a raw, jagged masterpiece of survival. Moving away from the gnarled, noisy ruckus of their debut, Live Through This combined fierce distortion with sharp, undeniable melodies.
Courtney Love’s performance is a masterclass in “beauty-meets-beast” dynamics, oscillating between vulnerable whispers and skin-stripping screams. It stands as one of the most essential documents of the era’s visceral female perspective, proving that the anger and disillusionment of the 90s weren’t limited to the men in the scene.
This was the ultimate grunge “supergroup” experiment, featuring members of Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, and Screaming Trees. This spontaneous explosion of creativity yielded the hauntingly beautiful “River of Deceit,” showcasing Layne Staley’s most vulnerable and spiritual vocal performance.
It is a somber, atmospheric record that captured the genre’s penchant for tragic introspection, using hypnotic keys and grounding rhythms to create a sense of stark emotional realism. For many, Above serves as the final, weary breath of the original Seattle movement before tragedy began to dismantle the scene.
This is the “lost” masterpiece that bridged the gap between 80s glam excess and 90s Northwest grit. Fronted by the magnetic and flamboyant Andrew Wood, Apple mixed “runny-mascara glam” theatricality with a heavy, sludgy foundation.
Wood’s tragic death just months before its release fundamentally changed the course of music history—leading his bandmates Stone Gossard and Jeff Ament to eventually form Pearl Jam. This record is mandatory listening for anyone researching the origins of the Seattle sound; it contains the DNA of stadium rock hidden inside the heart of a club band.
Born from the collective grief surrounding Andrew Wood’s passing, this one-off collaboration between members of Soundgarden and the future members of Pearl Jam is a sacred text for the genre. It features the legendary, earth-shaking duet between Chris Cornell and a then-unknown Eddie Vedder on “Hunger Strike.”
The album successfully moved the Northwest sound into the Billboard Top 10, proving that the scene was a tight-knit community built on genuine mutual respect and shared artistic tragedy. It remains one of the most poignant “tribute” records ever recorded.
If you want to understand exactly where the “heavy” in grunge originated, you must listen to Melvins. Houdini is their most representative work, vividly capturing their unreconstructed power, bizarre time signatures, and massive, sludgy guitar textures.
As the band that famously served as the primary inspiration for Kurt Cobain, their influence on the darker, slower, and more rhythmic side of the grunge era is immeasurable. They are the reason grunge bands tuned their guitars down and slowed their riffs to a crawl. They remain the undisputed kings of the sludgy Northwest underworld.
For the metalheads who felt alienated by the rise of “alternative rock,” Soundgarden offered a heavy, technical sanctuary. Badmotorfinger is cerebral, arty, and devastatingly heavy, attacking the listener with the precision of a wrecking ball.
Between Chris Cornell’s legendary four-octave wail and Kim Thayil’s “chainsaw” guitar riffs (often played in avant-garde tunings), this breakthrough third album proved the band didn’t have to compromise their “Sabbathian heaviness” to achieve multi-platinum success. It remains one of the most musically sophisticated records of the entire era, standing as a bridge between classic heavy metal and the new Seattle frontier.
Released just as the scene was reaching its boiling point, Ten brought an expansive, arena-rock scope to the genre’s inherent angst. Driven by Eddie Vedder’s soulful, booming baritone and the band’s penchant for classic hard rock riffs, it transformed personal trauma into massive, anthemic communal experiences.
Songs like “Even Flow,” “Alive,” and “Jeremy” used raw, live-focused imagery to emphasize a major shift from synthetic 80s pop toward emotional honesty. It remains one of the best-selling and most celebrated rock debuts in history, proving that grunge could be both intimate and massive.
This represents the absolute peak of Soundgarden’s creative and commercial powers, expanding their global reach with Grammy-winning singles like “Black Hole Sun.” Superunknown debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 and is lauded for its haunting, heavy, and psychedelic atmosphere.
It represents the genre at its most experimental, featuring virtuoso musicianship and “GOAT-tier” production quality that sounds just as massive and relevant in 2026 as it did thirty years ago. It is a dense, 70-minute journey through the mind of Chris Cornell at his most brilliant and troubled.
The undisputed darkest masterpiece of the grunge era. Dirt is a visceral, unflinching look into the abyss of addiction and existential despair, anchored by the chilling, unique vocal harmonies of Layne Staley and Jerry Cantrell. Moving away from their early glam-metal roots, the band arrived at a “sludgy metallic murk” that perfectly suited the nihilistic themes of the record.
Tracks like “Down in a Hole” and “Rooster” are slow, crushing anthems of emotional revulsion that remain some of the most honest and vulnerable moments in rock history. It is an album that doesn’t just play; it haunts.
There can be only one. Nevermind didn’t just top the charts; it “epitomized the grunge scene” and reset the global musical clock. Kurt Cobain’s uncanny ability to weave raw punk aggression into infectious, undeniable pop structures famously bumped Michael Jackson from the #1 spot, signaling a massive “sea change” in pop culture.
From the opening four chords of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” to the hidden chaos of “Endless, Nameless,” this record is the flagship of the subculture and the singular reason why grunge became a household name. It is the perfect, essential “holy grail” of the 90s.
The grunge era wasn’t just a trend; it was a necessary cleansing of the musical palate. The 13 albums listed above did more than just sell millions of copies; they gave a voice to a generation that valued authenticity over artifice. While the fashion runways might still borrow the flannels and ripped denim, the true heart of grunge remains in the distortion, the “sludge,” and the raw vocal performances that refused to be silenced. These pillars continue to influence every heavy band that picks up a guitar in 2026.
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What is the best grunge album for beginners? Nirvana’s Nevermind and Pearl Jam’s Ten are the definitive entry points due to their massive melodies and cultural impact.
Is Soundgarden considered metal or grunge? Both. While they are a pillar of the grunge era, albums like Badmotorfinger and Superunknown are widely considered landmark alternative metal records.
Why is Alice in Chains often called “darker” than other bands? Their lyrics on Dirt directly addressed drug addiction and mental decline with a “raw production quality” that was more “vulnerable” than the mainstream polish of the time.
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The album opens with “Drowning,” an engaging track that draws listeners in with a relentless rhythm. It creates a nocturnal atmosphere infused with hints of the 1980s. The song features a rich progression and enveloping sounds, ensuring it captivates from the first note.
Following “Drowning” is “Bones,” which presents a truly intense rhythm. This track carries a rebellious spirit. The singer’s raspy voice brings an authentically raw energy. The ambiance is once again nocturnal but incorporates more adventurous elements. It has a cinematic quality, reminiscent of a score that could easily belong in a Quentin Tarantino film.
Next comes “One Night in Nashville (Is Not Enough),” a song that exudes American vibes, instilling a strong urge to travel. This track is a poignant homage to road trips, evoking images of cruising through the streets in a car. The slide guitars introduce an unmistakable country feel, enhancing the overall experience.
The ballad “Addicted to You” follows, showcasing the band’s characteristic retro sound. This group’s musicianship is undeniable, paying tribute to their roots on the Isle of Wight, a historical location cherished by rock enthusiasts. Their ability to merge tradition with freshness shines clearly through this song.
Another compelling inclusion is “Sad Old Country Boy,” which stirs up feelings of the Appalachian spirit. This track encourages listeners to unwind, conjuring visions of leisurely sipping moonshine and engaging in wild dancing. The atmosphere is both inviting and lively, making it difficult not to get swept away.
“Devil’s on the Highway” brings forth another burst of energy, marked by a driving rhythm that keeps listeners on their toes. The fast-paced nature of this song flows seamlessly, appealing to anyone who enjoys an energetic musical experience. It acts as a reminder of the band’s dynamic style.
The album concludes with “Someone That Isn’t You,” a beautiful ballad featuring a lovely interplay between male and female vocals. The minimalist arrangement highlights the guitar and harmonica, creating a simple yet uplifting rural atmosphere. This final track serves as a sublime closure to a well-crafted album, leaving audiences with a sense of satisfaction.
“Fractured Hearts” by Kindred Found is an excellent collection of songs. The tracks explore various themes, from adventurous journeys to emotional reflections. Each song stands out, showcasing diversity within a unified framework. This album demonstrates the band’s broad musical range while paying homage to traditional sounds, making it a must-listen for fans of authentic music.
The craftsmanship in “Fractured Hearts” highlights the versatility of Kindred Found. Their ability to transition between genres is impressive, creating an engaging experience without losing focus. With strong narratives woven throughout the album, listeners will find much to relate to and appreciate.
This album celebrates artistic integrity. Kindred Found has crafted a work that resonates on emotional and musical levels, connecting with audiences deeply. “Fractured Hearts” yields a refreshing take on country/blues-influenced music while maintaining a contemporary feel. It is a vital addition to any music lover’s collection.
Chasing the traditional and the modern, this album finds a sweet spot that many strive for but few achieve. From its vibrant beginnings to its reflective closure, “Fractured Hearts” is an impressive statement from Kindred Found. It deserves recognition and respect in the ever-evolving landscape of music.
So, here it stands, a collection of tunes that anyone can enjoy. It is undoubtedly a celebration of musical harmony and a tribute to versatile storytelling. This is an album ready to connect with hearts and minds.
Solid
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KERRY KING is giving fans more. The iconic SLAYER songwriter/guitarist is releasing an Extended Deluxe Edition of his acclaimed debut solo album From Hell I Rise via Reigning Phoenix Music on June 19, 2026, expanding the record with five previously unheard demos and new visual elements, including cover artwork by James Bousema and a revamped […]Static Dress have shared the third track from their upcoming new album ‘injury episode’, and it shows off how they can nail the melodic as much as the chaotic.
Titled ‘…hospice’, it slows the pace from previous singles but doesn’t skip on any of the drama and decadence. Pulling from the sort of soaring songwriting that bolstered the likes of My Chemical Romance when they wore their hearts even more firmly on their sleeves back in the day, it ebbs and flows between tear-stained and tenacious, with vocalist Olli Appleyard pushing himself into even more delicate and devastating fields.
The result is truly beautiful and reminds you to expect the unexpected when it comes to a band as multifaceted and exploratory as SD.
‘injury episode’ will be released on May 29 via Sumerian Records.
It will also feature the Underoath-guesting ‘Nostalgia Kills’, which sounds a lot like this:
The band are set to hit the road in all four corners of the world in the coming months. Here are all the shows they will be playing and who they will be playing with:
APRIL
04 – NEW YORK Rough Trade
30 – BROOKLYN Chatroom @ Elsewhere (Live Death Display Screening)
MAY
02 – LOS ANGELES Midnight Hour
03 – LOS ANGELES The Hunt (Live Death Display Screening)
09 – PERTH Magnet House $
11 – ADELAIDE The Gov $
13 – MELBOURNE Forum Theatre $
14 – SYDNEY Metro Theatre $
15 – NEWCASTLE King St Bandroom $
16 – BRISBANE The Tivoli $
17 – MELBOURNE Stay Gold
23 – HATFIELD Slam Dunk South
24 – LEEDS Slam Dunk North
26 – LYON Le Transbordeur ^
28 – ZURICH Komplex 457 ^
29 – OBERHAUSEN Slam Dunk Germany
JUNE
01 – MILAN Slam Dunk Italy
JULY
11 – MANCHESTER Bowlers Exhibition Centre &
12 – MANCHESTER Bowlers Exhibition Centre &
14 – BRIDGEPORT Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater *
16 – GILFORD BankNH Pavilion *
18 – BRISTOW Jiffy Lube Live *
19 – MANSFIELD Inkcarceration
21 – CHARLOTTE PNC Music Pavilion *
22 – ALPHARETTA Ameris Bank Amphitheatre *
24 – DALLAS Toyota Music Factory *
25 – HOUSTON The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion *
26 – AUSTIN Germania Insurance Amphitheater *
28 – ALBUQUERQUE Isleta Amphitheater *
29 – PHOENIX Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre *
31 – LOS ANGELES Kia Forum *
AUGUST
01 – WHEATLAND Toyota Amphitheatre *
04 – PORTLAND Theater of the Clouds *
05 – AUBURN White River Amphitheatre *
07 – SANDY The Plaza at America First Field *
09 – MORRISON Red Rocks Amphitheatre *
11 – OKLAHOMA CITY Zoo Amphitheatre *
12 – ROGERS Walmart AMP *
14 – INDIANAPOLIS Everwise Amphitheater *
15 – STERLING HEIGHTS Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill *
* with Motionless In White
& with Bring Me The Horizon
^ with Knocked Loose
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The single “earthbound” begins in a very atmospheric manner with pads that feel like they originate from another dimension. This ethereal introduction paves a unique tone for the track. Soon after, a pressing and intricate groove enters the mix. This element demonstrates the artist’s inclination to experiment with unconventional rhythms. The tension inherent in this song keeps listeners engaged.
As the groove solidifies, the vocals emerge, modified with effects that evoke a ghostly quality. The voice sits delicately on the groove, resembling snow falling gently onto a meadow. This comparison aptly expresses the song’s serene yet eerie feel. Rather than a traditional song structure, “earthbound” feels more like a ritual. The atmosphere created leans into a dystopian and futuristic ambiance, inviting listeners to lose themselves in this unique experience.
From the production standpoint, modernity shines through. The choice of sounds is meticulously curated, enhancing the overall quality of the piece. One can confidently say that this musician showcases great talent and thoughtfulness in crafting this work. With each passing note, it appears clear that the artist is striving to create timeless spaces, drawing us into a dreamlike bubble.
The composition reflects cinematic qualities that strongly suggest it could serve as the soundtrack for a science fiction film. The blend of atmospheric pads, intricate grooves, and haunting vocals creates an immersive journey. Moments of tension release into expansive sound, allowing listeners to explore the depths within the arrangement.
“Earthbound” beckons to those who appreciate experimental music. The carefully designed elements invite a sense of introspection while also encouraging exploration. Those familiar with genre-bending sounds will find much to admire here. As the song unfolds, it reveals layers that deserve repeated listens.
The artist’s ability to balance innovation and emotion is striking. Each component complements the others, forming an integrated whole. The relationship between ambiance and rhythm is particularly noteworthy. This dynamic interaction generates a sense of movement throughout the song.
Listeners are taken on a journey through various emotional landscapes. Moments shift from tranquil to tense, evoking a wide range of feelings. The entire composition resembles a dream, where listeners float between reality and fantasy. The intricate details encourage observers to engage deeply with the music.
“earthbound” stands out for its innovative approach and meticulous production choices. The marriage of ghostly vocals and a rich sonic landscape creates a unique listening experience. This single challenges the norms of contemporary music, inviting fans to embrace something different. Each listen unfolds new layers, prompting reflection and intrigue.
The artistic vision shining through emphasizes a strong commitment to quality and creativity. With “earthbound,” the artist undoubtedly affirms their skill as a composer and songwriter. Those who come across this piece should dive in and appreciate the complexities offered.
Atmospheric
If you love this music: Discover MoreThe post Taunter earthbound Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.
Posted on April 28th 2026, 3:00p.m.
Deterioration will open that hefty bill.
The post Dying Fetus, Sanguisugabogg, Crowbar, Left To Suffer, Etc. Announce Fall North American Tour. appeared first on Theprp.com.