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  • Five For Friday: April 17, 2026

    Greeting, Decibel readers!

    We didn’t do an edition last week, which means we need to back-track to cover a major, triumphant release from one of death metal’s finest. But you’ll also find other variations of death and devastation below. Have a great weekend!

    —

    Ignobleth – Manor of Primitive Anticreation

    The exact opposite of positive, uplifting, or good vibes. No sir, this is a work of devastating, cavernous darkness. Thank goodness.

    Stream: Apple Music

    —

    Immolation – Descent

    Call me crazy, call me possessed, perhaps even call me untrue — but I actually think I prefer Immolation‘s later work. In fact, this might be my favorite Immolation album, as it takes the ideas from the previous album and executes them at a level of unmatched dark perfection. Descent travels similar sonic territory as Close to a World Below and Unholy Cult but boasts tighter songwriting than the former and far better production than the latter. An early contender for album of the year. Let the vengeful winds blow with abandon.

    Stream: Apple Music

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    Inferi – Heaven Wept

    Saw these guys open for Deicide in 2024 and they were a super fun and impressive live act. Imagine The Black Dahlia Murder with the tech-death elements cranked up. Or imagine tech-death but with more memorable riffs and hooks. You get the idea. Crank this!

    Stream: Apple Music

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    Leila Abdul-Rauf – Andros Insidium

    Imagine an amalgamation of non-metal-based music that metal listeners usually like, and you’ll have a good idea of what this album is about. Dark ambient, dungeon synth, folk and industrial sounds collide into a haunting and mesmerizing narrative.

    Stream: Apple Music

    —

    Ordh – Blind in Abyssal Realms

    Progressive death metal from Brattleboro, Vermont. Very reminiscent of early-2010s death metal of the same variety from bands like Horrendous and Morbus Chron, with some dark shades of Ulcerate thrown in as well.

    Stream: Apple Music

    The post Five For Friday: April 17, 2026 appeared first on Decibel Magazine.

  • The Dark Mind of Edgar Allan Poe: Genius or Madness?

    The Dark Mind of Edgar Allan Poe: Genius or Madness?

    Was Edgar Allan Poe a literary genius… or a man consumed by darkness? His life and work blur the line between brilliance and madness.

    Few writers have explored the human mind as deeply as Poe. However, his personal life raises a haunting question: did he write about madness… or was he living it?

    Edgar Allan Poe is widely recognized as a pioneer of psychological horror and gothic literature (source). The question of whether Edgar Allan Poe was a genius or madness-driven writer continues to fascinate readers today.

    The answer may lie somewhere in between.

    edgar allan poe genius or madness dark portrait psychological horror gothic writer mind mystery

    A Life Marked by Loss

    Edgar Allan Poe’s life was shaped by tragedy. He lost his mother at a young age and experienced instability throughout his early years.

    These experiences left a deep emotional imprint. Themes of death and loss would later dominate his writing.

    For Poe, grief was not abstract. It was personal.

    Genius in Darkness

    Poe revolutionized literature by turning inward. Instead of external horror, he explored the human mind.

    Stories like The Tell-Tale Heart and The Black Cat reveal an obsession with guilt, paranoia, and psychological tension.

    👉 Read the psychological breakdown of The Tell-Tale Heart

    This focus on internal conflict was groundbreaking. It is one of the reasons Poe is considered a genius.

    Explore the Archive

    Poe’s influence touches everything from dark fashion to cinema; for a full breakdown of his impact and literary roots, visit our complete archive.

    Explore the Edgar Allan Poe Archive

    Edgar Allan Poe: Genius or Madness?

    Poe’s work often feels too real. His descriptions of fear and obsession suggest a deep understanding of the human psyche.

    However, this raises a question: how did he understand it so well?

    Some believe his writing reflects personal struggles with mental instability. Others argue it is pure artistic mastery.

    The Role of Obsession in Poe’s Mind

    Obsession is a recurring theme in Poe’s work. Characters fixate on ideas, memories, or fears until they collapse.

    This pattern appears in The Raven, where repetition drives the narrator into despair.

    👉 Explore the meaning of The Raven

    It also appears in his life. Poe’s struggles with loss and instability mirror the patterns found in his writing.

    Was Poe Truly Mad?

    There is no clear answer. Historical accounts suggest Poe faced personal challenges, including financial instability and emotional turmoil.

    However, madness is often exaggerated in retrospect. What appears as instability may also be sensitivity and depth.

    In many ways, Poe’s “madness” may simply reflect his ability to feel more intensely than others.

    Why Poe’s Mind Still Fascinates Us

    The mystery surrounding Poe is part of his legacy. People are drawn to the unknown.

    His work invites readers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves.

    That is why his mind continues to fascinate modern audiences.

    From Darkness to Identity

    Today, Poe’s influence extends beyond literature. His themes shape fashion, art, and identity. The gothic aesthetic, dark clothing, and symbolic designs all trace back to his vision.

    👉 Explore designs inspired by Poe’s dark world


    edgar allan poe merch gothic dark aesthetic clothing prints

    Final Thoughts: Genius or Madness?

    Edgar Allan Poe was both.

    His genius allowed him to explore the darkest corners of the human mind. His struggles gave him the depth to understand them.

    To explore the emotional depth behind his work, read our analysis of Annabel Lee meaning.

    That is what makes his work unforgettable.

    Some minds are not broken. They are simply deeper than others.

    Explore More Dark Stories

    Enter the world of mystery, psychology, and gothic imagination.

    Enter the Noir World

    The post The Dark Mind of Edgar Allan Poe: Genius or Madness? appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

  • ONE OK ROCK Announce New EP ‘LIVE FROM DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025’

    ONE OK ROCK have revealed that they are going to be releasing a new live EP to coincide with the release of their upcoming concert film.

    ‘LIVE FROM DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025’ will be released on April 30, which is the same day that ‘ONE OK ROCK DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025 AT NISSAN STADIUM IN CINEMAS’ will be hitting the big screen across the US.

    Recorded at the band’s hometown show at Japan’s Nissan Stadium in front of 70,000 people, the EP will comprise songs from their set, which appeared on their 2025 full-length ‘DETOX’.

    Here is the tracklisting:

    1. Make It Out Alive (DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025)
    2. NASTY (DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025)
    3. Party’s Over (DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025)
    4. Renegades (DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025)
    5. Delusion:All (DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025)
    6. The Pilot </3 (DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025)

    The film will premiere today (April 17) in Japan and be released worldwide in the weeks leading up to April 30, so check whether your local cinema is showing it. The film is being presented in CJ 4DPLEX’s SCREENX and 4DX, which offer a completely new perspective on the band’s incredible live performance.


    ONE OK ROCK were winners of the Hall of Fame Award at the 2025 Rock Sound Awards.

    20 years in and still finding new ways to surprise, delight and expand, 2025 has been another enthralling success for ONE OK ROCK. To celebrate their induction into the Rock Sound Hall of Fame, Taka Moriuchi takes us through the decades, detailing the lessons learned and dreams that have come true along the way.

    Get your magazine and merch bundle now at SHOP.ROCKSOUND.TV.

    The post ONE OK ROCK Announce New EP ‘LIVE FROM DETOX JAPAN TOUR 2025’ appeared first on Rock Sound.

  • The Last Ten Seconds of Life Drops “Rat Trap” Video

    – April 17th, 2026 –

    The Dead Ones Full-Length Out Today On Metal Blade Records!

    Watch/Stream THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE’s “Rat Trap (Feat. Nate Johnson)” HERE

    Pennsylvania metal outfit THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE today unleashes their video for “Rat Trap.” The track, which features a guest appearance by Nate Johnson (ex-Fit For An Autopsy) comes by way of the band’s new full-length, The Dead Ones, out today on Metal Blade Records!

    Watch THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE‘s “Rat Trap” video HERE.

    Watch the band’s previously released video for the record’s title track HERE and “Make It To Heaven” HERE.

    Intense and intensely personal, The Dead Ones marks THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE‘s Metal Blade Records debut. For the ten original tracks of pulverizing deathcore produced by Carson Slovak and Grant McFarland of Pennsylvania’s Atrium Audio, the band focused on the guitar, bass, and drum tones as well as the mix/master to achieve what guitarist Wyatt McLaughlin calls, “a super-thick sonic output and ‘rolling-tank’-like feel.”

    Photo by Adam Zaspel

    In addition to Johnson on “Rat Trap,” the record includes guest appearances by David Simonich of Signs Of The Swarm on “Make It To Heaven,” Alan Grnja of Distant on “Dollar To A Dime“, and original THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE vocalist Storm Strope on “XXXXXXXXXX.”

    Hails Metal Noise of the release, “Darker than the depths of hell when the fires no longer burn, this album represents arguably the most ferocious THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE have offered in recent times.” New Transcendence writes, “The Dead Ones stands as an immense and strong entry to their robust discography, carrying on and focusing the strongest elements of their early and recent work while continuing to push their sound and dynamic in new and unexpected ways. Fans of the band will find exactly what they want out of them, and those new to the band – or those who had been estranged throughout the late 2010s and early 2020s – will find something welcoming (and even familiar) to find themselves lost in,” while Black Angel Promotions accurately notes, “The album is heavy at the beginning, heavy in the middle, and heavy in the end. It’s ten songs of constant brutality in the best way…each song stands on its own.“

    Says McLaughlin, “As a unit, we built a game plan on how we would approach songwriting for this record. We examined all of THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE’s past work as well as focused on how our fanbase digested and connected with our music from the flow of structure all the way to every single word that was used. We have delivered a ten song thriller that will bellow out through the ages.”

    The Dead Ones was recorded with a six-string baritone Viper from ESP-LTD tuned to Drop F, the same tuning used on the band’s 2012 Warpath EP. To elevate the intensity, the band also used an Earthquaker Devices Sunn O))) and Keeley Octa Psi drop tune pedal on certain sections.

    The Dead Ones is available on CD and digital formats as well as vinyl in the following color variants:

    Tan Smoke (US)
    Purple Marbled (US)
    Grey Black Marbled (EU – Ltd. 300)
    Metallic Silver w/ Purple and Blue Smoke (EU – Ltd. 250)
    Silver Black Melt (EU – Ltd. 250)

    Preview/purchase the record at: metalblade.com/tltsol

    THE LAST TEN SECONDS OF LIFE:
    Wyatt McLaughlin – guitars
    Tyler Beam – vocals
    Andrew Petway – bass
    Dylan Potts – drums

    https://www.thelasttensecondsoflife.com
    https://www.facebook.com/thelasttensecondsoflife
    https://www.instagram.com/tltsol

    Buy iTunes Artist Page Artist News

  • Tabitha Zu On Reality Review

    Tabitha Zu On Reality Review

    Tabitha Zu returns with “On Reality”, a single blending grunge atmosphere and dark emotional intensity. In the haze of nostalgia, we often find ourselves drawn back to music that shaped eras. One such rediscovered gem is “On Reality” from Tabitha Zu, a single originally released in 1992.

    Tabitha Zu On Reality

    Formed in the early ’90s, Tabitha Zu captivated audiences with their electrifying performances. Fronted by Melanie Garside, the band was not just a musical force but a cultural phenomenon. They played over 150 shows in a single year, captivating fans at every turn. Their live energy was palpable, and they shared stages with iconic acts like Nirvana and Nick Cave. Each performance solidified their reputation as a compelling live act in the UK’s alternative music scene.

    “On Reality” exemplifies the chaotic yet harmonious sound that Tabitha Zu mastered. The song features a potent blend of punk rock energy and grunge influences, creating a psychedelic listening experience. Garside’s voice carries a swagger reminiscent of the era, combining confidence with irreverence. The melody bounces between intricate rhythms, echoing the vibrant pulse of early ’90s rock and roll.

    Sound and Atmosphere

    The instrumentation of “On Reality” is equally impressive. John Hamilton’s drumming sets a fast-paced, driving rhythm that propels the song forward. Phil Stevenson’s bass lines provide a solid foundation, while Garside’s guitar work slices through the mix like a knife. The high tones of the guitars cut sharply, creating an edgy sound that distinguishes this track from its contemporaries. Each instrumental layer contributes to the song’s dynamic atmosphere, making for a rich and engaging listening experience.

    One standout feature of the single is its captivating background vocals. They bring a texture that recalls the harmonies of bands like Alice in Chains and No Doubt. These nuances enrich the overall sound, giving “On Reality” its unique appeal. The atmospheric moments, punctuated by haunting “ooo” sounds, fill the sonic space beautifully. This interplay between vocals and instrumentals showcases the intricacies of Tabitha Zu’s style and makes the song feel expansive.

    The dynamic shifts throughout “On Reality” keep listeners engaged from start to finish. As the tempo changes, the energy in the song fluctuates seamlessly, creating an exhilarating journey. Each moment feels spontaneous, mirroring the raw spirit of the early ’90s music scene. The track’s ability to draw listeners into its world is a testament to Tabitha Zu’s artistry. It stands as not just a nostalgic throwback, but as a compelling artistic statement for today.

    Performance and Production

    “On Reality” serves as a brilliant reminder of Tabitha Zu’s impact on the UK alternative scene. This classic rediscovered track invites a new generation to experience the anarchic spirit of the ’90s. With its psychedelic sound, energetic performance, and nostalgic undertones, the song resonates deeply. Melanie Garside’s voice and the band’s dynamic instrumentation make this single a memorable listen. As music revivals continue, “On Reality” reaffirms the timeless nature of great art.

    Explore more:
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    Solid and Direct

    Tabitha Zu were a cult act from the early ’90s UK alternative scene, blending raw, chaotic energy with ethereal pop and a punk edge. Fronted by Melanie Garside, they built a reputation through intense live shows and relentless touring.

    Their 1992 single On Reality captures that spirit perfectly, and its digital re-release introduces their distinctive sound to a new generation.

    Find Tabitha Zu here:

    Spotify
    Instagram

    For fans of:

    Alice in Chains • Nirvana • No Doubt

    The post Tabitha Zu On Reality Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

  • Cool new proggy sounds you need to hear from The Anchoress, Matt Berry, Magenta, Soen and more in Prog’s brand new Tracks Of The Week

    Ace new prog from Blueneck, Prince Of Failure, Million Moons and more in all new Tracks Of The Week

  • Ashley McBryde – “Lines In The Carpet”

    Indie rock bands aren’t the only acts who release a whole flood of advance singles before dropping their albums. Right now, Ashley McBryde, one of the greatest artists currently working in the Nashville country system, is using the same rollout strategy. McBryde has a new album called Wild coming out next month. I’ve heard it,…

    The post Ashley McBryde – “Lines In The Carpet” appeared first on Stereogum.

  • Timeline – What We Know About ‘Look Outside Your Window’

    Here's everything we know about the Slipknot members' album 'Look Outside Your Window' that they recorded while working on 'All Hope Is Gone.' Continue reading…

  • Timeline – What We Know About ‘Look Outside Your Window’

    Here's everything we know about the Slipknot members' album 'Look Outside Your Window' that they recorded while working on 'All Hope Is Gone.' Continue reading…

  • Progressive Black Metal Act IATT Unveils New Video for “Walk Amongst”!

    Philadelphia-based progressive black metal outfit IATT has unveiled a brand new video for the track “Walk Amongst”, taken from their forthcoming full-length album “Etheric Realms of the Night”, set for release on May 8 via Black Lion Records. As the veil begins to tear, “Walk Amongst” emerges as the penultimate chapter of the band’s album and film – a visceral cinematic experience […]

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