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  • EP Review: Bloodkill “Systemic Disruption”

    EP Review: Bloodkill "Systemic Disruption"

    Forming out of Mumbai, India in 2016, Bloodkill is steered by founding members Vishwas Shetty and Yash Wadkar. Following the band's 2021 album "Throne of Control," the band is back with their newest EP "Systemic Disruption," which explores themes of humanity falling victim to the ever-changing digital landscape where social media, adult content, the lack of data privacy, and the growing use of AI have become normal.

    The EP comes to life with the self-titled track "Systemic Disruption." The song begins with a beeping radio frequency noise as lofi instrumentals can be heard in the distance. Suddenly, the band bursts into full intensity and clarity as raw screams, slamming thrash riffage, and booming drum grooves fill the mix. Quickly, Bloodkill builds a sound that reminds me of classic thrash acts like Slayer and Exodus while having a modern heavy metal touch. At just over 3 minutes, the title track keeps a high pace and sense of energy throughout its runtime.

    Next up is "Digital Spell", which starts with a slamming drum fill and a riff that lightly reminded me of "Raining Blood" before bursting into full band destruction. Vocals in the second track feel more shrill and visceral, taking on a more unpolished but heavy sound as drop-tuned guitar riffage and explosive drum and bass grooves build up the song. "Digital Spell" creates a great chorus where high guitar leads create a sense of melody behind the fierce screaming. Unexpectedly, Bloodkill throws the listener into the midst of a death metal breakdown as slowed chugging, low growls, double bass drumming, and intentional guitar dissonance form together to create an explosive sound that is faded out with a soaring guitar solo.

    "Temptress" continues the thrash atmosphere, kicking in quickly with a blast beat before introducing a dissonant guitar riff, which felt eccentric, almost reminding me of Primus briefly before turning into a more traditional death thrash sound. At just under 3 minutes, "Temptress" offers a good variety of pacing and tempo changes that keep the song feeling dynamic and interesting throughout before a layered solo and breakdown lead into a final speeding riff.

    Final track, "The Hidden Hands" bursts into action with screeching guitar pinch harmonics, slamming drum grooves, and screaming vocals. The racing tempo and galloping riffs further thrash influences while brutal guitarwork reminds of death metal and extreme metal genres. "The Hidden Hands" is the longest track of the album, at just under 4 minutes, and it keeps roughly the same pacing through the track before introducing a bridge with a guitar solo and a more atmospheric instrumental vibe.

    Overall, Bloodkill showcases a blend of thrash and death metal with a raw production and visceral sound. You can stream the band's latest EP, "Systemic Disruption," available on Bandcamp now!

    Systemic Disruption, by Bloodkill
    4 track album
    EP Review: Bloodkill "Systemic Disruption"

    Find Them Here: YouTube| Instagram | Facebook


    Thanks for reading!

  • Blüdwyrm announce debut EP ‘The Blissful Sleep Of Ignorance’

    Emerging UK doom and sludge metal trio Blüdwyrm have announced the impending arrival of their debut EP, The Blissful Sleep Of Ignorance. Scheduled for release on 5th June 2026, the record will be unleashed on both CD and cassette formats via South West independent label Road To Masochist. Hailing from the undulating downs of Dorset, … Continue reading Blüdwyrm announce debut EP ‘The Blissful Sleep Of Ignorance’
  • ‘Look Outside Your Window’ Official Release Date Revealed

    A worldwide release date for the Slipknot members' long-awaited 'Look Outside Your Window' album has officially been revealed. Continue reading…
  • Powerwolf confirm first-ever Japanese show

    As part of this year’s ‘Full Metal Japan’ festival

    Source

  • ROSE CARLEO BAND Unleashes Powerful New Album ’42 Days’

    Photo: Tania Smith

    Australia’s own Rose Carleo Band returns with a bold, soul-stirring new album, 42 Days, dropping Friday, May 15. A deeply personal and sonically rich collection, this release captures the essence of resilience, transformation, and raw human emotion. Fronted by acclaimed vocalist, songwriter, and next Queen of Rock Rose Carleo, the band has carved out a reputation for blending blues, rock, and roots with heartfelt storytelling. Joining Rose is a powerhouse line-up featuring Guitarist and Co-writer Mick Adkins, Bassist Bill Kervin, and Drummer Mick O’Shea.

    42 Days marks a defining chapter, an album born from a period of intense reflection and creative rebirth. Leading the release is the focus track, “42 Days,” a powerful centrepiece that encapsulates the spirit of the record. Driven by Carleo’s commanding vocal performance and anchored by gritty instrumentation, the track explores endurance, healing, and the emotional weight of time. It’s both deeply personal and universally relatable – a song that lingers long after the final note.

    “This record comes from a deeply personal place,” says Carleo. “It’s about navigating life’s challenges, finding strength in the struggle, and coming out the other side with clarity and purpose.”

    Across 42 Days, listeners can expect soaring vocals, gritty guitar work, and dynamic arrangements that move seamlessly between intimate moments and full-throttle band energy. Each track reveals a different layer of the journey, from vulnerability and loss to empowerment and renewal.

    Having built a loyal following through electrifying live performances and authentic connection with audiences, Rose Carleo Band continues to solidify their place as one of Australia’s most compelling independent Rock acts.

    Available on CD & Vinyl at: https://www.rosecarleoband.com/

    TOUR DATES
    MAY
    16 – Marrickville Bowlo – Marrickville NSW Album Launch
    22 – Three Brothers Arms, Macclesfield SA
    23 – Renmark Club, Renmark SA
    24 – Beach House Café, Victor Harbor SA
    30 – The Duke, Newtown NSW
    JUNE
    27 – Chasing Winter Sun Festival, Sawtell NSW
    JULY
    9 – Duke Of George, East Fremantle WA (Solo)
    AUGUST
    21 – Flamingos Live New Lambton NSW
    22 – Dead Set Darlinghurst NSW
    More shows to be announced

    The post ROSE CARLEO BAND Unleashes Powerful New Album ’42 Days’ appeared first on The Rockpit.

  • ANTHRAX – New Studio Album, Cursum Perficio, Releasing On September 18, 2026

    From Anthrax Facebook:

    Cursum Perficio Our first album in over a decade is finally on its way. Watch the official music video for “It’s For The Kids” on youtube now.

    CURSUM PERFICIO out 09.18.2026 via Megaforce Records and Nuclear Blast.

    🇺🇸 Pre-save Cursum Perficio: https://orcd.co/cursumperficio

    🇪🇺 Pre-save Cursum Perficio: https://orcd.co/cursumperficio

    🌎 Pre-order vinyl, CD’s, & merch: https://anthraxmerch.com/cursumperficio

    Watch the music video for It’s For The Kids: https://youtu.be/Pj5u8OagODo?si=jAh0G00ueOts8pp-

  • Upcoming Metal Releases: 5/17/26 – 5/23/26

    Here are the new releases for May 17th to 23rd. Releases reflect proposed North American scheduling, if available.



    Upcoming Metal Releases: 5/17/26 – 5/23/26


    DimhavOndine | Independent | Power Metal + Progressive Metal | Sweden (Stockholm)

    As of the time of writing, no singles have been released from Ondine, Dimhav’s second album. Expect it to be something similar to their debut, The Boreal Flame, which was a complex, operatic, and hyper-melodic offering. The band’s knack for creating intricate arrangements and interspersing them with powerful, heavy moments is clear. This should be an excellent record.

    –Kevin Zecchel




    Witching HourDescending…Where Time Has Ceased to Exist | Dying Victims Productions | Heavy Metal | Germany (Rehlingen)

    Witching Hour may be the most “Dying Victims Productions band” out of all the bands on Dying Victims’ roster. They’re an explicit love letter to heavy metal’s spirit, referencing the genre as a whole without feeling derivative because they refract it through an epic and darkened lens. What hooks one into them is their fluid songwriting. Witching Hour abandon the verse-chorus-verse protocol in favor of lengthy, nigh-progressive dirges.

    –Colin Dempsey




    ShewolffWE’RE ALL GONNA FUKKIN’ DIE | Dying Victims Productions | Heavy Metal + Punk + Black Metal | Belgium

    From Colin Dempsey’s track premiere of “Nail + Burn”:
    While there’s a reflex to call Shewolff’s particular punk and heavy metal hybrid thrash metal, that incorrectly asserts that there’s a higher level of cognitive functioning they are accessing. No, “Nails + Burn” deliberately shuts its brain off to focus on raw power. Cavemen created fire with sticks and stones; Shewolff recreated it with bass, drums, and guitar.




    NoitumaYhdeksän sairautta | Independent | Folk Metal + Black Metal | Finland (Kokkola)

    Noituma leans into the morose aspects of folkish black metal on Yhdeksän sairautta. It’s equally angry and in mourning, though given Noituma’s home country, those emotions are presented with Viking-like heroics.

    –Colin Dempsey




    ImmortalTo the North and Into Eternal Winter–Live in Darkness 1993-1995 | Darkness Shall Rise | Black Metal | Norway (Bergen)

    The German connoisseurs of “eerie and somber audio cult” artifacts Darkness Shall Rise will be unleashing (and I do mean unleashing) To the North and Into Eternal Winter–Live in Darkness 1993-1995, a primal live document focusing on the formative years of black metal legends Immortal. Comprised of “raw fan recordings, unpolished, and unapologetically real” from 1993’s jovial Fuck Christ tour as well as 95’s Battle of the Ages campaign, To the North… offers a glimpse of a “time where black metal was still young, dangerous and defiantly outside of the mainstream.” If the gloriously raw, blistering version of “Grim and Frostbitten Kingdoms” from a 1995 show in Munich is indicative of what’s on offer here, all fans of early Norwegian black metal will be receiving quite a gift indeed. If you’re into vinyl, move quickly–as only 666 copies are being pressed.

    –Dennis J. Seese




    Dimmu BorgirGrand Serpent Rising | Nuclear Blast | Symphonic Black Metal | Norway (Oslo)

    Somehow, a Dimmu Borgir album is promising, a sentiment unfelt for the better part of the past two decades. It could be another bloated pastiche, but “Ulvgjeld & Blodsodel” promises otherwise. As overblown as it is, it’s tempered by a gravely vocal performance from Silenoz and a meaty main riff. In a sense, it feels like Dimmu Borgir are reining themselves in, ever so slightly.

    –Colin Dempsey




    Armored SaintEmotional Rest Factory | Metal Blade Records | Heavy Metal | United States (Los Angeles, CA)

    Veteran LA metal institution Armored Saint have re-emerged with Emotional Reset Factory, their ninth studio album. Bassist and founding member Joey Vera recently said he views each Armored Saint record as a “new skin for the band, a different chapter.” Early interrogations suggest that perhaps this chapter is in need of a revision. I’ve become fascinated with how active legacy groups negotiate said legacy when releasing new material. Metal Blade is touting the record as a celebration of Armored Saint’s “past as one of the most respected and recognizable bands in heavy music while making forward thinking music.” Variations on this theme echo from record company PR machinery worldwide, of course.

    Upon listening to “Close to the Bone,” a generic, would-be anthem that’s energetic and competent (but dated) shredding and phantom limb sharpness is virtually negated by Vera’s bombastic overproduction, it’s hard to discern any forward thinking. However, John Bush, a fantastic, universally revered vocalist, hears a “slamming” and “diverse” metal/hard rock song they heroically translated into “vintage Armored Saint” in 2026! This is where the negotiation becomes fraught. The disconnect bleeds into dissonance. “Hit a Moonshot,” a paint-by-numbers trad metal pantomime that lowers the lyrical bar even further, is viewed by guitarist Jeff Duncan as a definitive example of the band’s current sound. A pattern emerges. If you want to check the lyrical content’s temperature yourself, here’s a line from “Every Man-Any Man” that Bush flat-out loves: “I’m a rouge (sic) crazy evil cheating lucky little leprechaun.”

    Armored Saint are a proud band with a decent resume, but the cruel irony here is the only modern element of Emotional Reset Factory is the comp lord production which eliminates any intrinsic rawness and dynamism these songs may’ve initially possessed.

    –Dennis J. Seese




  • Alpine Loop Don’t Fight Back Review

    Alpine Loop Don’t Fight Back Review

    The song begins with a beautiful and powerful drum intro. Acidic and distorted guitars follow, leading into an interesting and visionary guitar solo. This introduction transports listeners back in time. The music evokes memories of bands like Blink 182 and Sum 41, reminiscent of the punk rock atmosphere of the early 2000s. These musicians have spent significant time in the rehearsal studio to achieve the remarkable chemistry present in their music.

    Alpine Loop Don't Fight Back

    The overall feel of the song is guitar-driven. What stands out is that in this genre, solos are often minimalistic. Here, however, intricate and technical solos take center stage, showcasing the guitarist’s abilities and the band’s overall talent. The sound is big and intense, and the harmonies provided by the backing vocals enhance the main melodic line. This added layer makes the song even more engaging.

    The rhythm section is tight, supporting the overall structure of the piece. The drums offer a strong heartbeat, while the bass provides a solid foundation, ensuring that the listener feels grounded throughout. The interplay between the guitars adds a wonderful dynamic; moments of aggression contrast sharply with more melodic passages. This balance is crucial, as it keeps the listener invested in the track.

    Don’t Fight Back – Sound and Atmosphere

    Lyrically, “Don’t Fight Back” resonates with themes of resilience and defiance. Lines carry a rebellious tone, echoing the sentiments found in classic punk rock anthems.

    The production quality is worth noting, as it captures the raw energy of a live performance. This authenticity allows the essence of the band to shine through, making the experience feel intimate even in a recorded format. The clarity of each instrument, combined with the well-executed mixing, creates an environment that immerses listeners in the band’s world.

    The guitarists demonstrate remarkable skill through their solos, which contrast the overall driving rhythm with flourishes of technicality. Unlike many tracks in this genre, the solos are not merely flashy; they serve the song and contribute significantly to its emotional weight. The intricacy of the solos provides depth and keeps the listener engaged from start to finish.

    Don’t Fight Back – Performance and Production

    Vocally, the delivery is powerful and filled with passion. The lead vocalist carries the melody with confidence, while harmonies from the rest of the band enhance the overall impact. This vocal layering contributes to the song’s memorable hooks, ensuring that they linger in the listener’s mind long after the track concludes.

    “Don’t Fight Back” is a strong entry from Alpine Loop. The combination of powerful instrumentation, thoughtful lyrics, and solid vocal performances positions the band as a noteworthy player in the modern punk rock scene. This track showcases their ability to stay true to the genre while incorporating technical skill and emotional depth. It is a refreshing discovery that I highly recommend to all music enthusiasts.



    Intense

    🔥 If you love this music: Discover More


    Find Alpine Loop here:
    Spotify | Instagram

    For fans of:

    Blink 182 • Sum 41


    The post Alpine Loop Don’t Fight Back Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

  • SARK Flying Toward Tomorrow Review

    SARK Flying Toward Tomorrow Review

    The single “Flying Toward Tomorrow” opens atmospherically with a highly reverberated piano. This introduction creates a refined ambiance reminiscent of the 1980s. Gradually, the piece evolves with the addition of a lead guitar and driving drums. The guitar melody enriches the experience, evoking the sensation of soaring like a bird over an endless meadow. This instrumental creation broadens the listener’s mind with its ethereal and elegant tones.

     SARK Flying Toward Tomorrow

    The influences of iconic acts such as Pink Floyd and Eric Clapton resonate throughout the track. While the listener is treated to a harmonious journey, there is a cinematic quality that enhances the emotions therein. The composition showcases an intricate blend of harmonic structures which are impeccably crafted. Emotional intensity is prevalent, and the arrangement maintains listener engagement through well-placed variations.

    The artist demonstrates substantial compositional experience. The inclusion of the lead guitar seizes the atmosphere, driving the melody forward. Each section builds upon the last, creating a seamless transition that retains focus. The delicate soundscape lingers, inviting listeners to explore their emotional depths.

    Flying Toward Tomorrow – Sound and Atmosphere

    Rhythmic movements interlace with melodic arcs. The careful pacing of elements adds depth to each phrase. This isn’t just a simple melody; it carries a sense of purpose.  The emotional weight, combined with the inherent beauty, creates a unique sonic mirage.

    Each guitar riff serves as an invitation to journey deeper into introspection. The arrangement retains balance, mixing softer moments with bursts of energetic guitar. This dynamic interplay accentuates the emotional core of the piece.

    Unlike many instrumentals on the market, this piece stands alone, urging listeners to embrace the power of the guitar. This instrumental journey invites an experience akin to watching a movie without dialogue, where the music tells its own story.

    Flying Toward Tomorrow – Performance and Production

    The transitions are remarkably smooth. The artist ensures that even the brief shifts maintain coherence. Moments of silence add emphasis and allow the listener to absorb the waves of melody. The entire structure is certainly enriching, prompting emotional reactions from the audience.

    The delicate nature of certain guitar passages feels almost ethereal. These elements elicit a deep sense of reflective thought. This creates a powerful connection between the music and the listener’s psyche. It encourages individuals to reflect on their experiences, reinforcing the emotive quality delivered by the notes.

    This composition, rich with introspective layers, invites each listener to lose themselves in the art. The immersive guitar work ensures an experience that resonates deeply. Each note is designed to evoke feelings that translate beautifully.

    The artist’s ability to evoke such feelings merits significant recognition. For those seeking an emotional journey through sound, “Flying Toward Tomorrow” undoubtedly delivers.

    Hopefulness permeates every note, providing a bridge to future possibilities.



    Inspiring

    🔥 If you love this music: Discover More


    Find SARK here:
    Spotify | Instagram

    For fans of:

    Pink Floyd • Eric Clapton


    The post SARK Flying Toward Tomorrow Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.

  • Unnamed Symbios Review

    Unnamed Symbios Review

    This epic album begins with “Ride,” featuring a sound that seems to emerge from the depths. The powerful, sinister tone is driven by intense, low guitars reminiscent of bands like Korn and other nu-metal groups. Yet, this music carries something much darker, drawing listeners deep into the abyss. The raw, direct sound is paired with a shrill voice, singing as if from a furious cat.

     Unnamed Symbios

    Continuing with spooky vibes, “Rottening” blends the influences of Emperor mixed again with Korn, providing a glimpse into the visionary music of this band. Its aggressive energy matches the previous track, maintaining the dark atmosphere while exploring new dimensions.

    Following this is “Nothing New,” another hard-hitting piece with a beautiful guitar riff that wraps around the listener. The driving rhythm encourages fans to raise their horns high in the air. The band clearly understands how to engage their audience through energetic and dramatic melodies.

    “Groove” showcases yet another facet of the band, integrating their powerful sound with elements reminiscent of Rage Against the Machine. The guitar riffs occasionally echo those of Tom Morello, adding a layer of familiarity while maintaining originality.

    One of the standout tracks is “Devil In Disguise.” This song strikes like a powerful and violent tsunami, intense in its delivery. Yet it occasionally retreats, becoming sly and grotesque before erupting once again. It illustrates a masterful interplay of aggression and subtlety, keeping listeners on their toes.

    The darkest track of all is “1428,” incorporating some Arabic influences that lend it a ritualistic feel. This slow, enchanting piece slithers around like a serpent, wrapping itself around the listener. The hiss-like qualities create an atmosphere of distrust, drawing the audience further into the shadowy depths of the album.

    Symbios – Sound and Atmosphere

    Overall, this album is truly remarkable, filled with dark emotions and a variety of experiences that any fan of intense music should explore. The blend of various styles and inspirations works cohesively, creating a unique delivery that keeps the listener engaged throughout. The band skillfully navigates through themes of darkness, evoking a range of feelings while ensuring each track stands on its own.

    Each song contributes to creating an overall narrative that reflects a journey through darkness and intensity. The transitions between raw power and eerie calm showcase the band’s ability to play on contrasts effectively. This contrast is particularly highlighted in tracks like “Devil In Disguise” and “1428,” where the music ebbs and flows with skilled precision.

    Symbios – Performance and Production

    On a technical level, the production quality deserves mention as well. The mixing highlights each instrument with clarity, allowing the complex arrangements to shine. It brings forth the full weight of the guitars and the intensity of the vocals, crafting a listening experience that feels immediate and engaging.

    “Symbios” stands as a strong entry in modern music, particularly for those who appreciate the heavier side of the spectrum. Unnamed has skillfully crafted an album that pulls in influences from notable bands while establishing its own identity.



    Dark and Intense

    🔥 If you love this music: Discover More


    Find Unnamed here:
    Spotify | Instagram

    For fans of:

    Korn • Rage Against the Machine • Emperor


    The post Unnamed Symbios Review appeared first on Edgar Allan Poets – Noir Rock Band.