As the summer heat lingers, Metal Hammer brings us a chilling selection of tracks to cool our spirits and ignite our musical passions. In this weekly roundup, we delve into the world of metal, exploring the diverse sounds and stories that define this genre.
The Spooky Season's Early Arrival
It seems like we're not the only ones craving the crisp air and eerie vibes of autumn. The results of our recent poll reflect a collective desire for something darker and more mysterious. And who better to deliver that than Silvertomb, the doom metal project featuring Kenny Hickey and Johnny Kelly, whose music embodies the essence of the autumnal season?
A Diverse Metal Landscape
This week, Metal Hammer showcases a diverse range of metal artists, both established and emerging. From Mastodon's critically acclaimed sound to the debut single of Sheri Moon Zombie, there's something for every metalhead. We also get a glimpse into the future with new bands like Gradience, Netherwilds, and Noctule, who are pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Tonal Shifts and Emotional Depth
Mastodon's new single, "In The Ruins," showcases their ability to navigate between heavy riffs and gentle melodies, creating a unique and captivating soundscape. This track is a perfect example of how metal can evoke a wide range of emotions, from the intense to the serene.
The Evolution of Black Metal
Noctule, the solo project of Svalbard's Serena Cherry, takes us on a journey through black metal with a video game twist. "Goddess Of Rot" captures the fury and majesty of the genre while adding a touch of the emotional and the familiar. It's a testament to the evolving nature of black metal and its ability to adapt and innovate.
Old School Charm Meets Modern Edge
Green Lung's "Black Magick Radio" is a delightful blend of old-school keyboard sounds and dark, magical appeal. This London-based band pays homage to the late '60s and early '70s while infusing their music with a modern twist. Their upcoming album, "Necropolitan," promises to be a spooky season treat.
The Rise of Newcomers
The Cartographer, a fresh face on the metal scene, delivers a powerful and oppressive sound with "Griefworn." Their relentless aggression and building tension suggest a band on the brink of an explosive breakthrough. Keep an eye out for their debut album, "The Collapse Of A Bitter End."
Industrial Metal Legends
Godflesh, the iconic industrial metal band, is preparing to bid us farewell with two final albums. "Living/Ending," taken from their upcoming release "Decay," offers a nihilistic glimpse into a future we hope to avoid. Justin Broadrick's characteristic bulldog snarls may be limited due to health issues, but his impact on the genre remains undeniable.
Contemporary Sounds from Japan
Zilqy, a new group from Japan, brings a fresh and modern take on metal. With former members of Aldious and Lovebites, they blend industrial clatter with radio-friendly sensibilities. Their debut album, "Birth Of Riot," is set to drop in October, offering a unique blend of sounds.
Festival Favorites and Renaissance-Inspired Fun
Battlesnake, the colorful Aussies, have become festival mainstays in the UK with their unique brand of traditional metal. Gradience, from Denmark, pushes the boundaries of genre blending with their post-black metal rager "Undone." And Netherwilds adds a touch of renaissance fair dress-up to their sound, creating a fun and tongue-in-cheek tune with "Helm Yeah."
Technical Mastery and Cosmic Melodies
Hippotraktor bridges the gap between the technicality of Tesseract and the cosmic melodies of Mastodon. Their new track, "Oblivion Walker," is a brilliant showcase of this unique fusion, taken from their upcoming album "Annihilist."
As we navigate the diverse landscape of metal, one thing is clear: this genre continues to evolve, innovate, and captivate. Metal Hammer's weekly roundup offers a glimpse into the hearts and minds of metal artists, showcasing their creativity and passion. So, as we bid farewell to summer and embrace the cooler nights, let these tracks be your guide to a musical journey filled with heaviness, melody, and the unexpected.
