The Best and Worst Heavy Metal Resource of 2024

Rating: 7/10 Leap of Death by Left To Suffer delivers heavy riffs and intensity, but struggles with inconsistent pacing and softer moments that dilute its impact. Leap of Death sees Left To Suffer navigating the line between chaos and melody, offering a raw, unfiltered blend of deathcore brutality and atmospheric shifts. The band’s heavy riffs are undeniably solid, with sharp production that allows the instrumentation to cut through clearly. Each track presents a tight composition, showcasing the band’s growing technical skill. While the instrumentals hit hard, the lyrics feel somewhat underwhelming. For a band whose vocal delivery often borders on ferocious, the words don’t always match the intensity. A heavier lyrical direction would’ve made the growls feel more purposeful. And though the clean vocals are well-performed, their inclusion occasionally detracts from the album’s overall force. It feels as though the band is torn between maintaining their brutal edge and appealing to a wider audience, causing the softer moments to lose momentum. Despite the band’s talent, Leap of Death doesn’t consistently maintain its energy. The flow from track to track is uneven, with some songs feeling disconnected, making it harder to stay fully immersed. That said, there are moments—specific breakdowns or […]

Rating: 6/10 Blood Incantation’s Absolute Elsewhere offers a bold instrumental journey, but struggles to deliver the full punch expected from a standout metal release. Blood Incantation’s Absolute Elsewhere is an intriguing dive into expansive soundscapes, where the music takes precedence and the vocals step into the background. At just six tracks, none under five minutes, this album feels more like a cinematic journey than a traditional death metal offering. The band’s signature technical prowess is on full display, but the overall impact? A bit of a mixed bag. Production-wise, the album struggles to balance its heavier moments with its more atmospheric, softer parts. The soundscapes are beautifully constructed, but when the music turns heavy, it feels like the mix doesn’t quite carry the same punch. While previous works may have leaned into more aggressive tendencies, this album chooses a more instrumental, almost meditative approach, although less so than its predecessor. It’s musically innovative and ambitious, though at times the vocals feel like an afterthought—there, but not fully commanding the listener’s attention. Speaking of vocals, while there are some heavy, guttural moments, they never quite break through the instrumental dominance. It’s clear that Absolute Elsewhere isn’t about the lyrics or vocal […]

Rating: 8/10 Alpha Wolf’s Half Living Things: Brutal, Atmospheric, and Relentlessly Solid Alpha Wolf’s Half Living Things is the kind of album that doesn’t ask for your attention—it demands it. Twelve tracks, all compact and punchy, this is the kind of record that takes you by the collar and doesn’t let go. From the first note to the last, it’s clear that Alpha Wolf is on top of their game, delivering an album that’s as aggressive as it is tight, with just the right amount of variation to keep you hooked. Production-wise, the album is crisp, with a balance of power and precision that serves the band well. The guitars hit with that signature heaviness, while the drums steal the show at times, locking in with a ferocity that feels like an engine revving just before it bursts into overdrive. Synths, often the unwelcome guest in heavier music, are smoothly integrated into the soundscape here, adding a layer of atmosphere without ever undercutting the intensity. Vocally, the performance is relentless—there’s no sugarcoating or polish, just straight-up aggression. It’s the kind of vocal delivery that feels like a shot of adrenaline, keeping pace with the pounding rhythm section and chaotic guitar […]

In 2024, the metal scene is as alive and electrifying as ever, with bands from all corners of the globe pushing boundaries and redefining the genre. From the iconic titans who paved the way to the fresh faces carving their own path, metal remains a genre fueled by passion, energy, and innovation. Whether blending genres, crafting symphonic masterpieces, or sticking to the raw, heavy riffs, today’s top metal bands are captivating millions of fans worldwide. Let’s dive into the top 10 bands dominating the metal landscape right now, and see who’s leading the charge this year.Now before we proceed, I get it – you might not align with this list because you’re just that metal. And that’s okay. You’ll be just fine. We have something for everyone over at our band charts!

There’s little doubt in our skulls that metal is brimming with iconic albums that have shaped the genre’s history and influenced generations of musicians. From Black Sabbath’s self-titled debut to Metallica’s “Master of Puppets,” these classics are universally acknowledged and celebrated. But, lurking in the dark are hidden gems—vinyl albums, no less, that, despite their brilliance, never received the recognition they deserved. These underrated masterpieces offer unique sounds, innovative compositions, and powerful lyrics that could rival heavy metal’s greatest hits. In this article, we shine a spotlight on the most underrated metal albums of all time and help you build your collection like a true noggin banger. These records might not have topped the charts or achieved mainstream acclaim, but they have left an indelible mark on those who have discovered them. Whether you’re a die-hard headbanger looking to expand your collection or a curious noob eager to explore the genre’s depth, these albums are essential listens that showcase the diverse and rich landscape of metal.Let’s get going, shall we? 10. Dark Angel – “Time Does Not Heal” (1991) Dark Angel’s “Time Does Not Heal” is known for its complex and lengthy compositions, showcasing the band’s technical skill. With key […]

Yakuza, a Chicago-based heavy hybridizer, has announced the release of their highly anticipated new album ‘Sutra’ on Svart Records on May 19th, 2023. The genre-bending album features limitless expression and molten riffs, serving as a modern-day powerhouse of forward-thinking metal. Yakuza has also released the album’s second single, “Psychic Malaise.” And it’s quite rad. The track, according to vocalist/saxophonist Bruce Lamont, is a tribute to those who have extrasensory abilities, such as telepathy or the ability to teleport to another dimension. It also delves into the burden and stress of such powers, known as Psychic Malaise. The song, according to bassist Jerome Marshall, is a journey through the swing of a pendulum that steadily moves closer and closer to slice. Meanwhile, guitarist Matt McClelland reveals that the opening riff was inspired by “Way of the Dead’s” “Obscurity.” Yakuza’s music is hard to categorise, having been described as everything from avant-garde metal to post metal. “Sutra,” their new album, is a frequency feast, with psychedelic rock jams, heavy sludging Doom with jazz influences, and breakneck grind riffs and grooves. Check out their latest single “Psychic Malaise” on YouTube and their previously released single “Alice” on YouTube. Fans can pre-order the album on the Svart Records website. Don’t miss out on this eclectic and highly anticipated album from Yakuza. Connect with Yakuza on Facebook and Instagram, and keep up-to-date with Svart Records on Facebook and Instagram as well.

Children of the Reptile has unveiled their highly anticipated final single, “Silent Circle,” ahead of the release of their third album, “Heavy is the Head.” Hailing from Wilmington, this heavy metal quartet has taken inspiration from the legendary group Manilla Road to develop their unique sound, which they describe as “American Epic Heavy Metal.” “American Epic Heavy Metal” Sound For over a decade, Children of the Reptile has been honing their craft in the Southeast United States, drawing influence from a variety of sources, including Metallica’s powerful riffs, Thin Lizzy or Iron Maiden’s iconic twin leads, Judas Priest’s attitude, Mastodon’s progressive leanings, and Manilla Road’s distinct vibes. The Best-Kept Secret from the Swamps of Cape Fear Despite being a closely guarded secret from the swamps of Cape Fear, this band promises to be a force to be reckoned with in the heavy metal community with their upcoming release. Their third album is expected to propel them into the spotlight, cementing their status as one of the best-kept secrets in the genre.   “If you like ’70s and ’80s heavy metal and early thrash but don’t want a band just ripping off the past greats, there’s a lot of enjoyment to […]

Tardigrade Inferno, a dark cabaret metal band, is set to release their new EP titled Arrival of a Train on May 17. The four-song EP is now available for pre-order along with new merchandise. The EP was created in the band’s dark laboratory, which slightly damaged the space-time continuum. The songs feature a combination of circus organ, guitars, and double kicks, along with unique vocals that turn each song into a theatrical performance. The lyrics contain irony and symbolism and pose questions without obvious answers. The EP is an anthology of short stories that include strange characters, genetic mutations, and obnoxious metaphors. The themes range from farce to body horror, post-apocalypse, and occult devilry. Tardigrade Inferno is not afraid to experiment, and the genre contributes to this. The band’s front-woman, Darya, provides dark hypnotic vocals that cut to the bone. The EP was written and produced by the band and mixed and mastered by Vladimir Lehtinen. Overall, Arrival of a Train is a must-listen for seasoned metalheads, geeks, musical aesthetes, and single dreamers who appreciate a grotesque carnival. Tardigrade Inferno has created a unique and artistic work that will leave listeners fascinated and captivated. Pre-order their EP and merchandise.

  Well lookie here. It seems like we’ve got some big news to share with you – Glass Casket is back with their first release in 17 years! Who are Glass Casket? For those of you who are unfamiliar with the band, Glass Casket is a heavy metal band from Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The band features guitarist Dustie Waring and drummer Blake Richardson, who are both members of Between the Buried and Me. Brand new self-titled EP Glass Casket’s brand new self-titled EP is set to be released on 9th June on Silent Pendulum Records. You can already stream the EP’s first single, ‘Let Them Go,’ on Spotify and YouTube. If you’re interested in pre-ordering the album, you can do so from Silent Pendulum Records’ website or via Bandcamp. Trust us, this EP is definitely worth adding to your collection. Glass Casket track list: 1. Merrymaker 2. Let Them Go 3. Prison of Empathy 4. For the Living Members of the band Glass Casket is made up of fellow original members Adam Cody and Sid Menon, along with newest member Wes Hauch (Alluvial, ex-The Faceless). The quintet have offered up a thrilling taste of things to come, in the form of the upcoming new […]

If you’re a heavy metal fan, there’s nothing quite like the experience of a live concert. The energy, the passion, and the excitement are all unmatched. But some concerts take things to a whole new level, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and leaving fans in awe. Here are some of the most insane heavy metal concerts you have to see to believe. 1. Wacken Open Air Wacken Open Air is one of the largest and most well-known heavy metal festivals in the world. Held annually in Germany, it features some of the biggest names in the genre and draws massive crowds from all over the globe. With multiple stages and non-stop music for several days, it’s an experience like no other. 2. Download Festival The Download Festival, held in the UK, is another major heavy metal festival that’s not to be missed. With its massive lineup of top acts and multiple stages, it’s a true celebration of all things heavy. In recent years, it’s expanded to include festivals in other countries, including France, Spain, and Australia. 3. Ozzfest Ozzfest is a traveling heavy metal festival that was founded by Ozzy Osbourne and his wife Sharon. It’s known for […]