As it usually goes in this column, spreading the wealth is key, so below are ten tracks from other bands worth a listen at the moment, who managed to put forth great stuff that just didn’t make the cut (or they were singles/EP material). Either way, check out the album that they came from if you enjoy the sample provided here.
10. Vatican – Reverence (from Ultra)
Heavy modern grooves while showcasing the band’s progression. Vatican brings aggression in spades, but this shows that they have more to offer than mere barbarism.
9. The Halo Effect – In Broken Trust (from Days of the Lost)
Many gravitated to this album due to the nature of the members involved, and it delivered on those promises with catchy, old school melodic death. It didn’t go further, but with songs like this, it didn’t need to either.
8. Revocation – Diabolical Majesty (from Netherheaven)
To these ears, it’s been a bit since Revocation felt truly inspired. But one listen to Netherheaven fixed that real quick. Offering thrashy death metal that was propelled by a sense of urgency and darkness.
7. Memoremains – Sympathy (from Pop Metal)
One listen and this song was stuck in my head for more or less a week. One of those ‘inspired by Amaranthe’ type of songs, but done in just the right way for maximum impact without feeling tired or cliche.
6. Infected Rain – The Realm of Chaos (from Ecdysis)
Featuring Heidi Shepard alongside Lena on vocals, this track is one of the most aggressive on their latest album, showcasing what the band can do when they go all-in. The atmospheric side of the band is equally good, but sometimes you just want a more abrasive track, and this fits the bill perfectly.
5. Dayseeker – Neon Grave (from Dark Sun)
This track grabbed my ear and pulled it in the band’s direction towards the beginning of 2022, and works as a song that epitomizes what they do best. That is, of course, emotive hard rock that acts as an absolute earworm and hits with genuine feelings.
4. Red Handed Denial – Let the Colors Fade to Grey (from I’d Rather Be Asleep)
A quieter number from their last album, but still showcasing their technical ability as a band in a more melodic setting (it’s more than just simple flash tactics). Lauren Babic’s vocals sit front and center, but there’s enough guitar candy to keep you intrigued if that’s what you are looking for.
3. Devin Townsend – Call of the Void (from Lightwork)
No other way to say it, this is a beautiful song, both musically and vocally. Townsend can put together some really touching melodic cuts, which Lightwork shows, and this particular one is a true gem of a song sure to strike a chord with many.
2. Viscera – Sungazer (single release)
Was really hoping this song was the introduction to a full album, but sadly nothing else surfaced. But it’s an amazing track as a stand alone. It puts the band’s evolution on full display with harsh brutality, with just enough melody to keep it intriguing. These guys could easily become a prominent force with their next full-length.
1. Roselia – Rozen Horizon (from Rozen Horizon)
Essentially a symphonic/gothic metal act, if one thing is clear, it’s that Roselia can lay waste to many established acts within the scene when it comes to shred. “Rozen Horizon” gallops with the strongest of power metal riffs and explodes into a soaring chorus that flies with urgency and elegance. Completely scorching and guaranteed to sit in your head for a while after you hear it once.