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Exploring the diversity within music genres is always fascinating. Take death metal, for example, where bands like Ancient Death and Diabolizer embody two distinct paths. Ancient Death draws inspiration from Timeghoul’s progressive and unconventional approach, a style that Blood Incantation revived in their early works. In contrast, Diabolizer aligns itself more closely with the brutal death metal roots that emerged in the early ’90s. The variations continue with Caustic Wound’s death/grind blend, Felgrave’s progressive death/doom, Chestcrush’s blackened sludge elements, and Dormant Ordeal’s deep ties to their black/death heritage in their home country.
Conversely, it’s refreshing to see certain parallels as well. In the realm of symphonic black metal, both Belnejoum and Ancient Mastery infuse their storytelling with a compelling dramatic flair. Meanwhile, Moonfall and Serpentes take divergent approaches to black metal philosophy. The Finnish band Moonfall taps into their cultural roots, blending traditional elements with a commitment to doom, while the international collaboration Serpentes delves into the orthodoxy and dissonance of the genre.
For something truly unique, don’t miss Iron Lung’s latest release, showcasing exquisite powerviolence. If you’re in the mood for something less abrasive, consider exploring Amplifier’s psychedelic odyssey with Gargantuan. There’s a lot to discover—so dive in! – Spyros Stasis
The Best Metal Albums of April 2025
Amplifier – Gargantuan (Rockosmos)
The latest offering from Mancunian rock innovators Amplifier showcases an unmistakably cosmic ambiance. This eighth studio album features core members Sel Balamir and Matt Brobin, crafting a narcotic blend of space rock, vibrant psychedelia, dense progressive atmospheres, and expansive synthesizer effects. Their sound reaches out across the furthest reaches of the galaxy.
Tracks like “Gateway” guide listeners along ethereal interplanetary currents, harmonizing fluid guitar leads with intricate rock arrangements that echo Devin Townsend’s meticulous craftsmanship. Following this, “Invader” unfurls with an elegant melody rooted in simplicity, reminiscent of Porcupine Tree.
Further into the album, “King Kong” and “Pyramid” intensify the doom heaviness, while “Cross Dissolve” introduces a serene, ballad-like calm that evokes tranquility similar to the end of the universe. Throughout, Robin and Balamir’s innate pop sensibilities effectively balance their heavier progressive inclinations, creating a breathtaking sense of scope. Truly, Gargantuan lives up to its name. – Antonio Poscic
Ancient Death – Ego Dissolution (Profound Lore)
Following the 2022 EP Sacred Vessel, Ancient Death continues their exploration of otherworldly death metal, reminiscent of classics like Interdimensional Extinction and The Moulting. With roots in the early works of contemporaries while paying homage to influences like Demilich and Timeghoul, they elevate their sound even further with their debut album, Ego Dissolution.
This record marks a maturation in their technical death metal prowess, leaning towards the styles featured in Spiritual Healing and Human. Tracks like “Breaking the Barriers of Hope” and the immersive instrumental “Journey to the Inner Soul” exhibit these developments well, particularly in the cosmic soundscape of “Violet Light Decays.”
Expect a trippy experience as Ancient Death channels psychedelic elements in songs like “Breathe – Transcend (Into the Glowing Streams of Forever).” Meanwhile, the brutal opener “Echoing Chambers of the Dismal Mind” contrasts sharply with the melodic undertones reminiscent of Bolt Thrower in “Ego Dissolution.”
Overall, Ancient Death’s debut stands as an impressive work of contemporary death metal, resonating deeply with the core motifs of the genre. While bands like Blood Incantation venture into psychedelic realms and Tomb Mold uphold traditional sounds, Ancient Death is poised to carve out their own legacy. – Spyros Stasis
Ancient Mastery – Chapter Three: The Forgotten Realm of Xul’Gothar (Independent)
Vienna-based musician Erech Lelet showcases his myriad talents with Ancient Mastery, which stands out as his most cohesive project. Infusing evocative dungeon synth with gripping melodic black metal, Ancient Mastery constructs aural narratives inspired by the fantastical realms of Valdura.
On Chapter Three: The Forgotten Realm of Xul’Gothar, the music skews toward traditional second-wave black metal while retaining the enchanting mystery that characterized previous releases. Ethereal dungeon synth elements seep through the aggressive black metal walls, as evident in tracks like “The Treacherous Order,” which offer an Alcest-like swirl of blackgaze, while “The Dread of Xul’Gothar” combines haunting synthetic melodies with raw black metal ferocity.
This is music that transports listeners into a fully-realized fantasy world, crafting an immersive experience reminiscent of an exceptional novel. – Antonio Poscic
Behölder – In the Temple of the Tyrant (Black Lion)
Although established in 2021, Philadelphia’s Behölder surprises with their debut album, showcasing impressive songwriting and musicianship. Featuring Judicator’s John Yelland on powerful vocals, the band crafts a delectable blend of epic doom and power metal. To pinpoint the essence of In The Temple Of The Tyrant, imagine a fusion of traditional doom metal, akin to Candlemass and Sorcerer, interspersed with thrash elements reminiscent of US power metal bands like Jag Panzer and Nevermore.
In “Eyes of the Deep,” Amorphis’s Tomi Joutsen delivers subterranean growls, transforming the power-doom pace into a crushing slab of death metal. “Those Who Fell” sees Behölder exploring new territories by merging 1970s hard rock with psychedelic folk in a brooding ballad. Meanwhile, “Draconian (Slave or Master)” injects Middle-Eastern influences, evoking the essence of Nile’s sound. An exceptional debut that stands as a serious contender for doom metal album of the year. – Antonio Poscic
Belnejoum – Dark Tales of Zarathustra (Antiq)
Mohamed Baligh meticulously crafts his symphonic black metal under the banner of Belnejoum, assembling a formidable array of musicians to assist in realizing his vision. Collaborators include George Kollias (Nile), Francesco Ferrini, Fabio Bartoletti (both of Fleshgod Apocalypse), and Rich Gray (Annihilator). Together, they bring to life Baligh’s operatic storytelling in their debut, Dark Tales of Zarathustra.
The album plunges into the genre’s epic grandeur from the outset, acting as an anchor for the work. Tracks like “In Their Darkest Aquarium” echo the dramatic tale, while the climactic “Upon the Mortal Blight” represents the album’s zenith. Baligh ventures beyond metal, incorporating classical instrumentation to evoke images of war and loss, particularly in tracks like “On Aeshma’s Wings.”
The emotional depth is palpable, with anger and sorrow intertwining in “The Day Zarathustra Turned Dark,” while the interludes, such as “Elegie,” harness the beauty of tradition. Folk elements weave through the heavy fabric, particularly in “The Dark Tower,” adding an unexpected twist. While the work shows promise, it hasn’t yet reached the heights of the sub-genre’s pinnacles. – Spyros Stasis
Caustic Wound – Grinding Mechanism of Torment (Profound Lore)
With their sophomore album, Grinding Mechanism of Torment, Caustic Wound sticks to their roots, amplifying the raw intensity of their debut. These seasoned death metal and grindcore veterans deliver a no-holds-barred assault that embodies brutality in its purest form. Their heavy groove approach is dreadfully monstrous, with colossal guitar riffs dominating the soundscape.
Tracks like “Blood Battery” and “Endless Grave” epitomize this formidable sound, evoking old-school death metal vibes. The cacophony reaches its peak in songs like “Human Shield” and “Horrible Earth Death,” pushing the boundaries of dissonance through intense sonic experimentation.
Adding to the chaos, Caustic Wound doesn’t shy away from grindcore fury, exhibiting a raw, unrefined energy. The abrupt transitions in “Blackout” create unpredictable breaks, while “Dead Dog” revels in punk origins. The closing track, “Into Cold Deaf Universe,” dives into the depths of death/doom, offering an avant-garde conclusion that culminates in an exhilarating grindcore frenzy.
If you’re in search of something fierce and unrelenting, look no further than Grinding Mechanism of Torment. – Spyros Stasis
Chestcrush – ΨΥΧΟΒΓΑΛΤΗΣ (Independent)
Edinburgh’s Chestcrush live up to their name with a suffocating sound that amalgamates blackened death metal with grindcore elements. Their intensity rivals that of Skáphe, showcasing a relentless sonic assault. Take “Underneath This Rotten Soil Bodies Are Still Bleeding”—it opens with a massive death-doom trudge, reminiscent of mammoths trudging through sludge before quickly shifting gears into a whirlwind of riffs, blast beats, and guttural growls.
Throughout the album, ΨΥΧΟΒΓΑΛΤΗΣ (meaning “soul taker” in Greek) maintains a torturous tension, relentlessly punishing the listener. The track “Your Screams Will Echo Long After Your Death” represents this psychological zenith of disorder, with every moment crafted for maximum impact. Drummer Robin Stone (of Ashen Horde), guitarist/bassist Evangelos Vasilakos, and vocalist Topias Jokipii have concocted a merciless creation. May its legacy endure. – Antonio Poscic
Diabolizer – Murderous Revelations (Dark Descent/Me Saco Un Ojo)
In the realm of raw, primal death metal, the collaboration between Dark Descent and Me Saco Un Ojo consistently showcases excellence. Diabolizer’s second full-length strikes all the right chords, featuring members from renowned death metal bands like Hyperdontia, Burial Invocation, and Engulfed. Their sound digs deeply into the genre’s roots, evoking Cannibal Corpse’s grooves and Suffocation’s intricate technicality.
However, Diabolizer also harmoniously integrates modern production techniques with a focus that embodies more recent bands like Vader and Hate Eternal. The album traverses a spectrum of intensity, seamlessly switching between total annihilation in tracks like “Into the Depths of Diseased Minds” and melodic, airy moments found in “Into the Jaws of Cerberus.” Crucially, the dynamic in both approaches remains enthralling. – Antonio Poscic
Dormant Ordeal – Tooth and Nail (Willowtip)
The sound explodes with an orchestra of riffs that swirl and blast, creating a sonic whirlpool. Each track showcases a continuous dance of black metal eruptions fused with incandescent melodies. The relentless rhythm propels the energy forward, leading to fierce climaxes. This is epitomized in “Halo of Bones,” the second track from Tooth and Nail, encapsulating the band’s essence of intensity and fervor.
While the subsequent tracks maintain this vigor, Dormant Ordeal’s fourth LP is rich with inspired moments. Post-metal explorations in tracks like “Solvent” yield to savage stretches of death metal reminiscent of Vader and Behemoth. The oppressive atmosphere of “Against the Dying of the Light” shifts into the fluid yet fierce “Everything That Isn’t Silence Is Trivial.”
The music feels like an overwhelming hurricane, pulling listeners into an unknown abyss. Despite sacrificing some technical prowess in favor of brute force, this new direction amplifies their sound with impressive results. – Antonio Poscic
Felgrave – Otherlike Darknesses (Transcending Obscurity)
Felgrave’s sophomore effort, Otherlike Darknesses, marks a significant evolution in M.L. Jupe’s musical journey. Reflecting on his 2020 debut, A Waning Light, which was deeply influenced by Ruins of Beverast, this new album shifts focus from nature to the expansiveness of the cosmos.
It opens with the expected doom/death ambiance in “Winds Batter My Keep,” incorporating clean interludes and subtle psychedelic elements. However, the progressive direction becomes evident as the album progresses. The frenetic start of “Pale Flowers Under an Empty Sky” illustrates this transition, marrying blackened tones with technical death metal finesse.
The album continuously shifts through intricate passages, emerging as a modern interpretation of the genre while incorporating elements reminiscent of Ulcerate’s dominance in extreme metal. The melodic and dissonant embedding works seamlessly throughout, further augmented by Robin Stone’s intricate drumming.
While Otherlike Darknesses is a compelling release, some of the earlier magic of A Waning Light may have been lost in this transformation. If these two realms can merge in the future, Felgrave will undoubtedly realize their full potential. – Spyros Stasis
Idle Heirs – Life Is Violence (Relapse)
Coalesce frontman Sean Ingram and producer Josh Barber present Idle Heirs, a project that harkens back to the post-metal era of the late 2000s and early 2010s with their debut album, Life Is Violence. The journey begins unexpectedly with “Loose Tooth,” where they explore emotive melodies drawing parallels to the singular Palms record and some Deftones influences.
In these moments, the duo feels at home, crafting graphic melodies and introspective narratives, as seen in “Rare Bird,” which embodies the emotionally charged spirit found in Dillinger Escape Plan’s mid-era tracks.
Post-metal’s weight resonates throughout Life Is Violence, with echoes of Cult of Luna’s magical soundscapes reflected in tracks like “Jaded Mountain” and “Dim Shepherd.” The mysterious clean melodies transport listeners to serene realms, and the expected climactic build-ups give way to heavier riffs, particularly in the latter half of “Dim Shepherd” and the relentless momentum of “Pillow Talk.”
Though Life Is Violence may not break new ground for post-metal or overcome some genre fatigue, it remains a solid tribute to the best moments of the style. – Spyros Stasis
Iron Lung – Adapting // Crawling (Iron Lung)
Twelve years after their landmark release White Glove Test, the powerviolence titans return with Adapting // Crawling. True to their roots, Iron Lung maintains the unrelenting sound established on Sexless // No Sex and White Glove Test. The raw and unyielding bursts of chaos arrive in quick succession, embodying brute force with tracks such as “Internal Monologue.”
From here, they effortlessly tap into classic vibes, blending old-school elements with modern influences. The latter half of “Everything is Void” and “Virus” embrace a maniacal groove, generating a whirlwind of sound that clears a path through chaos. Furthermore, they delve into a more contemporary metallic post-hardcore approach, refined by their own innovative techniques. The frenetic stop/start dynamics in “Shift Works” and dissonant melodies in “HeLa Cells” reflect this evolution.
Throughout, Iron Lung navigates through heavy grooves, particularly shining in tracks like “Poisoned Sand” and “Everything Is a Void.” This then devolves into sludge-like decadence that permeates “Hospital Tile” and “Cog II.” Staying true to their experimental nature, Iron Lung also revisits industrial motifs throughout the record, coalescing in “A Loving Act.”
Adapting // Crawling delivers exactly what fans expect, brimming with frenetic energy and emotional intensity. It’s what we’ve come to love from Iron Lung. – Spyros Stasis
Melvins – Thunderball (Ipecac)
Why complicate things with thoughts of multiverses when different iterations of the Melvins can exist in the same timeline? The Melvins 1983 lineup—consisting of King Buzzo and original drummer Mike Dillard—returns sporadically and is joined by Ni Maîtres on upright bass and Void Manes on noise production for their latest album, Thunderball.
With “King of Rome,” the album launches into high gear, showcasing vibrant riffs and straightforward progression. This throwback feel continues with tracks like “Victory of the Pyramids,” which captures their early punk influences.
Soon, the noise elements intertwine into the music. Even in straightforward tracks like “King of Rome,” these experimental sounds create layers of complexity. The electronic intrusion becomes even more apparent in “Vomit of Clarity,” where ambient and abstract rock interlace.
Throughout the record, Melvins 1983 carve their niche with repetitive motifs, navigating awkward yet captivating progressions. The circular riffing can prompt discomfort, whether in the unsettling “Venus Blood” or the slithering manifestations of “Victory of the Pyramids.” Above all, they deliver a powerful and engaging experience. – Spyros Stasis
Italian doom outfit Messa continues to defy conventional genres, merging towering doom metal with influences from various musical realms, including blues, progressive rock, and chamber pop, solidifying their approach in their latest album, now released via Metal Blade.
While previous records explored genres outside traditional metal, The Spin establishes a new direction. Their compositions intertwine elements of keyboard-driven post-punk, ’80s balladry, delta blues, and synth-pop, culminating in monumental doom metal expressions, driven by compelling rhythms and scorching riffs led by vocalist Sara Bianchin.
Despite their stylistic evolution, Messa remains instrumentally compelling, transitioning between styles fluidly and elegantly. Ultimately, The Spin stands as a significant milestone and a victorious new chapter for the band. – Antonio Poscic
As one of the final releases from Gilead Media, Alluvion showcases the long-anticipated collaboration between Mizmor and Hell. The intertwining histories of A.L.N. (Mizmor) and M.S.W. (Hell) culminate in this inaugural full-length work, following a split release in 2014.
The album builds on the foundations laid by both artists, rooted in their shared doom origins. “Begging to Be Lost” opens with an overwhelming sense of despair, sustained throughout by melancholic melodies. This theme is further explored, revealing other facets of sadness, grandeur, and epic resonance.
As the album expands, the sludge weight becomes palpable, filling the void in “Begging to Be Lost,” further amplifying the bass-driven heaviness. The pacing shifts dramatically, transitioning into minimalist drone moments with “Vision II,” where rhythmic components almost vanish entirely.
As the record progresses, black metal undertones emerge in tracks like “Pandemonium Throat” and “Vision II,” enhancing the overall complexity and contributing to the somber atmosphere that permeates Alluvion. This work may not redefine either artist’s style but stands as a fitting tribute to their essence amid Gilead Media’s legacy. – Spyros Stasis
Moonfall – Odes to the Ritual Hills (Iron Bonehead)
Moonfall’s primal black/doom sound has captivated me since their remarkable split with Regere Sinister. While they share a deep appreciation for Necromantia’s gothic style, Moonfall follows a distinct trajectory, showcased in their debut album Odes to the Ritual Hills.
This concise album, just under 35 minutes, features synth-based bookends that evoke Mortiis’ early work without straying into overly grandiose territory. They beautifully set the stage for the main event. Once “Countess Carody” kicks in, a connection to early Barathrum forms, underpinned by Celtic Frost-inspired riffing and monstrous, abyssal vocals.
As the title track unfolds, ritualistic motifs take shape, conjuring memories of early Samael from their Medieval Prophecy era. Ultimately, Odes to the Ritual Hills offers a solid and raw experience, staying true to the genre’s essence while embodying a poetic romanticism. – Spyros Stasis
Serpentes – Desert Psalms (NoEvDia)
Serpentes unites members of Angrenost, Misþyrming, and Svartþoka to forge unearthly anthems in Desert Psalms. Drawing from the orthodox black metal tradition, the band embraces dissonance and abstraction, echoing the sonic landscapes shaped by Deathspell Omega. Songs like “I” and “IV” create an abrasive yet mesmerizing sound.
Alternatively, they also weave in melodic elements reminiscent of Angrenost. Tracks “I” and “III” showcase traditional metal solos, while portions of “II” and “VIII” highlight a heavier aesthetic fused with classic metal influences. Desert Psalms ultimately presents a commendable effort from Serpentes, radiating the same flame that inspires their comrades. – Spyros Stasis
Tribunal – In Penitence and Ruin (20 Buck Spin)
For a brief moment in the mid-1990s, iconic British death-doom bands like Anathema, My Dying Bride, and Paradise Lost captured the dark romanticism of gothic rock, creating an unmatched sonic experience. Although they swiftly pivoted towards other forms, the essence of gothic death-doom now finds renewed life through Tribunal.
Listening to their sophomore full-length feels like stepping back into that golden age. Warm cello bowings and haunting piano melodies intertwine with Soren Mourne’s soothing vocals and Etienne Flinn’s deep growls. The music moves fluidly between heavy grinding and somber funeral doom, evident in tracks like “Angel of Mercy” and “…And the Thorn-Choked Flowers Grow.” Meanwhile, songs such as “A Wound Unhealing” encapsulate a more ethereal quality. In Penitence and Ruin is a poignant exploration of melancholy. – Antonio Poscic
Warfield – With the Old Breed (Napalm)
Drawing inspiration from iconic 1980s German thrash metal bands like Destruction, Kreator, and Sodom, Warfield stands out as one of the premier advocates of this sound in modern times. Their sophomore album, With The Old Breed, channels the raw power of that era, especially in opener “Melting Mass,” which echoes Sodom’s classic Agent Orange.
However, a deeper listen reveals that Warfield is not merely a nostalgia act; they incorporate original elements within the framework, transitioning smoothly from melodic death metal in “Lament of the White Realm” to the epic doom of “GASP.” Their innovative approach keeps the energy alive, making for a compelling listen that thrives on both thrashing intensity and creativity. – Antonio Poscic
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