The relentless march of time brings with it a fresh wave of exceptional new music releases, particularly for aficionados of heavy metal. This past week has unleashed a torrent of noteworthy tracks spanning various subgenres, proving that the sonic landscape of heavy music continues to evolve with both established legends and burgeoning talents delivering compelling new material. Listeners are invited to explore a diverse collection of potent offerings, each vying for attention and adding depth to the rich tapestry of the global metal scene.
Kicking off the collection is the long-awaited return of Spinal Tap, arguably the greatest metal band in history, making a cinematic comeback after 41 years. Their upcoming film promises a cameo-heavy affair, and a tantalizing preview arrived with the release of “Hell Hole,” a version from their ‘reunion concert’ featuring an extraordinary commitment to the bit from pop icon Elton John. This unexpected collaboration marks a significant band spotlight, demonstrating the enduring influence and humorous legacy of the legendary fictional group as a pivotal part of new music releases.
Shifting gears to the rising forces, Swedish melodeath/groove metal behemoths Orbit Culture are poised for a breakout year in 2025. Their impressive opening set at Download in June set the stage for their upcoming debut on juggernaut label Century Media with their album “Descent.” The single “From the Inside” powerfully reiterates their signature sound, boasting colossal riffage and a raw, heavy chorus that solidifies their position as a formidable presence in contemporary heavy metal.
Veterans of trad/power metal, Primal Fear, introduce new blood into their ranks with their upcoming album “Code Red,” marking the debuts of guitarist Thalìa Bellazecca and drummer André Hilgers. This injection of fresh talent contributes to a sound that is both revitalized and deeply rooted in the Germans’ classic 90s material, proving their longevity in the heavy metal genre. Vocalist Ralf Scheepers remains in peak form, ensuring “Code Red” will resonate strongly when it drops on September 5 via Reigning Phoenix Music, making it a key entry in new music releases.
We Came As Romans, long synonymous with metalcore rage, venture into a moodier tangent with “The Anchor.” This particular track, one of the last written for their new album, presents a down-tempo, electronic side-step that will undoubtedly appeal to fans of bands like Bring Me The Horizon and Architects. Its earnest lyrics delve into themes of nostalgia, aging, and hope, offering a welcome interlude of introspective depth amidst the typical aggression found within the metalcore landscape as part of this week’s new music releases.
Another bright light in modern metalcore, Dying Wish, has returned not only with the announcement of their new album “Ignorance” but also with the release of its potent lead single. Initially a creeping track that brilliantly spotlights Emma Boster’s distinctive vocals, it rapidly escalates into a snarling, chaotic soundscape interspersed with triumphant choruses. The production by Will Putney, renowned for his work with Fit For An Autopsy and Body Count, ensures a polished yet brutal sound for this essential metalcore offering.
Venturing beyond traditional metal, Perturbator, the acclaimed synthwave maestro, continues his string of new music releases with “Night Hex,” leading up to his new album in October. Four years since his last major release, James Kent remains in fine form, pursuing a more atmospheric, piano-leaning sound than his typical fare. This evolving direction within the synthwave realm offers a compelling listen for fans of Vangelis and Loathe, highlighting the expansive nature of modern heavy music and its adjacent genres.
Psychonaut’s new single “Stargazer,” while rooted in post-metal and space rock, delves into profoundly earthly topics. Named after a specific birthing position, the song connects with the broader, emotionally charged themes of their upcoming album “Violate Consensus Reality.” The album’s overarching concept bravely addresses singer/guitarist Stefan de Graef having a baby while his and bassist/vocalist Thomas Michiels’ fathers battle cancer, creating an incredibly fine piece of art that pushes the boundaries of post-metal.
Rounding out this week’s diverse heavy metal and associated new music releases is Good Teal, a hardcore four-piece from New Jersey. Their second single from their upcoming self-titled EP, “I Hate,” showcases episodic songs filled with raw, knucklehead riffs and progressive, off-kilter rhythms. Singer/bassist Reg Mason powerfully expresses the lasting hurt from childhood abuse in this two-minute rager, which he also directed the avant-garde POV video for, offering a raw and impactful contribution to the hardcore music scene.
