Shorts Recap: November 21-28
In the final stretch of the year, music releases are flooding in faster than one can keep track of, offering a plethora of underground gems waiting to be discovered. From hardcore to screamo, punk, metal, and experimental genres, there’s a diverse range of music making waves right now. Delve into this week’s selection of music updates, explore the links provided, and make sure not to miss out on the detailed features accompanying these weekly highlights.
Baltimore’s STOUT celebrates a significant milestone with the reissue of their classic debut album N.G.M.F. on vinyl, remastered by Brad Boatright. This release captures the band’s rawest essence, delivering Baltimore hardcore infused with a grim NYHC edge, characterized by intense vocals, thick riffs, and a sound that would influence their future work. Their follow-up album, “Sleep Bitch,” also receives a limited repress along with a merch drop featuring STOUT’s early iconography.
REGROWTH, a melodic hardcore punk band, returns with their second full-length album, “A Story Worth Listening To.” The album reflects the pressures faced by a generation navigating through global crises, including war, climate change, exploitation, and diminishing hope. Offering high-energy tunes, this album is a must-listen for enthusiasts of this genre.
GUILT TRADITION, a metallic outfit from Portland, unleashes “Boiling Over,” a five-song EP fueled by hardcore intensity and quick transitions. Meanwhile, Belgian fastcore act CHRONIC PISSED presents a brief but powerful six-track demo, delivering a pure ’80s hardcore vibe that’s raw and aggressive, making it the perfect soundtrack for those feeling disenchanted with the world.
French chaotic hardcore trio BTK releases a video for “Lapidée,” the final track from their album Sauvagerie. The video channels the same raw energy and intensity as the rest of their album, showcasing their unique blend of death, crust, grind, and blackened hardcore, all drenched in a relentless sonic assault.
LOST TO LIFE, hailing from Dublin, delivers “No Peace For Me,” a four-track EP characterized by dynamic pacing, metallic influences, and a vocal style that cuts through the music with no-nonsense precision. Recorded with a keen eye for detail, this EP encapsulates their high-octane sound in a concise and impactful manner.
SIX BELOW ZERO, a solo project from Wyoming’s Matthew “Axl” Brammer, unveils “Violence Is Always the Answer,” an eight-song release rooted in metallic hardcore influences. Drawing inspiration from heavyweights like Hatebreed and Earth Crisis, Brammer’s one-man show is a force to be reckoned with in the hardcore scene.
Nelson St. presents “Promo ’25,” a three-track release showcasing the Midlands trio’s groove-driven hardcore sound. Recorded with a vibrant energy, this promo highlights the band’s evolving style while hinting at new musical directions to come.
SINE NOMINE marks their return with “THE SUNDER VEIL,” their first release in a decade. This five-track EP blends elements of sludge, mathcore, and hardcore to create a dense sonic landscape filled with tension and aggression. Each track pushes boundaries, culminating in an intense musical journey that leaves a lasting impact on the listener.
Lastly, the split release from FORWARD TO EDEN and XEDENISGONEX delves into the realms of blackened metalcore with a distinctive edge. Featuring melodic elements and dark undertones, this split showcases the evolving soundscapes of both bands, offering a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of modern hardcore music.
In conclusion, as the year draws to a close, the underground music scene continues to thrive with a diverse range of releases spanning various genres. From hardcore to punk, metal, and experimental sounds, these releases are a testament to the creative energy and artistic prowess of musicians around the globe. Don’t miss out on these hidden gems that are sure to leave a lasting impact on listeners seeking an authentic and raw musical experience.