This Week’s New Releases: MEGADETH, POPPY, and More Available 1/23

This week in the realm of heavy metal, fans can expect a variety of new releases ranging from Bach metal, the final record from a well-known vocalist, a djent comeback, and much more. Each release brings its unique flavor to the table, satisfying a range of preferences within the metal community.

Alkaloid’s latest offering, “Bach Out Of Bounds,” blends elements of progressive death metal with classical influences. While it’s not uncommon for metal music to incorporate classical undertones, Alkaloid takes it a step further with this record of Bach interpretations. The live album features new tracks, a bold move in an era dominated by digital releases.

Melissa Bonny steps out from her role as Ad Infinitum’s vocalist with “Cherry Red Apocalypse,” a mix of hard rock and heavy metal tracks. The album showcases Bonny’s versatility as an artist, balancing pop-influenced songs with her band’s symphonic metal/rock style. It’s a successful exploration of her creativity and artistry.

Legendary thrash metal band Megadeth returns with their seventeenth album, simply titled “Megadeth.” Touted as their farewell record, the album maintains the band’s signature sound consistent since “Endgame.” Fans can expect familiar elements along with standout tracks like Dave’s take on “Ride The Lightning.”

“New Miserable Experience” by Gild The Lily combines synth rock with the musical prowess of metal veterans Rivers of Nihil, Revocation, and Rosetta. The album offers a unique blend of different genres, leaning more towards a Depeche Mode-infused sound rather than the typical heavy metal fare. It may not induce mosh pits, but it’s an intriguing departure worth exploring.

Chicago-based post-metal act Pelican follows up with “Ascending,” a mini-album featuring a mix of new and previously released songs. The release includes vocals from Geoff from Thursday on a fresh take of “Cascading Crescent,” showcasing the band’s experimental side and willingness to push boundaries.

Poppy’s “Empty Hands” bridges the gap between metalcore and pop metal, drawing on the success of her previous album, “Negative Spaces.” The record is packed with heavy grooves, infectious choruses, and vibrant production, promising an enjoyable listening experience for fans of both genres.

Finally, Textures’ “Genotype” delivers high-energy progressive metalcore and djent, marking the band’s return with a follow-up to their previous album, “Phenotype.” The inclusion of a guest appearance by Charlotte Wessels (ex-Delain) adds an unexpected but welcome twist to the album, showcasing the band members’ collaborative spirit and commitment to their sound.

In addition to these highlights, a plethora of other metal acts are dropping new releases this week, catering to fans of black metal, speed metal, death metal, post-punk, and more. With such a diverse array of music hitting the shelves, metal enthusiasts have plenty to sink their teeth into and explore.