Photo by @rosstheisen

EMMA RUTH RUNDLE- THESE KILLING TIMES (Errant Child)

Featuring an ensemble of accomplished musicians, These Killing Times ropes in contributions from Jess Gowrie (Chelsea Wolfe, Mrs. Piss), Troy Zeigler, Patrick Shiroishi, Nick Reinhart (Tera Melos), Gina Gleason (Baroness), Marissa Nadler, Lukas Frank (Storefront Church) and Amelia Baker (Cinder Well). Written and composed by Rundle, the album touts sharp social commentary Rundle’s luxuriant  songwriting and performance. A presentation that is simultaneously confrontational and vulnerable, These Killing Times is an is career accomplishment.  

KRALLICE - SCOUR ORDER (Profound Lore)

New York veteran black metal force Krallice manage to bridge progression and tradition on their 16th full length studio album, Scour Order. The release, which also marks their return to Profound Lore, asserts musical extremity that is both focused and unfettered, precise and pummeling. For the black metal purist, the guitar tandem of Colin Marston and Mick Barr delivers plenty of frosty, frigid riffage that pays homage to the genre classics, all while constructing a distinct framework that allows Scour Order to feel modern just the same. 

LIKE MOTHS TO FLAMES -DOES HEAVEN EVER MOURN FOR ME (UNFD)

Assembled as collection of singles from the last couple of years following 2024's The Cycles of Trying to Cope, Does Heaven Ever Mourn for Me points to the continued progression of one of metalcore's most consistent and understated bands. Resuming their post with producer Landon Tewers, the tracks range from stylized glitch, soaring melodies and unrestrained intensity - pointing to the range of a band still unlocking new levels of artistry. Asserting their prowess as songwriters, Like Moths to Flames have elevated metalcore with an EP that suggests their best is still yet to come.  

UNCLE ACID AND THE DEADBEATS - SHAPES OF MIDNIGHT (Killer Candy Records)

Two years removed from their cinematic-concept deep dive embracing the 1960's psychological horror Giallo sub-category, Uncle Acid and the Deadbeats have returned with their seventh full length masterclass, Shapes of Midnight. Sourcing the ageless macabre of Edgar Allen Poe's The Masque Of The Red Death to set the stage aesthetically for Uncle Acid's "Evil Beatles" sound signature. Incendiary guitar work and layered compositions and intricate harmonies anchored the album was recorded to tape for an analog triumph of pure proto-metal power. Shapes of Midnight was also recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios - adding another element of timelessness that positions Uncle Acid and the Deadbeats in a league all their own.

SUNBLEACHED  - STOP DESTROYING THE THINGS YOU LOVE (Community Music)

The Brisbane prospects tow the line between progressive alt and spacey shoegaze on their impressive debut full length. The album's slow burn serves well in creating an ebb and flow of energy that makes for plenty of dramatic effect. Contrast with the band's youth, their obvious songwriting savvy is what hints to a greater potential that has only scratched the surface. The tracks are sturdy, self-assured and stylish in a way that balances the heavy and harmonic with a sure hand.