KINGDOM OF GIANTS - USURPER (SharpTone Records)

Building on the band's sonic evolution with the EPs, Bleeding Star and Burning Chrome, the latest full length ushers in the band's most complete iteration to date. Usuper also finds Dana Willax pulling double duty, stepping into his role as the band's producer in addition to his lead as frontman. Defined by eruptive guitars, electronic accents and a fluid shift from metallic heft to massive melody, Kingdom of Giants submit a collection of tracks that feel polished without compromising any power. 

WALLS OF JERICHO - SYSTEM ERROR: HUMANITY (Napalm Records)

At the very heart of Walls of Jericho is the unwavering conviction of vocalist Candace Buckingham. Asserting a special command on every track, Buckingham's ability to convey that same charge onstage translates on record for one of the band's most triumphant releases of their career. Produced by Kurt Ballou and bolstered by guest appearances from Randy Blythe of Lamb of God as well as  Guy Kozowyk of The Red Chord, the pace of the album brilliantly captures the spark of their live set. Paired with a sentiment of rebellion, Walls of Jericho execute reaffirming metallic hardcore emphasizes the importance of their genre. 

CRO-MAGS - THE AGE OF QUARREL: 40 YEARS OF QUARREL (BLK||BLK)

Revisiting one of crossover's most definitive releases, Harley Flanagan along with original Age of Quarrel era guitarist Doug Holland, drummer extraordinaire Greyson Nekrutman and producer Arthur Rizk pay homage with a refresh of the iconic album. Reenergized by guest features from the likes of Suicidal Tendencies guitarist Rocky George, Turnstile's Meg Mills and Zach Blair of Rise Against, the album's classic entries prove evergreen, showcasing the kind of durability that still holds strong four decades in. The classics never go out of style and such is the case for Cro-Mags and The Age of Quarrel. 

SILVERTOMB - THE INTERPRETATION OF NIGHTMARES (Steamhammer)

The first release in more than seven years, doom progressives Silvertomb, led by the Type O Negative battery of Kenny Hickey and Johnny Kelly, have submitted a juggernaut of sophomore release. The kind of release well worth the wait, The Interpretation of Nightmares moves from cinematic to sinister with a level of style and execution that adds an elegance to dark, heavy, ominous music. Adding in a bit of post metal sheen, the polished production of the songs speak to the songwriting prowess of such an accomplished, respected crew. 

RECLUS.É- THE WORLD CAN'T TAKE MUCH MORE (Rise Records)

The pairing of Soren Bryce of Tummyache and Daniel P Carter prove especially potent on the duo's first full length offering, The World Can't Take Much More of This. Co-produced with Peter Miles, the tandem works in lockstep with a collection of songs that suggest true collaboration and creative symbiosis. From expansive and ethereal to aggressive and cathartic, the 13-track presentation covers a broad emotional spectrum with songwriting skill that conveys sincerity.  Bryce and Carter's sonic chemistry is evident in way that suggests longevity well beyond an impressive debut. Sturdy, stylish and sophisticated without pretense, Reclus.é are the real deal.