Interviews

Despite undergoing constant change and no shortage of difficulties, the Bay Area (San Francisco, Oakland, etc.) remains a significant stronghold for American heavy metal—and especially death metal. This in-depth feature includes perspectives from key bands (Ripped to Shreds, Vastum) and labels (Sentient Ruin Laboratories, Carbonized Records).

Near the end of 2021, while live music was briefly unrestricted in Hong Kong, the long-lasting hardcore band played an energetic set in their home town. Check out a live report and photos here.

Stream experimental collective Hadewych's upcoming album "Mes" early and check out an interview.

Initially starting life as songs meant for a new Massacre album, Inhuman Condition's debut album "Rat°God" is a joyful throwback to classic death metal. Check out an interview with guitarist Taylor Nordberg.

The Mizmor mastermind discusses the minutiae of his new album and what exactly left him at "Wit's End."

Maryland-based Devil's Reef discuss their inspirations and approach to death metal, which renders cosmic horror via digestible, riff-packed experimentation.

Blackwater Holylight tap into psychedelic doom's emotional power on their latest album—read an interview with vocalist/bassist Allison "Sunny" Faris.

Five years after their debut EP, the German heavy metal band returns with a new album "Decay"—check out an early stream and read an interview with guitarist Phil M.

Featuring members of Traveler and Blackrat, this Canadian sci-fi metal outfit blends heavy, doom, speed metal and more into a jubilantly outlandish offering. Stream their debut EP early and read an interview with the band.

Two progressive metal guitarists, both of whom use imposing Warr guitarists, discuss Aziola Cry's latest album and their weapons of choice. Plus, check out a new playthrough video of "The Ironic Divide Part One: Premonitions."