Here are some of our favorite releases from the past month.
Featured Releases
Witchsorrow – The Devil and All His Works | Church Road (July 3)
Witchsorrow has been a staple in the doom and stoner metal scene for two decades, and their latest album, The Devil and All His Works, is a testament to their enduring legacy. This fifth LP is their first release since 2018, and it brings a delightful mix of heavy doom and infectious fun, propelled by stoner-rock elements that have become more pronounced since their self-titled debut in 2010. With catchy riffs and impressive solos, this album serves as an excellent entry point for newcomers to the band.
–Steve Lampiris
Lander – Acid Jungle | Wergild (July 3, 2026)
In the wake of America’s semiquincentennial, Lander’s Acid Jungle stands out as a remarkable achievement from the Wergild collective. This album continues the interplanetary journey initiated in their 2023 EP, showcasing a diverse array of riffs that range from tremolo chords to punchy heavy metal chugs. The ethereal synths and clean guitar arpeggios create an otherworldly atmosphere, while Krieger’s dynamic drumming guides the listener through an epic sonic battle. Dive into Acid Jungle for an immersive experience.
–Alex Chan
Luminous Veil – Agita Knelling | Independent (July 1)
Luminous Veil’s Agita Knelling is a refreshing addition to the landscape of American post-2010s black metal. Instead of getting lost in sentimentality, this album embraces atmospheric elements while maintaining solid songwriting. The band’s ten LPs released since 2018 have honed their craft, resulting in a sound that blends post-black metal with shoegaze influences. The title track exemplifies this fusion, showcasing a mix of DSBM and melodeath riffs while rallying against nihilism and providing a sense of upliftment.
–Colin Dempsey
Götterkrieg – Mortífera Volúpia Ancestral | Madre Muerte Productions (July 26)
Emerging from Brazil, Götterkrieg has quickly captured attention with their unique blend of black metal and dungeon synth. Their newest EP, Mortífera Volúpia Ancestral, marks a shift toward symphonic black metal, featuring impressive compositions and an engaging intro track. The album opens with “Clamor Triumphalis Antitheonis,” which showcases classic symphonic black metal elements, and it continues to deliver with tracks like “Solve Et Coagula” and the title piece. Allocerius’s songwriting and Anubious’s vocal performance contribute to an album that promises to reignite interest in the genre.
–Eric Wing
Conclusion
The past month has seen a wealth of diverse and exciting releases across the metal spectrum. From the heavy and fun riffs of Witchsorrow to the atmospheric explorations of Luminous Veil, and the symphonic prowess of Götterkrieg, each album brings something unique to the table. These artists continue to push boundaries and redefine their genres, making it an exciting time for metal enthusiasts.
FAQs
What genres do these albums represent?
The featured albums showcase a variety of genres, including doom metal, stoner rock, post-black metal, and symphonic black metal.
Are these albums suitable for newcomers to metal?
Yes, albums like Witchsorrow’s The Devil and All His Works are particularly accessible for newcomers, offering catchy riffs and engaging songwriting.
Where can I listen to these albums?
Most of these albums are available on popular streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Bandcamp.
How often are new releases reviewed?
Reviews of new metal releases are typically published monthly to highlight the best and most interesting albums in the genre.