Exploring the Depths of Underground Metal: Cheap Thrills Edition

Spring was in full swing for a while there, but now I have the heat back on and I’m bringing my plants indoors every other night. I sure wish I had some sick name-your-price releases that could save me some money AND help me work through my ineffectual annoyance with the weather…

As luck would have it, that’s exactly what we have in store for this edition of Cheap Thrills. These albums won’t solve your first-world problems, but you’ll probably feel better about yourself after supporting underground metal!

Moon Wisdom – Let Water Flow (January 16, 2026)

Italian black metal trio Moon Wisdom makes a surprisingly fun debut with their album, Let Water Flow. The heavy metal influences shine through, particularly in the opening track “As Rain,” which features galloping melodies and catchy riffs that draw you in. While clean and catchy black metal isn’t usually my preference, the earworm main riff and its various recontextualizations throughout the song are hard to resist. The album’s centerpiece, “Frozen Soul,” is a mid-paced ballad that masterfully blends the epic Hellenic sound of the 90s with the neofolk textures of the early 2000s. Although this release is outside my usual realm, it may just encourage me to embrace a more playful side of black metal.

Hostile – Anhédonie à perte de vue (January 20, 2026)

Hostile is a one-man project that deserves attention with its debut album, Anhédonie à perte de vue. This misanthropic, blackened maelstrom makes an immediate impact, with the first track clocking in at 13:37. While it won’t improve your Counterstrike skills, it is relentless and visceral. One standout track, “Knives of the Night,” slows the pace while amplifying the intensity, showcasing haunting guitar melodies and indecipherable chants. Hostile, also known as Sommeil, has crafted something truly special with this project.

Powerplant – Bridge of Sacrifice (March 13, 2026)

Another solo project, Powerplant, takes a unique approach in Bridge of Sacrifice. Initially conceived as a synth-punk band, Theo Zhykharyev now incorporates black metal influences, resulting in an album that is both baffling and captivating. The track “Bad Moon Motel” opens with a languid, warbly vocal style paired with drunken slide guitar, creating a surreal atmosphere. As the song progresses, you’re transported through a fantastical journey reminiscent of a video game, blending punk energy with dark, whimsical themes.

Slave Agent – Silent Universe (March 22, 2024)

Moving on from solo ventures, Slave Agent emerged from the ashes of Autonoesis, a one-man tech-y blackened thrash band. Their second album, Silent Universe, features relentless tempos and shredding that propel each track into a cosmic frenzy. However, the impressive melodies woven throughout offer a unique listening experience, catching your attention just before you’re engulfed in the chaos of sound.

Potion – Split w/ Failure Addict (October 20, 2023)

California trio Potion delivers an insane grindcore experience with their release, Split w/ Failure Addict. This collaboration showcases agonized howls, atonal chaos, and explosive percussion, creating a unique auditory experience. The aggressive sound may be headache-inducing, but it commands respect for its originality. On the flip side, Failure Addict provides a slightly less frenetic but equally unhinged auditory assault, promising to ruin anyone’s day when blasted from your car stereo or backyard speakers.

Conclusion

This edition of Cheap Thrills has introduced a variety of underground metal releases that showcase the creativity and diversity within the genre. From the melodic black metal of Moon Wisdom to the chaos of Potion, these albums remind us of the richness of the underground scene. Support these artists and enjoy the journey through their unique soundscapes!

FAQs

What is the purpose of the Cheap Thrills column?

The Cheap Thrills column aims to highlight underground metal releases that are available as name-your-price options, allowing fans to discover new music while supporting independent artists.

Are these albums available for free or pay-what-you-want?

Yes, many of the albums featured in this column are available under a name-your-price model, making them accessible to all fans.

Who are some of the featured artists in this edition?

This edition features artists such as Moon Wisdom, Hostile, Powerplant, Slave Agent, and Potion, each bringing a unique sound to the underground metal scene.

Can I find these albums on popular streaming platforms?

While many underground releases might not be available on mainstream streaming platforms, you can often find them on Bandcamp or the artists’ official websites.

Why should I support underground metal artists?

Supporting underground metal artists helps to ensure the continuation of diverse and innovative music. It also allows artists to create and distribute their work independently, fostering a vibrant music community.