Hailing from Norwich, UK, Birdwitch are a self-described “Dream Violence” band, blending elements of doom, shoegaze, post-metal and prog (amongst other influences).
Birdwitch offer an emotional, spiritual melting pot of rage, pain and catharsis, introspectively exploring in an attempt to heal, learn and grow in this short life.
Their debut EP, 'bless the spark that found its home', was released on October 7, 2025, featuring tracks such as “Starling.”
I got to sit down with members Raya (Vocals) and Kieron (Drums) where we talked about how the band started, the recording process for their debut EP, 'bless the spark that found its home', and the music scene in Norwich and more!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Birdwitch here: https://www.instagram.com/birdwitch_band/?hl=en
Track played: 'Calcify', ©️ all rights reserved Birdwitch
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Desertion draws inspiration from ‘90s punk greats like Seaweed, Knapsack, or Dear You-era Jawbreaker, and filtering them through a punchy modern lens to create visceral post-hardcore that's sure to inspire stage dives and catharsis in equal measure. "10 Days" follows earlier singles "Stale Change" and "Desert" (which drew attention from Stereogum, BrooklynVegan, and more), and the hard-hitting track and its accompanying delves deeper into the intense themes of Desertion.
Vocalist/guitarist Max Lajoie discussed the song and video, saying:
"'10 Days' about the time I spent by my mom’s side in the hospital after we learned she had cancer. She was gone 10 days after her diagnosis. The song captures what I felt for leaving her behind years earlier, for all the things I couldn’t do, for not being able to stop time. It’s about holding her hand as she passed and feeling like I was both present and absent, both there and not enough. It’s a reflection on how fast everything can unravel, and how love, even when it feels too late, is all we really have to give. The video drifts through an imagined version of the days that kept unfolding while I was gone—painting, cooking, waiting behind a fragile mask. It’s about coming back too late, and trying to say sorry through the fragments of what was left behind."
Desertion explores grief with uncommon vulnerability as Lajoie depicts the immense pain and complicated emotions around the unexpected passings of both his parents. “When I was 17, my dad passed away from suicide,” he says. “Then ten years later my mom called me to tell me she had cancer, and ten days later she passed..Desertion is more about how these tragedies have informed so much of my life–it’s about trying to look them in the eye and reassess them as an adult. I want to move past them but I also want to take some kind of lesson from them.” The stakes feel high with such painful and challenging subject matter, and Desertion holds nothing back musically or lyrically. This is 29 minutes of ultra-urgent music that's sure to leave an impression long after it's over.
I got to sit down with vocalist and guitarist Max Lajoie where we talked about the recording process for the bands album, 'Desertion', getting his thoughts on Deftones new album and what the music scene is like in Quebec, Canada.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Spite House here: https://www.instagram.com/spitehouseband/?hl=en
Track played: 'Desert', ©️ all rights reserved Spite House
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
French bruisers ten56. have announced the arrival of their brand new album, IO. The highly anticipated follow-up to their earth-shattering debut Downer will drop on 5th September via Out Of Line, presenting a more calculated, more aggressive and far darker version of the band than ever before. Pre-order and pre-save the album here.
To celebrate the news, ten56. have also shared a music video for their new single 'I Know Where You Sleep'. Clocking in at under 2 minutes, the single is an unrelenting statement of intent that sees the band brutally utilise blast beats, gutturals, dissonance and towering breakdowns to devastating effect.
Speaking on the album, the band shares:
“With IO, we’ve taken the distinct foundation on which we built our debut album on, and pushed that twisted, vulgar, yet vulnerable emotional rollercoaster even further. We thoroughly hope people enjoy the journey we created with this pivotal sophomore release.”
I got to sit down with members Aaron & Steeves where we talked about the recording process for the album, how they came up with the cover art and Disneyland.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out ten56 here: https://www.instagram.com/ten56hq/
Track played: 'I Know Where You Sleep', ©️ all rights reserved ten56
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Emerging from the vibrant underground music scene, K L P S is a force to be reckoned with in the realms of post-metal, sludge, and post-hardcore. Drawing inspiration from luminaries such as Breach, Burst, Converge, Neurosis, and ISIS, the band melds complex rhythms with emotive soundscapes, crafting an auditory experience that is both powerful and introspective.
Since their inception, K L P S has steadily carved out a name for themselves, earning significant airtime on renowned platforms, including Daniel P. Carter's BBC Radio 1 show. Their music has captured the attention of critics and fans alike, receiving mentions in prestigious publications such as AFTONBLADET and Sweden Rock Magazine. The band’s raw energy and thought-provoking lyrics have led to an insightful interview on Lambgoat and a highly regarded album premiere featured on Metal Injection.
Notable online music outlets like Brooklyn Vegan and No Echo have praised K L P S for their innovative sound further establishing their presence in the post-metal genre.
With the release of their self-titled album on These Hands Melt, K L P S is poised to reach new heights, inviting listeners into their immersive sonic world. As they continue to push boundaries and inspire a devoted fanbase, K L P S is not just a band; they are a movement, redefining the very essence of heavy music. Get ready to experience the intensity and depth of K L P S—where every note tells a story.
I got to sit down with vocalist and guitarist Daniel Wollenborg where we talked about the recording for their album, 'K L P S', how the band started and our thoughts on Deftones.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out KOLLAPS/E here: https://www.instagram.com/klps_music/?hl=en
Track played: 'UNDERTOW', ©️ all rights reserved KOLLAPS/E
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
We Lost The Sea is a cinematic instrumental band from Sydney, Australia. Formed in 2007, friends came together to create a new collection of noise that gathers relentless crushing guitars together with post-rock atmospherics and brooding melody.
The group's debut full-length, 'Crimea', engineered and mixed by Cult of Luna's Magnus Linderg, was released in 2010. The group played several successful shows throughout Australia, including performances with American band Rosetta, and signed to Bird's Robe Records in 2012.
'The Quietest Place on Earth', the band's second full-length, appeared on the label that December. The album expanded the group's sound significantly, incorporating pianos as well as greater dynamic changes.
In March 2013, tragedy struck when their close friend and vocalist of the band, Chris Torpy, sadly took his own life at the age of only 24. This was devastating for the band, and the next two years were spent rebuilding and trying to figure out how to move forward with their music.
From 2015 to 2017 saw the band write and record their cathartic and emotional third album 'Departure Songs' and tour around Australia and Europe.
The new album 'A Single Flower' follows six years after their fourth album Triumph & Disaster', and it offers its heaviest - and most diverse
I got to sit down with drummer Alasdair where we talked about how he joined the band, the recording process for their new album, 'A Single Flower', and Dream Theater!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out We Lost The Sea here: https://www.instagram.com/welostthesea/
Track played: 'Everything Here Is Black and Blinding', ©️ all rights reserved We Lost The Sea
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
The future of British Metal lies in safe hands with Conjurer, who announce their long-awaited new album Páthos, to be released 1st July 2022 via Nuclear Blast.
Páthos is not an album for the half-hearted or faint-hearted. Elements of sludge, death, doom, black metal and hardcore influences clash and collide throughout, all masterfully finished by Will Putney's exquisite mix and master.
The fifty-minute runtime of Páthos is not without its moments of the sublime. That a band can be at once so triumphantly beautiful and gut-punchingly heavy is testament to Conjurer's quality, and a surefire sign of their future longevity at the top of Britain's heavy music scene.
A triumphant return from Conjurer following their world-renowned 2018 debut Mire, Páthos is a band flexing their creative muscles, deepening their approach and thought, and expanding their sound.
I got to sit down with guitarist and vocalist Dani Nightingale where we talked about the bands recent visit to Ireland in May with Make Them Suffer, the recording process for their album, 'Pathós', and Star Wars!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Conjurer here: https://www.instagram.com/conjureruk/?hl=en
Tracks played: 'All You Will Remember', ©️ all rights reserved Conjurer
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
The Rising Tide are a 4 Piece modern deathcore band based out of Manawatu, New Zealand. Originally formed in 2012 and disbanding in 2016, the band returned in 2021 with a new line up and improved heavy sound.
The Risings Tide’s sound consists of stupidly low tuned guitars, crushing sub drops, emotional orchestral elements and over the top harsh vocals. Their debut album, 'Trauma', came out the 21st of March, 3 years after their, ''Visions', EP.
I got to sit down and chat with Phil and Cody via the power of the internet where we chatted about how the band started, the recording process of their debut album, 'Trauma', and their favourite things about New Zealand.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out The Rising Tide here: https://www.instagram.com/therisingtide_official/?hl=en
Tracks played: 'Sick', ©️ all rights reserved The Rising Tide
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Slovenia’s most awesomely audacious, genre defying metal pioneers Within Destruction have officially announced their next chapter with the reveal of their upcoming album 'ANIMETAL'.
Speaking on the news of their upcoming album, the band share:
“ANIMETAL is a culmination of all the stylistic experimentations that preceded it. These tracks are unapologetically authentic to the band’s identity. With each album released after the band’s deathcore era, we have gradually pushed the boundaries of electronics, clean hooks, and pop sensibility. Each song has a unique identity within the tracklist while retaining the band’s signature heavy-core sound. In previous albums, we experimented with melodic choruses, but with ANIMETAL, they have become a defining feature of our music. Every song has its own hook and appeal, and we hope it resonates deeply with listeners.
“Thematically, ANIMETAL explores a wide range of subjects, shifting between fictional, larger-than-life characters and situations, and motifs that are deeply relatable to everyday life. Heavily inspired by anime plots and protagonists, the lyrics often take on a first-person perspective, portraying the struggles these characters face. From the grim battles within one’s own mind to the delusions we sometimes find ourselves lost in, and the crushing weight of the external world, we aim to create a connection with listeners through the storytelling in these tracks.”
Building on the momentum of their previous singles ‘DEMON CHILD’ and ‘KANASHIBARI’, WITHIN DESTRUCTION’s fifth studio album, ANIMETAL pushes their sonic experimentation to new heights. Combining their trademark brutality with anime-inspired electronic flourishes, the album reflects their fearless creativity and relentless drive to challenge genre boundaries.
I got to sit down with guitarist and clean vocalist Howard Fang where we talked about the recording process for, 'Animetal', playing the bands album release show at Club Asia in Japan, gearing up for European festivals and more!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Within Destruction here: https://www.instagram.com/withindestructiondm/
Tracks played: 'Cybergirl', ©️ all rights reserved Within Destruction
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Unto Others emerged in the summer of 2017, born from the frustration of singer/songwriter Gabriel Franco following the disbandment of his previous group. Initially named Idle Hands, the band served as Franco's creative outlet, allowing him full control over the songwriting process. With the addition of Sebastian Silva, Brandon Hill and Colin Vranizan, the band quickly gained traction in the underground music scene with their blend of old-school Heavy Metal, Goth, New Wave, and Post Punk. Their EP "Don't Waste Your Time" garnered critical acclaim, leading to a European tour and accolades from renowned metal publications.
The momentum continued as Unto Others entered the studio to record their debut full-length album, "Mana," produced by Gabe Johnston and Franco himself. The album's release in 2019 marked a significant milestone for the band, with positive reviews and high streaming numbers.
Despite facing challenges like visa issues and the pandemic, Unto Others persevered, signing with Roadrunner Records and releasing their sophomore album "Strength" in 2021. The album received widespread acclaim, and the band continued to tour extensively across the US, Europe and UK, supporting bands like Behemoth, Arch Enemy, Carcass and Napalm Death, building a dedicated fanbase worldwide. Building upon the resounding success of "Strength" in 2023, Unto Others introduced "Strength II ...Deep Cuts" featuring six previously unreleased tracks from the same prolific sessions produced by Arthur Rizk.
In 2024, Unto Others embarks on a transformative journey with industry titan Century Media for their highly anticipated third album, "Never, Neverland," set to launch on September 20th. Produced by acclaimed Tom Dalgety (Ghost and The Cult), the album not only solidifies Unto Others as successors to Type O Negative and the Sisters of Mercy but also marks them as a band on the verge of something unholy and massive. Building on their underground classics "Mana" and "Strength", the album represents a departure, with harsh light breaking through their darkened gothic and classic metal motifs. Lead singles like "Butterfly", "Raigeki ", the grandiose "Angel Of The Night" and punkish abandon of "Suicide Today" reveal a progression from their earlier sound, blending melodious gloom with punkish abandon.
Amidst this pivotal moment, the band's unwavering focus remains steadfastly fixed on extensive tours across Europe, the United States, and beyond. Fueled by relentless dedication and a fiery passion for music creation and audience connection, Unto Others charges forward. Their distinctive sound reverberates through the veins of contemporary heavy metal, solidifying their position in the genre's evolving landscape.
I got to sit down with Gabriel where we talked about the bands visit to Ireland in Febuary with Green Lung, the recording process for the bands album, 'Never, Neverland', and camping!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Unto Others here: https://www.instagram.com/untootherspdx/?hl=en
Tracks played: 'Butterfly', ©️ all rights reserved Unto Others
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Leading lights of British metal, Employed To Serve, take pride of place on the heavy metal world stage as they return with brand new single
'Atonement' feat. Will Ramos of Lorna Shore, plus long-awaited new studio album, 'Fallen Star', set for release on Friday, April 25th.
"We want to fly the flag for heavy metal and the traditions that it holds," offers guitarist and songwriter Sammy Urwin, "But at the same time we want to play our part in taking things forward."
Since meeting in their teens on the outskirts of Lurdon, vocalist Justine Jones and guitarist / co-vocalist Sammy have had their sights fixed on the road ahead. At first, it was all about standing with the local scene bands they admired, but before long they were forging a path of their own, lifers with a mission, evolving from the feral mathcore of their early EPs to detonating a full-throttle career high with 2021 album, 'Conquering. And now there's 'Fallen Star', an 11-track tour-de-force that sees the collective ETS vision refined to an even sharper degree...
Produced and mixed by Lewis Johns, a longstanding presence behind the desk, it features a number of special guests, including Killswitch Engage's Jesse Leach on 'Whose Side Are You On?' and Svalbard's Serena Cherry on 'Last Laugh'.
'Fallen Star', the band's third album via Spinefarm, is a record of dizzying diversity, yet also one that is utterly uncompromising.
I got to sit down and chat with Sammy Urwin where we talked about the recording of the bands new album, 'Fallen Star', working with Serena Cherry, Jesse Leach and Will Ramos on the album and going all the way back to 2021 where we talk about Download fest.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Employed To Serve here: https://www.instagram.com/employedtoserve/?hl=en
Tracks played: 'Whose Side Are You On? (Feat Jesse Leach)', ©️ all rights reserved Employed To Serve
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Formed in 1986, Exhorder’s journey has proven exciting, yet tumultuous. Fraught with euphoric peaks and crippling valleys throughout its existence, the band debuted that summer with the do-it-yourself demo recording, “Get Rude”. Swiftly building a strong local following in the New Orleans punk rock scene, Exhorder entered a legitimate 24 track studio in 1987 and crafted their controversial classic demo, “Slaughter In The Vatican”. From there, the international attention the band drew via the world of underground tape-trading was indisputable. However, as fate would have it, the band broke up for the first time in early 1988 due to internal struggles. A reformation ensued later that year, and Exhorder set out once again to pursue its vision.
The band soon signed with Mean Machine Records, but the label dissolved before the band’s debut could be completed. The contract was subsequently purchased by R/C Records, a subsidiary of Roadracer/Roadrunner Records. With a small recording budget and repairs to previous sessions, the album version of Slaughter In The Vatican was finally completed in 1990. With the assistance of legendary producer Scott Burns in 1990, Slaughter in the Vatican was finally completed nearly five years after much of the material was written.
In the years that followed the relaunch of the band, Exhorder has toured extensively in both the United States and Europe. The reputation the band has carried as a force onstage continues to grow. With a new release in association with Nuclear Blast completed and set for release in 2024, Exhorder are plotting another busy year performing worldwide.
I got to sit down with Kyle Thomas before the band played Whelans on the 21st of April where we talked about the band returning to Ireland, the recording process for their new album, 'Defectum Omnium', and his favourite Exhorder songs to play on guitar.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Exhorder here: https://www.instagram.com/exhorderofficial/?hl=en
Tracks played: 'Wrath of Prophecies', ©️ all rights reserved Exhorder
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Formed in 2023 by guitarist Liam Myers, Worm Circus emerged as a raw and aggressive force within the Potsdam hardcore scene. In 2024, Liam met drummer Ray Stevens at a local hardcore show, leading to a lineup shift that saw the band scrapping its original material and starting fresh.
With Ray behind the kit, they crafted a new sound, heavier and more intense than before. Soon after, bassist Dan Mariano joined
the fold, solidifying the instrumental section. Following a lineup change on vocals, Blair Hutchison stepped in to complete the band’s sonic assault. The debut EP from Worm
Circus blends unrelenting aggression with emotionally charged dynamics and lyrics through 4 unique songs.
With a DIY approach, the release was entirely self-produced
and engineered, in addition to being mixed and mastered by close friend and musical companion, Dustin Wright.
I got to sit down with Ray, Liam and Blair where we talked about how the band started, the recording of their debut EP, 'Worm Circus', the music scene in Potsdam anmd so much more.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check Worm Circus here: https://www.instagram.com/wormcircus/
Tracks played: 'Hidden Hand', ©️ all rights reserved Worm Circus
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
For over 35 years UK death metal legends Cancer have been delivering some of the most brutal and uncompromising music in the genre.
Now, they return with Inverted World, their highly anticipated follow-up to 2018’s Shadow Gripped. Set for release on 25th April via Peaceville Records, the album promises a return to their signature blend of serrated riffing, guttural vocals, and relentless aggression. Expect a dark and visceral journey into dystopia, corruption, and existential horror.
Speaking on the upcoming release, founding member and vocalist John Walker shared “I started writing the new material shortly after the Covid lockdowns. I nearly always usually start the writing process by basically fooling around on the guitar, then after a while riffs start to turn into musical ideas. The lyrics, I tend to spend some time thinking about a concept and then I pick the vocabulary appropriate to the idea. Inspiration comes from what's happening and what has happened in the world and curious tales that interest me. This album is the bands seventh full length release and I feel very fortunate at my age to still be able to do it, mixed by V. Santura I'm super happy with how it's turned out.”
Death metal titans Cancer burst onto the UK extreme metal scene over thirty-five years ago and quickly established a strong global following over the early part of their careers, primarily due to the release of the legendary debut To the Gory End, swiftly followed by the equally revered Death Shall Rise album, which notably also featured death metal maestro James Murphy on lead guitars. The band’s trajectory increased further with follow-up opus The Sins of Mankind, leading to a stint with major label EastWest under Warner Music.
2018 saw the band return after a long period of inactivity for comeback release and Peaceville debut Shadow Gripped, which reunited the original core trio for the first time since 1995 for a stellar nod to the glory days of old; savage, thrash-tinged deathly odes to the macabre, gaining the approval of old fans and a new generation of death metal maniacs alike.
In a year which also marks the 35th anniversary of the genre-classic debut, To the Gory End, founding member and vocalist/guitarist/songwriter John Walker leads a now-revamped quartet for Cancer’s seventh full-length album in the form of Inverted World. A relentless attack of masterful song-writing and brutal hooks, Inverted World explores the dark and murky world of manipulation and barbarity both past and present, with themes relating to shadowy entities and cult mentalities, including the brainwashing of people into compliance and the weaponizing of religion. And as an extra treat for the band’s fanbase in particular, the track ‘Corrosive’ also resurrects the old and familiar tale of the acid bath murderer.
I got to sit down and chat with John Walker where we chatted about the recording process for the bands new album, 'Inverted World', the bands upcoming gig in Ireland in September and working with James Murphy from Obituary.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check Cancer here: https://www.instagram.com/cancerofficialband/
Tracks played: 'Corrosive', ©️ all rights reserved Cancer
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Thrashing - quite literally - into existence in 2017 INHUMAN NATURE are on the cuswp their upcoming album, 'Greater Than Death', out the 25th of April! The London, UK firebrand continues to fly the flag for the new wave of thrash and crossover across three battleproof tracks.
Following their self-titled 2019 debut album, a split with UK contemporaries Road Mutant and a string of EP’s and singles, Under The Boot sees INHUMAN NATURE charge headfirst into themes of apocalypse, abyss and blind compliance, sparing no soul in the process. Vocalist, Chris Barling leads the group with venomous disdain across the EP’s 12 minute runtime, backed by a newly solidified line up composed of past members of Hang The Bastard.
INHUMAN NATURE’s amalgam of old-school thrash and NWOBHM influence is still the foundation of their sound, yet with a growing confidence following several releases and countless forays into the live circuit across the UK and Europe, the London quintet are set to unleash hell in a far darker way from here on out.
I got to sit down with members Chris (Vocals) and Daragh (Bass) where we talked about the recording process for their album, their upcoming performance at The Siege of Limerick and their last visit to Ireland joining Crowbar.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check Inhuman Nature here: https://www.instagram.com/inhumannature/?hl=en
Tracks played: 'Possessed To Die', ©️ all rights reserved Inhuman Nature
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Straight out of the Crescent City, BRAT are set to release their forthcoming debut album, Social Grace, via Prosthetic Records on March 15. Since their 2021 inception, the New Orleans deathgrind / hardcore band’s journey to date has been one of blistering ascension both on the road and in-studio with relentless US touring and two head turning EP’s already under their belt. Enter 2024 and BRAT are ready to give extreme music the pink pill.
Between an intense live schedule over the last three years, which saw BRAT share the stage with the likes of Eyehategod, Cro-Mags and contemporaries in grind such as ACxDC and No/Mas, the band recorded Social Grace over the course of a year and a half at HighTower Recording studio (Thou, A Wilhelm Scream, Eyehategod). Recording songs in batches helped BRAT finetune and focus their songcraft in condensed bursts, resulting in a coalescence of death metal, thrash, and powerviolence brutality.
BRAT’s self-described barbiegrind / bimboviolence aesthetic is one of intentional dichotomy to their sound, with a keen focus to allow space and inclusivity for outsiders that shirks the traditional in favor of jubilant authenticity. Feral and ferocious in content and anti-purist in nature, BRAT’s Social Grace is a cataclysmically heavy party that everyone’s invited to.
I got to sit down with members Liz, Brenner and Ian before they played The Academy in Dublin, on tour with Napalm Death, Full of Hell and Crowbar where we talked about how the tour was going, reflecting on the first birthday of their debut album, 'Social Grace', and more!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check BRAT here: https://www.instagram.com/brat_band/?hl=en
Tracks played: 'Barracuda', ©️ all rights reserved BRAT
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
Like, subscribe and always support the scene. Horns up and stay safe 🤘🤘
The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Living With Giants is an instrumental post-rock band from Sacramento, California. Starting as a solo project in 2009 by Ryan Mannie, the project gained more members, releasing their debut album in 2011. From 2014-2021 the band took some time off, finally returning as the duo of Carver Simmons and Ryan. The band has since continued releasing new music comprised of the crescendoing drums, droning bass, airy guitars and immersive atmosphere which they have become recognized for. In 2024 Living With Giants introduced Andrew Curteman as their percussionist, adding new sonic characters to their vocabulary. With a sound being described as both "waves of crashing distorted guitars" and "beautiful" listeners are offered a varied take on soundcrafting.
Formed by Ainsley Budd (Manchester) and Andrew Helliwell (Durham) in late 2022, they released their debut album "We Were Always Here" in November 2023.
Meeting at University in Manchester in 2013 the pair shared love for similar bands and genres.
Inspired by the likes of Radiohead, Biffy Clyro and Arcane Roots and post rock bands such as This Will Destroy You, Sigur Rós, Mogwai and Godspeed You! Black Emperor, their twisting style of post and alternative rock saw them sign with Stray Horse Records in the summer of 2023.
Partnering up with friends, Living With Giants, from the US in 2024/2025 to release a Split vinyl EP, having both bands release 2 singles each exclusive to the EP Selling out the first limited 10" vinyl run, they started a 2nd limited 12" run
The two bands teamed up to release a split EP which came out 7th of February.
I got to sit down with Ainsley, Andy, Carver and Ryan to talk about the recording of the EP, how the idea came about and more!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out both bands here:
https://www.instagram.com/beneathwavesband/
https://www.instagram.com/livingwithgiants/
Tracks played: 'On The Fall And Rise of The Light ' & 'UM7', ©️ all rights reserved benenathwaves & Living With Giants
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
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The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
It’s been 7 years since US Death Rock’s new rising sensation New Skeletal Faces arrived on our planet and embedded themselves in the seedy outlying corners of the Southern Californian music scene. Today, Peaceville are excited to announce that the California trio have signed to the label and will be releasing their new album Until The Night later this year.
Upon signing, New Skeletal Faces said “We are honoured to be joining the Peaceville roster and believe that there is no better asylum for NSF. Being alongside the most intense artists this earth has procreated, we look forward to this camaraderie in spreading our diseased view on what the darkness in Rock ‘n’ Roll should be”.
Formed in 2017, the trio of Errol Fritz, KRO, & Don Void present themselves as a cosmic abomination that tote the genre lines between all manners of darkness in music. New Skeletal Faces cast their own black light onto the long dormant corpse of Death Rock, shattering the mirror of modern Heavy Metal into fragments that reflect back a fresh new take on this form of music with an energised & outlandish conviction.
I got to sit down with members Errol & Don where we talked about the bands new album, 'Until The Night', the recording process for the album & their upcoming tour with Mayhem starting March 17th in Atlanta.
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out New Skeletal Faces here: https://www.instagram.com/newskeletalfaces/?hl=en
Track played: 'Ossuary Lust', ©️ all rights reserved New Skeletal Faces
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
Like, subscribe and always support the scene. Horns up and stay safe 🤘🤘
The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
August Burns Red is an American metalcore band from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, known for their technical instrumentation, heavy breakdowns, and intricate guitar work. The band formed in 2003 and has since become one of the most respected acts in the metalcore scene.
Known for their technical precision, uplifting themes, and relentless energy, August Burns Red has built a devoted fan base worldwide. They’ve toured extensively, headlining festivals and sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in metal. Their annual Christmas cover songs have also become a tradition, showing their playful side while maintaining their intense sound.
With the celebration of the 20th anniversary of their debut, 'Thrillseeker', the band have taken to the studio to re-record.
I got to sit down with bassist Dustin Davidson where we talked about the recording of the album, the tradition of Christmas Burns Red, and John Mayer!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out August Burns Red here: https://www.instagram.com/augustburnsred/?hl=en
Track played: 'Barbarian', ©️ all rights reserved August Burns Red
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
Like, subscribe and always support the scene. Horns up and stay safe 🤘🤘
The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
Rampaging into their 25th year as purveyors of the most ruthless extreme metal, Goatwhore return with perhaps the strongest album of their storied career. Angels Hung From The Arches Of Heaven is 47 minutes of their trademark blend of death, black, thrash and sludge metal delivered with breathless intensity and an unrepentant bloodlust, making for one of the most thrilling records to come out of 2022. “I would describe this record as being very raw, but clarity is shaped within the chaos,” states vocalist Louis Ben Falgoust II. “It’s a journey of everything we have done and some new approaches as we advance forward. When we write we mainly focus on the music and what we enjoy about playing it. We don’t write just to appease others, we want to enjoy playing it in a live setting as well, especially night after night on the road.”
Reaching a quarter century anniversary is a good time to pause and reflect on what has been achieved, and Falgoust is philosophical. “It has been a rough road, but looking back and reminiscing on the things we were able to do musically and touring wise, it has been very much worth it. You get so caught up in the touring and releasing albums cycle that every now and then you have to step off the momentum and just see what has been done. When you do get that opportunity, then the entire vision opens up and you really get to see the scope of accomplishments, and that is when every little piece comes together and the realization of the things you have done hits you.”
I got to sit down with guitarist Sammy Duet where we talked about the Turn Troubled Tables tour, the recording process for their album, Angels Hung From The Arches of Heaven and how the band got their name!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Goatwhore here: https://www.instagram.com/goatwhorenola/?hl=en
Track played: 'Angels Hung From The Arches of Heaven', ©️ all rights reserved Goatwhore
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
Like, subscribe and always support the scene. Horns up and stay safe 🤘🤘
The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/
New Orleans’ EYEHATEGOD is the snarling, bilious sound of dead-end America. Since 1988, they’ve been a soundtrack for the troubled masses. Ugly music for ugly times. That’s the sense of disenchantment and disease that lies the heart of their latest and sixth full-length album, “A History of Nomadic Behavior”. Anyone familiar with EHG’s story knows this is survivor’s music, a sound unto itself where Sabbathian riffs are meted out with a caustic anger that goes beyond punk. That’s been the blueprint since guitarist Jimmy Bower (also of NOLA supergroup, Down) founded the band in 1988 with vocalist Mike IX Williams joining not long after.
With a discography including sludge-punk mainstays like “In the Name of Suffering” (1990), “Take as Needed for Pain” (1993) “Dopesick” (1996) or 2014’s eponymously-titled LP, released in the US through Housecore Records, EHG laid the cracked foundation for their infamous and influential sound. “A History of Nomadic Behavior” finds the band, now slimmed to a four-piece rounded out by bassist Gary Mader and drummer Aaron Hill, leaner and meaner than ever; road-hardened by recent tours with Black Label Society, Corrosion of Conformity and Napalm Death in the US and abroad. From the bitter pill of opener “Built Beneath the Lies” to the hypnotic haze of closer “Every Thing, Every Day” it’s clear that that EYEHATEGOD hasn’t slowed or mellowed with time. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. This is disorienting, uneasy listening.
Music that still very much hurts.
I got to sit down with vocalist Mike IX Williams in Lost Lane before the band took the stage where we talked about the last night of the Turn Troubled Tables tour, how the band got their name and so much more!
With great stories, chats and banter this is not one to be missed.
Avalible on all streaming platforms.
Check out Eyehategod here: https://www.instagram.com/eyehategodnola/
Track played: 'Circle Of Nerves', ©️ all rights reserved Eyehategod
Edited by Richie Duhig of The Metal Cell Podcast.
Like, subscribe and always support the scene. Horns up and stay safe 🤘🤘
The Smashing Skull Sessions: https://www.instagram.com/thesmashingskullsessions/