Weekly Review Roundup: Monday 18th August 2025 – Friday 22nd August 2025
From intense technical deathcore to audacious modern metalcore, exciting alternative punk rock, dynamic synth rock, and epic symphonic metal. We’ve reviewed some great releases this week, and here’s our weekly reminder of what has been covered. All these releases are out now!
Signs of the Swarm – To Rid Myself of Truth (Century Media)
Naturally evolving to have a more technical and progressive edge, while being as undeniably intense as ever, Signs of the Swarm hit a career high with this latest album and so much of why that is can be laid at the feet of vocalist David Simonich, who has taken a more personal approach on this record. Wearing his heart on his metaphorical sleeve, which creates a new kind of connection, and adds a freshness to the brutality of the album’s sound.
Be under no false illusions though, while Signs of the Swarm are evolving, they’re sounding heavier, nastier, and more intense than ever.
Check out the full review here.
Fates Messenger – Eternal War (Greyline Records)
Reaching peak form here, Fates Messenger’s new EP is a beast. A modern, groove-infused metalcore beast that drags the scene kicking and screaming forward. All because what they do is audaciously anthemic and they approach everything with a passion that beggars belief. Putting it simply, this is one of the finest heavy listens of the year that expertly blends metal and core.
Check out the full review here.
Dinosaur Pile-Up – I’ve Felt Better (Mascot Records)
Welcome back Dinosaur Pile-Up, how we have missed you. To think, there was a very real possibility that this album (and any album) would ever happen. Yet, here we are and what a joyful thing it is. Dinosaur Pile-Up are back, and back with a banger of a release.
Check out the full review here.
Zetra – Believe (Nuclear Blast)
The rise of Zetra is in full force now, and the dynamic alternative synth-heavy rock duo aren’t letting their momentum slow down for a second, returning with a five-track showcase of their evolved and focused sound. Where pop meets rock, and synth is king, the result is a highly dynamic release.
Check out the full review here.
Blackbriar – A Thousand Little Deaths (Nuclear Blast)
Epic and powerful, Blackbriar don’t shake up the dark symphonic metal formula much here but do deliver a captivating album that is filled with fantastical power. Dominated by glorious vocals, it is a record that showcases a band at the top of their game.
Check out the full review here.
