Album Review: ALT BLK ERA – Rave Immortal (Earache Records)

Genre defying sisters ALT BLK ERA will release their highly anticipated debut album ‘Rave Immortal’ on January 24th, 2025, via Earache Records.

I can not talk about Rave Immortal without first mentioning the very real and personal vein that runs through the album. One intrinsic to the sisters (Nyrobi and Chaya) as it focuses on chronic illness, its debilitating effects on the mind, body, and soul, support systems and their bond, finding strength through music, and so much more.

It’s an honest and emotional album, a true reflection of the sisters’ journey to this point, but it’s one of triumph. Here they stand, proud, and with one of 2025’s most anticipated new releases. That it exists and the name of ALT BLK ERA is being spoken far and wide already makes it a success regardless of what happens afterwards.

An apt title, the opening track Straight to Heart, cuts to the core, thanks to dramatic vocals that are tender, but powerful, and a peppy rhythm that gets heavier as it goes on. There’s a dreaminess to this one, but the big percussion and dance-style beats, act as an anchor to keep this likable start grounded. It, like so much of this album, has depth, but for those unfamiliar and looking to truly connect with something early on, Come on Outside is the one that will grab attentions.

It’s all about feeling safe and supported, the way Chaya made Nyrobi feel as she battled her illness. Oozing emotion, in that unique ALT BLK ERA way, this is a powerful showcase of old-school alternative rock, and the duo do a fantastic job of making something so personal, so relatable. It’s an album highlight, but so is the electronica-heavy energy-infused effort Crashing Parties. Even the Kvlt will find their body shaking to this one.

I get it though. Their music isn’t going to be for everyone, but I also suspect that many will dismiss the duo outright before even giving them a chance. All because of hype, and ALT BLK ERA have been hyped to the point where they almost seemed destined to disappoint. Yet, they are doing a phenomenal job of shutting up all haters. The proof is in this album and likable, catchy, and unique tracks like My Drummer’s Girlfriend and Hunt You Down.

Doubt if you must, but they’re on target to becoming one of the biggest alternative bands out there. Their ability to genre-bend and be accessible, no matter what, is special, and it does make things fly by in a bit of a blur. Although high-energy, jump around efforts like Upstairs Neighbours certainly helps. This track is going to go off live, all because of that chorus.

The passion this band has continues to be so prevalent as Come Fight Me for It well and truly goes off. You might struggle to stay still, regardless of where you are when you first hear this. Another absolute banger from a highly talented band and I absolutely love the high-pitched yelp that comes right at the end of the rising vocal line ‘if you want it, come and get it’. A personal favourite track.

They’re an unstoppable force now in the alternative music scene and I won’t be convinced of anything different. Not when this album has already hit so many highs and then along comes Run Rabbit and Catch Me if You Can. The latter of which is dramatic and bombastic.

Just ALT BLK ERA doing what ALT BLK ERA do. The hype is f**king real, and with some retro effects, feel-good energy, encouraging vocals, the title track finale sees the album go out with a bang.

ALT BLK ERA – Rave Immortal Track Listing:

1. Straight To Heart
2. Come on Outside
3. Crashing Parties
4. My Drummer’s Girlfriend
5. Hunt You Down
6. Upstairs Neighbours
7. Come Fight Me for It
8. Run Rabbit
9. Catch Me If You Can
10. Rave Immortal

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