Single Slam: Tribe of Ghosts, Normandie, Kath & the Kicks, Second Cities, Sugar Spine, Vermont, The Black Hounds, Blanket, Void of Vision, Nervosa, Everlyne, Solars, Psython, Nasty, Doro, Extinction A.D, and Waterlines!

This week’s single slam features Tribe of Ghosts, Normandie, Kath & the Kicks, Second Cities, Sugar Spine, Vermont, The Black Hounds, Blanket, Void of Vision, Nervosa, Everlyne, Solars, Psython, Nasty, Doro, Extinction A.D, and Waterlines. You can read our thoughts about the latest singles from these bands below.

Tribe of Ghosts – Hive

Brighton’s industrial/post metal band Tribe Of Ghost have shared a brand new single titled ‘Hive’. It comes ahead of their appearance at this year’s Bloodstock Open Air Festival. The band will be performing on the Sophie Lancaster stage on Saturday 12th August 2023.

Says Guitarist Adam Sedgwick:

When we were writing Hive, we felt that we were at a point where we understood our sound and what we wanted to create. With this in mind, we wanted to craft a song that sets the scene of the world that we build with our music, that explores the electronic and the organic, and declares our intent of giving into the chaos that oozes out of us on stage and in the writing process.

The Tribe of Ghosts train keeps on rolling on, picking up speed, delighting everyone on board already and seeing more and more people jumping on as it goes screaming past their station. It’s Tribe of Ghosts and Hive might be the best thing they’ve released yet.

For starters, it is heavy… very heavy, it is fast… very fast, and the two combined result in something chaotic and frenetic. Yet, that’s not all. Of course, Tribe of Ghosts are the champions of infusing eccentric and emphatic industrial effects into their post-metal sound, and this is no different here. Giving the track an ever-sharper sound, with massive cinematic value. Lastly, we have to mention just how well the two vocalists of the band are playing off each other, they are both phenomenal here. Talk about a band finding who they are. This is an exceptional song.

Normandie – Blood in the Water

Stockholm trio, Normandie, have returned with, ‘Blood in the Water’, their first new music since 2021’s ‘Dark & Beautiful Secrets’ album.

Speaking of the track, frontman Philip Strand says:

Blood In The Water is about how “hurt people, hurt people”, how negativity is contagious and how it can lead people into negative spirals, where they unknowingly hurt the ones around them.

They’re back and picking up exactly where they left off, with a massive and modern alternative rock hit. One completely rooted in catchiness, Blood in the Water is as infectious as it can possibly get and has a chorus that most will be singing for hours, days, and weeks afterwards. We’ve missed you, Normandie. Check it out here.

Kath and The Kicks – Neptune

Leeds, UK rock band Kath and The Kicks have released their new single brand-new single, Neptune.

Says the band:

Neptune was written in our early days and has evolved over time as our live sound has developed. Initially as a set-opener, NEPTUNE has always been about power and impact. As a 3 piece, our attitude is to maximise every single sonic possibility; the song creates space to showcase the rock/grunge range we have as a band. Moving between two different feels, the song combines classic power rock vocal melodies and arena-style drums over the chorus, alongside the gnarly bass line and spacious guitars in the verse. Our aim is always to fill our sonic space with balanced energy. Written about upholding an internal compass, NEPTUNE talks about strength in solitude and the power of being honest, both to those around you and to yourself.

A bit of Kath and The Kicks is always welcome, especially when the track in question is such a cool blend of rock and grunge. A bit dirty, a bit groovy, and extremely infectious. The group showcase both sides of the band strongly and leave you feeling buoyed by the foot-tapping excitability of the tune, even if it has an underlying moodiness brought on by the grungy side of things. Check it out here.

Second Cities – Chewing Teeth (feat. Ryan McCombs)

Birmingham based, emo-rock and metal band Second Cities are back with a brand-new single called, Chewing Teeth. It features a collaboration with Drowning Pool/SOiL vocalist, Ryan McCombs.

A collaboration that absolutely no-one could have seen coming, a collaboration that really shouldn’t work, but a collaboration that results in something pretty damn special. The combination of the talents with Second Cities and the talent of Ryan McCombs gives us an absolute anthem. One that sees the band go that little harder, but with all their usual beloved emo-tastic passion. Then you have what Ryan McCombs does, adding some real ‘grr’ to the track. The highlight being when he combines voices with Second Cities vocalist Jamie Martin.

Sugar Spine – Pseudo Panther

Only a short time after dropping the huge single Hisashi, featuring Cabal vocalist Andreas Bjulver, Sugar Spine are back with a brand new single called Pseudo Panther, out now. An exploration on self-image and accountability, it points a crooked and worn finger at the hand connected to it, challenging the complexity of upholding one’s own standards whilst constantly questioning them.

Sugar Spine are band that always delivers fast and heavy intensity, and to the surprise of literally no-one, this new track is more of the same. Yet, it’s not a recycled showcase of this band’s abilities, rather another stomping example of how powerful their chaotic metal can be. It rages, and rages extremely hard. A meaty and mean head-banger that fills the veins with fire.

Vermont – Regretting Me

Hailing from Melbourne’s West, four-piece melodic alt rock outfit Vermont have released their new single, Regretting Me. It uncovers feelings that accompany a relationship that’s nearing its end. Tackling bittersweet feelings of anger, confusion, melancholy and regret.

A bit emo, very melodic, and blending pop with rock, Vermont take the title for the most accessible track of the week. Robust instruments, led by some outstanding vocals, it’s a track that explodes into life when the chorus comes along. It’s massive and shows the passion that Vermont have in their delivery. Check it out here.

The Black Hounds – Break The Cycle

Following on from January and April releases, ‘Foundations’ and ‘Tyrant’ respectively, hard hitting metal band, The Black Hounds have released their third single of 2023, Breaking The Cycle.

The band says:

We are really enjoying pushing ourselves to our creative limits with the singles we have released this year. ‘Breaking the cycle’ is another chapter in that story. We are writing songs that we would enjoy listening to, with no agenda, just with the intent for them to be as enjoyable as possible. We are over the moon with how ‘Breaking the Cycle’ has developed and we hope others feel the same.

The Black Hounds continue to make waves as this latest single finds them in a one hell of a groovy mood. Delivering an injection of adrenaline to the heart, the track is extremely anthemic. This coming from some absolutely screaming riffs, thumping drums, and epic sounding vocals. Some melodic touches, including a heartfelt tempo drop, and a big chorus helps make this one hell of a banger.

Blanket – Ghost Note

Blanket is a post-rock band from Blackpool, UK, known for their powerful and atmospheric soundscapes. On September 1st, they will release their new EP, Blues Eyes and have now revealed the latest single, Ghost Note.

One of two original tracks from this upcoming EP, Ghost Note is a wonderful encapsulation of who Blanket are. It’s dripping in emotion melody, mournful and soulful, but with layered authority. Blanket hold back to give the listener a more subtle performance, focusing on the dramatic but not quite following the expected formula. It’s a very pretty track. Check it out here.

Void of Vision – Angel of Darkness

Following the release of Chronicles a new future starts now, with Void Of Vision poised to entice you further into their universe with the Angel Of Darkness at the helm.

It speaks:

Following the scintillating conclusion of the CHRONICLES trilogy earlier this year, a metamorphosis is underway for Melbourne’s Void Of Vision. The human form of Jack Bergin is gone; his whereabouts unknown, for now. I am here to speak in his place, your Angel of Darkness. Human to some. A deadly kind of divine.

Transcending boundaries and the fabric of reality, I have materialised onto this plane, and invite you now to bear witness to a brand new chapter. Let us begin with a brand new anthem, a sonic tribute to my arrival: Angel Of Darkness.

Ingest alt metal flourishes, weighted equally by searing heavy and pulsing pop. Experience vulnerable lyricism balanced with a broad range of influences spanning Charli XCX to Meshuggah. No genre can hold Void Of Vision, and the beautiful darkness consumes them after a decade of aggressive onslaught. Are you watching closely?

You really can never know what you’re going to get with Void of Vision, and while they are a fascinating example of modern, experimental thinking, not everything they have done has hit the mark personally. This is not one of them, it’s a strong showcase of Void of Vision’s personality and creativity, touches of the past but still extremely forward-thinking. The focus being on melody, notable by the amount of singing over screaming in it. That being said, the chorus does fall a little flat, even if it does have a certain anthemic quality. Check it out here.

Nervosa – Seed of Death

Thrash metal frontrunners Nervosa have announced their fierce fifth full-length, Jailbreak, out 29th September 29, 2023, via Napalm Records. The band have also unveiled their powerful new single ‘Seed Of Death’, along with a captivaing music video.

Vocalist/Guitarist Prika Amaral comments on the new single and album:

I’m very happy with the result of this song and our new album. I always wanted to have a song like this but it never happened for different reasons and now we can finally make it happen. Also, we were able to take even more risks and do new things. With two guitars the doors open to a whole new world of possibilities, in fact Nervosa had two guitars in the beginning, but then we decided to go with one guitar for logistical reasons, since it would be easier to move with one less person for tours. Now Nervosa has a much bigger structure that allowed this addition, and we are really enjoying this moment of the band. The process of writing this record was the most fun and brought the most musicality, enriching the band.

Guitarist Helena Kotina adds:

I think Jailbreak is Nervosa’s most revolutionary record, both musically and lyrically. It was a very challenging process but at the same time very constructive. We were able to take care of every detail until we obtained the best result.

The new dawn of Nervosa continues to get brighter as the trashers showcase their upcoming new album with a hard and heavy head-banger. Yet, this is an evolved Nervosa, notable by the grander, cinematic introduction. Although when it comes to going fast and furious, this band knows how to deliver. What is a surprise though, is how anthemic the chorus is. It’s extremely catchy!

Everlyne – The Inbetween (feat. Rivilin)

Melbourne alternative rock band Everlyne have catapulted in a formidable new direction with their latest single, The Inbetween, featuring a fiery guest-spot from Brisbane-based hip hop artist, Rivilin.

Speaking to the song’s themes and conception, vocalist Mackenzie Shaye shares:

The Inbetween describes the motion and feeling of taking back the power from someone who previously held it over you, whilst also learning to accept your own fate in the process.

A punchy, groovy and energetic tune with a wicked drumbeat, clever use of electronica, some interesting cinematic touches, and some really charming vocals. The Inbetween is an alternative anthem that is undeniably catchy from beginning to end. The inclusion of hip hop artist Rivilin adds a new layer, the artist giving a strong showcase, but not overshadowing the overall vibe of the track. Check it out here.

Solars – Retrograde

Instrumental post-rock/post-metal band Solars move forward and don’t look back with their new single ‘Retrograde.’ The culmination of a number of musical and personal feelings about the world we live in. Whilst each day starts anew it often feels like we are moving backwards rather than forwards. As Solars start their next chapter, they wanted to showcase progression and move forward with the music.

It always feels like a blessing to get new Solars music, but what’s even more joyful is to hear the band evolving as they are on this track. Upping the cinematic aspects, showcasing more technicality, and meandering into some heavy territories, all while not steering away from their thrilling instrumental melodious post sound. It’s a powerful track that grows in strength and stature as it goes on.

Psython – DTF (Desiring Thorough Fornication)

Sheffield Metalheads, Psython are back (well sort of). They are releasing new music. Written in 2019 but never recorded, as the world emerged from lockdown hilarity, Psython decided to record and release their fourth album. 10 new songs will be released online over the next year, a track at a time. The latest is DTF (Desiring Thorough Fornication) and it is out now.

They have said:

DTF (Desiring Thorough Fornication) argues that being horny is not, in fact, evil. And as the late T. Turner pointed out; what has love got to do with it?

A speed and thrash infused number, this Psython track might not be the sexiest thing you will ever hear, but the heavy intensity of it will certainly turn on the head-banger in all of us. They’re having some fun with this one, but its less foreplay, and more getting down to business with all the intensity of a beast. The frantic pace is certainly heart-pounding, and as far as quickies go, it sure leaves you feeling satisfied. Check it out here.

Nasty – Roses

All roses turn to dust! Love hurts… especially when it is not returned.

So says Nasty about Roses, their latest single and video taken from their upcoming album, ‘Heartbreak Criminals’, that is due for a release on September 8th.

An absolutely savage listen, Nasty take the crown for the most violent track of this week’s Single Slam. The band are synonymous with aggression, but what many overlook is the meaning within. Nasty are nasty, but not without reason, and Roses is a great example of that. Although if you just want to stomp and gurn for nearly three-minutes straight, it won’t disappoint in that regard either.

Doro – Living After Midnight (Judas Priest Cover – feat. Rob Halford)

Doro’s new masterpiece ‘Conqueress – Forever Strong and Proud’ will be released worldwide on October 27th via Nuclear Blast. For this special anniversary album, celebrating her 40th year in music, it would be unthinkable not having some guests of honour involved. So, the Metal God himself, Rob Halford of Judas Priest personally did Doro the honour of recording the immortal Judas Priest classic ‘Living After Midnight’ as a duet with her.

Doro comments:

Judas Priest and Rob Halford have always been one of my biggest inspirations and continue to be my heroes. It was so great working with Rob. ‘Living After Midnight’ has always been one of my favourite songs and I’m so proud of our duet!

It doesn’t get more iconic than this. The legend that is Doro with the legend that is Rob Halford, duetting on the legendary Judas Priest song, Living After Midnight. It couldn’t go wrong, and it doesn’t. A pair of stunning voices taking the track in a more modern direction, all while staying totally true to the core head-banging infectious nature of the original. It’s a great summation of Doro’s career to date and how she continues to deliver into the future. Check it out here.

Extinction A.D. – Mortality Bait

New York metal heathens Extinction A.D. return with another blistering slice of their signature metallic hardcore punk in the form of new single, Morality Bait. An evisceration of those exploiting morality for personal gain.

Vocalist Rick Jimenez elaborates:

Exploitation of moral causes is nothing new but it has never been more prevalent and transparent as it’s been recently. No surprise that people talk out of both sides of their mouth when there is profit to be made though. “Morality Bait” is a powerhouse song that takes the frustration with false allies and rallies for their destruction with the weightiest Extinction A.D. riffs yet.

You can never go wrong with a bit of thrash, and you can never go wrong with a bit of Extinction A.D. The head-bangers are back, and with plenty of fire in their bellies. Fast, frenetic, and with meatiness that makes you gurn, all while head-banging yourself into oblivion. It’s a hefty and lovable hit of heavy. Check it out here.

Waterlines – Anti Human

With their appearance at Bloodstock Open Air Festival 2023 where they will headline the Jägermeister stage on the Saturday night firmly on the horizon, Waterlines have lined up a brand new single to bring to the party.

Titled Anti Human, the new single from the Northern UK metalcore quartet covers the darker side of humanity and its behaviours, particularly when it comes to social media. Here’s Waterlines frontman Ben Mars to tell us more:

I guess I just had some shit to say about social media and how it’s affecting our humanity. I’m a social media-phobe and I particularly hate how people are hung drawn and quartered in the court of public opinion (rightly or wrongly). Sometimes it feels like we enjoy watching people burn for their sins a bit too much. We’ve become Anti Human.

Musically, we love to explore the beautiful synergy between a sweet melody and just absolute fuckin filth. Fun innit?

Bloodstock isn’t going to know what hit it when Waterlines take to the Jager stage, having already developed so much as a band that their fanbase has already grown to an immense size. Then you add a new track like this, a slamming, guttural, and beastly metalcore anthem. The chorus is gigantic, but that breakdown is where it’s at. Wonderfully nasty.