Metal Hammer's Tracks of the Week: August 14, 2026
As the summer sun begins to wane, the anticipation for autumn's chill and the promise of spooky season intensifies. And what better way to embrace the changing seasons than with a diverse selection of metal tracks that will send shivers down your spine? Here's a breakdown of some of the most intriguing releases from the world of metal, as curated by Metal Hammer.
Mastodon - In The Ruins
Mastodon's latest single, In The Ruins, showcases their signature blend of heavy riffs and melodic passages. With the release of their upcoming album, Marrow Deep, just around the corner, this track serves as a tantalizing glimpse into their evolving sound. The band's ability to shift between powerful and subdued moments is a testament to their musical prowess, leaving fans eager for more.
Noctule - Goddess Of Rot
Serena Cherry, formerly of Svalbard, introduces her solo project Noctule with the hauntingly beautiful Goddess Of Rot. This track embodies the raw emotion and intensity that fans of Svalbard have come to expect. With the release of her second album, Extinguish Thy Flame, Noctule promises to deliver a captivating listening experience that will resonate with those who appreciate the darker side of metal.
Green Lung - Black Magick Radio
Green Lung's Black Magick Radio is a groovy, late-60s/early-70s inspired track that exudes a sense of dark magic. The band's playful approach to old-school keyboard sounds adds a modern twist, making it a standout addition to their upcoming album, Necropolitan. Prepare to be enchanted by their unique blend of retro and contemporary influences.
The Cartographer - Griefworn
The Cartographer's Griefworn is a relentless and oppressive track that showcases the band's mastery of modern metal. With a sense of impending explosion, this song is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners. Their debut album, The Collapse Of A Bitter End, is set to be released on September 18, marking a significant milestone in their musical journey.
Godflesh - Living/Ending
Godflesh, the industrial metal pioneers, deliver a nihilistic vision with Living/Ending from their upcoming album, Decay. With Justin Broadrick's recent health issues affecting his performance, the band's retirement looms, making this track all the more significant. Their enduring impact on the metal scene cannot be overstated, and their final albums are sure to be highly anticipated.
Zilqy - World’s End
Zilqy, a new Japanese group, brings a contemporary twist to the industrial metal genre. World’s End showcases their unique blend of heavy riffs and radio-friendly sensibilities. With their debut album, Birth Of Riot, set for release on October 7, Zilqy is poised to make a lasting impression on the metal community.
Battlesnake - Mud Apocalypse
Battlesnake's Mud Apocalypse is a vibrant and energetic track that pays homage to traditional metal glory. Their colorful and playful approach to the genre has earned them a place as festival mainstays in the UK. With their unique style, they continue to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Gradience - Undone
Gradience's Undone is a genre-blending masterpiece, seamlessly fusing post-black metal and hip hop. The track's contrasting styles create a captivating contrast, showcasing the band's versatility. Their debut album, Anomaly, is set to be released on September 4, marking a significant step in their musical evolution.
Netherwilds - Helm Yeah
Netherwilds brings a unique blend of early 90s New York vibes and 16th-century aesthetics with Helm Yeah. Their tongue-in-cheek approach to music adds a layer of humor, making them a standout act. Their debut album, Peasant Rising, is set to be released on October 9, promising an entertaining journey through their distinct sound.
Hippotraktor - Oblivion Walker
Hippotraktor's Oblivion Walker is a cosmic masterpiece that seamlessly blends the technicality of Tesseract with the melodic prowess of Mastodon. This track showcases their remarkable ability to create a captivating soundscape. With their upcoming album, Annihilist, set for release on October 2, Hippotraktor is poised to deliver an unforgettable listening experience.
In conclusion, Metal Hammer's Tracks of the Week offer a diverse and captivating selection of metal music. From Mastodon's evolving sound to Noctule's haunting beauty, each track brings something unique to the table. As the summer fades, these releases provide a perfect soundtrack to embrace the spooky season in style.
