Get Your Riffs Out for some Midweek Mayhem
We've had a look at some of Ireland's Rock acts and we did a little overview of some of the current hip hop originating on tis crazy little island, so why not get a little louder.
Maybe a lot louder.
Ireland is producing some world class metal so throw up the horns, limber up that neck and let's grease the week with some darkness.
Raaaaaaawwwwrrr, and so forth.
Primordial - Babel's Tower
These lads are the Old Guard. Originating in 1987 under the moniker Forsaken, the renowned musical pioneers of Skerries County, Primordial, carved their niche in the music scene with their groundbreaking Dark Romanticism demo, establishing themselves as one of Ireland's earliest black metal acts. Their sound has evolved with subsequent releases, incorporating elements like mandolins and whistles and infused with dark, Celtic influences. Fast forward to the present, and Primordial boasts an impressive discography of ten albums, with How it Ends, their latest masterpiece released in 2023 under Metal Blade Records.
Waylander - Born to the Fight
Another classic Irish band. Formed in 1993 in Armagh, Northern Ireland, Waylander is a pioneering force in the Irish metal scene, blending elements of folk, black, and death metal with Celtic mythology and history. With their debut album "Reawakening Pride Once Lost" released in 1998, Waylander quickly gained recognition for their unique sound and lyrical themes rooted in Irish folklore. Subsequent albums like "The Light, the Dark and the Endless Knot" (2001) and "Honour Amongst Chaos" (2008) further solidified their reputation as one of Ireland's most influential metal bands. Despite lineup changes over the years, Waylander's dedication to their craft and their commitment to preserving Celtic heritage through metal music have earned them a devoted fanbase worldwide.
Mael Mórdha - Cluain Tarbh
Mael Mórdha, an Irish metal band with a rich Celtic heritage, emerged onto the metal scene in the early 2000s. Formed in Dublin in 1998, they drew inspiration from Irish mythology and history, crafting a unique blend of traditional Irish music and doom metal. Their name, meaning "great king" in Old Irish, reflects their thematic focus on ancient Gaelic legends and sagas. With powerful vocals, heavy guitar riffs, and haunting melodies, Mael Mórdha's music transports listeners to the battlefields and landscapes of ancient Ireland. Since their inception, they have released several albums, including "Cluain Tarbh" and "Gealtacht Mael Mórdha," earning them a dedicated following within the metal community.
Dread Sovereign - The Great Beast We Serve
Formed in 2013 by vocalist and bassist Nemtheanga (Alan Averill) of Primordial fame, Dread Sovereign emerged as a doom metal force from Dublin, Ireland. Joined by drummer Johnny King and guitarist Bones, the band's sound is deeply rooted in traditional doom with a touch of Celtic mysticism. Their debut album, "All Hell's Martyrs," released in 2014, showcased their penchant for epic, crushing riffs and haunting melodies, earning them acclaim in the metal underground. Subsequent releases like "For Doom the Bell Tolls" and "Alchemical Warfare" further solidified their reputation as purveyors of dark, atmospheric metal, with themes exploring ancient myths, folklore, and the occult. Dread Sovereign continues to captivate audiences with their mesmerizing blend of doom metal and Irish heritage.
Necrokinesis - A Force Made Flesh
Formed in 2017 in Ireland, Necrokinesis emerged onto the metal scene with a ferocious blend of death and black metal influences. With their intense and atmospheric sound, Necrokinesis quickly gained attention within the underground metal community. Drawing inspiration from themes of darkness, occultism, and the macabre, their music is characterised by blistering guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and menacing growled vocals. Despite being a relatively new band, Necrokinesis has already made a significant impact with their debut releases, showcasing their talent for crafting intense and immersive metal compositions. With their relentless energy and uncompromising approach, Necrokinesis continues to solidify their presence in the extreme metal landscape.
OGRE - Grind Crusher
A band that needs to be witnessed to be truly appreciated, Ogre's live show's are the stuff of underground legend.
Psykosis - Driller Killer
Formed in 2008 in Dublin, Ireland, Psykosis burst onto the metal scene with their electrifying thrash sound, drawing inspiration from the likes of Slayer, Metallica, and Testament. With their high-energy performances and razor-sharp musicianship, Psykosis quickly gained a reputation as one of Ireland's most formidable metal acts. Their debut album, "Toxic Terror Trax," released in 2011, showcased their signature blend of blistering riffs, breakneck speed, and relentless aggression. Over the years, Psykosis has continued to refine their sound and expand their fan base, delivering powerful live shows and earning accolades within the metal community. With their passion for classic thrash metal and their relentless dedication to their craft, Psykosis remains a driving force in the Irish metal scene, poised to conquer stages and unleash their sonic fury for years to come.
Destriers - Ephesus
Formed in 2012, Destriers is an Irish blackened hardcore band hailing from Dublin. With a sound characterized by intense aggression and raw emotion, Destriers infuse elements of black metal and hardcore punk to create their signature sonic assault. Drawing lyrical inspiration from themes of despair, introspection, and societal decay, the band's music resonates with a sense of urgency and catharsis. Since their inception, Destriers have gained recognition for their powerful live performances and uncompromising musical approach, solidifying their place within the Irish metal scene. With releases such as their self-titled EP and their full-length album "Cynosure," Destriers continue to captivate audiences with their relentless energy and uncompromising heft.
No Spill Blood - Eye Of Night
Emerging from Dublin's vibrant underground scene, No Spill Blood is a unique force in the realm of heavy music. Formed in 2012, the band quickly gained attention for their distinctive blend of post-punk, metal, and electronic influences. With their debut album "Heavy Electricity" released in 2014, No Spill Blood showcased their penchant for crafting dark, atmospheric soundscapes punctuated by crushing riffs and pulsating rhythms. Their live performances are renowned for their intensity and energy, drawing audiences into a hypnotic sonic journey. As they continue to evolve and push boundaries, No Spill Blood remains a captivating presence in the Irish music scene and beyond
Altar of Plagues - God Alone
Formed in Cork, Ireland in 2006, Altar of Plagues emerged as a prominent force in the black metal scene with their unique blend of atmospheric, post-rock-infused soundscapes. Initially starting as a solo project by James Kelly, the band expanded into a full lineup and released their debut album, "White Tomb," in 2009. This album garnered critical acclaim for its innovative approach to black metal, incorporating elements of shoegaze and ambient music. Over the years, Altar of Plagues continued to evolve their sound, releasing two more full-length albums, "Mammal" in 2011 and "Teethed Glory and Injury" in 2013, before disbanding in 2013. Despite their relatively short-lived existence, Altar of Plagues left an indelible mark on the black metal genre, influencing countless bands with their boundary-pushing music and atmospheric intensity
Hail Sata........
Yes. There are many bands we've missed but keep an eye! Maybe we'll revisit in time.
Pop in to Musicmaker, and maybe you can meet some of these lovely legends for yourself.
Until next time.