Urso X Melancholic, cinematic black metal that could be the soundtrack for a documentary about psychological suffering under terminal, late-stage hyper-capitalism. The title says it all, really, and what it doesn’t say, the remarkable video for “Spectral Insomnia” certainly makes explicit. All that being said, BDA isn’t the soul-destroying buzz kill you might otherwise imagine; the musicality, artistry, and authenticity displayed elevates it to the realm of inspired (& inspiring) truth-telling. Kudos! Favorite track: Spectral Insomnia.

highmarx I’m here via Brad Sanders’ monthly metal column in Stereogum, having never heard this artist, and I was immediately awestruck. This one really breathes new life into atmospheric black metal, despite its brooding, ominous energy. I can’t recommend this enough. Favorite track: Opaque Mist.

Antrodemus This is a dark, melancholic album, beautifully composed like a film soundtrack. It feels immersive, like watching an emotional memoir. It speaks to me personally.
Best listened to from start to finish, it takes you through a bleak emotional journey. Respect to Januaryo Hardy, and thanks to all the supporting musicians. I hope this album serves as catharsis for you and for listeners who connect with it. Favorite track: Bleak Days Ahead, Pt. II.

BoboDupla Another fantastic LP by Pure Wrath. Really loving the sad, emotional vibe. The music is varied enough, there are elements of other genres present and the whole album takes you on a journey through all the bleak parts of the world. Favorite track: Opaque Mist.

Sean Bird I wanted to buy the vinyl but it's sold out! Good job guys!!! The future looks bright. Love this album.

kevinca I heard Sun, astray about a week ago and wept. The other two singles on this album are just as good. Preordered the album physically and digitally. No question this will be an AOTY contender in the metal community. Favorite track: Sun, astray.

TrackSlut Instantly fell in love with Karmanjakah after hearing Eyes Seeing Eyes. I heard it less than a week ago and have listened to it countless times. The way they can harness heavy and melodic in a track is rare and much appreciated. Highly recommend going through their back catalog and watching the music videos. Everything about this band is top tier. Viggo is also very open about sharing his guitar tabs and playthrough videos. It inspired me to pick up 7 string guitar again. ❤️‍🩹 Favorite track: Eyes seeing eyes.

scabsmoker Straight up Infester worship and it is phenomenal. Visceral, evil music that cuts deep into your soul. Already album of the year. Favorite track: Severed Gate Shroud.

P.H Ancient Evil Death Metal in the vain of infester. Pure 90s blasphemy. This is one of the best releases of 2026. Do you believe in evil? Favorite track: Sentiential Incantation.

osirisx3r0 I've been looking for quite some time for something I didn't think existed: death metal Deafheaven. This is about as close as I've gotten. How these guys have gone so far under the radar is beyond me. A couple minutes of this album and I knew I needed the whole discography. Favorite track: Darkness in the Light.

unriellistic Calming, beautiful and unique post-death metal.

Brandon Corsair Gorgeous and inventive death/doom that takes a well-trodden genre and twists it into something very, very special. What an impressive showing of force. Highly recommended not just for fans of the more gorgeous side of this genre but even to fans of Volahn or My Bloody Valentine. Favorite track: Cascading Flesh.