It can be overwhelming to keep track of all the new music coming out of Richmond. There is always some new project popping up or undiscovered band worthy of attention. This week we’re veering into death metal territory with Distrotter and Blazing Tomb alongside new punk project Molt to mix things up. Join us as we peel back the layers of distortion and aggression to reveal the heart and soul of Richmond’s hardcore community.
Got music worth checking out. Reach out to cj@rvamag.com
NEW TRACKS:
DISROTTER – THE RETCHED END (SINGLE)
Cold-blooded and unrelenting, the first single to be released off Disrotter’s upcoming EP “Restless Death” is a testament to the death metal trio’s vicious technical proficiency. It’s the kind of bloodthirsty savagery that takes years of dedicated practice to master and would make any old school death metal fan proud. The band consists of members Joe Adams (ex Murdersome), Adam Guilliams (Cannabis Corpse, Morbikon) and Garret Guilliams (Hellion Child) and the album, which is set to release on April 1st, was recorded by Bob Quirk and mixed/mastered by Rob Caldwell. I was lucky enough to receive a sneak peak at the EP’s 3 unreleased tracks and after hearing them I can guarantee you that they are just as brutal as the single. The band is set to play at Cobra Cabana this weekend, be sure to check it out. Who knows, they might even play those new tracks. You can find details for that show listed below.
MOLT – WHITE DOVE (SINGLE)
When people with unique perspectives and experiences bring their ideas together they can create something truly novel. The recently formed punk band Molt puts this idea to the test with their new project. A culmination of talent from other Richmond bands including Lance Bangs, Strawberry Moon, Gnawing, Twin Drugs and Antiphons, Molt forces each of its members to shed the skin of their previous experiences and adapt them into something new. Frontman Chris Matz states, “this project serves as an outlet for most of us to try new roles as well as trying a style of music none of us have previously ventured into but have always enjoyed.” Molt’s first single “White Dove” has just been released and showcases the bands approachable sound and excellent production skills.
BLAZING TOMB – BLAZING TOMB (EP)
Released in 2022, Blazing Tomb’s fiery debut showcases the band’s top-notch skill at blending heavy riffs, intricate melodies and dynamic vocals. Fans of heavy music will find much to love here. From the EP’s opening song “Written In Entrails” the band immediately grabs you by the throat and drags you through their hellish onslaught of crossover death metal. The thunderous drums and driving guitar riffs set an intense tone but keen listeners will note that each of these songs are meticulously crafted, with layers of instrumentation and thoughtful songwriting evident in every track. The production here, recorded by Studio Florens and mastered by Arthur Rizk, also deserves praise; it’s no easy task to allow each instrument to shine through while maintaining a cohesive and powerful sound. Keep an eye on Blazing Tomb – this EP is just the start of what promises to be an exciting journey. Be sure to check them out this week at Banditos, details for that show can be found below.
Favorite Tracks:
Blazing Tomb
Written in Entrails
UPCOMING Shows:
City Of Caterpillar, Glassing, Sun Years
Wednesday, February 21 @ The Camel
Doors at 7pm
Noisem, Trace Amount, Septic Vomit, Distrotter
Wednesday, February 21 @ Cobra Cabana
Doors at 7pm
Private Hell, Kontusion, Blood Ritual, Blazing Tomb, Vigil
Friday, February 23rd @ Banditos
Doors at 7pm
Stand Still, Family Dinner, Bagged, Cobalt Revolver
Saturday, February 24th @ Banditos
Doors at 7pm
What I’m Listening To:
BOLT THROWER – WAR HAMMER
Bolt Thrower, it’s a name I’ve heard time and time again. Numerous bands have listed them as a source of inspiration and I figured it was finally time to dive into their material. A friend of mine pointed me toward their 1991 record “War Machine” as a starting point. An absolute masterclass in death metal, the album features all the hallmarks of the genre with relentless aggression, crushing riffs, and evocative atmosphere. The intricate guitar work of Barry Thomson and Gavin Ward shines throughout the album, weaving layers of haunting melodies amidst the chaos. There are more approachable albums in their catalog but “War Master” stands as a timeless classic in the annals of extreme metal.
Favorite Tracks:
What Dwells Within
War Master
Photo of Disrotter by Julie Cyr
