extreme metal

The Maldive Islands evoke images of an insular paradise before the eyes of a stranger. Like a double row of pearls hundreds of coral islands forming 26 atolls spread from north to south in the gentle breeze of the Indian Ocean. At first the hard sound of Metal seems a contradiction to picturesque white beaches, palm trees and blue sunny skies. Yet now NOTHNEGAL are embarking to teach the world otherwise with their international debut album.

Vital Remains is a blackened death metal band from Rhode Island, USA formed in 1989. Influenced by the likes of Venom, Celtic Frost, Bathory, Mercyful Fate, Sodom and Destruction. Originally comprised of guitarists Paul Flynn and Tony Lazaro, vocalist Jeff Gruslin, bassist Tom Supkow, and drummer Chris Dupont, the group has been through several line-up changes and record labels over the years. A pair of demos (1989's "Reduced to Ashes" and 1990's "Excruciating Pain") led to a contract with French label Thrash Records, who in turn released "The Black Mass" in 1991.

There’s something happening in Australia. In the past 12 months there has been an insurgence of metal acts that adhere to a standard far beyond that of your typical unsigned Australian band. Bands like Dred (now Oroborus), Templestowe and Aeon of Horus place great value on high quality production, recordings and exceptional artwork. Anno Domini are the next band to join the ranks of those striving for metal perfection.

Brutal Truth is a New York City-based grindcore band that was formed in 1990 by ex-Anthrax and Nuclear Assault bassist Dan Lilker. Brutal Truth was one of the pioneers of grindcore who enjoyed world wide success, particularly in Japan and Australia. Originally signed to Earache Records, on which they released two albums, 1992's Extreme Conditions Demand Extreme Responses, and 1994's Need to Control, as well as an EP entitled Perpetual Conversion, and a 7" single for the song "Godplayer".

Read more about Brutal Truth on Last.fm.