The Best New Bands: Metal/Hard Rock
Our countdown of the 10 best new bands turns brutal as Guitar Planet embraces the darker arts. Expect a blitzkrieg assault but also some irresistible hooks from these soon to be superstars.
While She Sleeps
Who Are They: Lawrence Taylor (vocals), Sean Long (guitar), Mat Welsh (guitar), Aaran McKenzie (bass), Adam Savage (drums)
Where Are They From: Sheffield, England
What Do They Sound Like: Blood curdling rasps combine with vicious riffs that toe the line between metal and hardcore, to create a sound that’s both anthemic and terrifying. Don’t expect room to breathe, these boys only take their foot off the gas to bellow something addictive or to institute a crafty timing change.
Why They Rock: Debut album This Is The Six might just be the most impressive metal/hardcore debut since Gallows unleashed Orchestra Of Wolves on an unsuspecting United Kingdom back in 2006. It’s not all vitriol however, While She Sleeps deliver top end hooks to rival their blistering assault.
The Essential Track: “Death Toll”
What Next: Debut album This Is The Six does not disappoint.
Device
Who Are They: David Draiman (vocals), Geno Lenardo (guitar)
Where Are They From: Austin, Texas
What Do They Sound Like: Device attempt to blend grand-grinding-anthemic industrial with Disturbed’s patented, jagged, (and implausibly catchy), vocal blurts. The result is a synth-metal sound that’s surprisingly melodic. Geno’s guitar and Draiman’s not-quite-rapped verses provide bursts of aggression without trampling all-over the seething industrial grooves.
Why They Rock: The idea of combining David Draiman of Disturbed with Geno Lenardo of Filter will either fill you with dread or have you foaming at the mouth with anticipation. Disturbed were always a marmite band and the infectious Device are no different.
The Essential Track: “Villify”
What Next: Check out their self-titled debut.
If You Liked Device and While She Sleeps Try: Kvelertak and Upon A Burning Body
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Album Round-up: Blackberry Smoke, Papa Roach & Venom
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Hype Check: The Sound Of 2015
The Guitarist Of The Year 2014: Scott Holiday
The Guitarist Of The Year: 2. Angus Young
The Guitarist Of The Year: 3. St. Vincent
The Guitarist Of The Year: 4. Sturgill Simpson
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In The Magazine
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