NEQUIENT is a metallic hardcore band from Chicago. Building on a foundation of thrashing d-beat, they draw influences from a broad spectrum of aggressive styles including grindcore, crust, sludge, death metal, black metal, and noise rock. The result is a uniquely punishing sound that emphasizes percussive intensity and razor-sharp hooks. Formed in 2014, NEQUIENT’s first official release was 2015’s Infinite Regress EP, the start of a longstanding collaboration with producer Pete Grossmann (Immortal Bird, Warforged) at Bricktop Recording in Chicago. Following a few personnel shifts, the group settled on its four-piece configuration and forged a debut full-length, Wolves at the Door, issued in 2018 by Nefarious Industries. On their second album, Darker Than Death or Night, NEQUIENT set out to embrace even more diverse sounds than before without sacrificing their tightly honed focus or capacity for vicious sensory assault. This is a singular breed of heavy music: tightly controlled yet satisfyingly grimy, attuned to the anxieties of an uneasy era and unconcerned about fitting into the preconceived boundaries of subgenre. Produced by Grossmann, mixed by Sanford Parker (Voivod, Yob, Eyehategod) and mastered by Collin Jordan (Harm’s Way, Windhand), the album features artwork and design by Scott Shellhamer as well as a guest vocal turn from Eddie Gobbo of Something is Waiting.

Death Doom, Columbus

The conception of Voimaton (VOI‧ma‧tOn) began immediately following the demise of Narcotic in 2016, whose lineup included Dave and Pat. While the project had no official name, and despite numerous false-starts throughout 2017 and 2018, Henry (ex-Sable Beldam) was welcomed into the fold in November 2018 to help bring Voimaton into the physical realm, solidifying the trio.

Melodic-infused Progressive Tech Metal from Milwaukee, WI