ALBUM REVIEW: Kittie – Fire


2024 may very well be remembered as the year of comebacks in Modern Metal! So many bands have returned from retirement or hiatus, and few bring the fire, with the proverbial smoke of hype. One eagerly-awaited return band is Kittie, which started its comet-like return at fests such as Sick New World (interview here) and Blue Ridge Rock Fest (RIP)! The band returns with Fire – their first new album in thirteen years and first for Sumerian Records, who scored a coup signing the veteran band. Continue reading


ALBUM REVIEW: Cavalera – Schizophrenia


There is something about the Sepultura sound which has rightfully allowed it to stand the test of time. It could be the bombastically frantic stringwork which has the capacity to power some cities. It could also be the cavernous, cacophonous screams and shouts. The drums never disappoint, and the production is mischievous yet meticulously guided.Continue reading


INTERVIEW: Marty Friedman Brings The Emotions on “Drama” (Album Breakdown)


In this episode, Marty Friedman, the legendary guitarist, and former Megadeth member, discusses his latest album “Drama”. In this exclusive interview with Keefy, Marty dives deep into the creative process behind “Drama,” sharing insights into the musical influences and themes that shaped this captivating release.Continue reading


ALBUM REVIEW: Gatecreeper – Dark Superstition


After a five-year gap between albums, Arizonan quintet Gatecreeper are back with Dark Superstition (Nuclear Blast). Their third album sees their heavy, Death Metal roar wed to more melodic and concise metal. A heavy band embracing melody like this might raise some metalheads’ hackles, afraid their band going soft, but fear not. Their heft and aggression is still alive and kicking, but just married to more accessible metal.   Continue reading


ALBUM REVIEW: Full Of Hell – Coagulated Bliss 


Maryland’s Full of Hell are not fucking about. 6 studio albums, 5 collaboration albums, 9 EPs, 8 splits, and 4 live albums in 15 years, and with their latest album Coagulated Bliss (Closed Casket Activities), the band continues to demonstrate their refusal to stand still.  Continue reading


ALBUM REVIEW: Nest – Endeavors


Nest is helmed by multi-instrumentalist John Jarvis of Agoraphobic Nosebleed and Scour. Given his connection to Phil Anselmo through Scour, it only makes sense for this project to be on Housecore Records. Endeavors marks the third full-length album of the project. They opened select dates for Pantera’s recent tour; they are at least heavy enough to warrant having a slot on that run. Continue reading


INTERVIEW: Jim Fergades of Morbid Saint Discusses “Swallowed By Hell” and Writing Thrash Metal Classics


Ghost Cult Keefy interviewed Metal legend Jim Fergades of Morbid Saint! Their new album “Swallowed By Hell” was released earlier in 2024 by Highroller Records!  We discussed Morbid Saint’s influence and impact as a second wave of American Thrash Metal, their new album, classics like “Spectrum of Death!” The band just played Hells Heroes Festival and has dates booked in 2024, with 2025 tours and festival planning underway! 🤘Continue reading


INTERVIEW: Jim of Rushby of Iron Monkey Breaks Down The “Spleen and Goad” Album


Ghost Cult Keefy chatted with Jim Rushby of Sludge band Iron Monkey! Their new album Spleen & Goad (Relapse Records) is a testament to how an uncompromising, extreme metal band should be. Jim gave us an update on the band, and covered the entire new album with us in this interview! Continue reading


CONCERT REVIEW: Rat King – Abhoria – Whythre Live at Southgate Roller Rink


One of the most beautiful things about music is that there is always more to explore. Having lived near Seattle for more than 10 years, I’ve had a lot of chances to catch some local talent. But occasionally, you miss a band for a while. However, having finally caught local Death Metal/Grindcore trio Rat King, I can say that sometimes you must follow the hype. Continue reading