1921 BALI HEADBANGER MUSIC

"Inhuman Sights," the debut EP from Jakarta-based hardcore band KONZTITUSI, marks a raw and thought-provoking entry into Indonesia's hardcore scene. Formed in 2021, the band embodies the spirit of a new generation of hardcore with its bold experimentation, integrating influences from old-school, new school, and even new wave hardcore, and pushing boundaries with a unique approach that resonates with both local and global hardcore audiences. Released on May 3, 2024, this EP is a culmination of KONZTITUSI’s growth over three years, during which they honed their sound by drawing from diverse influences such as Terror, Napalm Death, and even punk icons Ramones. They recorded "Inhuman Sights" with Nabiel Sungkar at Playrecords Studio, giving the EP a distinctively gritty edge that matches its lyrical themes. Sungkar's influence is apparent in the EP’s nuanced soundscape, blending raw energy with carefully crafted arrangements. The EP’s lea...

Makassar's heavy rock/metal band HESTRAIGHT is set to release their latest EP, Gaung Ansietas Selatan (GAS), on October 19, 2024. Following a DIY approach, the album was recorded at home and mastered by Loudness Musik Studio, marking the band’s second EP. Since August 2024, the band’s four members have been fully immersed in the recording process to bring this latest work to life. Gaung Ansietas Selatan features six tracks, including an intro and five new songs that cover a range of thought-provoking themes—from humanity’s obsession with gadgets to social justice issues in Palestine, support for people with disabilities, and greed. Each track reflects HESTRAIGHT’s raw approach to social and personal commentary. The EP production took place at the home studio of the band’s music producer, Fajrin Ardinata, while mixing and mastering were again entrusted to Imrromantic, who has been HESTRAIGHT’s go-to sound engineer since their debut EP, Mesin (2021). The artwork and album...

Bandung, Indonesia – October 14, 2024 – Rising Indonesian band IRIDESCENT has just released their highly anticipated third single, Hilang, now available on all major digital music platforms. Known for their genre-blending sound, IRIDESCENT continues to captivate listeners with a unique mix of soul-stirring lyrics and musical depth. In Hilang, the band’s signature touch shines as Yudha’s evocative vocals, supported by Rifal’s grounding bass, Dimas’s dynamic drumming, and Reza’s resonant guitar work, meld into a powerful exploration of loss and introspection. The title, which translates to "Lost" in English, dives into the painful journey of parting and the emotions that linger in the aftermath. Drawing on their own individual journeys, the members of IRIDESCENT create a collective soundscape that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Following the success of their previous single, Kita Salah, which explored themes of romantic disillusionmen...

The album Violenta by Fabulae Dramatis is an intense blend of progressive metal and Latin influences, showcasing the band’s growth into a more personal and introspective style. Released on September 5, 2024, the album dives deep into lead vocalist Isabel Restrepo’s memories of growing up in Medellín, Colombia, during a violent period marked by the drug war. This theme is vividly captured in the track "Fábula Violenta," where Restrepo contrasts her childhood innocence with the harsh reality around her, creating a hauntingly evocative atmosphere through both music and lyrics. Produced by Martín Furia, Gustavo Valderrama, and the band members themselves, Violenta balances heavy riffs with more intimate, reflective passages. The album's shifts between intensity and vulnerability mirror the contrasting themes, aligning with what Classic Rock Society has described as music crafted with "deep thought and insular attention," nodding to influences...

Vein of Mogot's debut album Romusha is a powerful addition to the Indonesian deathcore scene. This Tangerang-based band, founded by Reza Rey and Yudra Arkan, draws from the rich history of their homeland, blending intense sonic elements with a strong thematic focus on historical and social issues. The name "Romusha" itself references the forced laborers during the Japanese occupation of Indonesia, setting the tone for the album’s exploration of themes like slavery, war, and societal oppression. Musically, Romusha is a hard-hitting, aggressive record that combines fast, intricate riffs with the brutal grooves of modern deathcore. Tracks like "Romusha" and "Ignite" are filled with complex guitar work and relentless blast beats, while Arkan's growls and screams evoke the kind of raw intensity that fans of Thy Art is Murder and Fit for an Autopsy will appreciate. The band doesn't shy away from incorporating melodic touches a...

ECHOES OF MADNESS has returned with their latest single, "41'S," which was released on August 2, 2024, as part of their evolving musical journey. The Brazilian band, formed in São Paulo in 2020, is known for blending heavy metal and progressive rock influences into a sound that is both intense and introspective. "41'S" is no exception, featuring a heavy yet dynamic composition that showcases their unique style. The track combines driving rhythms with intricate guitar work, all anchored by the powerful vocals of Mauricio Melendez. Lyrically, "41'S" delves into complex themes, continuing the band's tradition of exploring deep emotional landscapes. The single is part of their upcoming album, marking the band's next creative phase, following their well-received debut album Indepth Mind in 2022. ECHOES OF MADNESS has consistently shown growth and innovation with each release, and "41'S" demonstrates thei...

Queen Killer's debut EP Meruncing Ke Bawah Tumpul Ke Atas is a compelling dive into the complex emotions and sociopolitical unrest that permeate Indonesia today. This Sukabumi-based alternative rock band, fronted by Rupa Aglis (vocals/guitar) and Dellyna Putri (bass), delivers a powerful message in just five tracks, blending introspective lyricism with raw, dynamic instrumentals. The title track, Meruncing Ke Bawah Tumpul Ke Atas, sets the tone of the EP with sharp criticism of the legal system. It reflects the band’s frustration over high-profile cases of injustice in the country, especially concerning the misconduct within law enforcement. With gritty guitar riffs and haunting vocals, the song captures both personal and collective anger. It is a reflection of how the band uses music as a medium to voice their discontent with societal corruption and demand fairness. In Huru-Hara, Queen Killer amplifies their critique with an aggressive tone, questioning the...

October 16, 2024 - After a long hiatus, Indonesia’s pioneering underground metal webzine, BLOODY ORGASM, formerly known as INDOGRINDER WEBZINE (est. 1998), has made a triumphant return, this time as a band with a fresh new single, “Nikmat Berujung Derita.” The highly anticipated video clip premiered today on the YouTube channel 1921Baliheadbanger. A Journey from Webzine to Band Founded in 1998 by Putra Pande, also known as BRUTALSICK, INDOGRINDER WEBZINE quickly became the go-to source for information on Indonesia’s extreme metal scene. In 2001, it was rebranded as BLOODY ORGASM WEBZINE, reflecting a shift toward a darker, more blood-soaked aesthetic. Driven by his love for goregrind, Putra Pande dreamed of forming a band under the same name. This dream came to life in 2004 when he teamed up with Devula, a.k.a. Tandha Pargotha. However, due to Putra Pande's busy schedule, the band and the webzine went on hiatus in 2006. Now, after 20 years and amidst his wor...

Eden Adversary's debut album "Kingdom ov Heresy," released on June 22, 2024, via Interlude Records, is a powerful blend of symphonic elements and brutal deathcore. Hailing from Solo, Indonesia, the band, formed in 2019, stands out not only with their intense sound but also with their mysterious, masked image, creating an aura of intrigue. Their signature look and sound have set them apart in the underground metal scene, as they consistently deliver performances cloaked in anonymity. The album delves into apocalyptic themes drawn from religious scripture, reimagined with a dystopian twist. Across its 10 tracks, "Kingdom ov Heresy" offers a relentless onslaught of heaviness while also weaving in orchestral layers, elevating the overall atmosphere. Tracks like “Abandon Hope” and “Morbid Faith” stand out with their combination of intricate guitar work, punishing breakdowns, and epic symphonic backdrops. Meanwhile, "The Messiah" and ...

Jakarta-based band MAKMUR, originally founded in 2022 as a Punk Rock group by Falah, has undergone a major transformation in 2024. After the departure of bassist Bocor and drummer Dino, along with former drummer Asep, Falah sought to revive the band by assembling a new lineup. He recruited Kodoxx from Contraflow Hardcore as the vocalist, Mico from Hemat Energi Hardcore as the bassist, Aries from Blangsuck as the drummer, and Oky Ahmad from The Jakarta Waterfall as the guitarist. With this refreshed lineup, the band unanimously decided to shift their genre to Hardcore Punk. Now consisting of Falah on guitar, Kodoxx on vocals, Mico on bass, Oky Ahmad on guitar, and Aries on drums, MAKMUR has performed at several music events, quickly making a name for themselves in the local punk and hardcore scene. On October 6, 2024, the band recorded their first single titled "Genosida", a powerful track dedicated to fellow musicians and everyone still fighting for Pa...

Emerging from the underground scene, Deathcore unit Grimlock Agony has officially released their highly anticipated debut E.P album, "Suffocate", signaling their commitment to a new era of extreme music. The band, formed in 2023 in Sukabumi, has unleashed six powerful tracks that showcase their intense sound and creativity. The lineup consists of Bertus on vocals, Teguh and Teguh H.I on guitars, Akay on bass, and Philips on drums. Together, they have crafted an album that delves into themes of unrest, anxiety, and existential darkness. "Suffocate" explores the search for identity in a world filled with chaos, only to be met with increasing darkness and turmoil. The album merges modern soundscapes with heavy, unconventional arrangements, while still maintaining the core essence of Deathcore. With low-tuned guitars and aggressive distortion, Grimlock Agony creates a raw and powerful sonic experience. The six tracks include: 1. Intro 2. Dissecte...

DECEPTIVE CONCEPTION, a brutal death metal solo project by Wasis Setiawan, has officially released a two-track demo through the China-based label BrutalReign Productions. Setiawan, formerly known as the guitarist for Decayed Flesh and Consumed, embarked on this project in mid-2023. He recorded the two tracks entirely on his own, performing vocals, guitar, bass, drum programming, and handling all recording operations. By late 2023, the mixing and mastering were completed by SickStudio from Tuban, East Java, while the band’s logo was crafted by Mythology Art, based in Yogyakarta. On October 13, 2024, the two demo tracks, "Extermination" and "Manipulation," were launched on BrutalReign Productions’ official YouTube channel. "Extermination" delves into the dark history of medieval wars that paved the way for future global conflicts. Meanwhile, "Manipulation" explores the sinister side of the modern digital world, revealing the hidden forc...

A new force in Brutal Death Metal has emerged in Indonesia with the formation of FATHERSLAM, a band of seasoned metalheads who came together on September 11, 2024. The band’s unique origin stems from their regular meetings during livestreams hosted by ProvokatorBK on TikTok, a platform where local metal enthusiasts gathered and connected. This camaraderie sparked the creation of FATHERSLAM, featuring well-known figures from the Indonesian extreme metal scene: Bobby Lordsatvrn (ex-Kukertank, ex-Bunian), Farid (ex-Dissecting Flesh), Hansen Matsuka (ex-Carnivored, ex-Sinister Sick), and Andiy ProvokatorBK (ex-Scream For Twenty, ex-Whynot Brader). Driven by a shared love for Brutal Death Metal and the desire to return to making music, the members—many of whom are now fathers—chose the name FATHERSLAM. Their lyrics and musical themes focus on gore and sadism, with influences from international Brutal Death Metal legends such as Cephalotripsy, Gorgasm, Pathology, Abom...

BreakDown's latest EP, Divide and Konquer, released on September 8, 2024, marks the band’s triumphant return after years of silence. Born in São Paulo, Brazil, and now based in Germany after stints in Ireland, BreakDown continues to craft a powerful blend of Death, Thrash, and Heavy Metal, with a clear nod to their influences like Sepultura and Kreator. Their sound on this EP is heavier and more refined than ever, thanks to the production by Andy Classen at Stage One Studio. Opening with "The Tentacles of Hate," the EP wastes no time setting a dark, intense atmosphere with its raw energy and relentless aggression. The title track, "Divide and Konquer," is a standout with its brutal riffs and commanding vocals that capture the band's ability to fuse melody with extreme metal fury. Tracks like "War" and "Rise From the Dead" showcase their expertise in blending old-school thrash with modern production, delivering a so...

"Avowal," the debut EP by Bandung-based band Rabbit on Mondays, released on September 7, 2024, showcases a dynamic blend of Pop Punk and Rap, offering a refreshing perspective on everyday life and personal reflection. With five tracks, the EP explores a variety of themes, each with a unique narrative, making it a deeply relatable experience for listeners. The opening track, Feeling Restless, dives into the anxieties of unrequited love, encapsulating the turbulence of emotions when someone finds themselves attracted to another person. This is followed by Wake Me Up, a somber reflection on the frustration of chasing uncertain dreams, painting a picture of despair with an upbeat energy that contrasts the lyrical tone. The EP's highlight, Epic Comeback, stands out for its resilience-focused message, capturing the journey of rising from rock bottom—a theme that resonates with anyone who has faced personal challenges. In The End, Rabbit on Mondays tackle...

Setelah sukses dengan rangkaian tour penuh energi di delapan kota di Pulau Sumatera pada Agustus 2024, band death metal asal Bandung, Pourriture, kini kembali bersiap memprovokasi panggung musik bawah tanah dengan melanjutkan Asap Hitam Konsorsium Tour 2024 di Pulau Jawa dan Bali. Tour ini digelar dalam rangka promosi album kedua mereka, Asap Hitam Konsorsium, yang telah memicu antusiasme besar di kalangan pencinta death metal. Album tersebut menggambarkan perlawanan kelas pekerja dan dampak buruk industri terhadap lingkungan, dibalut dalam nuansa kelam khas brutal death metal. Vokalis Pourriture, Panji, mengungkapkan, "Kami sangat antusias melanjutkan tur ini di Jawa dan Bali. Setelah respons luar biasa di Sumatera, kami tidak sabar untuk bertemu dengan kawan-kawan pencinta musik death metal di kota-kota selanjutnya." Agenda tour ini akan berlangsung pada Desember 2024 dan mencakup sejumlah kota besar di Jawa dan Bali. Jadwal lengkap akan diumumkan melalui media ...

In a thrilling comeback after years away from the Indonesian underground music scene, BLOODY ORGASM once hailed as Indonesia's first metal webzine has resurfaced as the band Groovy Porngrind. The group is set to release their debut single, "Nikmat Berujung Derita," with an accompanying music video launched today, October 16, 2024, on the YouTube channel 1921Baliheadbanger. The story of BLOODY ORGASM began in 1998 when Putra Pande, also known as BRUTALSICK, founded INDOGRINDER - CORPSEGRINDER INDONESIA WEBZINE to spotlight the nation’s extreme metal scene. In 2001, the webzine was rebranded as BLOODY ORGASM, embracing a darker aesthetic that captured the essence of goregrind. After forming the band in 2004 with Devula, also known as Tandha Pargotha, BLOODY ORGASM faced a hiatus in 2006 due to Putra Pande's demanding career. However, two decades later, the duo has reunited, and Pande is reviving the project while also active with his Gamelan Folk Metal band, Ki Barak Se...

Malasorte, a one-man black metal project from Finland, is set to unleash its highly anticipated debut album Apex Sovereignty on October 11th, 2024 via Inverse Records. The mastermind behind the project, Jal'zoroth, hails from Helsinki and has quickly gained attention with his savage and spellbinding sound. The album promises a relentless assault of brutal riffs, thunderous drums, and venomous vocals, drawing from the deepest roots of the black metal genre. Formed in 2024, Malasorte has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the underground scene, transforming personal adversity into dark and captivating music. Fans of the genre are eagerly awaiting Apex Sovereignty, which is set to carve a space for Malasorte in the annals of extreme metal. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches. Contact: FB: Malasorteblackmetal   BC: malasorte.bandcamp.com   PR Agency: Inverse Records | @InverseRecords | www.inverse.fi

In a striking emotional journey, the metalcore band Bleeding Tragedy has unleashed their latest single, "A Fever In My Bones," marking their powerful return to the music scene after a year-long hiatus. Following the release of their last EP "Unleash," the band has returned with an intense, rhythm-driven track, complete with a gripping music video, set to close 2024 on a high note. "A Fever In My Bones" is a raw portrayal of deep emotional struggles, with lyrics that explore the torment of suppressed pain and anger. According to lead vocalist Mahesa Angga Dilaga, the song reflects the tension between a desire for peace and the persistent agony that haunts the soul. While anger serves as a driving force, there's an underlying hope for finding light amidst the darkness, encapsulating the journey of recovery through sorrow and confusion. Musically, the single draws inspiration from the metalcore era of the 2000s, reminiscent of iconic bands lik...

Surabaya-based black metal band MESMERIC, established in 1998, has returned with their latest single "KASTA JIWA BAJA" this October 2024. Known for their intense and aggressive sound, the band has previously released one EP and two full-length albums, with their first album ATROCIOUS WARRIOR debuting in 2003, followed by BATTLE FOR THE EARTH in 2004. "KASTA JIWA BAJA" marks a bold shift in the band's musical direction, blending elements of black metal with death metal to create an epic and modern sound. This new release, which focuses on themes of ancient warfare, mythology, and raw emotional expression, introduces a more refined and captivating approach, with updated soundscapes and gripping lyrics. The current lineup consists of Antony Blizzard on bass, Deddy Demon on drums, Rioz Banger on vocals, and Artyrant on guitar. Fans can expect an evolution of MESMERIC's signature intensity, with "KASTA JIWA BAJA" promising a powe...

FINITA's latest single, "Gates of Oblivion," showcases the band's evolving mastery in blending atmospheric darkness with relentless intensity. The song opens with an eerie, almost cinematic introduction, setting the stage for a journey into deep, uncharted territories of extreme metal. The production is crisp, allowing every instrument to shine through the dense wall of sound. Vocals are raw and visceral, perfectly matching the thematic weight of the song, which delves into existential themes of despair and transcendence. The guttural growls are balanced by moments of melodic lead guitar work, adding layers of complexity to the track. The drumming is relentless, driving the song forward with blast beats and intricate rhythms that keep the listener engaged throughout. What stands out most in "Gates of Oblivion" is FINITA's ability to weave together melodic and dissonant elements without losing the sheer brutality that defines their sou...

Atmospheric/Post-Black Metal band Skjønnhet has officially released their highly anticipated album "Wanderer Above The Woods of Fog" on Octoner 10th 2024. The album delves deep into the story of a lone wanderer who seeks peace in nature, only to be confronted by the destructive greed of humanity. Themes of environmental destruction, including illegal logging, forest fires, and poaching, drive the narrative, with the protagonist becoming enraged by the loss of the wild habitats he once cherished. The album consists of seven tracks, each reflecting the wanderer’s journey. From initial curiosity in "Into the Forest" to his eventual fury in "Whispers of a Wounded Earth," the album combines haunting melodies with powerful social critique. Notably, the track "Hutan Terbakar Api Amarah," which includes Indonesian lyrics, expresses the raw anger and despair over human greed destroying nature. Skjønnhet, a one-man project by Donny ...

The alternative rock band from Magelang, EPITYCHIA, has launched their debut Extended Play (EP) titled "Jeruji Berkarat" (Rusty Bars), signaling a new chapter for the band both in terms of music and identity. Previously known as The ARK (The Arch Rock Killer), the band underwent a transformation in 2020, with frontman Riyan Danu (guitar and vocals) continuing alongside fresh additions Niko Zun (bass and vocals) and Bagus Munir (drums). The EP, which was released in September 2024, is a narrative collection exploring themes of struggle, sadness, and anger. According to the band, "Jeruji Berkarat" represents their journey of breaking personal barriers and self-discovery. "The album reflects our battles against the metaphorical bars that have held us back. In the end, it’s only our own strength that we can truly rely on," said Riyan Danu, the band's frontman. Having already released five singles between 2020 and 2023, Epitychia is ...

São Paulo-based band Overtop has officially launched their self-titled debut album, accompanied by a music video for the track "Powerless." The album delves into profound themes of suffering, loneliness, the search for meaning, and emotional transformation, with each song offering a unique perspective on the human condition and the internal struggle for peace and purpose. While rooted in grunge and post-grunge, the band has evolved their sound over the years, incorporating influences from hard rock, stoner, and sludge metal, ultimately embracing a contemporary alternative metal style. The release marks a significant milestone in the band's journey, which began in 2022. Overtop's members bring deep experience, having emerged from the renowned band Beeswax, founded in 2005. Since their formation, Overtop has performed alongside some of Brazil’s most prominent metal acts, steadily building a name for themselves within the national metal scene. The...

  Hailing from Karangasem, Bali, DISASTER INCEPTION delivers a ferocious and visceral experience with their debut EP, *"Compilation of Fuckin Massacre"*. A groove slamming death metal band formed during the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic, their music reflects the intensity and brutality of that time, blending relentless aggression with intricate musicality. The band’s line-up— I Komang Adi Widyantara on drums, I Wayan Yudhi Parthama on vocals, and I Kadek Yuda Prawira on guitar—works in tight unison to craft an unforgiving sonic assault. Released on August 9, 2024, the EP is a five-track showcase of brutal groove, slamming riffs, and guttural vocals that evoke a sense of carnage. Thematically, DISASTER INCEPTION channels brutality, bloodshed, and chaos, reminiscent of their pandemic-born origins. The EP is produced by BadPunz Music Corp, with all aspects of the artwork and packaging handled by Satan House Production, who are also responsible for the band’s strikin...

IMPURITY’s latest single, "Wanci Surup," offers a gripping fusion of Sundanese culture and modern deathcore, delivering a haunting yet exhilarating sonic experience. Following the release of "Resital Genosida," the Bandung-based deathcore band continues their streak of intense musical output, blending heavy, guttural riffs with traditional elements to tell a culturally rich and eerie tale. "Wanci Surup," which translates to "Dusk," is rooted in the Sundanese myth of Sandekala, a malevolent spirit believed to roam during twilight. In West Java, the period just after sunset is considered dangerous, especially for children, who are warned not to play outside lest they be snatched by this supernatural entity. IMPURITY brings this folklore to life through a dark, aggressive soundscape that mirrors the tension and fear associated with dusk. Musically, the band strikes a unique balance between modern deathcore brutality and the subtle incorp...