I didn't grow up with Christian rock or metal, but my family listened to Christian radio a lot. There was a local station that would play a rock or metal set later at night, usually once or twice a week. I remember hearing bands like Spoken, Nine Lashes, and Love and Death on there. I was hooked. I discovered NewReleaseToday (formerly NewReleaseTuesday) and would try to catch any interviews and reviews, alongside those on other sites. I hope NewReleaseToday is an excellent resource for you, too, regardless of your preferred genres. If you're looking for new and recent rock and metal releases, here's what's been out recently.
Wolves At The Gate - Wasteland
For around 15 years now, Wolves At The Gate has been perfecting their metalcore craft, straight out of the state of Ohio. From hit songs like "Dead Man" and "Counterfeit," you're almost guaranteed to hear them if you like Christian metal. Their eighth record, Wasteland, is unleashed. This signifies a departure in songwriting for the band, as it replaces the traditional, biblically inspired lyrics with a more distinct writing style, suitable for the concept album that Wasteland represents. It's an immersive listen, featuring interludes, powerful messages, and intense music throughout. This is undoubtedly one of their best.
Diatheke - …And The Word Was God
Prepare yourself for an emotionally charged journey through biblically inspired epics in the form of Diatheke's new record, …And The Word Was God. This type of album is something that is very rarely perfected and is a must-listen for any fan of the Christian rock and metal world. Diatheke has crafted progressive metal songs that reflect profound spiritual truths while showcasing their expertise in the metal scene. With only six songs, this musical journey will keep you gripped for an hour that you'll be glad was spent listening to this record. Check it out.
Irae - "7 Horns, 7 Eyes, 7 Seals"
One of the biggest comebacks in the Christian metal world over the past decade has to be the return of the legendary vocalist, Mattie Montgomery (formerly of For Today). Okay, maybe not a full return, but he did secure a guest vocalist spot on the new two-single offering from the spirit-filled hardcore group Irae.
In 2018, hard rockers Irae released their debut album, Spirit, an excellent effort. Now, they have two new songs, featuring Symphony In Peril's singer, Shawn Jones, and, as mentioned, For Today's Mattie. This song itself carries a proclamation of praise unto Jesus, and Mattie's spot sweetens an already great song. Welcome back, Mattie, and great job, Irae; these two songs are true heavy worship.
