We’re back with the new portion of great modern punk and hardcore recommendations. Summer’s in the middle, so we’ve picked some party pieces for you - whenever you’re going to celebrate, you’ll have tunes to heat the floor up. As always tho, some pack a punch and some come with a light sprinkle. Have fun and enjoy!

Lukas & Adi

mallxcore

by blessthefall | picked by Lukas

Alright, let’s rewind the tape as for a beginning - blessthefall basically ghosted us after dropping Hard Feelings in 2018 and wrapping up what many thought was their “last show” in 2019. Rumors swirled that Beau was busy being a dad, Eric went full-on realtor mode, and Jared plus Elliot even started a side project - so naturally fans figured BTF was done for good. By late 2022, all band socials got scrubbed clean, fueling the “breakup” chatter even more.

But then - plot twist in May 2023 they hit us with Wake the Dead their first new song in five years, reminding everyone why we love this squad. Fast-forward to June 2025 and BAM - they announce Gallows, their first full-length in seven years, with lead single mallxcore tearing up the scene. So yeah, they went off the grid for a “minute”, but now BTF’s back louder than ever - and we’re all here for it.

Witness the End

by Fit for a King | picked by Lukas

We’ve just uncovered another single from the forthcoming Lonely God album, and this one’s shaking things up. Witness the End leans heavier into gothic horror vibes than anything they’ve done before - think profane rituals in a church set and a cameo from Chris Motionless that takes the track to unpredictable territory.

From the opening blast of hyper-fast-foot drums and pulverizing riffs, you know you’re in for chaos. Ryan Kirby’s screams bite differently and deep, like never before, then Chris Motionless swoops in for a verse that feels sharp, theatrical, and utterly unhinged. The band themselves called it

the most unpredictable experience of any song on Lonely God

and they weren’t kidding.

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Visually, the video plays like a twisted ceremony: a priest drenched in rancid holy water, shadowy congregants, and flashes of bloody ritual, finally burning along with the black soil-born tree - crazy shit. It’s all wrapped up in themes of false faith and apocalypse - spotlighting how easy it is to lose belief in a world that feels rotten to the core.

Shake

by Ray Hawthorne | picked by Adi

After the first few seconds of this track, you’ll be singing along:

Never found out why you left him,
but this answer begs a question,
Too blind to see tomorrow,
too broke to beg or borrow.

And in your head you’ll see the Universal logo and hear the opening seconds of American Pie 2. Because the intro is eerily similar to Every Time I Look for You. And although this song probably won’t have the same legendary impact as that blink-182 classic, Ray Hawthorne once again proves he’s got a knack for writing catchy, melodic tunes that feel like summer circa 2002.

This time it’s a bit faster and more aggressive than his previous stuff, but still unmistakably his sound. If, by some miracle, this is your first time hearing him and you’re into that sunny vibe definitely check out his Spotify. He drops new tracks very regularly - by which I mean almost every week (!). It’s a clever promo strategy, and it keeps him high on my radar. I couldn’t be happier about it.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Shinebox

by Somerset Thrower | picked by Adi

If I had to sum up Somerest Throwerer’s sound by comparing them to a few bands, it’d be like The Ataris meeting Jimmy Eat World and Rival Schools - and that’s already reason enough to give them a spin. This Long Island quartet is back after a long break, and for the past few weeks they’ve been dropping hit after hit from their upcoming album. After the killer Never Going To Therapy and the anthemic Motor City we now get another slice of pure ’90s vibe.

Picture this track as a guy strolling down an empty street in a small California town on a sunny but windy day - flannel shirt on, hair tousled, hands shoved into worn-out jeans pockets, and the whole scene shot with that blown-out, overexposed look. That’s exactly the feel Somerest Throwerer capture: sun-bleached flannel energy in musical form.

If that resonates, add them to your favorites and get ready for their new album Take Only What You Need To Survive, dropped couple days ago.

Rainn

by Liotta Seaoul | picked by Adi

Time for a knockout straight outta Germany. Liotta Seoul and Oklahoma Kid have teamed up to unleash the high-voltage Rainn Neither band sticks to one lane - Liotta Seoul mash up grunge and nu-metal with a dash of alt-rock nostalgia, while Oklahoma Kid bring full-throttle metal fire seasoned by their hardcore roots. That genre mash-up won’t let you sit still for the nearly three-minute runtime of their collab.

These guys go way back on the German scene, ripping through dozens of shows together at home and abroad. After hearing Rainn it’s clear they’re only going to get tighter as a unit - and that can only mean big things ahead. Have fun and enjoy!

I Don’t Love You Like I Wish I Could

Lost Trees | selected by Lukas

We’ve just wrote about Lost Trees recent release, couple days after and they’re releasing a new one - I Don’t Love You Like I Wish I Could - contributing into the same emotional groove they’ve been riding all year. After the raw drive of Friendly Fire and the atmospheric swell of Slow Divide this track keeps that blend of honesty and heaviness intact Spotify.

Right out of the gate, you get those tight, syncopated riffs that build just enough tension before the chorus opens up. Alex Torres delivers his vocals with the grit we know and love, then slides into clean melodies that crackle with regret. Another great track, another flashback for me from the times when ❤️ Kyle 🪦 was with/in We Came as Romans.

Make Me a Martyr

by Caskets | picked by Lukas

Caskets have surfaced again, their first stand-alone single since 2023’s Reflections Make Me a Martyr is here, and it’s a stark reminder of why Leeds’ finest keep stealing the spotlight. Signed to SharpTone Records, they’ve dialed every element up for this one - no half measures.

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The tune begins with a throbbing rhythm section: low-end guitar grooves and lyrical fills make a bed of stress before Matthew Flood starts singing for good. His assertive shouts and genuinely tender croon fluctuate, providing a glimpse into the pull and push of devotion and self-sabotage at the song’s heart. Tension builds, tempos, flows being changed, bridging solid, all creates pretty neat construction. Can’t wait for the full upcoming release, that is coming…

Restless Leg Syndrom

by Evergreen Terrace | picked by Lukas

Evergreen Terrace have just dropped Restless Leg Syndrome (this title) the first taste of their upcoming split with Wisdom In Chains, set to land digitally and on vinyl August 29 via Dead Serious Recordings. It’s their first new material since last summer’s Jail on Christmas and it shows the Jacksonville vets still know how to keep you on edge.

From the opening blast - tight, fast-tempo drums underlayered by Craig Chaney’s jagged guitar accents - the song ratchets up the tension immediately. Andrew Carey’s vocals alternate between his signature barked verses and a surprisingly melodic chorus that leans into a restless, almost nervous energy. There’s a driving momentum here that perfectly mirrors the track’s title: you can practically feel the jittery urge to move in every riff.

It’s their very best signature style - guitar tones, vocal blends and the versatile fulfillment makes it again great production, qualitative and catchy one. Hope to get some more stuff from them soon.

Counterfeit

by nothing.nowhere | selected by Adi

Joseph Edward Mulherin - better known as nothing.nowhere - is a Boston native who once worked as a photographer and video editor for an ice cream company, and started making music at the age of 12. At the height of his early success, he had to cancel a string of shows due to panic attacks and worsening depression. He’s vegan and identifies with the straight edge movement, which gives you a good sense of where he’s coming from personally.

Now that you know the person behind the name, let’s talk about the music. It’s a blend of emo rap, indie rock, and trap - melancholic but catchy, raw but melodic. Earlier this year, he took on tracks by Smash Mouth and Chappell Roan in his Will It Emo? series, flipping them into his own emotional universe. He’s already opened for the likes of Neck Deep, Real Friends, Thrice, and even Fall Out Boy - so if you’re into any of those, there’s a good chance you’ll find something to latch onto in his world.

Easy Come, Easy Go

by The All-American Rejects | picked by Adi

A whole new generation recently got their first taste of The All-American Rejects - not through some polished arena tour, but with the band popping up in places like bowling alleys, backyards, and barns. Yep, you read that right. The guys are gearing up to release their first full-length album since 2012, and they’re doing it with some serious old-school flair.

By now, AAR are veterans of the power pop / pop punk / alt rock scene - they’ve been at it since the late ’90s, and they’ve got the mileage to prove it. Back in March, they announced that their long-awaited fifth album will finally drop this year, and honestly? I couldn’t be happier.

As a longtime fan, Easy Come, Easy Go puts a big fat grin on my face. Tyson Ritter’s unmistakable voice still bites, still scratches at the edges of each verse, and those infectiously catchy melodies? Still sharp as ever. If the full album keeps up this pace, the future’s looking real bright for The All-American Rejects.

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

We’re back after a couple weeks of grinding and recharging, and guess what - this is our 20th issue! To celebrate, we’ve got two big announcements: first, we’re putting together a special edition of the Top 20 tracks from issues 1-20, and second - the more important one - we will collect them along with our brand-new podcast that is launching super soon. We’ll drop all the details on when, where, and how in the next update, so please stay tuned. Oh, yeah, one more, we’re opening all of the previous issues on public, so you can check them without any special paid plan.

But right now, we’ve got another killer batch of fresh music recommendations from the past few weeks. Strap in and let’s dive!

Enjoy, Lukas & Adi.

In the Name of the Father

by PRESIDENT | picked by Lukas

A few months back, feeds on Reddit and Twitter lit up with grainy teasers: four figures in identical rubber masks, dressed head-to-toe in black chic, marching through red-lit corridors. No names, no faces - just a booming tagline: “This is your PRESIDENT.” Fans lost it, speculating everything from Sleep Token off-shoots to secret supergroups. Then, out of literally nowhere, they locked in a Download Festival slot - before a single note dropped- cementing that mystery hype train.

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When May 15 rolled around, President finally pulled back the curtain with their debut single, In the Name of the Father. Right from the opening guitar strum - dark, deliberate, almost ritualistic - you know you’re in for something big. Clean, autotuned vocals drift over those low-end chords before snapping into savage screams and breakdowns. It’s melodic, pop-infused metalcore at its finest: the hooks are huge, the production razor-sharp, and yet there’s enough gritty texture to satisfy the underground heads.

People reactions were generally quite positive, they appreciated the new and fresh concept that might be a good interlude into the predictable scene drops. We hope this will brings us something different and worth hooking for a moment or two.

What works really well is the contrast between the creepy masked character and the emotional melodic vocals and relatable lyrics.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Devil In My Mind

by Who, Is Me | picked by Lukas

After a few (from 2022) lineup shifts, and the departure of founding member Ben Ferris in March, Woe, Is Me regrouped around Hance Alligood’s soaring cleans and a fresh rhythm section. Their SBG Records deal promised a third album in 2025 and set the stage for a series of singles - Here’s to Me (A Story to Tell Pt. 2) in April and now this May 23 drop, Devil In My Mind.

It’s not a brand-new band or some radical new sound - this is classic Woe, Is Me, firing on all cylinders with the same spirit we fell for years ago. Yes, the lineup’s shifted, but the cleans, the screams, the trademark rhythms (and that little country twang) are all right here.

They’ve given these elements a fresh coat of paint-tighter arrangements, slicker production - without messing with the core pace or structure. And honestly, that’s exactly what I wanted: new music from a group that don’t drop tracks every day. Their style was always unique, original, and unapologetically - and this new single proves they’ve still got it. Great to have them back!

Jim Jones - Cowards, pt. 2

by Chevelle | picked by Adi

Chevelle’s first album in four years - and the tenth in their discography - drops in mid-August. For a while now, the band has officially been a duo: brothers Pete and Sam Loeffler, who founded the group back in the ’90s. Since their last record, bassist Kemble Walters has been joining them onstage. In these close-knit circumstances they’re crafting music that feels anything but small-scale. On one hand, this is a band that has sold over six million albums worldwide. On the other, Chevelle’s sound remains as “stifling and filthy” as ever, steeped in the band’s unmistakable style.

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What makes the new album even more intriguing is that it’s their first self-released effort. Drummer Sam Loeffler admits:

This is the hardest thing we’ve ever done. It probably won’t make financial sense, but we’re doing it anyway so we can say we pulled it off.

If you don’t want them to crash and burn, spin Jim Jones or their earlier single Rabbit Hole to back the Illinois brothers’ new venture - Chevelle fans have waited far too long for a record as powerful as an Illinois windstorm.

I Care

by Turnstile | picked by Adi

Turnstile have been hyping us nonstop for weeks, dropping single after single - then in early June they finally unleashed their fourth full-length, Never Enough. It’s a wild mash-up of fresh punk energy, ’90s alt-rock vibes, and splashes of pop and funk, and yeah, it’s split some of the die-hard heads who remember them at their rawest. But let’s be real - it’d be crazy to say Turnstile have lost their edge. Their live shows still obey one rule: survival of the fittest - especially up front, where shoes and bodies fly off the stage as fans go full send.

What blows my mind is how effortlessly these Marylanders navigate such different sounds and somehow make it all click. On Never Enough you get the high-octane smack of Birds alongside the more melodic, almost folk-tinged groove of I Care. And yet the whole record hangs together like a single, bullet-proof thread.

They’re touring through Europe right now, so if they roll through your town - or even if they’re just a thousand klicks away - lace up your toughest kicks and get to the show. Trust me, their claws aren’t dulled - they’ve just grown bigger, polished with a slick new shine.

Sense of Humor

by The Starting Line | picked by Adi

There are bands you can go years without hearing, but the second they come back, you’re hitting “like” blind and grinning like an idiot. That’s exactly how it feels with this Pennsylvania crew. They reunited in 2012, but only now are they dropping their fourth full-length. Ironically titled Eternal Youth, it lands at the end of September.

Back in April, they announced their first headliner tour in 17 years - also called Eternal Youth - and they’re bringing Armor For Sleep, Finch, Knucklepuck, and Real Friends along for the ride. Be honest: seeing those first two names probably made you feel ancient, right?

Think about it - it’s been 18 years since Starting Line’s last LP hit shelves, and now they’re back together in the original lineup. Vocalist Ken Vasoli says:

Getting back on our feet after nearly two decades wasn’t easy, especially as the same five guys. But here we are! The title of our new single sums up what’s kept us going all these years: you need a sense of humor to survive the music industry’s absurdities and everyday life. We’ll do whatever it takes to come back strong - I feel like we’ve never been tighter as a band.

Pumped? Good. Now grab a boombox, walk up to your crush’s house, and blast Sense Of Humor at full volume.

Traveler

by Jamie’s Elsewhere | picked by Lukas

Looks like we just get another great come back. Five years after their last full-band outing, they’ve reunited with Aaron Pauley and just dropped their new EP, Alchemical, on June 20 via SharpTone Records.

Traveler kicks off Alchemical with massive, palm-muted grooves that instantly lock into a throbbing, futuristic pulse (as of the video). Beneath the crunch of Matt Scarpelli’s riffs, synths and electronic textures weave in and out - an underbelly that gives the whole track a sci-fi sheen without drowning its post-hardcore roots. When the chorus hits, Pauley’s clean vocals soar above the mix, delivering a hook so immediate you’ll be singing it long before the breakdowns land.

If you dive into the rest of the EP, you’ll find the same driving beats and atmospheric layers that Traveler introduced. Each track carries Jamie’s Elsewhere’s signature mix of synth-electro-infused melodies and crushing breakdowns, yet still brings its own unique twist. I love how the whole thing feels like one cohesive trip - every song flows into the next, making for a solid, unified statement. My favorite so far - Like Silver. Can’t wait to hear what they do next.

Seriously, it’s awesome to have them back!

Starting Overt

by Nevertel | selected by Lukas

Nevertel didn’t just burst onto the scene - they’ve been grinding since 2014 out of Tampa, Florida, where three high-school buddies locked in a sound that blends nu-metal, hard rock, hip-hop, and EDM into one seamless package.

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Early DIY hustle saw them self-producing their debut-follow Deep Down EP (2018), sharpening their knack for catchy hooks. By 2021’s Everything In My Mind, they’d racked up over 900K weekly streams and built a 600K-strong online community, proof that their genre-fusing formula resonated worldwide.

In March 2024, Nevertel leveled up by signing with Epitaph Records - an ideal home for a band that toes the line between arena-ready anthems and underground grit. Their first Epitaph single, Losing Faith cracked the Mainstream Rock chart, and they’ve continued that momentum with the self-produced Starting Over.

This very one kicks off with its electronic intro, unfolding into those melodic synth–tinged guitar lines. Just when you’re settling into the clean verses, Raul’s rap section drops in - such a fresh twist that hooked me instantly. It’s breezy, unexpected, and that moment alone was enough to lock this track into my rotation. Great stuff!

Bathroom Floor

by As December Falls | selected by Lukas

We had them here couple weeks before …. Hailing from Nottingham, As December Falls built their flow on raw honesty and dynamics that swing from intimate verses to arena-sized choruses. Front(wo)man Bethany Hunter’s voice cuts through the mix with just the right blend of vulnerability and power. Musically they blend electronics, alternative riffs and punk-influenced melodic verse arrangements.

Another single from their loudly upcoming album dives straight into that post-breakup haze. Bethany explains it’s about:

[…] when you come out of a bad relationship, after taking the plunge on someone you knew wasn’t quite right… then moving into recognising the red flags.

What hooks me here is how they stitch these parts together into one cohesive snow-ball. It never feels boring - every riff, every synth dab, every shout builds on that central theme. The production keeps it polished without losing that sweaty, sticky-floor energy. And so, they may catching up visually (watch the clips) here and there, but overall it’s a nice piece of music that defenses itself … a bit over 30 days to the release. Great stuff ahead.

Who Stands With Us?

by Dropkick Murphys | selected by Adi

If you’re planning to drop your new album on July 4th, you’re either a humble American patriot or you’re looking to make a statement against the powers that be. I don’t think I need to tell you which camp the legends of Celtic punk rock fall into. Once again, they’re serving up a healthy dose of protest - targeting both the oligarchs and the oppression crushing the working class.

When the billionaires and bro-ligarchs get done neutering society, what’s left for the rest of us? they ask, dripping in sarcasm. But make no mistake - this record will tackle serious subjects head-on. I think about my kids and their future says the frontman.

We’ve never shied away from speaking out on the things that trouble or worry us. We cover social injustice, and sometimes we just want to tell the people we love how much they mean to us.

Guests on the new album include former vocalist Al Barr - he won’t appear on What Stands With Us but you will hear him on the track The Vultures Circle High.

He chose to spend more time with his family, but he’ll always be part of ours …

… says Ken Casey.

Boys Will Be Boys

by Booze & Glory | picked by Adi

Booze & Glory cut their teeth as part of the Polish expat scene in the UK - three friends landed in London around 2009 and never looked back. They proudly weave oi! into punchy riffs and chant-along choruses, dubbing themselves “modern British Oi!” Sure, there’re songs about grabbing a pint, but they’re just as passionate about the working-class roots they share - and about the club they bleed for, West Ham United.

Despite the raw edge, this crew stays firmly on the “light side”, steering clear of right-wing skinhead politics and keeping things non-political. Come September, they’ll drop their sixth full-length - and their first in six years - so it’s high time we checked in on how the Polish diaspora is holding it down across the pond!

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

We’re happy to bring you a new pack of super-versatile tunes, offering a fresh experience of musical discovery. As always, we’ve mixed in everything we could - so this time you’ll find some heavy, really heavy bangers alongside lighter, nostalgic melodies. We hope it helps you survive these next few days.

Enjoy! Lukas & Adi 🤘🤘

Let You Fade

by Linkin Park | picked by Lukas

Let You Fade arrived on May 16, 2025 as the closing single from From Zero (Deluxe Edition), rounding out the expanded set of previously unheard tracks the band recorded during and after the original album sessions. This track began life in the “From Zero studio” but found its final form in subsequent sessions, showcasing Mike Shinoda’s restrained, “not rapped” verses beneath sweeping guitar lines. With Emily Armstrong now firmly in the lead-vocal role, her performance here, with less screaming parts carries both clarity and grit.

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Many listeners have praised Let You Fade for its emotional weight, ranking it among their top favorites from the deluxe edition and applauding the chemistry between Mike and Emily. Others feel the song’s structure leans toward the familiar and could have benefitted from a bolder arrangement, describing it as serviceable but somewhat rushed for a standalone single. As Linkin Park gears up to headline Wembley Stadium in June - supported by Spiritbox - the track stands as both a bridge to their past and a pointer toward what this new lineup can achieve.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Where Were You…?

by Solence | selected by Lukas

Where Were You..? dropped on May 17, 2025 as the lead single from Solence’s forthcoming fifth album, Angels Calling, due this October via Better Noise Music. Hailing from Norrköping, Sweden, Markus Videsäter (vocals), David Strääf (guitar), Johan Swärd (keyboards) and David “Viking” 💂 Vikingsson (drums) dig into a blend of electronics and metalcore, and this track underscores their knack for high-power hooks. Strääf describes it as “a fast and fun song about a friend letting you down when you needed them the most”, pointing to its driving beat, bold chorus, and a genre-bending breakdown that balances heaviness with danceable, disco-like energy.

Their evolution from the melodic intensity of Hope Is a Cult (2023) is evident here: synths meet riffs, while Videsäter’s lyrics channel genuine frustration - Where were you when I needed you? - without overplaying the sentiment.

With Angels Calling slated for early October release, Solence will hit the road this November, opening for Nothing More across Europe beginning November 7 in Finland. We want to bring the fun back into rock ’n’ roll, Videsäter explains - and if Where Were You… is any indication, their upcoming shows promise a potent mix of high-energy performance and heartfelt storytelling.

Heaven

by Adept | picked by Lukas

They’re back!

Heaven arrived on May 13, 2025 via Napalm Records, marking Adept’s first new music in nearly nine years. Formed in Trosa, Sweden in 2004, the quartet made their name with a blend of melodic intensity and crushing breakdowns before pausing activity in 2016 and formally disbanding in 2019. Reuniting with new guitarist and drummer, in late 2024, they tapped producer Henrik Udd (Architects, Bring Me The Horizon) to sculpt Heaven into a four-minute burst of raw emotion. Vocalist Robert Ljung describes the track as a dark and emotional song about carrying old scars into the present and learning how to face them, and you can hear that tension in every surged riff and soaring chorus.

So as I think that it’s a the perfect comeback song, and I praise its immediate hook and emotional heft, that track lives up to their older material. That said I’m full of hope for more textured dynamics in future releases. Don’t get me wrong, it’s good to hear them again, with their remarkable style, however, it would be nice to experience something new and fresh. We’ll see.

Revery

by Electric Callboy | picked by Lukas

Revery hit streaming services on May 23, 2025, marking Electric Callboy’s first new material since longtime drummer David-Karl (kurwa 😝) Friedrich’s departure the previous month.1 The track serves as the lead single for their yet-to-be-titled seventh studio album, promising a darker, more cinematic direction. Where recent singles leaned into tongue-in-cheek, comedy and party anthems, Revery opens with ominous, melodic and raw riffs and Kevin Ratajczak’s evolved, massively deep scream before erupting into an epic, chant-like chorus. The accompanying music video reinforces this shift - eschewing the band’s usual humor for a stylized dark-fantasy narrative, complete with shadowy forests and theatrical costuming.

It’s definitely a grower. Bit different, bit odd, darker, deeper, less funny and “chaotic”. It’s good to hear something like that, and it’s not like they’ve changed lot, it’s still Electric Callboy as we know. However they’ve beed announcing a small change for a while now, and this track might be the first sign of it. You must check it!

cliché

by mgk | picked by Lukas

He’s here again. It’s really hard to omit what he’s doing guys. And guess what, he’s dancing now, and how!

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Cliché dropped on May 23, 2025 as the first taste of Machine Gun Kelly’s forthcoming seventh studio album. Co-written by Colson Baker, Emma Rosen and Andrew Migliore the track leans into early-2000s pop–punk nostalgia with modern polish. Its brisk, 2:56 runtime is built around hand-clap rhythms, chiming guitars reminiscent of Blink-182 and a chant-ready chorus. Lyrically, MGK wrestles with vulnerability - Tell me, would you stay with me? - widely presumed to reference his high-profile split from Megan Fox. Yeah they’re alone again… 😨

Reactions have skewed positive on social media. On YT Song has inspired a full-blown dance craze, while its inclusion on Spotify’s Global New Music Friday and heavy rotation on MTV Live and Times Square billboards have amplified its reach. However, some longtime fans chafed at the overtly pop sheen, accusing MGK of drifting too far from his rock roots - criticisms he’s met with good humor, reminding critics “It’s a pop song, man”.

And so I think we should treat this like. He’s playing, playing with genres, trying new things, being original and surprising. And that’s good! Really.

Fade Out

by Millington | picked by Adi

Suburban pop-punk/ska. That’s how the guys in Millington describe their music. Add in an early-2000s vibe straight out of Less Than Jake or some of Goldfinger’s work, throw in even more pop-punk, and you’ve captured the essence of the band they formed in 2018.

This six-piece, complete with a horn section, moves effortlessly within its own groove. The group’s founder, Cody Okonski, assembled a strong lineup back in 2018 and even tags their sound as “ska/rock with horns.” You have to admit - it’s creative…

Fade Out won’t be a game-changer in the ska world, but if you’re a fan of Reel Big Fish, you’ll enjoy Millington just as much - especially since they’ve got an intense summer of live dates lined up.

Vista Verde

by Stateside | picked by Adi

At the beginning of June, the Australians will release their fourth full-length album, and they’ve just unveiled the third track promoting it - arguably their most personal yet.

“This song is about my sister”, says vocalist Lemus Garcia.

When I was eight, my older sister moved out, and we’ve lost touch ever since. ‘Vista Verde’ is the result of all the frustration and helplessness I felt whenever someone asked me about her.

The Brisbane quartet has spent the last three years on the road, and Where You Found Me is meant to be the culmination of every experience from that period, including the toughest ones.

no rest for the dreamer

We Came As Romans | picked by Adi

The new WCAR track made its debut live during their high-energy set at Welcome To Rockville and was met with an immediate, enthusiastic response.

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The band keeps the momentum going following the release of their banger Bad Luck. No Rest For The Dreamer is for those who are still fighting for their future those who aren’t done yet. "

It’s about carrying your past, knowing you’re still not where you want to be.

… explains frontman Dave Stepens.

There’s more good news for fans: in July they’ll kick off a world tour, starting in North America before heading to Europe. Along the way they’ll hit major festivals like Warped Tour and When We Were Young. If you haven’t seen them live yet, now’s the time - just like on the title track, there’s no rest for this band.

All That I Remember

Amity Affliction | picked by Adi

The world of Amity Affliction has been buzzing ever since co-founder Ahren Stringer and the rest of the band went their own, not‐exactly‐healthy way. But life abhors a vacuum, and the group has just dropped its first single after that seismic shake-up.

Stepping in as the new frontman is Jonny Reeves from Kingdom Of Giants. If you were hoping the new track would dive deep into the fallout with Stringer, you’ll have to wait - this isn’t that moment. Instead, you get an intensely personal song about lead singer Joel Birch’s painful relationship with his mother before she passed. It’s heavy in every sense of the word.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

So Dead

by Jerk Beefy | picked by Adi

Belgium’s punk scene has always been prolific, and today we’re serving up its lighter side. Jerk Beefy hail from the 90,000-strong town of Aalst. They dropped their first single in 2018 and followed up a year later, but it wasn’t until 2023 - when they won the Rock Affligem auditions - that their name started to spread beyond Brussels.

Expect plenty of catchy, melodic choruses backed by explosive guitars and a distinctive vocal style. They’ve spent seven years honing and perfecting the songs for their debut album, which just dropped. If you’re digging around Europe’s pop-punk scene, Belgium has just gained a serious new contender - one that doesn’t care that it’s been 25 years since the year 2000 and sounds like Windows Millennium is just booting up. And we mean that in the best way possible.

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

Alright, let’s dive straight into this week’s picks. We’ve mixed it up to cover a bunch of flavors, so there’s something for everyone. Hope you dig it and that it fires you up for the weeks ahead!

Let’s go! Lukas & Adi.

You Should Se Me Now

by Neck Deep | selected by Adi

In the European pop-punk scene, Wales’ own Neck Deep are right now to the genre what Lamine Yamal is to Barcelona - still young but already doing so much good, and it looks like the future is theirs.

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These guys dropped their fifth full-length at the start of 2024, just wrapped an insane Australia tour, and immediately hit us with a new single that could’ve slotted perfectly onto their fourth album, All Distortions Are Intentional, complete with that uplifting hook

Good things come to those who persevere
And it takes blood, sweat, distance and tears
No fear, no excuses.

They’re also gearing up to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Life’s Not Out to Get You, the record that put them on the map. And hey, surprise singles aren’t anything new for them - remember the absolute bangers She’s a God and STFU? So I wouldn’t hold my breath for a totally new album just yet, but it’s killer that they’re keeping the momentum rolling!

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Two-Headed Trout

by The Callous Daoboys | picked by Lukas

These seven Atlanta wildcards have been tearing up the math-core scene since 2016, mixing jaw-break riffs, glitchy samples and even violins into their sonic mayhem. Their name’s a cheeky spoonerism of the Dallas Cowboys, and over three EPs and now three full-lengths, they’ve gone from underground buzz to signing with MNRK Heavy. On May 16, 2025, they dropped their third LP I Don’t Want to See You in Heaven, a concept-driven ride that balances dystopian storytelling with pop-leaning hooks.

Two-Headed Trout is one of the standout cuts from the new album. The band somehow balance utter chaos with “earworm” hooks, and this track’s patient build - those glitchy keyboards, jagged riffs, then that madcap chorus - shows how they’ve sharpened their groove without losing that gonzo edge. Frontman Carson Pace even talks about mixing pop sensibilities into their patented bedlam, so you get both the bite and the bait in one session. Slam this one on repeat if you’re craving something that’ll twist your brain and make you move.

Bet you can’t guess the main motif they swiped straight from that mega-popular Hollywood flick - it’s crazy how spot-on the themes line up. Any guesses which one? And if you’re not already hip to this crew, I’ve got to put you on their past achievements they’re seriously impressive. Truly a talented squad.

One Zero Zero

by MxPx | picked by Adi

May 16th is a day etched in gold for Lagwagon fans and anyone who’s ever ripped up the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2 soundtrack - shoutout to Joey Cape’s classic tune. And guess what? On that exact day we got fresh wax from another skate-punk legend.

Veterans MxPx have teamed up with Direct Hit! to drop a limited-edition vinyl split where both bands slam out One Zero Zero. I’ll leave it to you to pick which version slaps harder, but really, it’s not a battle - it’s a perfect nod to those ’90s skate-punk vibes that’ll have you dusting off your board, sliding into your faded jeans, and cleaning up those old Vans. At least, that’s the dream MxPx and Direct Hit! are betting on.

State of Disrepair

by Scary Kids Scaring Kids | picked by Lukas

SKSK are back on the hype train with State of Disrepair the first taste of their soon-to-drop album Maps Written in Water (July 11, 2025). After regrouping in 2019, these Arizona post-hardcore veterans flipped the script - each cut on the new record features a guest, and here they tapped Paul Rose (ex-Cover Your Tracks) for extra grit in the vocal parts. Musically, it’s that classic mix of frantic riffs and big, open-hearted choruses, but production-wise they’ve leveled up: crisp keys, stacked vocals, even a hint of cinematic drama.

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We’ve only got two cuts out so far, but it’s already clear this album’s gonna grab attention of many. If you’re into those late-’00s emo-screamo vibes with a slick, modern polish, this is something for you. And if you somehow haven’t peeped this squad before, you’re seriously missing out - they helped shape the scene back in the day. Go stream their Self-Titled ASAP.

Look Out For Me

by Turnstile | selected by Adi

Yes, we know Turnstile just popped up in JBTD recently, but seriously - this crew is climbing the punk ranks like they’ve unlocked god mode!

On June 6 they’re dropping their long-awaited fourth LP, and they’ve been blessing us with single number four (each one backed by a killer video). Plus, just days ago the full recording of their May gig at Baltimore’s Wyman Park Dell surfaced - and… I’m speechless. You’ve gotta watch it. The whole thing is drenched in ’90s vibes (nope, that’s not your dodgy Wi-Fi), and the crowd energy is exactly what you can expect when they roll through Europe. They kick off Never Enough release day with a multi-week Euro run - Portugal, Spain, Austria, the UK, France, Belgium, and Poland, here we come!

Sink

by The Bunny The Bear | selected by Lukas

Yo, check this - The Bunny The Bear just unleashed their full-length saga The Moments That Cost on May 9, 2025, and Sink still (as released already couple months ago) hits like a shot of pure adrenaline. Brooke Tybor’s clean vocals slice through the chaos with a newfound confidence - you can hear her growth front and center - while Matthew “The Bunny” Tybor’s frantic screams bounce off azor-sharp guitars.

They’ve always been genre-blenders, but on this LP they’ve dialed up the production polish (shout-out to Tough Luck Music and mixer Kyle Dameron), so every synth stab and breakdown lands with surgical precision. Lyrically, it’s about drowning in your own doubt before clawing back up - a perfect mirror for the album’s theme of paying dues for your next chapter. Sink proves these guys are in top form.

Motor City

by Somerset Thrower | picked by Adi

If these dudes name Jimmy Eat World as their main inspo - and have already shared stages with Rival Schools, Taking Back Sunday, or Glassjaw - you know it’s time to get hip to them. And trust me, it’s gonna hit you right in the nostalgia.

Hailing from Long Island, they’ve been grinding for a solid decade, though they drip-feed us new tunes like it’s some secret sauce. Their third LP drops this July, and just now they unleashed the second single, Motor City Frank Traficante’s gritty, raw vocals will snag your attention instantly next thing you know, you’re digging through their back catalog. When I spun Motor City, I couldn’t help but think The Ataris. Mix that with Jimmy Eat World vibes and Rival Schools energy, and you’re in for something tight. They’re one of the most slept-on bands we’ve covered on Just Before The Drop, but that’s about to change.

Midnight at McGuffy’s

by Dance Gavin Dance | picked by Lukas

Finally! They’ve been teasing this sooooo long!

Sacramento’s scene-stirrers return with Midnight at McGuffy’s the wild first single from Pantheon (Sept 12, 2025, Rise Records). This is the first full-length to feature Andrew Wells as the main clean vocalist, and he kills it - his tone rides the punk-funk grooves while Jon Mess’s screams cut like broken glass.

Layers upon layers of vocal harmonies, dizzying guitar tricks, and those jazzy time signature shifts make it pure DGD: way too technical to ever be mainstream, but so damn catchy you’ll be singing it in your sleep. Check already released All the Way Down to get an additional prove that they’re serious with this one.

The video’s a glitchy fever dream, too - grab your headphones and get lost in the madness. Must watch!

Beautimous

by Puddle of Mudd | picked by Adi

You might’ve caught Beautimous a couple weeks back, but when it comes to Puddle Of Mudd, you gotta make an exception and catch up. I wish I could say frontman Wes Scantlin’s legal drama was ancient history, but… I can’t. Two months ago he got arrested for DUI, before that he was busted for carrying a gun through an airport, and in March the cops rolled up on a domestic dispute at his place - and found illicit substances, too.

And in the middle of all that chaos, the band drops their seventh album. Just hours ago the video for the lead single Beautimous hit the web - there’s Wes out in the desert with some mystery woman shaking her hips. No clue if it’s the same one from that L.A. bust, but one thing’s for sure: you can never be bored with Puddle Of Mudd. Well, really it’s Wes Scantlin you can’t be bored with - he’s the only original member left, and the “former members” list clocks in at 17 names.

Wasteland

by Bury Tomorrow | selected by Lukas

OK. We’ve been already writing about their new album - waiting for it super impatiently. And so, from the finally released Will You Haunt Me, With That Same Patience Bury Tomorrow serve up (for the last time in a while) Wasteland.

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Dani Winter-Bates lays down a half-rap, half-scream verse over chugging guitars before they kick into a bruising breakdown - then, curveball, the last minute drips in lo-fi trap elements that’ll catch you off guard, finishing with the short screaming, very intense part. It’s classic Bury Tomorrow grit - anthemic choruses, brooding atmosphere - but they’re not afraid to tweak their formula. If you’ve been sleeping on UK metalcore’s finest, Wasteland is your wake-up call. Turn it up, let the low end smack you, and revel in the crossover chaos.

One of the best from the new LP, great finisher to this week’s JBTD!

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

Just before the new week kicks in, and as this one’s about to clock out, it’s time to fire up the counter. We’re back with your next dose of fresh chaos and melodic pills. Like Adi said: this week’s drop is all about keeping the energy constant, taking you from savage bangers to balsamic, soul-healing tunes. No matter where you are, there’s something here to amp you up or cool you down. Let’s get this ride started.

Let’s go! Lukas & Adi. 🤘🤘

Sacred

by Parkway Drive | picked by Lukas

Parkway Drive is back! After a three-year hiatus, band returns with their latest single, Sacred.

In 2022, the band announced a break to focus on their mental health, canceling a planned North American tour. They emphasized the need to reflect on their personal well-being and friendships, assuring fans they were "here to stay".

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Sacred hits hard - think Aussies roots, more Atlas (and the previous ones) than the symphonic and poetic flavor of Ire. It’s melodic, fast, and straight to the point. The track kicks off with that classic Parkway tension-builder - those circling, rapid riffs set the pace right out of the gate. The chorus? Tailor-made for festival crowds, with those big, choral-along vocal lines and soaring, overdriven guitar solos in the mix. The bridge is a highlight: noise feedback, deathcore-ish breakdown, and a filthy, raw solo. It’s just killer stuff - seriously, it even gives me Wild Eyes flashbacks.

Naturally, Parkway Drive are kicking off a whole new visual and symbolic era with this release. You can see it all over the new video - runes everywhere, fresh outfits, the whole vibe. Classic PD: always leveling up their visuals, and honestly, it looks sick.

Can’t wait for more, it’s so good. You must check it too!

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Young & Dumb

by Avril Lavigne, Simple Plan | picked by Lukas

Avril Lavigne and Simple Plan have joined forces for a nostalgic pop-punk anthem titled Young & Dumb released on May 9, 2025. This collaboration marks a reunion of two iconic Canadian artists who first toured together in 2003 during Lavigne's Try to Shut Me Up tour.

Young & Dumb serves as a tribute to their shared history and enduring friendship. The song, co-written by Lavigne, Simple Plan members, and producer John Feldmann, reflects on their early days in the music industry, capturing the essence of youthful dreams and the bonds formed through music.

This release coincides with the second leg of Lavigne's Greatest Hits Tour where Simple Plan joins as a supporting act. The collaboration replaces the previous joint performance piece, Fake as Hell with All Time Low, during live shows.

Young & Dumb has been already well-received by fans, resonating as a heartfelt time capsule that balances the weight of memory with the thrill of the present. It's a testament to the lasting impact of early 2000s pop-punk and the enduring connections forged through music. It’s also good to see long-time favorite artists together, in shape, with new and hot music.

Good one for summer parties? 🤔

Jinx

by One Step Closer | picket by Adi

Sexy. That’s the word that comes to mind when I try to describe the latest drop from the straight edge crew out of Pennsylvania. Back in 2021, BrooklynVegan called them “one of the most exciting bands in modern hardcore”, and honestly, they weren’t lying. The guys list Title Fight, blink-182, and Bane as their main inspirations - and that’s pretty much the perfect combo to sum up what you can expect from their sound.

Last year, May, they dropped their second killer album, All You Embrace, and it doesn’t look like they’re slowing down anytime soon. So if you’ve somehow missed out on them until now, it’s time to catch up - no excuses!

Hand That Feeds

by Halsey, Evanescence | selected by Adi

In less than a month, Ballerina: A John Wick Story (directed by Len Wiseman) hits theaters, but today we’re already getting a taste of the soundtrack - where rock diva Amy Lee of Evanescence teams up with pop star (and sometimes rock collaborator) Halsey.

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Even if you’ve never stepped foot in the John Wick universe, you need to check out this collaboration. The hype for this powerhouse duet was minimal - they announced it just three days before dropping the new track. Halsey has talked plenty about her love for Evanescence, and now we get to hear that excitement turned into a dark, haunting track with two powerhouse female vocals that might just convince a few rock fans to hit the cinema, too.

Hatred

by Paleface Swiss | selected by Lukas

Swiss deathcore outfit Paleface Swiss has unleashed a ferocious new single, Hatred serving as the lead track from their third studio album, Cursed, released on January 3, 2025 . This song marks a significant evolution in the band's sound, blending elements of deathcore, nu-metal, and beatdown into a cohesive and aggressive anthem.

Hatred opens with the haunting, scary intro Un Pobre Niño Murió a reimagined lullaby that sets a chilling tone before diving into a relentless barrage of heavy riffs and rapid-fire vocals. Frontman Marc Zellweger delivers a performance that oscillates between guttural screams and rap-infused cadences, channeling raw emotion and frustration. The track's lyrical content reflects on the overwhelming negativity present in today's digital age, with Zelli stating:

Every time you open your phone, it's just a flood of negativity... Hatred is us venting our frustration about the things we can't change.

Fast, heavy and rough as f**k, but you must check it. And if you’re a fan of old-good Slipknot there might be something similar to find here.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

iris

by mgk, Julia Wolf | written by Lukas

I must share with you this story. It’s something… at least for me. So!

A couple of years ago, I watched a Mac Pro review by Jonathan Morrison. This one was different - out from the typical hardware breakdowns. So instead of just running benchmarks, he invited some insanely talented and well-known music producers to put the machine through its paces in a real, high-pressure creative session. The highlight? You get a 15-minute production of an incredible track called Immortale. And here’s the kicker - it’s sung by Julia Wolf, a young, talented singer from Long Island who just started working with these guys.

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From that moment, I was totally hooked. Julia’s voice is just something else - soft, delicate, and at the same time, totally unique. I immediately started checking her other tracks and, dude trust me, she’s got a bunch of hits that are absolutely worth your time. Ever since then, I’ve kept an eye on everything she’s dropped. Only quality, super memorable stuff - seriously, I can’t recommend her enough.

So you can imagine my reaction when I saw her collab with MGK - another artist I’ve been following for years. That alone was enough to get me hyped. But then I realized they teamed up to cover Iris, that timeless banger by Goo Goo Dolls, and honestly? My excitement went through the roof.

I’m not about to break down how this track was put together - because honestly, this one hits different. A lot of you probably have your own connection to this absolute classic. Sure, it’s an interpretation, and you can totally hear that signature MGK edge - gritty, punchy, and raw. But at the same time, it stays super true to the original, capturing all the emotion that made Iris so iconic in the first place. And when you throw Julia’s voice into it, it takes on a whole new vibe - fresh, unique, and honestly, just fascinating. I’m very attracted to this version, and you should be too.

Another Miracle

by Of Mice & Man | picked by Lukas

No warning - Of Mice & Men just drop Another Miracle. The track not to warm you up or ease. As always, and with the band’s style it launches full-force, guitars ripping, drums pummeling, and Aaron Pauley’s vocals flipping between desperation and hope, all in one breath.

It’s classic Of Mice & Men, closer to the tracks we know from Defy, but with an added sense of urgency. Not trying to save the world, but making the chaos feel a little more electric - and maybe even a little more bearable. Another Miracle isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about finding a spark, however small, when you need it most. So yeah, turn it up, see what hits, and maybe let yourself get caught up in the momentum.

Apologies

by Three Days Grace | picked by Adi

Last fall, fans of TDG got the news they’d been dreaming about for years: Adam Gontier is back on vocals after an 11-year break from the band. But that raised the big question - what about Matt Walst, who’s been fronting TDG in Gontier’s absence and even left his old band, My Darkest Days, to do so? Well, the guys decided to team up, and now TDG is officially rocking with two vocalists. We’ll get the full taste of this experiment in August when their eighth album drops - the first ever with this lineup. But we’re already getting a preview with the new single of the same name.

A lot of the time in the studio, it just comes naturally. Who’s gonna sing what and where. It’s been a lot of fun. We have each other’s backs and we cheer each other on when we do a good take. It’s pretty cool to be part of.

Matt Walst makes it clear: working with Gontier is going great. We can’t wait for the new album - and for the tour these guys just kicked off!

Naked

by Dead by April | picked by Adi

The Swedes are back! After dropping The Affliction in 2024, they’re hitting us with another single - easily one of their most interesting releases in a while. The band has gone through a few lineup changes over the years, but it looks like things have finally settled and they’re ready to push further into the world of electronic alternative metal - a sound that’s won them tons of fans far beyond Europe. Fans are already drawing the right comparisons: that melodic chorus instantly brings back vibes from their 2017 era, Worlds Collide.

In The Sky

by Belmont | selected by Adi

Belmont have surprised us before with their mellow, country-inspired vibes (just check out Country Girl), but today we’re getting a much heavier side from this Chicago crew. This new track brings everything: breakdowns, growls, and some seriously hard-hitting energy - still with that signature pop-punk flavor they’ve stuck with since 2014. They’re back with this single after dropping their third studio album in April 2024, and it’s clear they’re sticking to their chosen path.

But when it comes to describing the track, let’s hand it over to the band themselves:

Sonically, In The Sky strives to push the boundaries of music in a way that can’t be found anywhere else. Blending elements of progressive pop punk, metal, hip hop, ambient EDM, hardcore, and everything under the umbrella of ‘rock’ overall - the goal was to make something that was true to us as a band while keeping things catchy and palatable to the common listener, so that it would be engrained in their memory upon the first listen.

And honestly, there’s a good chance it’ll stick with you after just one spin.

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

Some weeks are chill (previous one was that, 😎 right?). This ain’t one of them. We’re kicking things off loud and fast - with catchy, riff-fueled pop-punk energy that refuses to sit still. From there, it only gets heavier. This issue leans into chaos, distortion, and the kind of intensity that makes you feel alive again. No apologies, no soft landings. Ready? Let’s drop some good shit!

Lukas & Adi 🤘🤘

Car Song

by The Ataris | picked by Adi

The Ataris hold a special place in my heart, so the backstory behind this track hits even harder. Kris Roe wrote the song as a tribute to his father, William, who was a huge fan of the band and supported him on many levels. In 2014, William passed away due to complications from a lifelong struggle with alcoholism. Roe found a way to keep his memory close: his father's ashes were used in the production of the vinyl pressing for the song Car Song, and part of the proceeds from its sale will go to Shatterproof - a nonprofit organization helping people with addiction.

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Still not enough? To record the track and shoot the music video, Kris Roe sold his Volvo, which… was actually the car driven by Brian White in the final season of Breaking Bad. Roe had bought it a few years ago from a friend who worked on the show's set. The car even had original signatures from Bryan Cranston and the production crew. Roe sold it to producer Bob Hoag in exchange for studio time to record Car Song.

Pretty intense story, huh? The Ataris haven’t released a full-length studio album since 2007, but this track is meant to be the spark that finally brings their sixth LP to life!

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

100%

by New Found Glory | picked by Lukas

Pop-punk stalwarts New Found Glory have returned with a bang, releasing their new single 100% on April 30, 2025, marking their first new material in two years. The track coincides with their recent signing to Pure Noise Records, a label renowned for its roster of influential punk and hardcore bands, including Knocked Loose and The Story So Far.

100% is a concise, high-energy anthem that encapsulates the band's enduring spirit. With its punchy tempo, sharp guitar riffs, and uplifting lyrics, the song harkens back to the band's early 2000s era, reminiscent of their Sticks and Stones days. It's a testament to their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.

Fans have noted the track's nostalgic feel, with some highlighting its solid production and fun vibe. The band themselves have expressed that 100% is meant to inspire listeners facing unexpected challenges, reinforcing their message of resilience and positivity... Waiting for a new album, huh?

Negative Space

by Silverstein | selected by Lukas

Canadian post-hardcore veterans Silverstein have unveiled Negative Space a dynamic new single released a moment ago. This track serves as the second offering from their forthcoming album, Pink Moon set to drop on September 12 (no so soon, he?) via UNFD. Pink Moon is the companion piece to their previous album, Antibloom (we wrote about this one within the 7th issue), and showcases a darker, more cinematic approach to their sound.

Negative Space, kept with worked-out convention, well-known from the previous LP is a three-minute whirlwind that oscillates between aggressive riffs and melodic hooks, embodying the band's signature blend of intensity and emotion. Starting fast, entering with growls of Shane, circling around the slowed-down melodic chorus. With simple bridge fulfilled with a breakdown, with no huge break-trough, simple construction. All we might expect from Canadians…

Guitarist Paul describes the track as "off-balance," noting its slightly accelerated tempo and contrasting tones that keep listeners engaged. Frontman Shane adds that the song has it all - tons of energy, raw power, a big hook, and a massively heavy breakdown. Well, debatable tbh, but you can still judge it by your own. Give it a try, that’s for sure!

Over You

by Prospective | selected by Lukas

Prospective isn’t new to the game - they’ve been sharpening their sound since 2013, steadily building a loyal following across the European metalcore scene. Based out of Bologna, Italy, the band blends modern djent elements with melodic and progressive metalcore. Their lineup features dual vocals (clean and unclean), syncopated guitars, and tight, dynamic arrangements.

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Over You dropped in February 2025, is the next (after three other songs before) taste of new material since their 2023 full-length Reasons to Leave. Compared to the more polished, melodic elements of that album, this new track hits heavier. It’s rawer. Grittier. Less polished shine - more emotional weight. It feels like a midpoint between the massive breakdowns their previous albums.

Vocally, the back-and-forth is sharp as ever. The track is anchored in that classic Prospective duality: blistering riffage undercut with clean vocal melancholy. Lyrically, Over You digs into grief, detachment, and emotional exhaustion - but without leaning into cliché.

Dead End

by Her Last Sight, The Curse Within | picked by Lukas

Her Last Sight, the Tel Aviv-based metalcore outfit, has teamed up with The Curse Within for their latest single, Dead End, released on May 2, 2025.

Dead End stands out as a fusion of early 2000s metalcore nostalgia and modern production. The track features a dynamic interplay between clean and unclean vocals, intricate guitar work, and a rhythm section that drives the song's intensity. Fans have noted its throwback vibe, reminiscent of bands like Bleeding Through, while still maintaining a fresh and contemporary sound.

This single is a precursor to Her Last Sight's upcoming album, Seasons // Summer, set to release on August 1, 2025. Listen, my first impression was that I’m hearing Winston from Parkway Drive… 😛

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Confounder

by Heaven Shall Burn | selected by Adi

The German metalcore scene is still going strong, thanks in part to veterans like Heaven Shall Burn. This June, they’re dropping their milestone full-length album Heimat. As always, expect a fierce mix of metalcore, melodic death metal, and deathcore.

But Heimat aims to be more than just a record about "homeland" in the traditional sense.

The album explores a much broader meaning of the term - a homeland for many different people, as well as a spiritual home and something that shapes and drives our thoughts and actions

says guitarist and co-founder Maik Weichert.

Feeble-Minded

by Designing Creation | written by Lukas

Here’s one I didn’t see coming. Designing Creation, a lesser-known but razor-sharp metalcore band out of the US, just dropped Feeble-Minded, and it’s a beast. Gritty, dissonant, and brutally well-paced, this track wastes no time pulling you into its bleak, chaotic world.

The band first caught some underground attention with Lineage (2021), but Feeble-Minded feels like an entirely new level of maturity. It’s dense without being messy - layering crushing breakdowns with eerie atmosphere, and it lands somewhere between deathcore intensity and metalcore precision. There's a cold clarity to the production that makes every punch hit harder.

Neo Paris

by Rise of The Northstar | picked by Adi

ROTN is one of those bands you either love - or feel conflicted about. But one thing’s for sure: they’re bold as hell. Unapologetically blending metalcore with rap, hardcore, and Japanese pop culture, these guys never play it safe. After their breakout debut Welcame in 2014, they dropped two more albums - and now they’re gearing up for the next.

Once again, it’s loud, it’s raw, and this time… it’s also kind of a travelogue. Despite their deep obsession with Japanese culture, they haven’t forgotten their roots. Here's how the band describes modern-day Paris, the city they grew up in:

You better deal, deal with this
The way you see my city is glitched
Between light and shade something is born
Where the city is huge the man is alone
A dome above my head, my home, I'm gone
With the weight of the world stuck on my own
Headshot (Headshot) takes the place of the French kiss

Will this track ever be accepted as a Parisian anthem? Hmm, doubtful. But in certain circles - it’s already a certified banger.

Voice of the Nomads

by Moscow Death Brigade | written by Adi

If by some miracle you haven’t heard of MDB yet - I kinda envy you. That first encounter can seriously mess with your head in the best way. Their lethal mix of punk rock, hip-hop, and electronic chaos makes it physically impossible not to move your feet when their biggest tracks drop.

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Lyrically, they’re loud about racism, sexism, and homophobia - but the band resists being labeled as strictly political. Coming from Moscow, that’s probably a smart move. Still, facts are facts: we’re once again getting a hook that lodges in your brain, driven by wild, rapid-fire bars straight from the Russian underground. Imagine smashing Beastie Boys into Transplants, tossing in some anti-fascist grit, and letting it all loose in a DIY warehouse show.

But hey, don’t just take my word for it - MDB is the kind of band you need to experience with your own ears. Start with Voice Of The Nomads and make sure to dig into their back catalog on Spotify. You’ll thank me later.

Ballyhoo

by Green Day | picked by Adi

Let’s finish it a bit lighter … One of the most iconic bands in American punk rock - who only recently broke through to the mainstream - just got their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. And without missing a beat, they’ve dropped a brand-new single. Ballyhoo comes from the deluxe edition of their latest LP, Saviors.

The track is one of six bonus songs featured on the expanded version of the Californians’ most recent album, set to release on May 23. Not that fans need a reminder - this one’s already marked on the calendar.

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

We're back after the quick Easter recharge, and trust us - we’re absolutely buzzing. This 15th edition of JBTD is packed as usual with a killer blend of hardcore heaviness and some energetic punk cuts to keep things jumpy. We even sprinkled in a bit of acoustic magic for good measure. Curious? Good - let's dive in!

Lukas & Adi 🤘

bad luck

by We Came as Romans | picked by Lukas

We Came As Romans have dropped their first track of 2025, Bad Luck and it's a raw, emotionally charged anthem that delves deep into the band's journey. Released on April 17 via SharpTone Records, this single marks their return since the 2022 album Darkbloom.

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Bad Luck kicks off with an eerie, looped vocal sample, setting a haunting tone before launching into thunderous riffs and a soaring chorus. Lyrically, the song reflects on the band's challenges over the years. Frontman Dave Stephens shares:

Bad Luck is a song that is so important to each of us. Lyrically, it’s about our journey as a band since the very beginning. We’ve faced so many setbacks and problems behind the scenes, and sometimes it feels like Bad Luck is all we have - but the way that we’ve persevered through all of them to become who we are today is the real story, not the issues along the way.

While Bad Luck stands as a powerful standalone single, there's no official word yet on whether it's part of an upcoming album. However, the band is gearing up for a busy year with performances at major U.S. festivals. I bet that we will get something amazing later this year!

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

LUV U 2 DEATH

by LANiiDAE | selected by Lukas

Charlotte-based metalcore act LANiiDAE returns with a fierce new single, LUV U 2 DEATH. The track blends aggressive riffs with emotionally-charged melodies, perfectly balancing intensity and introspection - a signature move for the band.

Opening with a moody atmospheric intro, LUV U 2 DEATH quickly dives into an eruption of heavy guitar work and gripping vocals. It captures a turbulent narrative of love, loss, and emotional depth, something LANiiDAE has long mastered. This new cut feels fresh yet familiar, showcasing their refined sound and renewed energy.

While this new track is currently a standalone release, the buzz suggests it might be paving the way for something bigger. LANiiDAE continues to engage fans with energetic live performances and regular content updates, hinting at even more powerful releases soon…

The Darkest Place I’ve Ever Been

LANDMVRKS | picked by Adi

Absolutely one of the most anticipated metalcore albums of the year. The French crew teased us with a few singles before the “zero hour” finally hit. Tracks like A Line in the Dust, Creature and Blood Red stoked the fire, and now it’s time to dive into what awaits on the full-length - already their fourth LP.

I picked the title track for you, which opens the album in a somewhat misleading way - calm, almost apathetic. But then, out of nowhere, it smacks you in the face with a wet rag… and somehow you like it. You want more.

Once again, there’s no shortage of rap verses, scratches, and above all - those powerful, melodic choruses. You need to check this gem out in full.

1993

by CF98 | picked by Adi

Time for something from Polish soil! Believe it or not, next year this Kraków-based band will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album. Although calling them Kraków-based might be a bit misleading - these guys have long since blasted past Poland’s borders. You’ll now regularly catch them on international punk festivals, including the already-legendary Punk Rock Holiday. In the coming months, they’re also hitting stages in Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.

This time around, they’re serving up early ‘90s nostalgia, drenched in pop-punk energy. The band themselves dedicate the new album to “all millennials and forever-young teenagers trapped in the bodies of 30- and 40-somethings.”
The production? Handled by none other than Pete Zengerle.

77

by Billy Idol, Avril Lavigne | picked by Lukas

Two generations of punk rebellion collide in 77 a high-octane duet between Billy Idol and Avril Lavigne. Released on April 22, 2025, as the second single from Idol's autobiographical album Dream Into It, this track bridges the raw energy of 1977's punk scene with the infectious pop-punk vibes of the early 2000s.

77 is a punchy, 2:54-minute stunner that melds Idol's gritty vocals with Lavigne's melodic edge. Described as textbook, Disney Channel pop-punk the song pays homage to the year 1977 - a pivotal moment in punk history and Idol's own musical genesis with Generation X. The track's lyrics draw parallels between the societal unrest of the late '70s and today's challenges, emphasizing the enduring spirit of rebellion.

Idol himself remarked:

It came out really fantastic... It was already good with me on it, but it got three times better with her on it.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

For You

by Devil Wears Prada | written by Lukas

A couple years back, The Devil Wears Prada came through Poland right after dropping Color Decay - an album that, to me, easily ranks among the best metalcore releases of the past decade. That record hit deep: the mood, the textures, the vocals - it was the sound of a band leveling up hard. Still TDWP with their super original style but with something new and special under the belt.

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Together with Adi we went to that club gig in Warsaw hyped beyond anything, praying they’d play Salt, Time, and my favorite, beloved, Broken. Got Salt. The rest? Not so much. The show was still fire, just not the one I had playing on repeat in my head.

But ever since then, I’ve been waiting on every new track they drop with the same kind of breathless anticipation. Their new direction? Man, it’s magic. The way they build songs now - those arrangements, the emotional layering, more acoustic, less raw and harsh - it’s next-level. So yeah, every new release feels like a checkpoint in a second golden era for TDWP.

They’re back with a fresh single, For You released on April 17, 2025. This track marks their first release since 2024's Ritual and continues their evolution in the metalcore scene. New tack delves into the emotional turmoil of unreciprocated love, portraying a narrative of desperation and blind loyalty. The band describes it as a love story unraveling through the eyes of someone hopelessly devoted to a partner who can never truly give back. Musically, the song blends cinematic elements with heavy breakdowns, screams and overlayed riffs, showcasing a balance between their traditional metalcore roots and a more expansive, experimental sound.

No Tomorrow

by Fit For a King | selected by Lukas

It’s here! Fit For A King showing their first single of 2025 - No Tomorrow. The track that is anticipated to be part of their forthcoming eighth studio album, set to release later this year.

No Tomorrow begins with a haunting, atmospheric intro that quickly escalates into a powerful blend of crushing riffs and melodic choruses. Vocalist Ryan Kirby describes the song as a narrative of love and tragedy, focusing on a couple facing the end of the world together and choosing to cherish their final moments. It’s for sure different than what we already know, you get old-good Fit’s but likely more matured, I’d say?

New song is the first glimpse into Fit For A King's upcoming album, which is expected to feature a total of 12 tracks. Recording sessions for the album began in the fall of 2024, indicating a well-crafted and anticipated release. In addition to new music, the band is set to embark on a spring tour alongside Killswitch Engage, Shadows Fall, and Boundaries, with performances scheduled across various cities.

3 Days Sober

by WSTR | picked by Adi

If this is your first time hearing this version of the track, chances are you might actually prefer it over the original, non-acoustic one. The lads from Liverpool are celebrating their 10-year anniversary this year. If you're already into the vibes of fellow UK pop-punk staples like Neck Deep, then WSTR needs no intro - you probably even know the story about how they had to change their name from Waster to WSTR because a Canadian band beat them to it.

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And if you didn’t know that bit of trivia, well - now the abbreviation makes sense.

It’s also a great time to get into the music itself. WSTR wears their influences loud and proud: blink-182 and New Found Glory. If those names hit you right in the nostalgic gut, then mark your calendar for July 18, when their new release Bare Bones drops. Especially worth your time if pop-punk still runs through your veins.

Come Pick Me Up

by mgk | picked by Adi

MGK’s that kind of artist people either love or love to hate there’s rarely a middle ground. But no matter which side you’re on, you can’t deny the dude’s evolution. Colson Baker just turned 35 and his discography is already all over the map: from rap beginnings, through pop-punk bangers, and now dabbling in alt-country vibes.

A perfect example? His fresh take on a Ryan Adams track - brought back to life with a swagger that still hits just as hard as it did two decades ago.

One YouTube comment really nailed it: “mgk = multi genre king”. And while he still owes us a metalcore rager, some viking metal, and maybe a chilled reggae cut to truly earn that crown - he’s not far off. 😜

In This Mess

by Say Sue Me | picked by Adi

We’re kicking out this issue of JBTD by heading all the way to South Korea - specifically to Busan, where Say Sue Me took their first steps over a decade ago. Any day now, they’re dropping their fourth full-length album, Time Is Not Yours, and the lead single In This Mess is already out, steeped in their signature surfy indie-rock vibe.

If you're looking for the kind of record that makes you wanna hit the road with no real destination - just miles of endless highway, minimal turns, the same sleepy landscape rolling past the windows - this one’s for you. And who knows, it might even get you browsing flights to Korea.

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

We’re back with a new batch of modern punk and hardcore picks to soundtrack this slightly lazy Easter week. Hope you had a well-deserved break – and now, it’s time to ease back in with a playlist we cooked up just for the occasion.

As always, it’s a solid mix: some fast and heavy punches, paired with a few lighter, more melodic touches to keep things balanced. So, without stretching this intro too much… let’s get into this week’s stuff!

Lukas & Adi 🤘

Mr. Highway’s Thinking About The End

by Then It Ends | picked by Lukas

Straight outta Iowa’s metalcore trenches, Then It Ends just dropped a blistering cover of A Day To Remember’s classic Mr. Highway’s Thinking About The End.

Formed in 2019, Then It Ends brings together members from A Past Unknown and Dividing the Masses. They set a mission to deliver heavy music with a message of hope. Their debut album, Restored, dropped in 2020, followed by Closure in 2024, showcasing their evolution in the metalcore scene.

Their rendition of Mr. Highway’s Thinking About The End is a proof of building along with their roots and influences. The original track, released by A Day To Remember in 2009, is known for its intense breakdowns and emotional depth. Then It Ends amplifies this intensity, infusing the cover with their signature blend of aggression and melody.​ You’ll get a flavor of old good ATD, but with this quite fresh arrangement even a bit stronger then you probably expect.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

This Song I Wrote For You 🇵🇱

by Thirty-Three Rotations | picked by Adi

This is the news of the week! After 20 years, a band that stormed through the Polish hardcore scene during a few short but intense years is making a comeback. A band that played around 100 energy-fueled shows in just over four years before breaking up when its members moved abroad. Now, almost fully reunited, they’re back to rally the troops and deliver more of that “American hardcore” sound. A brand new full-length album is on the way - and probably some shows too - so this is shaping up to be a big deal for the Polish scene!

FOUND

by Lives Lost | picked by Lukas

Lives Lost, the alt-metal/post-hardcore outfit from Hershey, PA, has just dropped FOUND a soaring anthem featuring none other than Kellin Quinn of Sleeping With Sirens. This track is the final single from their upcoming EP Home, set to release on April 25, 2025.

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As we can read from recent interviews FOUND is a deeply personal song for lead vocalist Tanis Pellegrini, reflecting on the unwavering love he has for his wife and how they found each other despite past heartaches. The track builds to an impassioned breakdown and outro, reinforcing the eternal nature of their bond.

Kellin Quinn’s contribution adds a layer of emotional intensity to the song. Known for his distinctive vocals, Quinn has been active with various collaborations, including his side project Haunted Mouths and recent features with artists like Forever On High . His presence on FOUND bridges the gap between the raw emotion of Lives Lost and the melodic sensibilities he brings to the table.

SUMMER DISEASE 🎷

by Millington | picked by Adi

Summer’s creeping in fast, so it’s the perfect time to shift into those breezy, feel-good pop-ska-punk vibes - right where the guys from Millington feel totally at home. If you’re looking for something to brighten your day, lift your mood, and you happen to think trumpets are actually a cool instrument, then you’ve gotta check out this “band from the suburbs” (as they call themselves) - if you haven’t already, that is.

There’s also a good chance you discovered them through their brilliant covers of pop-punk classics on the Brass Emo EP, where they put their ska spin on tracks by Good Charlotte, Fall Out Boy, Yellowcard, or New Found Glory. So yeah - take those bands, add some brass, and boom: you’ve basically got Millington.

I'm The Man

Stand Atlantic, Lauren Sanderson | picked by Adi

The Aussies, led by the fierce Bonnie Fraser, are solidifying their place on the punk rock scene with an extended version of their latest release. On May 16, we’re getting the deluxe edition of Was Here, featuring a handful of new tracks - one of them being I’m The Man. This one features Californian artist Lauren Sanderson, more known for her rap-rock style, but honestly? She and Bonnie complement each other perfectly.

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Alongside the new songs, Was Here (Deluxe) will also include remixes of tracks from the original release - like Freaking Out with guest vocals from PVRIS, or a remix of Criminal done by Mr. Bill.

Fun fact: the new single was originally supposed to be on the first version of the record, but as Bonnie Fraser admitted - it just wasn’t ready yet.

The track starts off with the idea of “what if I was a rich asshole who didn’t care about anything”. That concept evolved into a commentary on the current political climate and how our band approaches it.

7 Horns, 7 Eyes, 7 Seals

by Irae | selected by Lukas

If you’ve ever screamed along to Break the Cycle or Fearless, you know what Mattie Montgomery meant to the early metalcore scene. Now, after years of relative quiet, the former For Today frontman is back - and not just with a whisper, but with a roar. His feature on Irae’s latest track, 7 Horns, 7 Eyes, 7 Seals feels like a resurrection.

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Irae, a band that’s been steadily carving their name into the progressive deathcore landscape, delivers a track that’s both crushing and contemplative. The song’s title draws from this apocalyptic imagery, and the music matches that intensity too. On top of that Montgomery’s vocals add a layer of urgency and conviction that harks back to his For Today days, yet feels entirely fresh in this new context.

This collaboration bridges the gap between the foundational sounds of early metalcore and the evolving landscape of modern heavy music. For fans old and new, 7 Horns, 7 Eyes, 7 Seals is a must-listen - a testament to the enduring power of passionate, purposeful music. I was super stocked to hear this collab!

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Shame

by Underoath | picked by Lukas

Disco from Underoath? You can get it, with no doubts! 🎧 Latest track Shame from their tenth album The Place After This One, showcases the band's continued evolution. The song opens with a near-tribal beat, leading into a blend of electronic (disco’ish) elements evolving to heavy guitar riffs. Drummer Aaron Gillespie's vocals shine in the pre-chorus, delivering lines:

It feels like falling
Evil you wanted
Bet you feel safe
Carry the weight

This track exemplifies Underoath's ability to fuse different genres, creating a unique sound that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners.

While some critics have noted that the song's structure might feel repetitive, with the chorus relying heavily on the song title, others appreciate the contrast between the electronic and heavy elements. The track's production quality and the band's willingness to experiment are evident, making Shame a standout on the album.

Finally, if you’re expecting that classic, rough, super edgy and heavy Underoath sound - this new record has you absolutely covered. But if you’re also hoping for something fresh and unexpected, well, they’ve got that too. Somehow, they've blended the two sides seamlessly, and the result lands surprisingly awesome!

Crave

by Magnolia Park | picked by Lukas

If you read us regularly, you already know just how much love and sentiment I’ve got for this band. I’ve been counting down the days for this new album, restless as hell, just waiting for it to finally drop - and yeah, it's here now, and oh boy, it’s soooo damn good!

CRAVE featuring PINKNOISE, is a standout from their ambitious concept album VAMP. This song delves into themes of desire and toxic love, aligning with the album's narrative of Aurora X1's tumultuous journey. The collaboration with PINKNOISE adds a fresh dimension to the band's evolving sound, blending elements of nu-metal and electronic influences. CRAVE exemplifies Magnolia Park's commitment to pushing genre boundaries while maintaining their core identity.​

For fans of bands like Bad Omens and Bring Me The Horizon, I think that CRAVE offers a compelling mix of heavy riffs, heavy growls and melodic hooks. It's a testament to Magnolia Park's growth and their ability to craft songs that resonate both thematically and musically.

But this track is just the beginning - seriously, you have to dive into this new album. It's absolutely stunning! I'll admit, I was a bit skeptical after their recent releases, but this record puts all doubts to rest. Honestly, I'd even say they're leaning a bit more into metalcore territory this time around ...

This one might be the best one this year. For me. 😄

Lost In Time

DoFlame | selected by Adi

In 2024, Mateo Naranjo aka DoFlame dropped his debut album Bent, but he’s not slowing down - now he’s back with a follow-up titled Get Bent!. This time, production is handled by none other than Josh Wilbur, known for working with the likes of Korn, Megadeth, and Avenged Sevenfold.

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Lost in Time is one of the heaviest hitters on the new record. It’s about phony people who bounce from crew to crew, city to city, just to get ahead. It’s hard to deal with people like that, but deep down you know they’ll eventually get caught, run out of places to go, and be forgotten by time says the Canadian artist.

Naranjo is still young, but if you ever find yourself wishing you were 20 again, filled with that same restless fire and defiant energy - Get Bent! is the record for you.

Never Enough

by Turnstile | picked by Adi

I’m pretty sure Glow On has been a regular guest on your playlists over the past 4 years - and who can blame you? The album landed three Grammy nominations. Now, Turnstile are dropping its follow-up this June, and judging by the first single, we’re in for something fresh. Brendan Yates describes the record as capturing the band’s restless and thrilling sonic evolution.

The end of the new single flows right into the beginning of the next track, instantly sparking curiosity about what’s coming next from one of the most sought-after bands in the genre. Once again, we get that infectious groove, and while Never Enough showcases the band’s lighter side, it’s hard to shake the feeling that the heavier edge of Turnstile will make its presence known on the new release.

For now, let yourself get swept away - and let’s just count down to June.
P.S. As always, don’t skip their music videos - they’re on another level.

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

We’re a crew already? Hell yeah, let’s roll with that. You know the deal – new week, new drop, and a fresh batch of modern punk and hardcore HITS. We’re a bit late this week tho, since this really ugly virus beat us down. But we’re alive and whether you're stuck at your desk, sweating it out at the gym, or just vibing on your couch – we’ve got the perfect soundtrack. Have fun!

Lukas & Adi ✊

Ember

by Lost in Separation | picked by Adi

Lost In Separation are celebrating their 10th anniversary this year, and they're making their second appearance here at Just Before The Drop. Back in February, we were hyped about their single Black Mirror, and today we’re getting another dose of melodic metalcore in the vein of Fit For A King.

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The Texas metalcore scene keeps evolving - and it’s moving in the right direction. Ember is one of the slower, more atmospheric tracks in LiS’s catalog, but don’t worry - just after the 2-minute mark, you’ll get hit with a proper breakdown that’s bound to shake the ground when they hit the stage near you. Go spin Ember - it's still hot!

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

NPC

by Our Last Night | selected by Adi

It’s our responsibility to stay informed
By all the celebrities that we adore
Convincing me to buy some shit I can’t afford
I maxed out all my cards but have a sick credit score

Trevor Wentworth has a real knack for writing lyrics that feel simple on the surface but cut deep. NPC is a sharp reflection of our digital age - a track that takes aim at modern life, screen addiction, and dopamine-fueled distraction. Lines like Stuck in our programming, A danger to society, Glued to the TV, Addicted to dopamine, We're all just NPCs hit hard and might just get you to stop and think — how much of your time is spent staring at a screen?

The only downside? Right now NPC lives exclusively on those screens - we’re still waiting for a proper full-length from the New Hampshire post-hardcore crew, their first in over three years. P.S. If you’re playing this track for someone outside the metal circle… maybe hit stop before the 2:20 mark.

Shiver

by Sheridan | picked by Lukas

This one… oh man. Shiver was the very first track I added to this week's list - and after a dozen replays and a few moments of actual chills, I can confidently say: it’s my absolute number one. No contest. This is the kind of track that stops you and makes you like: wait, what the fck was that?

Sheridan was totally new to me before this. Turns out they’re a band formed by two brothers (yep, that chemistry makes way more sense now), hailing from the sun-baked corners of Australia - a country that’s been ridiculously stacked with metalcore talent in the last decades. To us it’s a bit of default now that when you heare this kind of sounds you first think about the land of kangaroos. Right?

Shiver is raw, anthemic, and emotionally packed. It balances clean verses with these screamed ones, decorated by deathcore-ish parts punching through at the end of each line - crazy good aesthetic move. The production is sharp without being over-polished - you can still feel the edge, the tension, the need behind every word. The overall structure is wild and unpredictable, shifting from fast, high-energy bursts to over-dragged acoustic moments… and then, out of nowhere, a touch of electronics lands like a cherry on top. It’s super complex - and I love it.

Guess what? Sheridan’s just getting started. They’ve got a full-length album on the way, and if this single is the temperature check - things are about to boil over. Keep them on your radar now so you can brag later.

Fantasy

by Scowl | picked by Adi

The second album from the Santa Cruz crew just dropped - and it should fly off the shelves like fresh-out-the-oven bread. You might’ve already seen us mention this band before here at Just Before The Drop - they were first pulled into the spotlight thanks to none other than Fred Durst - but chances are you haven’t spun Are We All Angels yet. That’s because it only came out a few dozen hours ago.

Fix that ASAP. Kat Moss’s vocals will cast a spell on you, and the bouncy, grungy guitars will sweep you into a road trip across the States - fitting, since the band’s already announced they’ll be hitting every part of the US they possibly can with this release. And trust me, once you’ve seen them live, there’ll be a few lines that’ll stick in your head for a long, long time.

From Fantasy, here’s a pair that hit extra hard:

Don’t let anybody else hear, 'cause everybody else here’s afraid.

… and …

Couldn’t really quite explain, replace the pain with fantasy - it’s out there.

Landmines (Spotify Sessions)

by SUM 41 | selected by Lukas

In May 2023, Sum 41 announced their decision to disband after 27 years together, stating that their upcoming album, Heaven :x: Hell would be their final release. The band expressed gratitude to their fans and shared plans for a worldwide farewell tour to celebrate their career. The "Tour of the Setting Sum" commenced in early 2024 and concluded with their final performance at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on January 30, 2025.

As one of their latest activities band did a sessions for Spotify, recording two tracks: Landmines and Sleep Now in The Fire. Acoustic rendition of Landmines offers a touching farewell from the band as they conclude their nearly three-decade-long career. This stripped-down version allows Deryck Whibley's vocals to take center stage, revealing a raw vulnerability that underscores the song's themes of emotional exhaustion and reflection. The acoustic arrangement brings a new depth to the track, highlighting the band's ability to convey powerful emotions through simplicity.

It might be the last time we get to hear them ... or is it? Me and Adi have a feeling they’ll be back in a few years with something fresh and totally unexpected. Just a hunch - but hey, what do you think?

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

AlgoRYTHM

by Dragged Under | picked by Adi

We don’t wanna be too soft, or too heavy. In our own way, we serve up a mix of metal, hardcore, and candy.

That’s how vocalist Anthony Cappocchi sums up what Dragged Under is all about. And honestly? Nailed it. The band’s been carving out their place on the American scene for the past six years, and they’ve done it their way - loud, sharp, and without compromise.

Their latest single pushes back hard against the algorithm-driven world of music discovery. It’s a protest track - not against a system, but against a mindset: one where artists create music not to say something real or express themselves, but just to catch the next wave and score points with the Spotify gods.

And yeah, speaking of that… Dragged Under just passed 200k monthly listeners on Spotify. So sure, you can rage against the punk-industrial machine - but you can’t deny they’re rising fast.

face.

by Static Dress | picked by Adi

There’s a wave of nostalgia blowing in from Leeds! Out of nowhere, the crew from West Yorkshire just dropped a brand new single - and it’s a straight throwback to those iconic post-hardcore anthems from 20 years ago. And honestly? The timing couldn’t be better. This April, they’re heading out on a U.S. tour, hitting everywhere from NYC to Chicago to Salt Lake City.

Lyrically, the track dives back into the chaos of love and relationships, using a car crash as a metaphor for a toxic romance spiraling into a nightmare. And trust us - it’d be a total horror show if you didn’t at least give them a listen.

Inner Sanctum

by Annisokay | picked by Lukas

Just around the release of their new EP Abyss Pt. II, Annisokay returns with a crushing new single - Inner Sanctum. The German metalcore crew made us wait a minute since Pt. I dropped back in 2023, kicking off this whole Abyss concept. But now, part two is finally here - and it feels like the complete picture is coming into focus. Maybe even a full-length in disguise?

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Just like on previous tracks like Get Your Shit Together, with Inner Sanctum band leans into their signature tension-building approach - starting low and slowly stacking layers, both vocally and instrumentally. Inner Sanctum blends delicate clean vocal moments with heavy growls and downtempo sections that hit hard. You’ll catch some electronic bridges tucked in there too, adding extra texture.

It’s a pretty weighty track overall - no blast beats or breakneck pace, but it’s built with purpose. Tight, calculated, and unmistakably Annisokay, with a fresh edge that keeps things exciting right through the final note.

And if you’re looking for something with a bit more punch and rebound, make sure to check out Never Enough. This one’s in a league of its own - the tempo shifts, the composition, the energy - it stands out big time from the rest of the release. Either way, whether it’s this or Inner Sanctum, the full EP is absolutely worth your time. Don’t sleep on it.

My House

by PVARIS | picked by Lukas

Alright, I’m wrapping things up on a lighter tones this week - and with these last two tracks, I hope you’ll feel as comfy and dialed-in as ever… maybe even more. First up, we’ve got the re-recorded version of My House by PVRIS…

PVRIS is marking the 10th anniversary of their debut album White Noise with a reimagined version of their breakout track, My House featuring Courtney LaPlante of Spiritbox. This collaboration brings a fresh intensity to the song, blending LaPlante's powerful vocals with Lynn Gunn's haunting delivery, creating a dynamic that feels both nostalgic and new. I love that the culminating moment is not overblown with heaviness and LaPlante adjusted her vocal abilities to the overall grove of the track.

The re-release isn't just a nod to the past; it's a statement on the evolution of the alternative scene and the role of women within it. Gunn and LaPlante have both spoken about the significance of this collaboration, highlighting their shared experiences in a male-dominated industry and the importance of representation.

The Line

by VS / U | picked by Lukas

Hailing from Sweden, alternative rock band VS/U is set to release their second studio album this spring - and they're teasing it with The Line, the fourth single off the upcoming record. While the track itself leans into a subdued, nostalgic tone, don’t let it fool you - their broader catalog hits hard with a fresh and powerful take on the genre.

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The Line builds slowly with subtle vocals and delicate acoustic guitar work, eventually giving way to rough, string-scratched textures that add a haunting edge. It’s one of those tracks that lingers - memorable, raw, and emotionally rich.

Definitely worth checking out the rest of their recent releases too. Could be the perfect breather from the heavy hitters we’ve been piling on lately.

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

All good on your end? Feeling that spring-in-the-air buzz already? Or maybe it’s just your headphones heating up from the bangers we’re about to drop … 😏

As always, we’re back at it - our weekly ritual of discovering fresh & powerful tunes. We’ve dug deep, argued a bit (as always), and curated a wild ride of 10 tracks that’ll carry you from soft to harsh energy. Ready? Press play. Let the madness begin, this week it’s minty!

Lukas & Adi 💥

Up From The Bottom ⚡

by Linkin Park | picked by Lukas

OK, this one hit outta nowhere - at least for me. I was working late last Thursday, it was a bit past 11 PM, looking something on YouTube ... and boom - a new Linkin Park track popped up. At first, I figured it was maybe just a leftover single from their last album. But nah, this title didn’t ring any bells. And I was right — Up From The Bottom is brand new.

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Turns out, it’s the first revealed single from the Deluxe Edition of From Zero, which drops May 16, packed with two more new tracks. Totally unexpected, but hey - always here for more LP, especially in this reborn era.

So I hit play. And oh dude - instant time machine. It felt like being thrown straight back into Hybrid Theory days. So dynamic, so fast, so energetic - I was smiling like a child. But here’s the thing: Emily’s voice takes it even further.

Mike’s verses? Absolute fire - sharp, controlled, classic. Then Emily jumps in on the chorus with this perfect blend of clean vocals and those raw, screaming edges. It’s got that beautiful LP contrast written all over it.

But wait - there’s more. That interlude before the finale? Mike hands over the guitar to Emily, drops his lines, and then they pull the pin. Running guitars, Joe’s signature scratches ripping in the back - Dude… fuck me, this is SO GOOD.

Fans are already calling Up From The Bottom a spiritual follow-up to From the Inside from Meteora - both musically and lyrically. But what really got me? They placed it right after Good Things Go - my absolute fave from the last album. That can’t be random. There’s some deeper connection here, like a narrative bridge between those two. Gives the whole thing even more weight. You have to check it out.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Lunar Tides 🌊

by Varia | selected by Lukas

Let’s talk about one of the strongest cuts from an album that already dropped - and dropped hard. Varia, a post-hardcore/metalcore band from Virginia, just released their second full-length album, The Changing of Tides, on March 28. And Lunar Tides? That one’s an absolute standout.

The track opens slowly - delicate tones, keys - but don’t get too comfy. Soon enough, it pulls you into a flood of soaring guitars, bone-cracking breakdowns, and emotionally raw vocals. It’s heavy in sound and even heavier in feeling. There’s a real sense of weight here.

For a moment, because … It’s in the dynamics. Varia masterfully balance aggression with melody, throwing you between furious screams and hauntingly clean choruses without ever losing momentum. It’s modern metalcore done right - technical but not sterile, emotional but never overcooked. Quite fresh. Go, check it!

Love Is War 💔

by Memphis May Fire | picked by Lukas

Memphis May Fire is back at it, dropping their eighth studio album, Shapeshifter, on March 28, 2025. These guys are on a creative roll, delivering fresh material at a pace that's hard to keep up with. Just last week, we were vibing to Matty Mullins' collab with Anberlin, and now the full band hits us with a new collection of tracks.

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The album's promotion has been relentless, with singles like Chaotic, Paralyzed and Necessary Evil. But it's the latest release, Love Is War that's capturing attention. This track encapsulates the band's signature blend of metalcore intensity and melodic hooks. The accompanying music video dropped alongside the album, offering a visual feast that complements the song's themes. ​

In Love Is War Memphis May Fire explores the tumultuous nature of relationships, delivering a powerful performance that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers. The track showcases their ability to balance aggression marked by the awesome screams from Mullins with melody of choruses, a hallmark of their sound.​ It has its original flow, flys with the well-known concept, yet still very fresh and original. I love the finish, it has this slowdown, surrounded by the electronic sounds, bumped by the crashingly deep growls. Good stuff.

For those eager to experience the Shapeshifter, the album is available now!

I’m Not Dying To Be Here ⚰️

by Split Chain | selected by Adi

We do what we want.

That’s how the guys from Split Chain sum up their music - and honestly, they’re doing it right. This band is tough to pin down, and their upcoming album (dropping in July) probably won’t make that any easier.

The second single off the record brings to mind bands like Cold or Staind - and that’s a damn good comparison to have. The Bristol-based five-piece says the upcoming album, motionblur, is one to be experienced, felt, and absorbed, promising that if you dive into its waves, you’ll be met with a blissful sense of euphoria.

Tracks like bored.tired.torn. and the earlier single I’m not dying to be here absolutely live up to those words. We can’t wait for more.

902A 🛣️

by Lost Trees | picked by Lukas

If you're craving that emotionally charged metalcore sound reminiscent of early We Came As Romans, Lost Trees is a band you need on your radar. Their latest track, 902A (OVRDSE), dropped on March 28, 2025, and it's a sonic journey that hits hard both musically and emotionally.

Hailing from Florida, Lost Trees has been steadily carving out their niche in the post-hardcore scene. 902A as a new single, after last year’s EP Hallucinate showcases their ability to blend melodic riffs, electronics, variety of vocal tones and of course some breakdowns, creating a soundscape that's both haunting and invigorating. The track's lyrical depth delves into themes of longing and introspection, striking a chord with listeners who appreciate music that resonates on a personal level.​

Fans of We Came As Romans, especially during the era with the late Kyle Pavone, will find a familiar yet fresh energy in Lost Trees' approach. The emotive vocals and dynamic instrumentation echo the passion that defined WCAR's earlier work, making 902A a standout addition to any metalcore/post-hardcore playlist.

Bring Me Back To Life 🔙

by Hinder | picked by Adi

The story of Hinder has been just as wild as the lyrics they’ve written - especially when it comes to the ups and downs of their original frontman, Austin John Winkler, who co-founded the band. In 2013, right in the middle of a tour, Winkler had to step away and enter rehab. At first, Marshall Dutton stepped in temporarily... but fast-forward to today, and he’s now prepping for his fifth full release as Hinder’s frontman.

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After the heavier, punch-you-in-the-face energy of Everything Is a Cult, their new single Bring Me Back To Life lands in much more melodic pop-rock territory - hinting at a more diverse and dynamic album ahead. And that’s no surprise, considering this record’s been in the works for five years.

Drummer and co-founder Cody Hanson admitted the band actually had a full album ready to go back in 2020 - but scrapped it completely. He said they didn’t want to release anything until they felt truly inspired. Writing Bring Me Back To Life was that turning point - the spark they needed. Now the fire’s lit again, and the full album is coming this May.

We’re hyped to hear the final form of it - if this first single is anything to go by, Hinder’s back with something worth the wait.

Just Another Sunday 📆

by Love Ghost | selected by Adi

Love Ghost is a band from Los Angeles that refuses to sit still. Their sound floats somewhere between alt-rock, grunge, metal, pop-punk, and hard rock - yeah, that’s a lot, but that’s literally how they describe themselves. And honestly? It shows they’re still on a journey. Still searching.

And that journey is nowhere near done, because their latest track, Just Another Sunday, takes an unexpected left turn into shoegaze/dream pop territory.
It’s the kind of track you want to play in a dark room, eyes closed, thoughts drifting thousands of miles away. That’s when you really get what it’s about.

It’s got that slow-burn ache — introspective, nostalgic, a little blurry.
Kinda like when Joey Cape sang Just Another Sunday in Lagwagon’s classic May 16th. Now it’s Just Another Sunday, and even though they’re different eras and genres, both carry this quiet, weighty sadness underneath.

And sometimes? That’s the exact kind of sadness we go looking for in music.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Chemicals 💉

by Barbie Sailers | picked by Lukas

Swiss post-hardcore outfit Barbie Sailers has teamed up with German emo-rock band Lonely Spring to deliver their latest single, Chemicals. This collaboration melds the energetic essence of both bands, resulting in a track that's both infectious and emotionally charged.​ Really light as for our regular picks.

Looking from aside, Chemicals grips listeners with its dynamic instrumentation and compelling vocal interplay. The song navigates themes of addiction and the struggle to break free from toxic cycles. The chorus is particularly memorable, showcasing a blend of melodic hooks and raw emotion that lingers long after the track ends.

Barbie Sailers continues to carve out their niche in the alternative music scene, and Chemicals stands as a testament to their evolving artistry and collaborative spirit. They’re doing them a lot, mixing many different genres. Overall coming out very diverse. Definitely worth checking.

I Don’t Like How I Was Then 🪑

by The Wonder Years, Origami Angel | picked by Adi

Over the years, The Wonder Years have danced between pop-punk, melodic hardcore, and alt-rock - and now, they’re taking a totally different swing: acoustic reworks of their classics. But don’t worry, this isn’t one of those we just unplugged and hit record deals.

Their latest drop, an acoustic version of I Don’t Like Who I Was Then (originally released a decade ago), is almost unrecognizable - in the best way. What used to be a fast, punchy track now gets stripped down into something way more fragile, introspective, and emotionally heavy.

And the wild part? It still hits just as hard.

The new arrangement doesn’t feel forced or corny - instead, it brings a whole new kind of strength and maturity to the song. Fans are already buzzing about what’s next, and with the full acoustic EP dropping in May, the hype is real.

Honestly, the evolution of The Wonder Years has been nothing short of impressive. At this point, nothing would surprise us - well, maybe a collab with Tim Lambesis from As I Lay Dying … Okay yeah, that might still be pushing it. 😅

Kill This Shit

by Deez Nuts | picked by Adi

Can you believe the Aussie hardcore vets from Deez Nuts are about to drop their seventh(!) full-length album? Time’s flying, but these dudes? They haven’t changed a damn bit. Still loud. Still raw. Still throwing middle fingers in every direction - lyrically and sonically. And now they’re back with another bone-crusher: Kill This Shit.

The first single since 2023’s surprisingly catchy Rockstar, this one’s less sing-along, more fist-through-wall. But there’s something special here - Andrew Neufeld of Comeback Kid is in the producer’s chair for the whole record, and you can definitely feel his hand in the weight and structure of the track.

Now, here’s the deal with Deez Nuts: You either ride or die with them, or you bounce. This track won’t change minds - if you never vibed with their “bunch of brothers” vibe and barroom breakdowns, this won’t win you over. But if you’ve been there since Stay True or Bout It!, this new stuff feels like a homecoming.
Brutal. Groovy. Unapologetic.

If your testosterone's still floating somewhere above normal and your circle runs deep with ride-or-die friends - you’ll feel this one.

And finally, the full playlist! 🤘

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Be safe, Lukas & Adi.

New week. New music. New f*ck’n HITS.
This week’s setlist? Packed with personal emotions. We vibed hard with this one – it’s super versatile, full of contrast, and hits on all the stuff we love most: melodic hooks, raw-ass vocals, and infectious arrangements that just won’t let go.

It gets fast, it gets heavy, it even gets a little funny – but above all, it kicks butt.

Let’s not waste time. Let’s dive in. 🖤 👇

Say My Name

by Novelists | picked by Lukas

This is my this week’s absolute number one; on and on in the loop. From the opening notes, this track captivated me with its catchy, ethereal, and nostalgic vibe. It features compelling riffs and perfectly balanced vocals of Camille. She joined the band in 2023 and her addition has ushered in a significant revolution, forging a new style and identity for Novelists.​ You can spot it with each new track, one by one.

To me Say My Name exudes a vibe reminiscent of early Paramore tracks, both sonically and visually (Camille’s hair? 😆). The song's soaring melodies and atmospheric quality create a beautiful, almost weightless sensation. While not overwhelmingly heavy, it delivers powerful moments, highlighted by Camille's screams, building the bridge between the opening part to the very end. Talking about the opening - a perfectly composed melodic entrance, interlaced with a slick drum skit and layered with floating lead guitar lines. It’s one of those intros you can play over and over again without getting tired of it.

This is the 4th uncovered track from their upcoming album CODA, releasing this May. So far, each of this new songs are super versatile, much different from the other. This can only assure us that the next French Novelists long-play will be something worth picking and unforgettable. Can’t wait!

I’ll tell you something — I’ve already added this one to my Top 10 tracks of 2025. So far, it’s only sharing space with Blackhole by Architects. That’s how serious it is.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

No Believer

by Sakoya, Trash Boat | picked by Adi

What happens when two military veterans decide to make music?
Throw in a powerful vocal and clear early-2000s rock/metal influences, and you’ve got Sakoya - a band from Indiana, teaming up with Tobi Duncan from punk rock outfit Trash Boat to drop an energetic and melodic banger that wouldn’t feel out of place on modern rock radio.

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Sakoya is back after a short break, and honestly, they’re sounding sharp. The track’s driven by a catchy lead riff and Duncan’s aggressive vocal delivery, giving it real edge and personality. Some folks might even pick up a bit of Nickelback vibes in there - and yeah, that’s a compliment. Who doesn’t secretly (or not so secretly) love Nickelback anyway?

All My Friends

by A Day To Remember | picked by Lukas

Another one that I cherish a ton this week. It’s a standout track from A Day To Remember's latest album, Big Ole Album Vol. 1, which dropped digitally on March 21, 2025 (this last Friday).

And as we already teased when earlier singles dropped - this album really does showcase the band’s dynamic range. It blends that unmistakable ADTR energy with some fresh, unexpected twists - and yep, we weren’t wrong one bit. The best part? It’s super accessible. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just jumped in off a random playlist, tracks hit like you’ve known them for years.

All My Friends exemplifies this fusion, highlighting the band's classic style with a melodic approach that resonates widely. Some fans have noted a country influence in the track, particularly in its songwriting and the final production, while still retaining pop-punk verses. You should definitely check it!

All Star

by nothing, nowhere | selected by Adi

A good cover should bring something new to the original - and that’s exactly what nothing,nowhere. did with All Star by Smash Mouth.

They took a track known for its goofy, feel-good energy and dragged it into completely uncharted territory. What was once playful and light suddenly becomes dark, haunting, and painfully emotional. You’ll feel uneasy. And that’s the point.

And while it’s technically just a cover, it’s also the perfect excuse to dive into the world of Joseph Edward Mulherin - an artist who fearlessly bounces between rap, punk rock, and emo aesthetics.

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He’s straight edge, openly talks about his struggles with depression and anxiety, and has shared stages with bands like Neck Deep or Fall Out Boy. Now that you’ve got a taste of where he’s coming from, go explore his catalog.

Trust us - it’s worth the trip.

Paperthin Hymn

by Anberlin, Matty Mullins | selected by Lukas

Do you know Anberlin? Do you know Matty (the Memphis May Fire’s vocalist)? So check this out, they united to reimagine the biggest hits from Anberlin palette.

Paperthin Hymn originally featured on Anberlin’s 2005 album Never Take Friendship Personal, appears as a refreshed version infuses the song with a new energy while preserving its emotive core.​ The collaboration showcases a seamless blend of Stephen Christian's distinctive vocals and Mullins' dynamic range, adding depth and intensity to the beloved track. It’s super interesting that Matty did only cleans here, and if you know what he is capable of, you would be surprised how it eventually evolved.

This reimagined Paperthin Hymn stands as a testament to Anberlin's enduring legacy, inviting both longtime listeners and new fans to rediscover a classic through a fresh lens. Finally, it’s incredible that after so many years these songs still feel so fresh, catchy and so original. Please check the full album… and the old one, of course!

Survivor

by APOC, The Day We Left Earth | picked by Lukas

This one came outta nowhere and instantly got my attention. Survivor, the fresh collab between APOC and The Day We Left Earth (that we’ve featured couple issues ago), dropped just a few days ago - and damn, it smashes hard.

From the get-go, it feels super engaging - heavy, cinematic, and emotional. APOC brings that fierce, unfiltered vocal energy, while The Day We Left Earth lays down their signature post-apocalyptic vibe - think synthy breakdowns, dark ambient textures, and layers of sound.

Speaking about the build. What really stands out, though, is how well-layered this track is. You’ve got fast, aggressive bursts swung into moody downtempos, versatile vocal shifts (growls, cleans), and even some slick electronic injections.

Hot Mess

by TheCitylsOurs | selected by Lukas

The title might be Hot Mess, but trust — this track is anything but chaotic (well, maybe a little). It’s polished, fresh, and catchy as hell. You can smell the summer energy coming off it - clean melodies, sun-drenched hooks, but just when you think you’re safe with your small bottle of light, it punches in with those sharp, heavy bursts. It’s one of those songs that could fit both your beach playlist and your gym PR session. But that’s just one side of the story.

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Hot Mess comes from the band’s just-dropped record Will You Still Love Me?, and this album? It’s a genre blender in the best way possible. You’ve got post-hardcore, metalcore, alt-pop, emo rock, even some electronic textures sprinkled in. One moment you’re headbanging, next moment you’re hit with a chorus that sounds like it belongs on alt-radio. And somehow, it all holds together.

It’s a record that feels like a reflection of now - chaotic but cohesive, emotional but playful, aggressive but melodic. And vocally, it’s got a wild range: soaring cleans, gritty screams, and even spoken-word-like passages (rap maybe?). This band really found their voice here - you can feel the confidence. Must hear!

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Afterlove

by Afterlove | picked by Adi

Spring is here - and with it, new ideas started blooming in Mirza Radonjica’s head like flowers breaking through the snow.

That’s how AFTERLOVE came to life - a fresh project where the Siamese frontman joins forces with Zac Allen (If Not For Me) and Zack Baker (Rain City Drive) to deliver a 7-track record called Copenhagen Closure. The whole thing kicks off with the title track, Afterlove and it sets the tone perfectly. AFTERLOVE was born out of a simple love for massive vocals and wall-of-sound guitars.

The idea was simple: don’t overthink it — just write songs that feel good.

And you can feel that throughout. If you’re into crushing riffs, huge melodic hooks, and production that hits just right, this whole EP is gonna be a straight-up pleasure to blast on repeat.

Hello Heaven, Hello

by Yungblud | picked by Adi

This is one of the most ambitious tracks I’ve ever released.

That’s how Yungblud introduces Hello Heaven, Hello - a near 10-minute epic that feels less like a song and more like a full-blown ambient journey into the depths of human desire and fear. And maybe… into the next chapter of his career.

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The British artist - known for collabs with Machine Gun Kelly, Travis Barker, and a whole alt-rock revival wave - is teasing a new album coming in the first half of the year. And with a move like this? He’s clearly not chasing radio plays.

Releasing a near-10-minute track in today’s streaming landscape is a bold, almost rebellious choice. Even Yungblud admits his label warned against it. But he doesn’t care:

Risk is the greatest tool an artist can use. Putting everything on the line in pursuit of creative evolution - that’s what I call real art.

So here’s the question - do you prefer Yungblud in his punk-leaning I Think I’m Okay era with MGK and Barker? Or are you ready to follow him into this new, sprawling sonic space? Either way - press play and decide for yourself.

Scared To Die

by Our Last Night | selected by Adi

Scared To Die is the fourth installment in a series of tracks recently released by the guys from Our Last Night. They’ve been steadily unveiling pieces of their concept album, Left Alone, dropping a new chapter every few weeks - each one accompanied by a music video. These clips are all part of a bigger picture, building toward a full visual story, with the audio version landing on their upcoming full-length, set for release this May. It’ll be the fourth studio album from the New Hampshire-based band.

If you’re into deeper cuts that tell a story, this one’s for you. Fans of the band are already hyped - and the next few weeks are only going to crank that anticipation up as they roll out the remaining pieces of the puzzle.

And finally, the full playlist!

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Stay safe, Lukas & Adi.

We’ve officially hit the 10th edition of our curated set of modern punk & hardcore music recommendations! As always, we’ve picked high-energy, must-hear tracks spanning across different genres. And this time? It looks like we’re leaning more into the punk-ish side rather than the heavier, more brutal hardcores. But hey, you be the judge here - let us know where your heart (and ears) land on this one!

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Thanks for being here. Thanks for your support. If you like what we’re doing here, share this newsletter with your friends - it seriously means the world to us. ❤️

Now, enough talk - let’s dive in!

Petty 🤡

by Mattstagraham | picked by Adi

You don’t know who Mattstagraham is? Don’t worry, neither did I - until I heard Petty, and then I knew I had to dig deeper.

He’s releasing music under I Surrender Records, and his fanbase (which keeps growing) is seriously hyped about Petty. It’s the second of his recently dropped singles, and I guarantee that if you enjoy bouncy, pop-punk anthems sprinkled with shamelessly catchy hooks, both choruses will be stuck in your head for days.

They also make it pretty clear where Mattstagraham is headed - moving from fast, raw, and simple punk to more polished, structured arrangements. No shame in that, but I’ll let you form your own opinion.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Powerslide 🧊

by Sudden Waves | picked by Adi

A high-energy fusion of hardcore, pop-punk, and metal straight from the frozen streets of Montreal - and trust me, these guys will heat things up like no one else this week! 🔥

They’ve already shared the stage with heavyweights like Polaris, Alpha Wolf, Counterparts, and Obey The Brave, and last year, they hit the road across Europe supporting Dog Eat Dog.

At times, brutally aggressive - at others, nostalgically melodic. Their latest track, Powerslide, comes with a killer music video that, if you’re 35+, will instantly remind you of The Hell Song by some slightly more famous Canadians… Sum 41. And honestly? That alone should be reason enough to check out what’s going down in Quebec right now!

Serenity 💊

by Her Last Sight | selected by Lukas

Alright, this one isn’t exactly new, so I’ll take the blame for sleeping on it. But last week, I stumbled upon Her Last Sight for the first time, and between the sound and the eye-catching visualizers on Spotify, I was immediately hooked. So, naturally, I had to dig deeper.

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Turns out, they’re a metalcore band from Israel, formed in 2019. Since then, they’ve dropped three solid full-length albums, staying consistent with their sound and production approach. Their latest, SEASON // WINTER, is a concept album packed with melodic, high-tempo riffs, catchy solos, and dynamic vocals. The mix of powerful growls and clean singing brings a unique character to their music, making them stand out from the crowd.

Serenity makes the list because, for me, it was the perfect “initiation” to the band and what they do best. It’s melodic, dynamic, and full of moments where the lead motive shifts, keeping you engaged from start to finish. This isn’t a track that fades into the background - it’s a solid, versatile metalcore build that demands attention and deserves a spot on your playlist.

Seriously, check these guys out. You won’t regret it.

Stranger 🧑‍🎤

by Prompts, Landon Tewers | picked by Lukas

Oh boy, this one. You might feel a bit scary at first - it’s heavy. The opening seconds can even make you shudder. But the moment I saw Landon Tewers' name attached, I knew this was going to be something special. And damn, I was right.

Prompts is a Japanese metalcore band formed in 2012. With a couple of EPs under their belt and a full-length album, Fracture (2022), they’ve made a solid impact on their local scene, though they haven’t yet broken through significantly on the global stage.

Now, teasing their upcoming album, the band presents Stranger - a track built on the theme of duality and personal identity, drawing from frontman PK’s experiences navigating different cultures and languages. To bring this concept to life, they reached out to Landon Tewers, and the result is absolutely devastating.

Beyond the chaos of its structure, Stranger is a relentless assault - breakneck tempo, razor-sharp guitar work, and unfiltered aggression. But at its core, the vocals steal the show. PK’s raw, guttural delivery is already next level, but when Tewers jumps in mid-track, layering his signature shaky growls in a fierce back-and-forth exchange with PK, it transforms into a ticking bomb. And it’s exactly it, try to spot the beeps gently sewn up within the most intense moments of this song - crazy, original and refreshing effect.

This one isn’t for everyone - some might tap out early and move on to the next track. It’s fast, chaotic, and straight-up brutal. But the more you listen, the more the intricate layers and concepts unfold. Give it time, and Stranger becomes something truly fascinating.

Burn 🔥

by Slow Motion Victory | picked by Lukas

Alright, these guys are brand new to the scene - like, absolutely fresh. They’re just kicking things off, which makes it the perfect time to jump in, follow along, and see where they go next.

Their latest track, Burn serves as a teaser for an upcoming EP, and if this is just the beginning, the full release could turn out to be something really interesting. Musically, it sits comfortably within post-hardcore territory, blending clean, soaring vocals with raw, charismatic screams. The track ramps up into a metalcore-driven tempo, featuring melodic riffs, dynamic breakdowns, and a crushing finale topped with some brutal, sour growls.

Is it reinventing the wheel? Maybe not. But there’s definitely something catchy here, and it’s got enough energy and potential to keep an eye on. Let’s see what they evolve into.

If It Hurts ❤️‍🩹

by AVOID | selected by Lukas

AVOID is a dynamic five-piece band hailing from Seattle, Washington, known for their energetic fusion of hard rock and melodic metalcore. They have been rapidly gaining attention for their electrifying live performances and genre-blending sound.

They’ve released two full-length albums, with their latest, Cult Mentality, catching significant attention and building quite big fanbase eager for a fresh, modern blend of non-traditionally connected genres.

Their newest single, If It Hurts, dropped this January, stands out as a bold mix of shifting tempos, hard rock-inspired guitar work, electronic interludes, and dynamic vocals. The result? A versatile and layered composition that leans slightly away from their earlier punk/hardcore roots and explores a more expansive, genre-blurring sound.

It’s a new direction for AVOID, and if this track is just a taste of what’s to come, we’re in for something interesting. Let’s see where they take it next.

your name forever ⚱️

by mgk | picked by Lukas

This one jumped out unexpectedly two days ago, and there is a very sad story behind. Serving as a tribute to mgk’s late friend, professional snowboarder Luke "The Dingo" Trembath, who passed away last month (not knowing how, yet).

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The song touches artist personal grief, reflecting on unresolved issues and expressing deep remorse over their last interaction. In the lyrics, he mentions a coat Dingo left at his house, symbolizing the lingering presence of his friend and the void left by his absence.

If you’ll check the music video for this track you notice that musicians, including Synyster Gates and M. Shadows of Avenged Sevenfold, Oli Sykes of Bring Me The Horizon, Johnny Cappelletty, and Mod Sun, joined MGK in recording it, highlighting the profound impact Dingo had on the music community.

Finally, I caught something important here - after all his recent experiments, Colson is back in the genre that (at least for me) suits him best. I can only hope this means we’ll be getting some old-school, high-energy pop-punk production from him again soon. Fingers crossed! 🤞

Daggers 🗡️

by Pinto Sunshine | selected by Adi

This Atlanta-based quartet blends indie rock with Latin influences, proudly embracing their roots in every track. The result? A refreshing twist on what you might be used to.

Daggers takes their sound in a sharper, more aggressive direction, showcasing a band that made serious noise last year with the release of their debut album, Pinto Sunshine Vol. 1. If you're looking for a break from your usual rotation, this one’s worth a spin. Plus, consider it a bonus Spanish lesson - some of their tracks are performed in their native tongue.

P.S. You could be one of the first to hear their new track on YouTube since the view count is currently about as high as the number of expletives dropped during a Polish national football match. 🤣

Tonight (I’m Afraid) 🌃

by Scowl | picked by Adi

If you’re on the hunt for a rising star with a female-fronted lineup, you’re in the right place. While they’ve already dropped their debut album, it feels like this California-based band is only now hitting full throttle.

April marks the release of their second full-length, Are We All Angels, and their resume is already stacked - they’ve shared the stage with absolute legends. And there’s way more to come - vocalist Kat Moss (not to be confused with Kate Moss) has made it clear that touring is the band’s top priority, with plans to hit every possible corner of the U.S.. Fingers crossed for Europe next! 🤞

If you’re new to Scowl, here’s the short version of their come-up: back in 2021, Kat was still working in a coffee shop when Fred Durst slid into their Instagram DMs, completely hyped on their music. Turns out, he discovered them on TikTok, got so hooked that he binged their entire YouTube catalog, and next thing you know? They were invited on tour with Limp Bizkit. At first, the band thought it was a prank - but yeah, it was very, very real.

And now? They’re just getting started.

Name

by The Goo Goo Dolls | selected by Adi

On one hand, realizing that A Boy Named Goo dropped 30 years ago is a bit of a gut punch. But on the other? It’s pretty damn impressive that thousands of fans across the world still revisit one of the greatest albums from these Buffalo legends.

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A band that spent most of its career straddling the line between alt-rock, post-grunge, and pop-rock - but let’s not forget, they started off as a punk outfit. Their influence stretched beyond genres, and if you’ve ever heard Haste The Day’s phenomenal cover of Long Way Down, you already know exactly what I mean. That track comes straight from A Boy Named Goo, and if, by some miracle, you don’t have this album ingrained in your memory, now’s your chance.

Johnny Rzeznik and the crew are dropping a Deluxe Edition - a massive 34-track double album featuring:

➡️ The original album
➡️ A never-before-released live show from Las Vegas (March 1996)
➡️ Four B-sides from that era
➡️ Six tracks recorded for Modern Rock Live

If you’re gonna drop cash on an anniversary edition, it better offer something special - and this one? Absolutely delivers. So yeah… shut up and take my money!

And finally, the full playlist!

You can play it along, or just save within your Spotify account. Stay safe, Lukas & Adi.

We’re super thrilled to welcome you to the 9th issue of Just Before The Drop!

This time, it was really hard for us to omit the heavy-hitters, collecting for you a setlist of really solid post-hardcore and metalcore tracks. We also have some raisins (you know, the juicy odd ones), but the overall perception of this set is to just scream, hard. So we hope you’re ready for this week’s awesome recommendations!

Thanks for being with us. If you like our work, consider sharing this publication with your friends. Let’s go green! 🎧 🔥

Keep Sweet 🍬

by Spiritbox | selected by Lukas

A few issues ago, we were hyped about Spiritbox’s upcoming album—and now, it’s finally here. Tsunami Sea crashes in with a fresh, unpredictable sound, proving again that this band refuses to be boxed in. They’ve been teasing us for months, dropping singles with all kinds of unexpected twists, and Keep Sweet is probably one of the biggest curveballs on the record.

It kicks off fast and aggressive, before suddenly switching lanes - bringing in electronic-blended drums, light, airy guitar work, and Courtney LaPlante’s subtle cleans. Then it builds - the chorus slams in, double-time, hitting with screams. That energy carries into the next verse, where the track balances melody and weight - with clean vocals drifting over growing, heavier riffs, setting up a return to that massive chorus. But just when you think you’ve got the pattern down, the song drops into a downtempo, wrapped in reverbs, spacey textures, screams and a searing guitar solo.

It’s versatile, ethereal, and downright spiritual (nomen omen). The way it transforms from one mood to another feels like an out-of-body experience. If you know the band, their previous album, and you have some solid expectations you’’ll definitely notice that this one gets a bit away from the whole.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Parasite

by Wolves at the Gate | picked by Adi

Ohio metalcore titans are set to drop their sixth album, Wasteland at the end of May - and they’re promoting it with a heavy-hitting statement right from the start. Guitarist Steve Cobucci describes the new single as a tale of the relationship between a parasite and its host. A powerful metaphor reflecting our ties to our weaknesses, tendencies, and sins.

And indeed, we’re getting a track that dives deep into the contradictions within the human mind - our habits, addictions, and the struggle to break free from them.

No more I walk this path,
My veins overcame the lust, I feel it breaks me (…)
Sell it with the venomous gaze. I die, I die.

This one feels tailor-made for a crushing metalcore live show - where at 2:40, the crowd will be obliterating bones, trampling loose phones, and leaving the pit in shambles. In other words, business as usual.

If you don’t know the band we encourage you to check their very first albums as they are solid foundation of the genre, still sounding fresh and catchy. Still.

Tongues

by Thornhill | picked by Adi

This track is all about being torn between two opposing forces: desire and resistance, surrender and defiance. The atmosphere is a constant battle - one moment spiraling into aggression, the next offering a brief moment of relief.

Australia’s metal titans once again make their way into our weekly newsletter, and for good reason - their third full-length album, BODIES, is shaping up to be one of the most important core releases of 2025.

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Tongues is the fourth single, once again drenched in that thick, tension-fueled atmosphere - a sound fans of Deftones will instantly recognize and love. The album drops on April 3rd, and I guarantee you - before Easter rolls around, you’ll have every track burned into your memory.

Sunset

by Straight Shot Home | picked by Lukas

When a melodic metalcore band decides to take on a synthwave classic, you might expect you're in for something interesting. Straight Shot Home's rendition of The Midnight's Sunset is an unexpected genre-blending that showcases versatility and creativity.

From the get-go, the track melds the nostalgic vibes of the old track. There is this feeling that you’ve missed the tracks somehow, but, step by step the familiar light melodies are seamlessly intertwined with crunchy guitar riffs and dynamic drumming, creating a soundscape that's both fresh and reminiscent.

Chase Ward's vocals stand out, delivering a performance that oscillates between melodic cleans and powerful screams, capturing the essence of the original while adding a distinct edge. The production quality is top-notch, ensuring that every instrument shines without overshadowing the others.

I’m impressed how easy they transitioned from that light, pop lines into to powerful guitar arrangement, kept the very individual vibe of the inspiration song.

Strange Animals

by Our Last Night | written by Adi

It’s been over 20 years since brothers Trevor and Matthew Wentworth started the band, which many might recognize for their stellar covers of unexpected artists like Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, and NSYNC… But don’t let that fool you - these guys put just as much effort into their original material, and this May, we’re getting another full-length album.

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This time, it’s a 10-track concept album, set for release in May, and Strange Animals marks the third single, following Tidal Wave and Left Alone. Every track is paired with a music video that interconnects, weaving a story about a lonely man and woman whose love takes a dark turn.

We wanted to create something truly unique. Every track on this album is a separate chapter in a larger story. It’s emotional, it’s intense. We hope fans will feel the work we put into this.

Explains vocalist Trevor Wentworth.

If you love music that carries something bigger, deeper, and more immersive, set your alarm for May 9th when the album officially drops - or better yet, start diving into the story now.

Something Real

by Kidpunk | picked by Lukas

Here we go! Fresh and fiery new artillery from the UK. Newly established KIDPUNK is dropping hit after hit, gearing up for - as they claim - a full album landing later in 2025. Fast, super melodic, packed with that sun-soaked, California-flavored blend of early pop-punks, Britpop, and even a touch of trap… Yeah, you read that right. Fancy that. 🔥

While checking them, you’re in for solid production, a sharp, selective sound, and surprisingly versatile arrangements. The tracks come enriched with subtle electronic elements, racing at full speed - perfect fuel for summer party bangers.

Since its release, Something Real has garnered significant attention, achieving nearly 25,000 streams in its first week. The track exemplifies Kidpunk's commitment to authenticity and innovation, resonating with a growing audience. Interesting collective to follow and to look on further.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Very Clever and Full of the Devil

by Just a Mess | written by Lukas

Just a Mess is a Chicago-based three-piece formed in 2019. Blending (as they introduce themselves) the intensity and emotional depth of Deftones 🤔 with the introspective lyricism of Brand New, they’ve carved out a distinct sound that’s both raw and reflective.

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The band’s journey began in an unexpected place a drunk tank, where founding members Tony Sarlo and Kyle Blais met after a wild night out. Their shared passion for music quickly led to the birth of Just a Mess. After parting ways with their original drummer, Kevin Kovacevich stepped in, solidifying the lineup and bringing a fresh dynamic to the band’s rhythm section.

Despite their name, there’s nothing messy about their music. Just a Mess delivers a tight fusion of heavy, guitar-driven riffs, keys, mixed tempos, modulated, sometimes aged vocals and deeply personal lyrics. You’ll get all of this with Very Clever and Full of the Devil. Coming from their fresh album Our Blood Oath this track is a great appetizer for the band’s present and past achievements.

xMOSHLORDx

by Lost Souls & Jonathan Vigil | selected by Lukas

Oh dude! The moment I saw Vigil’s name on the featuring, I knew this one was gonna hit hard! And sure enough, Lost Souls joins forces with The Ghost Inside’s vocalist to craft this one-and-only, mighty track.

Lost Souls, who sounds at times like early We Came as Romans, fairly new on the scene, post-hardcore band reached out Johnathan Vigil from The Ghost Inside and he enthusiastically joined the project. They teased the collaboration as a fusion of their new music with fresh perspectives and dynamic, very original vocals. The result is a track that not only pays homage to the genre's roots but also pushes its boundaries.

It’s definitely original, fresh, and well produced. Fast, heavy, and packed with variety. Vigil’s presence undeniably pushes the band into new territories, adding a layer of intensity that takes their sound to the next level. Now, all that’s left is to keep an eye on them - waiting for a solid, cohesive record that blends all these elements into something even bigger. It’s very promising!

Waiting

by Bury Tomorrow | picked by Adi

This week, this is hands down my heaviest pick - but there’s no way I’m letting you miss a new Bury Tomorrow drop. The Brits spent last year tearing up stages across the UK, Europe, and Australia, and 2025 is shaping up to be even bigger with their eighth album dropping in May.

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The fourth single from Will You Haunt Me, with That Same Patience hits like a wet rag straight to the face - the heaviest and darkest track so far from the album’s rollout.

Frontman Dani Winter explains that Waiting is about life’s lowest moments and the process of being reborn through the fire we must walk through.

Next month, they’re heading out on a full US tour with their country fellows While She Sleeps, and most of the venues are already sold out. And trust me - it’s only gonna get worse. Or better. Because these Southampton heavyweights are only getting bigger. We just can’t wait.=

Humming

by Turnover | picked by Adi

Peripheral vision - the ability of the human eye to perceive objects outside the central field of view. That’s one definition. The other?

The ABSOLUTE BEST ALBUM in Turnover’s discography.

The Virginia Beach crew is celebrating ten years of Peripheral Vision the right way: a full-album anniversary tour and a deluxe reissue that’s an absolute must-listen. Alongside remastered fan-favorite tracks, we’re getting instrumental versions of every song, plus new alternative renditions of their biggest hits like Humming and Cutting My Fingers Off.

If you’ve somehow never dived into Peripheral Vision before, this revamped edition is the perfect excuse to discover a band that masterfully blends indie rock, pop punk, emo, soft grunge, and dream pop into something effortless and timeless. And if you’re looking for the perfect album to soundtrack those warm summer nights - well, you just found it. 🌙 ✨

Another week, another batch of absolute hits! This time around, we’ve selected a wild mix - some punky, even ska-infused vibes alongside high-pace metalcore “trains”. Whether you need a sonic kickstart to your next day or just a excuse to make you smile like an idiot, we’ve got you covered.

Crank it up, let the riffs do the magic, let’s dive into the new and fresh JBTD! 🚀🔥

Incomplete

by 408 | picked by Adi

408 is a band from Florida that’s making waves and pushing their way forward with serious momentum. So much so that in 2025, they’ll be playing in every city that hosts this year’s Vans Warped Tour. Their hometown of Orlando is expected to be the hottest stop - and I’m not just talking about the weather.

Lyrically, Incomplete dives into relationships and unfulfilled love, with Kalie Wolfe from the dark-pop-rock band Rivals stepping in to perfectly complement the track vocally. Ironically, for a song about incompleteness, it feels incredibly complete - especially since Wolfe’s vocals practically take over the entire track.

Florida’s atmosphere has played a major role in shaping 408’s sound. Honestly, every one of their songs could be paired with a blurry Polaroid of a mystery girl, bathed in the glow of an ocean sunset. Ocean Avenue, anyone? 🏖️

But don’t stop at Incomplete - 408 has plenty more to offer. Check out We Don’t Get High Like We Used To for a taste of their more pop-punk-driven side.

The Nile

by Ghost in Stereo | picked by Lukas

Ghost In Stereo is a fairly fresh force coming from Denver, Colorado's metalcore scene. They’ve been around, releasing music from 2022. Now, they’re rolling out EP that forecasts (as they claim) a new full-length album.

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Their new track The Nile showcases the band's dynamic range, blending aggressive riffs with melodic interludes as well as roughness of old-school emo. Vocals are versatile, mixing clean and growl parts, structure is complex, with multiple tempo changes you will get melodic guitar parts with some “side-located” synth keys accompaniment. There are some guitar solos too. Very interesting blend. Check it!

Brain Dead

by Architects, House of Protection | written by Adi

Can you believe this is already Architects’ 11th album?

Over 20 years in the game, and the British metalcore giants are still sitting high on their Olympus. The Sky, the Earth & All Between aims to prove they’re far from resting on their laurels - something critics have accused them of in recent years.

Brain Dead hits like a punch straight to the gut. Clocking in at 2:48 of pure hardcore energy, it doesn’t stop until it crashes headfirst into a crushing breakdown. The music video might remind you of those gritty, 90s hardcore aesthetics, but in true Architects fashion, there’s still plenty of melody woven in. Lyrically? Another reflection of frustration and disappointment with the modern world.

Looking at how well the previous singles have been received, the metalcore scene seems to agree - even before its release, The Sky, the Earth & All Between is shaping up to be one of 2025’s most intriguing records.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Landslide

by Millington | picked by Lukas

Alright, who’s ready to jump? Landslide is Millington at their absolute best - tight, punchy, and dripping with that perfect blend of ska-punk energy. The horns? Crisp. The riffs? Bouncy. The chorus? Melodic, will definitely stay in your head for the rest of the damn day.

From the very first notes, Landslide welcomes you with its jumpy rhythmic riffs and those signature brass, brining you the band’s best. Oh no, wait a second. That you have just after a very first plucking on the strings sounds a bit like … A Day To Remember? 🤔 Anyway, The track is all about movement - literally and figuratively. It’s a part of their upcoming EP - dates not announced yet.

From their first albums Millington has been riding that perfect middle lane between nostalgic third-wave ska and modern punk energy, and this track locks that formula in. If you’ve ever lost your voice screaming along to Less Than Jake, skanked through a Streetlight Manifesto set, or just needed a song that makes everything feel a little lighter, Landslide is that track.

Forgive

by Shoreline, Knuckle Puck | picked by Adi

Just after a bit lighter stuff, let’s kick things off strong with an absolute emo pop-punk banger from the guys in Shoreline, featuring none other than Joe Taylor from Knuckle Puck.

Shoreline’s vocalist, Hansol Seung, has Asian roots but grew up in Germany, and on their latest album (already their third full-length), he confronts the racism he’s experienced throughout his life. Shoreline isn’t just about catchy melodies and relationship drama - it’s a darker, deeply personal journey through raw emotions and introspective storytelling.

The same goes for Forgive, where the lyrics hit hard:

I am sorry that I can’t be
The person that you need
'Cause I’m too caught up in my full-time job and my own stories
I can only pray for your forgiveness

If you somehow haven’t checked out Knuckle Puck, do yourself a favor and fix that - then dive straight into Shoreline. If emotional, high-energy punk rock is your thing, this one’s going to hit just right.

Quite Place

by Vanna | selected by Lukas

After a seven-year hiatus, Boston's own Vanna has stormed back onto the scene with their latest single, Quiet Place released on February 28, 2025. This track marks their first new material since 2016 and showcases the band's return to their raw, unfiltered hardcore roots.

The current lineup features original members Chris Preece on vocals, guitarists Evan Pharmakis and Nick Lambert, bassist Shawn Marquis, and drummer Brandon Davis. This reunion brings back the chemistry that fueled their early success, evident in the cohesive energy of the new single.

Quiet Place mixes aggressive, sour riffs with guttural vocals, blending an unprecedented range of voice tones and styles, capturing the essence of Vanna's signature sound. The track seems to be a bit of introspection, resonating with both long-time fans and grabs the new listeners. I’m feeling even a bit of nostalgy here.

Prior to this release, Vanna reunited for a special 15th-anniversary performance of their 2009 album A New Hope in July 2024. Following this, they operated under the moniker INSPIRIT, releasing new material and performing live shows. However, recognizing the strong connection fans had with the Vanna name, they decided to officially revive it, marking a new chapter in their musical journey. Let’s wait for more!

Abandon Us

by Killswitch Engage | picked by Lukas

​After a six-year hiatus since their 2019 release Atonement, Killswitch Engage has returned with their ninth studio album, This Consequence.

So what's notable at very first tones This Consequence diverges from the band's previous polished productions, embracing a rawer, more unrefined aesthetic. There is this effect - the sound of obsolete production - that makes a very weird feeling, immediately you're wondering if there's nothing wrong with the sound quality itself. But it’s like that, it was purposeful.

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So this shift brought varied reactions among fans and critics. Some appreciate the nostalgic nod to early 2000s metalcore, while others feel the production lacks the clarity of earlier works. Critics have also weighed in on this stylistic choice. Boolin Tunes observed the album's raw production, at the same time aiming to compliment band’s heavy songwriting, finally pointing that it’s simply sounds fumbled, highlighting a departure from the band's typically tight sound. Very confusing.

But let’s put aside the sound and the way of recording it. Let’s focus on the music as it is. This Consequence showcases Killswitch Engage's signature blend of heavy instrumentation and melodic hooks. Tracks like Forever Aligned and I Believe exemplify this balance, offering both intensity and catchiness. Selected Abandon Us served as the album’s latest single - as well as being the great opener - it’s a flawless fusion of intense riffs, melodic passages, and varied vocal dynamics. Good stuff.

As you may notice on Spotify they counting millions in streams on this record now. So no matter how they decided to record this thing fans are here and they like it. I’m circling around this one, returning with this interest of what actually happened here. 😅

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Kilonova

by The Unguided | written by Lukas

This guys were new to me, so I would like to share some history about them with you, before we tackle the final song of this great issue.

The Unguided is a Swedish melodic death metal band formed in 2010 by former members of Sonic Syndicate. They came together to pursue a heavier and more melodic sound. Their debut album, Hell Frost, was released in 2011, showcased their blend of catchy melodies, growling vocals, and intricate guitar work. Interesting throwback for those into this specific genre.

Their upcoming sixth studio album, Hellven, is set for release on March 7, 2025. Lately the band has released single Kilonova, which serves as the third leading up to the full album that is just around the corner.

This track might be a bit confusing at first. My initial impression was that I was hearing an interesting blend of classic metalcore with - exactly - some unmistakable Scandinavian power metal influences. It’s got a fast tempo, melodic riffs, and even breakdowns. However, the vocals feel like they’ve been pulled straight out of Game of Thrones. 🪄

Nevertheless, it’s catchy, well-constructed, and does a great job of building tension for what’s to come further in this track. That’s why I decided to include it here - I think it adds a great bit of variety. Hope you’ll enjoy it!

Troubled Waters

by The Speakeasy | picked by Adi

Time to head over to chilly Canada, where the sun of California occasionally shines - usually when bands like The Speakeasy take the stage. Active since 2017, they’ve been lighting up the Montreal scene with high-energy performances, and now, just like the cover of their latest single suggests, it’s time to set sail into the dangerous waters of the rock and roll world.

Their second album dropped via Thousand Islands Records, but as the band themselves put it:

It’s not about signing record deals - it’s about breaking the chains of creative imprisonment. It’s about getting up when you fall. About battling mental health struggles and the chaos of love.

For a still relatively small band, their latest single is surprisingly well-produced, with an intriguing verse that builds into a blazing, explosive chorus. If the rest of the album sticks to this formula, you just might find yourself venturing into a dimly lit basement in Quebec for one of their gigs.

Where I Lay

by Movements | picked by Adi

Where I Lay is for the outcasts and for anyone who's never quite fit into this world.

Movements' frontman Patrick Miranda doesn’t leave any doubt about who their latest single is meant for.

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As they celebrate 10 years as a band, the Orange County post-hardcore outfit is gearing up for a North American tour, bringing some friends from Citizen, Scowl, and Wonward along for the ride. Kicking off in March, the 24-date run promises their signature mix of post-hardcore and alternative rock, drawing from influences like La Dispute, Title Fight, and Thrice. If Movements haven’t been on your radar yet, that lineup alone should convince you to hit play on Where I Lay - and trust us, you won’t regret it.

Miranda has always been open about his mental health struggles, something deeply reflected in his lyrics. If you’re into music that dives headfirst into the complexities of the human mind, Movements offer a one-way ticket to a thought-provoking ride.

Stoked to have you back for another fresh issue of Just Before The Drop. This week, we’ve got a solid selection of tracks lined up - leaning a bit more into punk and alternative vibes rather than the hardcore-ish heaviness. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty of energy to go around. Let’s go!

Make It Make Sense

by A Day To Remember | selected by Lukas

But before we jump into these less-crazy vibes let’s go hard as usual!

New album from A Day To Remember is coming!

I can’t hold myself back from saying this - I’m hyped! You guys don’t know that but A Day To Remember is one of those bands that shaped my entire love for post-hardcore and metalcore. If you’ve somehow never dived into their discography, do yourself a favor and start from And Their Name Was Treason. That record is an absolute classic, and even 20 years later, it still hits fuck’n hard!

Now, Make It Make Sense is here, following the already solid releases of Feedback and LeBron, and guys, it keeps the momentum going. While LeBron had that fun, bouncy energy (all the "whoohooos”) and Feedback leaned into their rockier side, this one pulls ADTR back into their heavier, more intense roots. From the first riff, it’s clear they’re not holding back - tight, driving guitars, punchy drums, and Jeremy McKinnon’s signature mix of soaring cleans and raw intensity. I can even hear the new style of Sam Carter’s growls from Architects (btw. their new album in 2 days).

Check out this promo short from YT that they’ve recored. Old good ADTR!Le

Take The Pain Away

by From Fall to Spring | picked by Adi

Time to take a look at the European scene. From Fall To Spring, a German band, recently tried to represent their country in Eurovision, securing second place in the national TikTok vote. They didn’t make it to the final competition, but the attempt brought them some well-deserved attention, with local stations describing their sound as a mix of Bring Me The Horizon, Breaking Benjamin, and Falling in Reverse.

Their latest track, Take The Pain Away, showcases a softer side of the band. Despite being on the scene since 2008, they only released their debut album two years ago. Since then, they’ve been staying on the radar with occasional singles. But if you're expecting something truly heavy, let’s set things straight - this is more about rap verses and insanely melodic choruses than breakdowns and growls. Even Breaking Benjamin has heavier songs than these guys.

But don’t let that put you off - From Fall To Spring has never hidden their radio-friendly ambitions, so their music is designed to be highly listenable. If you’re looking for them, check the "friendly metal" section rather than "doomsday-metalcore."

Left Alone

by Our Last Night | picked by Lukas

From the very beginning of their career, Our Last Night has been masters of covers, taking mainstream hits and flipping them into post-hardcore anthems. And while those covers have played a huge role in their success, it’s always a real treat to hear them drop fresh, original music.

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Now, they’re gearing up for a new full-length album, Left Alone, and the title track is the perfect equalizer to introduce what’s coming. Right away, you can feel a more balanced vocal dynamics, with clean parts being evenly split between the brothers, giving the track a richer, more melodic flow. The interplay between Trevor’s powerful delivery and Matt’s smooth, soaring vocals adds depth, making the song hit even harder when the energy kicks in.

Musically, Left Alone leans into elegant chorus, tight riffs acompaniament with blinking melodic parts, building tension to the final screams - exactly what OLN does best. The production is crisp, the hooks are undeniable, and the entire track carries a grand, cinematic feel that suggests the album is going to be something special. If this is just the beginning, then we’re in for a killer release.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

For The Plot

by As December Falls | picked by Lukas

As December Falls is a band I hadn’t really listened to before, so this was a good chance to get familiar with them. So before diving into their latest track, For The Plot, let’s take a quick look at what they’re about.

Coming from Nottingham, UK, As December Falls has been steadily growing in the pop-punk and alternative scene. They operate completely independently, handling everything themselves - from recording to touring - which is something you don’t see too often these days. Their sound brings a mix of modern pop-punk energy with a bit more weight, giving them a distinct presence without leaning too far into either extreme.

Now onto For The Plot - the newest single from their upcoming album. It’s a straightforward, pop-punk, high-energy track that keeps things tight and to the point. The guitars are sharp, the rhythm drives the song forward without overcomplicating things, and Bethany Curtis’ vocals cut through with blast. The chorus is big and built for live shows, balancing melody with a bit of grit, making it an easy addition to their growing catalog. I love girly vocals in such trucks, it fits so well.

If the rest of the album follows this direction, it’s shaping up to be a solid release. For The Plot keeps things familiar but fresh enough to leave a good impression. Definitely a band worth keeping on the radar. Bit candy-ish but still … Check out the video! 👇

Merry Go ‘Round

by The Honesty, Crooked Teeth | selected by Adi

Something for punk rock fans, especially those who grew up on MxPx. From the very first lines, you’ll catch that Bremerton veterans vibe. The Honesty has already released two full-length albums, and this time, they’re teaming up with Tyson Evans from Crooked Teeth, delivering a tight, pop-punk arrangement straight out of sunny California.

Their debut album was produced by Sam Pura, known for his work with The Story So Far, State Champs, and The Dangerous Summer, so the bar was set pretty high from the start. And with Merry Go 'Round, they keep that melodic, high-energy sound going strong.

This is the way it's gonna shake out, this is the way we're gonna break out - don’t expect political or anti-system statements here. The focus is more on relationships unraveling in less-than-pleasant ways. If that theme hits close to home, chances are The Honesty will resonate even more, as their catalog is filled with songs carrying the same kind of emotional weight.

Madagascar, Really?

by St. Plaster | picked by Adi

Punk rock on steroids, mixed with anti-political rebellion, a touch of vulgar language, and energy out of nowhere. You’ve got to hand it to St. Plaster - they know how to describe their music in a way that sticks.

This is a band that keeps dying and coming back to life, originally meant to be a one-off project by Adrian Delange (not to be confused with DeLonge) from Call It Off and Tim van Doorn from Big Dog Recordings. But the most recognizable name here is Hans Roofthooft from Belgian punk legends F.O.D.

Their influences are loud and clear - No Use For A Name, Bad Religion, Rancid, and early Green Day - but there’s also a strong dose of Belvedere-style skate-punk in the mix. The result? A high-energy, no-nonsense sound that hits fast and hard.

Now, let’s just hope they don’t make us wait another six years for new music. With their new EP dropping now, fingers crossed it’s a sign of something more consistent this time around.

Heart of Darkness

by Church Tongue | written by Adi

Alright, but just so it’s not all radio-friendly hits this week, here’s something that kicks in the door with zero warning - as intense as downing a Carolina Reaper with just water to wash it down.

The metalcore crew from Indianapolis decided to ruin Valentine’s Day in the best way possible by dropping their second EP, You'll Know It Was Me, on February 14. And with lines like I will tear you apart, no paradise that doesn't make me think twice, it’s safe to say the lyrical protagonist wasn’t exactly in a romantic mood.

Then again, with Nicko Calderon (who also plays in Knocked Loose) on guitar and the band now signed to Pure Noise Records, you already know what to expect. This thing hits hard, and the opening track, Heart of Darkness, sets the tone right away - no mercy, no sugarcoating, just pure aggression.

Frontman Mike Sugars describes the EP as a short story about love. Yeah … safe to say this one’s not ending in a wedding.

Stress

by Silverstein | written by Lukas

Canadian Silverstein has always been one of those bands that know exactly how to balance melody and intensity, packing it into the post-hardcore sentiment. Their latest release proves they’re still at the top of their game. New album Antibloom may be short, but it covers a lot into its runtime - concise, focused, and with no wasted space. Stress was the final single leading up to its release, and it fits perfectly as the last preview of what this record has to offer.

The track leans into the heavier side of Silverstein’s sound, bringing in tight, punchy riffs and relentless energy. Shane Told’s vocals shift seamlessly between controlled cleans and more aggressive moments, which we have a lot here, creating the kind of contrast that has always made their music stand out. The chorus hits with a sense of urgency, and the instrumental work keeps the momentum high without overcomplicating things.

Maybe I’m stressed from the pressure!

With the record now fully out, Stress stands as one of its defining moments - a track that captures the essence of what makes Silverstein’s sound still so effective and recognizable after all these years. If you haven’t checked out it yet, now’s the time.

House of Glass 🏚️

by Afterlove, Siamese | picked by Lukas

So I've been a huge fan of Danish underdogs from Siamese for a while now. Their last album, Elements, was a brilliant fusion of post-hardcore, alternative rock, and electronic elements, showcasing their versatility and a new, very interesting approach.

Now Mirza Radonjica, the Siamese vocalist is rolling out a new side project called Afterlove, paring with Zac Allen from If Not For Me and Zack Baker of 💛 Rain City Drive - if you know the bands you may now squeezing your head, preventing from blow. And so weirdly it’s shown as a collaboration between those two bands?

House of Glass blends emotive rock sensibilities with Siamese's polished alternative sound pinched with electronic rhythms, as well as original voice tint of Radonjica, resulting in a song that's both intense and catchy. The interplay is seamless, highlighting ability to complement styles.

This single serves as a promising introduction to their upcoming joint EP album named Copenhagen Closure, hinting at a collection of tracks that will resonate with fans of Siamese. I just can’t wait for the full exposure.

I Will Not Break

by Disturbed | picked by Adi

Let’s finish that with a style!

17 million albums sold. 14 billion (!) streams. At this point, Disturbed has long passed the mainstream threshold and solidified their status as a metal icon. Now, 25 years after releasing their opus magnum, The Sickness, they’re heading out on a massive anniversary tour to celebrate the album that defined their career.

Their latest track, I Will Not Break, stays true to the anthemic, hard-hitting sound they’ve built over the years. Right from the start, you get that signature David Draiman barking intro, something he could probably patent at this point. The song itself is classic Disturbed - big, powerful, and carrying the same “rise above the struggle" message that has always resonated with their fans. Draiman himself describes it as a must-have song about becoming stronger than those who try to break you.

But this is just the beginning of their next chapter. In 2025, Disturbed is dropping a new album and embarking on The Sickness 25th Anniversary Tour, which will feature 34 shows with a two-set format—the first dedicated to performing The Sickness in its entirety, and the second packed with their greatest hits.

And if I Will Not Break is any indication, this year belongs to Disturbed.

It’s us again, Lukas & Adi!

We’ve got another round of great recommendations for you. This week, as always, we’re bringing you some incredible tunes, a mix of bollock-kicking-metalcore with alternative, atmospheric, cinematic even tracks that will hook you from the very first listen, and - we promise - will be looped all over.

Grab your headphones, get comfy, close your eyes, and let’s dive in. This is going to be an unforgettable experience. Let’s start this off strong.

Obey

by Hands Like Houses, Kellin Quinn | picked by Lukas

After months of anticipation, Hands Like Houses have finally released their ambitious new album, ATMOSPHERICS. This double album is structured into four volumes - Tropo(sphere), Strato(sphere), Meso(sphere), and Thermo(sphere) - each representing a different layer of the atmosphere, symbolizing the band's evolution and creative journey.

I’m picking Obey, a track that’s been building anticipation since December (released on Meso). The song captures the essence of the album - punchy, energetic, and layered with intricate sound design. Featuring Kellin Quinn of Sleeping With Sirens, Obey blends soaring melodies, HLH’s signature gritty guitars and electronic inserts making it an instant standout.

The album as a whole leans into themes of resilience, transformation, and pushing boundaries, making ATMOSPHERICS one of the most ambitious projects HLH has undertaken to date. Longtime fans will recognize nods to their Dissonants era, but this time, they’ve expanded their sonic palette, incorporating more electronic textures and cinematic influences to create a cohesive and immersive experience.

Prudent Passion

by Bitter Season | written by Adi

If you still ride a skateboard or ever have, chances are you’ve worn long white socks with stripes at least once. Or maybe, as a kid, you longingly stared at ads for the latest Dickies you wished you could rock, and you definitely have a soft spot for snapbacks - if any of that sounds like you, then Bitter Season is right up your alley.

Right from the start, the guitar in Prudent Passion reminded me of something. About two and a half listens in, it hit me - RUFIO! If reading that triggered a nostalgia trip and Perhaps, I Suppose... was in your heavy rotation 20 years ago, then you’re in the right place. If the name doesn’t ring a bell, then do yourself a favor and check out @bitterseasonpunkx on social media ASAP.

Out of today’s picks, this is the most underground band, but they’ve got serious potential to stand alongside those pushing to bring skate-punk back to its glory days. They call themselves neo-punk - a term I first read over 25 years ago when blink-182 dropped Take Off Your Pants and Jacket, and some old-school Only Rock reviewer tried to define the punk-rock catharsis brought on by that lovable trio from California. Bitter Season won’t be the next blink, but with influences like these, they definitely deserve a shot.

War Time

by Bleeding Through, Shadows Fall | selected by Lukas

After months of anticipation, Bleeding Through has unleashed their ninth studio album, Nine, on February 14, 2025, via SharpTone Records. This release marks a significant milestone in their 25-year career, after long-time break encapsulating their evolution while staying true to their metalcore roots.

I'm spotlighting War Time a track that originally dropped in April 2023 as a teaser for the (maybe-in-the-future-release) album. Featuring Brian Fair of Shadows Fall, whose distinctive vocals add a unique layer to the track. War Time delivers a potent blend of aggressive riffs, thunderous drums, and haunting keys, creating a soundscape that's both brutal and melodic. The interplay between Brandan Schieppati's and Fair's vocals brings an intense dynamic, though some listeners might find their simultaneous delivery a bit overlapping - but that’s fine. My advice here would be to keep attention on backgrounded, doubled growls within certain parts, it has this significant overloading above the rest.

Nine as a whole delves into themes of resilience, inner turmoil, and societal challenges. Tracks like Dead But So Alive and I Am Resistance showcase the band's signature fusion of metalcore intensity with gothic and symphonic elements, offering listeners a diverse and immersive experience. The album also features collaborations with artists like Doc Coyle of God Forbid and Andrew Neufeld of Comeback Kid, adding depth and variety to the record.

My personal outcome is that they sound stays still like all good BT, with tiny tweaks tho. And that’s good because something is with that band that I may not stand if there would be any significant evolution here. Good stuff!

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Prawda Rodzi Nienawiść

by Dybuk | picked by Adi

It sounds like another dose of emotional self-flagellation, and we’re all in. The guys from Dybuk describe their latest work with brutal clarity, leaving no doubt about what to expect from their upcoming second album, set to drop in May.

It’s going to be raw, intense, and unapologetic. If life is already dragging you down, Dybuk will take you even further - but that’s the point. After all, Veritas Odium Parit means Truth Breeds Hatred (Prawda Rodzi Nienawiść), and that’s exactly what their sophomore record will be called. At this stage, it’s probably time to stop calling them a project and recognize them as a full-fledged band - one that tours and continues to unleash a fresh wave of dark, unrelenting music.

Even if you don’t understand a word of Polish, don’t worry - Dybuk’s music isn’t about the lyrics alone; it’s about the emotions it evokes. And make no mistake, those emotions won’t be pleasant. But that’s exactly the way it should be.

Blood Red 🩸

by LANDMVRKS | picked by Adi

In one of the previous Just Before The Drop issues, I told you to keep an eye on the latest from these guys from Marseille, arguing that their upcoming April release could be one of the best albums of the year. Well, I stand by that statement.

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We’re finally getting some French-language sections, which LANDMVRKS should definitely incorporate more often. I’ll just leave this comment from the Blood Red release here: I did not understand any French word, but it's so fucking insane. Honestly, that alone could be my whole review.

So far, we’ve heard five tracks from The Darkest Place I've Never Been, and not a single one disappoints. Hell, you won’t be able to sit still through any of them. Be sure to check out our review of A Line in The Dust from Just Before The Drop #3, where the band teams up with Mat Welsh from While She Sleeps.

This album is going to be epic. Btw, is that word still in fashion? 😎

Mistake 🐰

by Dead Rabbitts, Lauren Babic | written by Lukas

Metalcore project Dead Rabbitts, led by Escape the Fate’s frontman Craig Mabbitt, set the stage for their upcoming album with Mistake, a track that originally dropped in 2024. Featuring the versatile vocalist and YouTuber Lauren Babic delivers quite original, still Rabbitts-styled composition. To unveil this one I would recommend you to check the video clip first…

It's packed with visual emotions, presenting this song as a modern take on their well-known swinging post-hardcore lines. It weaves together slow, tension-building verses, electronic inserts, and, finally, a “touch” of Lauren’s vocals. Her clean parts fit perfectly, blending seamlessly with the characteristic guitar tones.

There’s a moment in the middle of the track - just after the breakdown - where the sound of keys (maybe it’s a guitar, hard to recognize) emerges. And if you listen carefully, you’ll notice a haunting, looping sound of a drowned-out siren. What an awesome sequence!

Redefined (upcoming on March 14th) marks a significant chapter for Dead Rabbitts, reuniting Mabbitt with producer Howard Benson and engineer Mike Plotnikoff. This collaboration aims to recapture the distinctive post-hardcore sound that sets the project apart from Mabbitt's other musical endeavors. I’m always under impression how different this side can be having in mind characteristics of Mabbitt “voice conditions”. Can’t wait.

WONDERWaLL

by Bring Me The Horizon | selected by Lukas

It’s really hard, taking their fertility not to mention them within such a listing as ours. So here we go again, Bring Me The Horizon gals and lads. Our old friends from Sheffield recently unveiled a bold cover of Oasis's iconic 1995 track, WONDERWaLL, as part of the Spotify Singles series. Released on January 29, 2025, this rendition infuses the classic with the band's signature metalcore energy, offering a fresh and intense perspective on the well-known anthem.

What are the Spotify Singles you’d ask. It’s a program launched by Spotify in 2016 to provide artists with the opportunity to record exclusive tracks for their listeners. The initiative allows artists to reimagine their own songs or cover tracks from other musicians, offering fresh and unique renditions. Since its inception, the program has produced over 630 recordings from more than 300 artists across various genres, collectively amassing over 5 billion streams as of May 2021.

These sessions are typically recorded in renowned studios worldwide, such as Electric Lady Studios in New York City. During the COVID-19 pandemic, artists adapted by recording from their own homes, ensuring the continuation of the series.

The cover has garnered significant attention, amassing over 7 million streams (so far) on Spotify within two weeks of its release. Notably, Liam Gallagher, the original vocalist of Wonderwall, praised the rendition, describing it as:

Absolutely incredible!

Redeemed 🦁

LAMBS & LIONS | picked by Adi

In an era where faith is more often a subject of critique - especially in the world of heavy music - there are still bands that make it their central theme. But let’s be honest, you probably don’t know too many artists playing Christian Oi music. Well, that’s about to change.

Lambs & Lions is a band formed by a trio from Brazil, Croatia, and England. What started as a side project has now evolved into a full-fledged band, and they’re about to drop their second album. Luis Medeiros, formerly of hardcore outfit Living Fire, brings plenty of punk energy to the mix. The difference? Instead of anthems about the struggles of the working class, you’ll be hearing about devotion to God and gratitude for His grace.

If faith is a big part of your life, you probably won’t need much convincing. But even if it’s not your thing, this record is worth checking out - musically, it delivers a well-produced, melody-driven sound, with soaring choruses that stick. Redeemed is the standout track leading the charge, and who knows maybe Lambs & Lions will help you redeem your own sins. Still not feeling it? Fine, check it out purely out of curiosity. After all, it’s not every day you see a bunch of guys in suspenders and Fred Perry polos singing about miracles and worship.

Stealing My Sun

by Eve 6 | picked by Adi

For 30 years, this Californian trio has had a knack for crafting nostalgic hits. Two of their albums went platinum (Eve 6, 1998) and gold (Horrorscope, 2000), but after that, they became more known for their sporadic releases than for chart dominance. Their fourth album arrived after nearly a decade, and fans had to wait a full ten years for their fifth. So, it was quite a surprise when, following the release of Dream Fist last fall, Eve 6 quickly returned with something new - well, sort of.

Their latest track, Steal My Sunshine, is a cover of the one-hit-wonder classic by Canadian group LEN. At the turn of the millennium, the original dominated the charts in Australia, Canada, and even held its ground for quite a while on the Billboard Hot 100. Eve 6's take retains that same carefree, feel-good vibe but presents it in a slightly more polished, radio-friendly package.

However, if you’re unfamiliar with Eve 6, this isn’t the best track to start with. Instead, do yourself a favor and begin with Horrorscope - or, if you’re in the mood for something more aggressive, dive straight into Think Twice, one of their hardest-hitting songs to date.

Oh, and while we’re on the topic - if you’re from the U.S., confirm something for me: is Here’s to the Night really the most-played song at the end of high school proms, or is that just a myth?

Talking In My Sleep 🛏️

by Grayscale | selected by Lukas (and Adi)

Funny story with this one. It doesn’t happen often, but we both added this track to our list without knowing the other had picked it. That’s how you know it’s something special! However, I was first - so I get the privilege of writing about it.

Lately, not many alternative tracks manage to catch my attention. The genre often feels saturated, with many releases sounding secondary or unoriginal. So much has already been done that it’s tough to find something that feels fresh and original. But Talking In My Sleep? That’s a different story.

From the moment the first notes hit, Talking In My Sleep got this perfect blend of nostalgia and modern energy - deeply melodic, emotionally raw, and undeniably catchy. I love the acoustic guitar building, super gentle vocals, piano and synchs in background and stacked werbel, heading towards passionate chorus. The track walks the fine line between heartfelt vulnerability and anthemic power.

I'm ashamed to admit it, but they’re new to me. This is my first time diving into their music, and I’m thrilled - I’ve been waiting a long time to discover something like this. And since I can’t compare their previous work, Talking In My Sleep feels like the perfect entry point to The Hart. With this track serving as an introduction to their newly released album, it’s the best time to play it loud and form an opinion. I can only encourage you to do the same!

Another week, another round of absolute bangers! 🔥 Welcome back, JBTD crew! And to all the new faces who just joined us – you picked a hell of a time to be with us. This week’s lineup is strong, and as we both claimed various as f*ck. We’re keeping the tempo relentless, serving you the hardest hitters first, easing into a tiny breather, and then detonating the final drop when you least expect it. This playlist is built for one thing only – making your next week better. So turn it up, and let’s go!

Void

by Haunted Mask | selected by Lukas

Silence… Let it roll out.

I’m starting with a true missile. The beginning is like the peak of a rollercoaster climb - the exact moment when your stomach knots up, right before you plunge at full speed. And oh man, this one drops HARD.

Void is a relentless storm - fast, harsh, and powerful. The energy hits like a hammer, no time wasted. From the start, those running riffs pull you in, hypnotic and razor-sharp. The sheer momentum is insane, like a track that was born to be played live in a packed, sweat-drenched venue.

Vocals are incredibly versatile - especially the growl parts. I swear I hear three, maybe even four different tones in here. Maybe it’s just me, but some lines remind me of early BMTH, straight from their first albums. The background filled in electronic chords, layering that thick substance, that’s dropping in one by one. Then - finally, a brief moment of relief - just enough to catch your breath before the track slams into its final, chaotic spin. WOW. I’m devastated. What a track!

Haunted Mask is a rising force in the metalcore scene, straight out of the Bay Area, California. They’re just getting started, gearing up for new releases while hitting the road for pre-release gigs. Keep your eyes on them - because they’re set to leave a mark on the genre. I can’t wait to hear more!

Paper Tiger

by Arch Enemy | written by Lukas

From the very first lines, Arch Enemy is on a warpath, delivering melodic death metal at its finest, with all the razor-sharp precision we’ve come to expect from them. This track is fast, aggressive, and packed with attitude - Alissa is in full beast mode, alternating between feral growls and those piercing, almost chant-like screams that send shivers down your spine. She’s not holding back, and neither is the band. To me it’s her highest shape so far.

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And those guitar lines just before the chorus? Oh, dude. That super melodic, dynamic lead kicks in, teasing you with its energy, building up so much tension - and then? Boom. It’s over way too soon. It feels like they cracked open a vault of pure gold, only to let us glimpse it for a fleeting moment before slamming the door shut again. Damn it, guys, give us more of that!

To me, not a huge fan of their music to date it’s a very promising prognosis of upcoming full-length album packed with (hope so) jucie sounds and vibes.

Arch Enemy has unleashed Paper Tiger the fourth single from their forthcoming album, Blood Dynasty, set to release on March 28, 2025, via Century Media Records. As anticipation builds for the new album, Paper Tiger stands as a testament to Arch Enemy's enduring prowess in the metal scene. With its potent combination of melody and aggression, the track not only satisfies long-time fans but also promises to captivate new listeners.

Iron Grip

by Nasty, Terror | picked by Adi

On March 14, Nasty is dropping their new EP, Black My Heart, and in 2024, they went head-to-head on tour with hardcore legends Terror from California. The result? A 90-second sonic chainsaw that cuts through everything in its path.

Scott Vogel jumps in on vocals for the final 30 seconds, delivering a hard-hitting message: Thru the best and thru the worst, I kept my iron grip in this fucking world. Matthias Tarnath follows up with: F*ck what they say, division is making us weak. Together we are in battle, together we bleed.

The end result? A brutal anthem for Nasty’s upcoming U.S. tour. But no worries for European fans - Nasty has already announced an intense summer tour across the continent, kicking off in June.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Y U Gotta Do Me Like That

by Down And Out, As December Falls | picked by Lukas

OK. Let’s leave this harsh and fast metal tunes for a moment. Time to rest.

Next is a collaboration between Down And Out and As December Falls. It’s a jumpy, melodic anthem tailor-made for those upcoming summer nights. From the opening riff, you're hooked. The energy is infectious, with guitars that fly and weave, setting the stage for a melody that sticks. The verses, constructed on top of the mix of electronic beats and simple guitar chords build anticipation, leading into a chorus that's an explosion of sound - melodic, bouncy and very vocally, a bit post-hardcore-ish?! (I can feel this influence, really)

Love that the track was split “by bands”. Thanks to that, just after the first chorus you can hear the Bethany’s (As December Falls) part that isn’t a short featuring, that will be missed after a few seconds - like with last week’s Melissa Bruschi. It’s here, it’s real, it’s rich, bumped by the pop-punk riffs. You can even hear some Skrillex-like, dub-step’py inserts. Oh my!

Coming straight off their brand-new EP, Sunk Cost Fallacy, this track stands out as one of its defining moments. Down And Out, a rising pop-punk powerhouse from Adelaide, is proving that they’re here to stay and make waves. If Y U Gotta Do Me Like That is any indication of where they’re headed, their future looks massive. Their ability to blend infectious energy, sharp melodies, and a dynamic vocal balance makes them a standout in the genre.

And hey, imho there’s not so many bands like this one. These great times of this great music went a bit away (that’s the feeling). So I’m even more happy that had a chance to present them to you. 🍉 My absolute favourite one from this week.

Drugs

by Rare Americans | picked by Adi

There are nearly 70,000 Slovaks or people of Slovak descent living in Canada - and at least two of them founded the pop-indie-rock band Rare Americans in 2018. While Lubo Ivan had to leave the group, bassist Jan Cajka, along with brothers James and Jared Priestner, continue to push forward, now joined by Duran Ritz on drums. And they’re moving in the right direction - fast.

Not only is the band incredibly productive, but they’re also in full creative control - animating their own music videos, promoting a punk-rock musical (S)kids set to premiere in early April, and currently deep into an intense U.S. tour with dates packed through at least the end of May.

Rare Americans might not be the most obvious pick this week, but their 700 million+ streams, tours across Europe and North America, and a nomination for Canada’s version of the Grammys “Breakthrough Group of the Year” suggest you should definitely give them a listen. Trust the hype.

An Irish Goodbye On St. Valentine's Day

by The Rumjacks | written by Adi

If you’re born in Australia but feel such a strong pull toward Celtic punk that you move from the other side of the world to Europe, it’s safe to say you were made for this music. Or, you’ve found enough success to make that move worthwhile, which, in this case, is pretty much the same thing.

In three years, these guys will be celebrating two decades on stage, and not even internal struggles could slow them down. Frontman Frankie McLaughlin had to leave the band after 12 years, following yet another fallout with the rest of the group. But that didn’t stop them - in fact, they’ve only gained momentum since. Now, they’re dropping their second album since his departure, and their sixth overall, hitting what might be the best moment of their career.

For this week’s Just Before The Drop, I could have gone with any of the three singles leading up to the February 7 release of Dead Anthems. But with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, there was only one real choice An Irish Goodbye On St. Valentine’s Day. This year, expect flat caps, raucous singalongs, and one hell of a melodic album from a band currently tearing through another European tour. And if you’re not into Valentine’s Day?

No worries. "Dead Anthems" guarantees a damn good time either way.

Three Six Five

by SHINEDOWN | selected by Adi

Next year, Shinedown will hit the 25-year mark, proving that hard rock longevity doesn’t mean stagnation. With their eighth full-length album slated for 2025, the Florida rock veterans are kicking things off with two brand-new singles: Dance Kid, Dance and Three Six Five.

The first? Fast, electrifying, and carried by a signature riff that demands attention, topped off with a slick solo that reminds us why Shinedown has always been about anthemic rock energy. The second? Slower, deeply nostalgic, and primed for radio airwaves - a track that already feels destined for their 25th-anniversary setlist. And if you had any doubts that such a tour is happening, forget them. This milestone is getting the full celebration treatment.

Despite a quarter-century on stage, Shinedown sounds fresher than ever, thanks in part to frontman Brent Smith’s powerhouse vocals and the band’s willingness to evolve. Smith himself admitted that for this record, they decided to break away from the conceptual approach of their last two albums and take a new creative direction:

We asked ourselves where we truly wanted to go this time. Instead of questioning, ‘Why this way?’ we started asking, ‘Why not?’

This April, Shinedown will hit the road across the U.S., playing legendary venues like Madison Square Garden, supported by an incredible lineup: the younger but ferocious Beartooth, rising star Morgan Wade, and seasoned rock veterans Bush.

A hell of a lineup for a hell of a band.

Black Mirror

by Lost in Separation | picked by Adi

If you think the world is rotten to the core, crumbling more with each passing day, and that humanity might be beyond saving - BUT you still manage to find tiny sparks of hope in this bleak reality, then you’re about to click instantly with this band. Like black t-shirts and metal, it’s a perfect match.

This is one of those bands where, if you scroll through their YouTube comments, you’ll find countless people asking:

Why the hell isn’t this band bigger?

And honestly? They’ve got a point. But everything is still ahead of them. Right now, they’re working on the follow-up to 2024’s Sabertooth, and it looks like they’re leaning more toward the melodic intensity of Fit For A King rather than the uncompromising brutality of Kublai Khan - sticking within the Texas metalcore scene, but with a different spin.

Maybe it’s just personal perception, but their last album was powerful yet a bit chaotic at times. The new single? More structured, more digestible - or maybe I’m just feeling that winter nostalgia creeping in. Either way, this band is one to keep on your radar.

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Never Enough

by Archers | written by Lukas

It starts with reverb-sinked guitar that at the beginning instantly grabbed attention. A melodic riff paired with a fast-paced tempo, layered clean vocals, and eventually culminating in growling sections, all backed by pounding double-kick - it’s a mix that keeps you hooked.

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It’s hard to pin down the exact genre - it sits somewhere between alternative metal, modern metal, and even touches of metalcore - they original genre. Well, that’s why it’s hard to place them somewhere, especially that this track is much different from what they’ve crated 10 years ego… Anyway, regardless of how you label it, one thing’s for sure: this track is insanely catchy, and your head will be nodding along before you even realize it.

Archers, Madison, Wisconsin. Formed in 2015 by guitarist Ben Koehler and vocalist Nathanael Pulley. They debuted with the EP Cuts & Bruises, which helped establish their presence in the metalcore scene (exactly). Now, as they’re gear up for their upcoming North American tour, Never Enough sets a promising tone for what's to come. The track not only showcases their musical prowess but also their ability to tackle relatable themes with authenticity and intensity. I like that the character of their sound is different, kept within the convention, but fresh, modern and future-oriented.

Death Shall Have No Dominion

by Imminence | picked by Lukas

I’ve started hard, I’ll finish hard.

Time for Swedish metalcore sensation of last years. Imminence just unleashed their latest single, Death Shall Have No Dominion and it's... different. Released on February 7, 2025, this track plunges listeners into the deepest, darkest realms of their musical prowess. I guess. Actually, I’m shocked, bit confused even.

From the very first notes, the track feels “odd”. The atmosphere is thick with emotion, drenched in cinematic tension, making it one of their most enigmatic and complex releases to date. After couple of weird plate sounds, and guitar string strokes it hit you with immediate aggression. And with what power! The climax is massive - a gut-wrenching wave of distorted guitars, soaring orchestration, and primal screams that hit like an avalanche. It’s both devastating and beautiful - the kind of moment that sticks with you long after the final note fades.

You can still hear their signature style - the haunting melodies, the severe vocals, the crushing breakdowns, and of course, Eddie Berg’s iconic violin. But this time, it’s all wrapped in something more etheric, melancholic, and deeply introspective. There’s a strange weight in it, an almost spiritual aura, making it feel vast yet intimate, powerful yet fragile. It’s harsh, it’s dark, I don’t know what to write more…

They’ve just dropped their new album, The Black, and with it came the bold slogan: “The Black is Back.” But what does that really mean? Is this track a declaration of a new era or just a standalone bonus piece… looks like. Either way, it’s here, and it absolutely deserves your attention.

New week, new issue - go, go, go! We’re super thrilled to welcome this week’s new subscribers. If you like what we’re doing here, maybe consider sharing this publication with your friends. Thanks in advance, Lukas & Adi.

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We’re stoked to bring you another batch of killer recommendations. The year is already speeding up, and trust us, there’s so much exciting stuff ahead. Keeping up with all the fresh drops is getting trickier, but don’t worry - we’re here to cut through the noise and deliver only the hardest bangers and the slickest tunes from the past week (or so).

Alright, no more talking - let’s dive right in!

Drag Me Under

by blessthefall, Alpha Wolf | written by Lukas

Alright, I have one, tiny, not-so-old reminder before we start for good.

blessthefall made a thunderous return after five long years with the single Wake the Dead, but let’s be real - Drag Me Under was the one that absolutely demolished everything in its path lately.

Released in summer 2024, this track didn’t just mark their comeback - it reminded the scene who the f*ck they are. The moment that first riff hits, you know you're in for something feral. It sounds like something really good from the past. As always, Beau Bokan’s - very recognizable - clean vocals carry that signature blessthefall soaring intensity, but it’s really grows when Lochie Keogh (Alpha Wolf) jumps in. His feature? Absolutely devastating. The dude brings in a level of savagery that turns this track into a full-fledged mosh-fest anthem.

When that drop comes, it’s like getting hit by a train in slow motion. This is peak blessthefall - melodic, heavy as hell, and dripping with energy that makes you wanna throw fists, stage dive, or just straight-up lose your mind.

Drag Me Under may have landed last year, but if you somehow slept on it, now’s the time to fix that. Blare it, break stuff, repeat. 🤘

Strangers In Crime

by Balance Breach | selected by Lukas

Just encountered a scorching new track that's been on endless repeat this month. Finnish metalcore heavyweights Balance Breach have teamed up with Melissa Bruschi from Hand of Juno to drop Strangers In Crime and it's an absolute banger.

Released just last week, this track is already making waves, racking up over 20k streams on Spotify. It's the lead single from their upcoming album, Save Our Souls, set to March 7th, 2025. If this song is any indication, we're in for a wild ride.

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From the get-go, Strangers In Crime hits you with a blistering riff that sets the tone for what's to come. The synergy between Balance Breach's ferocious instrumentation and Melissa's powerhouse vocals is nothing short of electrifying - I absolutely love the moment when this featuring gets in, vocals sneaking in within this gentle flow, that integrates with the track so perfectly. Can’t get rid of this one from my mind! The chorus is anthemic, the breakdowns are crushing, and the energy is relentless.

If you're into bands like Architects or While She Sleeps, this track will be right up your alley. It's a perfect blend of melody and aggression, showcasing the best of what modern metalcore has to offer. And it’s from Finland! Don't sleep on this one. Check the other released tracks as well, technically it’s a masterpiece, and some of the parts may surprise you as f*ck! 🔪

Kerosene

by All That Remains | picked by Lukas

Kerosene, or paraffin, is a combustible hydrocarbon liquid which is derived from petroleum. It is widely used as a fuel in aviation as well as households. 😜

The wait is finally over! All That Remains has unleashed their tenth studio album, AntiFragile, on January 31, 2025, and it's an absolute beast. This record is heavy, technical, and emotionally charged, but most importantly - it feels fresh. It doesn’t just rehash past ATR formulas; instead, it redefines their sound for a new era. However, it has the very recognizable character of the Band’s sound.

From the first punch of Kerosene (which, let’s be real, is an instant headbanger) to the atmospheric buildup of No Tomorrow, this album flows like a battle - constantly shifting between aggression and melody, light and dark.

The biggest game-changer here? Jason Richardson (formerly of Chelsea Grin and Born of Osiris) on lead guitar - new band’s addition from 2019. The guy’s technical wizardry is all over this album, adding intricate solos and shreddy chaos that push ATR into new territory. His presence - alongside Anthony Barone’s machine-like drumming - gives AntiFragile a precision and sharpness that feels both modern and nostalgic.

Lyrically, AntiFragile leans into struggle, resilience, and raw emotion, echoing the band’s journey over the past few years. Phil Labonte’s vocals switch effortlessly from soulful cleans to feral screams, proving once again why he’s one of metalcore’s most versatile frontmen. 🛢️

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Silver Swarm

by Thornhill | picked by Adi

The Australians from Thornhill are gearing up to release their third full-length album this April, and it's introduced by the fresh and heavy-as-leaving-Australia single Silver Swarm.

This is the third track from the upcoming Bodies - maybe not as instantly catchy as Nerv, but with huge live potential. A powerful intro, crushing sound, and a soaring chorus make it clear that the band is headed in the right direction. If this is anything to go by, the upcoming album is set to meet the high bar they set for themselves three years ago with Heroine.

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Silver Swarm dives into the emotional maze of being trapped in a toxic relationship, where manipulation becomes the daily norm. Even if you've been lucky enough to dodge such experiences, you’ll find yourself sinking into Thornhill’s world like you would on an Australian beach - just kick back, let the sun consume you, and forget about SPF. 😈

All For Nothing

by NOVELISTS | written by Adi

It’s hard to find a more diverse metalcore band on the European scene today than the French Novelists. They experiment boldly but with grace, much like their vocalist Camille Contreras, who officially took over as the band's “frontwoman” at the end of 2023.

Expect electronics, progressive metal, and who knows what else, all blended seamlessly. Add to that Contreras’ soaring melodic choruses and razor-sharp riffs, and you’ve got a four-minute sonic tsunami that builds up to its full force in May - when Novelists drop their fifth full-length album, CODA.

If you’re on the hunt for something fresh, some new inspiration, and somehow haven’t checked out Novelists yet, now’s the time. They’re currently on a world tour, having already stormed through Asia, North America, and Australia, and are now conquering Europe. And while they’ve been at it for 12 years, CODA might just be the turning point in their career. Keep your eyes (and ears) on this one! 🚀

Keep Planing Flowers 🌷

by Stick To Your Guns | selected by Adi

It’s only the beginning of February, and the amount of incredible music that’s already dropped this year is insane. There’s been so much, in fact, that we’re only now getting around to talking about Stick To Your Guns. Their latest track dropped in mid-January, but it’s so damn good that we have to give it some well-deserved attention today.

Once again, Jesse Barnett proves why his voice is one of the most important in the metalcore scene. STYG has always been known for their powerful, socially conscious lyrics—taking on injustice, questioning authority, and expressing the loneliness of feeling unheard in a crowd. And while Keep Painting Flowers isn’t the catchiest single they’ve released, it holds you in suspense from start to finish.

One of the softest tracks in their recent catalog …

But I know life can be such an unbearable reward,
So for those who've been truly devoured,
You were never invisible to me.

This track is a stunning mix of reflection and hope - a reminder that no matter how dark things seem, there's still a glimmer of light. But whether that light shines through or fades into the background? That’s entirely up to us.

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One thing’s for sure - this new STYG album won’t go unnoticed. It’s a record that will help people push through their struggles and find strength. And just like on their past albums, there will be moments while listening to Keep Painting Flowers where you’ll feel like the lyrics were written just for you, perfectly capturing exactly what you’re going through.

And that? That’s a rare gift. 🌷

Check out previous issues of Just Before The Drop!

Someone Who Can

by Coheed and Cambria | written by Adi

Growing up, you try to understand the world and make sense of the changes you experience. Then, over the years, you start to realize that you’ll never fully figure it all out.

That’s how Claudio Sanchez described his band’s latest single, and honestly? He might’ve just summed up the entire human experience in one sentence. While Someone Who Can won’t magically solve all your problems, it might just put a smile on your face and help you see things from a lighter, better perspective.

This track is one of the most uplifting songs in Coheed and Cambria’s entire catalog. Dropped in mid-January, alongside a nostalgic, emotional music video, it serves as a perfect teaser for their upcoming 11th studio album, Vaxis - Act III: The Father of Make Believe. If you’ve been a longtime fan, this video might even bring a tear to your eye. If this is your first encounter with Coheed, prepare to be intrigued.

And there’s plenty to catch up on - this New York-based band is celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, and it seems like they’re not even close to being done with concept albums. Vaxis - Act III continues the narrative saga from their previous two albums (2018 & 2022) and once again tells a new chapter of Sanchez’s ever-expanding universe.

Musically, Someone Who Can oozes feel-good energy, carrying an almost summery, laid-back vibe. It’s radio-friendly without feeling forced, the kind of track that might hook new fans who haven’t yet fallen down the Coheed rabbit hole. Sure, they’ve written more intricate, progressive masterpieces in the past, but this one? It’s easygoing, welcoming, and just feels right.

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You know how they say calling someone "nice" isn’t exactly a thrilling compliment? It doesn’t hint at a passionate romance, but it might just signal the start of a lifelong friendship. That’s exactly how Someone Who Can feels - maybe it won’t be your Song of 2025, but you’ll definitely feel damn comfortable in its company. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

The Faustian Spirit

by Eidola | picked by Lukas

Alright, let’s talk about one of the freshest, most technically insane tracks I’ve discovered this year... so far. I discovered upon Eidola just last month, and The Faustian Spirit instantly caught my attention. This band brings a mind-bending fusion of post-hardcore, metalcore, and progressive rock, alternative maybe?, with intricate instrumentation and surgical precision (especially within thes guitar parts) that feels both chaotic and beautifully controlled.

If you're new to Eidola - like I was - here’s a quick rundown. Hailing from Utah, they’ve been pushing boundaries since 2011, blending philosophical themes, complex compositions, and raw emotion. Their discography includes albums like Degeneraterra (2015) and To Speak, To Listen (2017), both of which showcase their ability to merge aggressive heaviness with ethereal melody and easy-low lines. And now, they’re back.

First off - this track (The Faustian Spirit) goes “hard”. The opening tones alone - heard as a old-school 70s, harmonic parts - feels like a proggy intricacy, setting the stage for an absolute rollercoaster of a song. Andrew Wells delivers a masterclass in vocal versatility, shifting between pristine cleans, throat-shredding screams, and haunting harmonies. The progressive elements are off the charts here - tempo shifts, intricate guitar layers, and a fluid yet unpredictable structure keep you locked in from start to finish. It’s got that Dance Gavin Dance-like technicality, but with a heavier, darker edge. And that was my very first thought, what a great “influence”, I was amazed.

If you love bands that push genre limits - balancing technicality, emotion, and pure energy - Eidola is a must-listen. The Faustian Spirit is the perfect gateway into their world, and with a new album likely on the horizon, now is the time to dive in. Don’t miss this one. Blast it, get lost in it, and prepare to be absolutely floored. 👻

Oh, I have one more association… Proste The Hero!

Afterlife

by The Day We Left Earth | picked by Lukas

Sometimes you stumble upon a new band, and it feels like you’ve struck gold. That’s exactly what happened when I discovered The Day We Left Earth this January. These guys might be fresh on the scene, but they’re already making serious noise with their latest single, Afterlife.

Hailing from Norway, this band delivers a killer blend of modern metalcore and melodic alternative rock, maybe even a bit of of power-core from bands like Chunk! No, Captain Chunk! or I See Stars. Afterlife kicks off with massive, super-meoldic bone-crushing riffs, muffled footwork that hit you right in the chest, and the vocals? Cleans, soaring, and dripping with emotion, and growls got that perfect mix of heaviness and energy - the kind that makes you wanna headbang and sing along at the same time.

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And here’s where it gets even more interesting - they’ve already teamed up with Dead by April on a track called Hurricane (from The Affliction). Collaborating with such a well-established name this early in their career? That’s a bold move, and it shows just how much potential these guys have.

They’ve got the hooks, the heaviness, and the heart. Definitely a band to keep your eyes on, especially with more new music likely on the horizon. Trust me - hit play on Afterlife, turn it up loud, and get ready to lose yourself in this sonic journey. 🌌

Dude, my favorite one this week, no doubts! Can’t wait for more!

Demoni

by No Good | selected by Adi

Back in the second issue of Just Before The Drop, I introduced you to the Mexican band The Shelter. Today, we’re once again stepping outside the “anglosphere” for another keep an eye on them recommendation. Meet No Good - a fresh band from Udine, Italy, channeling the energy of American punk rock giants like Bad Religion and Misfits, while carving out their own space on the local scene after a long break. And let’s be real - they’ve picked a solid direction that could easily take them far beyond just the Mediterranean waters.

Musically, it’s fast and melodic, very much in the Bad Religion vein, but with a catchier, more anthemic edge. The chorus - built around the demons lurking under the bed (or more precisely, at the back of our minds) - sticks in your head instantly. No Good clearly knows their roots, and they’re in good company - Italy’s punk rock scene has always been alive and kicking.

Over the years, bands like Sun Eats Hours, Melody Falls, Sunset Radio, and Vanilla Sky have drawn heavily from sunny California punk, and it looks like No Good is heading in a more pop-punk direction - which, honestly, is no bad thing. Especially considering that northern Italy, and Udine in particular, could use a little more sunshine.

So, if you’re down to explore non-English punk rock, Italy’s scene has plenty to offer, and No Good might just be the perfect excuse to dive in.

New week, new drop - Just Before The Drop! 😅 We’ve got an awesome new batch of music recommendations lined up for you, and trust us, you don’t want to miss this one. And as 2025 rolling in, we’re keeping pace with more exciting releases.

Alright, enough talking - let’s go!

Blackhole

by Architects | selected by Lukas

Architects 🧱 are on fire. Blackhole, their latest single from the upcoming album The Sky, The Earth & All Between (dropping February 28, 2025), is with not doubts (at least on top of what we’ve heard till now) a ferocious return to their roots while still pushing their sound forward. Following the earlier singles Whiplash and Curse, this track solidifies the idea that Architects aren’t holding back - they’re on the new/old territory.

The anticipation for The Sky, The Earth & All Between is high - and for good reason. As their 11th studio album, Blackhole suggests it’s shaping up to be one of Architects’ most aggressive and powerful records yet. What sets Blackhole apart is its ability to balance fury with control. Sam’s vocals are back with a vengeance, the riffs hit hard and fast, and the atmosphere is gripping. This isn’t just nostalgia - it’s evolution.

Adding to the intensity are subtle electronic elements, giving the track an extra layer of texture. The album might feels like it’s pulling heavily from their roots while refining those raw edges into something fresh and deeply exciting. Sure, the polished production and modern soundscapes mean the old-school Lost Forever // Lost Together mastering isn’t replicated exactly, but Blackhole channels the same energy, making it a clear nod to that era.

To me last productions from these guys were fine, but had no huge emotions along. With this one is much different, really can’t wait for it. Days left.

Barbarian

by August Burns Red | written by Adi

Another recommendation straight out of Pennsylvania, and this time from a band that’s much more recognizable and seasoned. August Burns Red has been a pillar of the metalcore scene for two decades, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down.

It’s been 20 years since ABR’s debut album, and one of the great news in 2024 was the announcement that the band would be re-recording their first album. As of a “few hours ago”, you can now listen to Thrill Seeker completely reimagined, recorded with their current lineup - though with a few exceptions. On Barbarian, the vocals once again come courtesy of Josh McManness, who originally recorded them for the band’s debut.

Not everyone’s a fan of special editions or anniversary releases, but this one’s worth it for Adam Dutkiewicz of Killswitch Engage alone. He lends his talents to the new version of Your Little Suburbia Is in Ruins and, fun fact, was the original producer for ABR’s debut album.

What if Burn 🔥

by Bury Tomorrow | picked by Lukas

Bury Tomorrow has just dropped their latest single, What If I Burn. This track is a sneak peek into their upcoming album, Will You Haunt Me, With That Same Patience, set to release on May 16, 2025.

From the first tones, What If I Burn hits differently. It's not your typical Bury Tomorrow banger; they've ventured into new territory here. The song kicks off with Dani Winter-Bates delivering clean vocals - a move that caught many fans off guard but in the best way possible. Around the 2:10 mark, Tom Prendergast steps in with some gritty growls, adding a fresh layer to their sound.

The band describes the track as atmospherically stirring, focusing on the tricks that our mind plays on our perception of existence. It's a deep dive into the human psyche, wrapped in a melody that's both haunting and captivating.

I might say it’s not a typical Bury Tomorrow, we can hear here some definition both the sound lineup and vocals - stronger, more versatile. If this track is any indication, the upcoming album is going to be a wild ride. Bury Tomorrow is pushing their boundaries, and we're here for every second of it. Again!

Don’t Let Me Get too Town

by Silverstein | selected by Lukas

It’s outstanding that bands we’ve been growing up with, that were starting their careers with us (at least with me), they’re still here, making this great music, not giving up even for a minute. And so one of these bands definitely is Silverstein that just unveiled their latest single, Don't Let Me Get Too Low, offering a dynamic blend of their classic sound infused with pop-punk and (as always) hardcore elements. The track is a precursor to their forthcoming album, Antibloom, scheduled for release on February 21, 2025. Btw. check out this new Spotify’s feature of upcoming albums with the premiere clock moving down.

Frontman Shane Told describes the song as a fusion of their traditional style with newer influences, creating a multifaceted experience within a concise runtime. The accompanying music video, filmed in the desert outside Las Vegas, features Told digging his own grave - a visual metaphor that complements the song's introspective lyrics.

What’s most interesting is that this release sets the stage for Antibloom, the first installment of Silverstein's ambitious double album project, with Pink Moon slated to follow later in 2025. Crazy as it sounds, but hey, let’s wait for it.

CULT

by Magnolia Park | selected by Lukas

Ohhh my, emotions. Reflecting on pivotal life moments, music often serves as the soundtrack to our experiences. For me, Magnolia Park's MoonEater EP was that defining scene during a significant transition - moving out, packing up family belongings, and embarking on a new chapter in the new country. The EP's blend resonated deeply, making those days unforgettable.

Now, Magnolia Park has unveiled their latest single, CULT, from their forthcoming neo-gothic concept album, VAMP, set to release on April 11, 2025. The band describes CULT as a powerful anthem about reclaiming one's power from oppressors, aiming to inspire listeners to stand up for what's right.

The track introduces us to Aurora X1, a half-human, half-cyborg protagonist navigating the tumultuous world of Nocturne Nexus, where rulers and rebels clash. Musically, CULT delivers a ferocious blend of pop-punk energy and hardcore intensity, showcasing Magnolia Park's signature sound while pushing their creative boundaries - it’s for sure something new.

As I immerse in CULT, I'm reminded of the transformative power of music. Just as MoonEater was the soundtrack to a significant chapter in my life, CULT promises to be an anthem for those seeking empowerment and change. Band continues to craft songs that not only reflect their artistic evolution but also resonate deeply with listeners navigating their own journeys; and that’s my personal interpretation of it, too much?

Even If It Kills Me

by Papa Roach | picked by Adi

Speaking of bands with a knack for live shows, Papa Roach is gearing up for the release of their 12th full-length album! Ahead of its debut, they’ve dropped the first teaser track, Even If It Kills Me.

Longtime fans won’t be surprised by what’s on offer here-some rap-infused verses and, as always, a sharp, unforgettable chorus that digs its way into your head. Frontman Jacoby Shaddix has teased that the new album, slated for release later this year, will carry the same vibe as Ego Trip (2022) while still experimenting with new ideas. That said, Even If It Kills Me is firmly in their comfort zone, delivering exactly what their loyal fans have come to expect.

The track might not revolutionize their discography, but if you’re already hooked on Papa Roach’s style, this one is bound to stay on repeat. And who knows - after a few listens, it might just turn into your next favorite jam.

Nod

by Rise Against | proudly selected by Adi

Because the line that is drawn between nightmares and dreams is thin like a razor, and we’re fast asleep.

For over 25 years, Tim McIlrath has proven himself to be a brilliant lyricist and an even better vocalist. The punk rockers from Chicago officially celebrated their 25th anniversary last year, but without a commemorative album. Instead, they’ve made us wait until 2025 for a world tour with Papa Roach and their highly anticipated 10th studio album. Nod makes it clear that the band’s priorities haven’t shifted - they’re still making music that matters.

Are you saving the world so desperately?
Or are you holding a gun, demanding peace?

In these uncertain times of global conflict and a reality that’s shifting faster than ever, the music of Rise Against remains steadfast: it continues to unite and inspire action among thousands of fans worldwide. Nod is another manifesto, refusing to accept the political tensions that affect not just Americans but people everywhere. McIlrath himself has said that the new track is also a reminder that we’re not alone, and that thought, even if briefly, can ease our anger and frustration.

We’re counting the days until the new album, because bands like Rise Against aren’t just important- they’re essential in today’s world.

2 AM

by Moonroof | written by Adi

The lightest pick of the week - almost as light as the gentle frosts in Philadelphia, where the journey of Moonroof began. If you’re from the city of Rocky, chances are you’re already familiar with this indie-pop quartet, as local radio stations have been championing them in their competitionAs for years.

It seems like they’re finally ready to make waves beyond the Delaware River, because 2 AM has everything it takes to catch the attention of bigger stations. Dreamy yet melodic drumlines guide us through the track, accompanied by David Kim’s soft, delicate vocals. But don’t be fooled - these guys know how to crank up the tempo when performing live.

Breaking into the indie-pop scene won’t be easy, but if you’re a fan of The 1975, Two Door Cinema Club, or The Lumineers (whom they even opened for in 2019), make sure to add Moonroof to your followed list on Spotify.

A Line in the Dust

by LANDMVRKS, While She Sleeps

European metalcore forces unite once again! LANDMVRKS are gearing up to release their fourth album, The Darkest Place I’ve Ever Been, this April. We’ve already had a glimpse of three tracks from the record, and this latest offering features none other than Mat Welsh of While She Sleeps fame.

A Line In The Dust stands out as one of the band’s most personal songs to date. Lines like, And I'm drowning, full of lies and empty words I've been saying for so long, bounce hard, especially when delivered by Florent Salfati’s unmistakably raw and emotive vocals. LANDMVRKS have a unique sound that’s hard to confuse with any other metalcore band, and this track only hardens their position as one of Europe’s most exciting acts.

This upcoming release has all the makings of a game-changer - not just for their European fanbase, but on the global scene as well. With the momentum they’re building, The Darkest Place I’ve Ever Been could very well be a contender for metalcore album of the year.

Keep your ears open for more from this incredible record. And honestly, we wouldn’t mind seeing LANDMVRKS return to the stage alongside While She Sleeps sometime soon, because the energy and growth this band brings year after year are undeniable.

Elevator Operator

by Electric Callboy | finally selected by Lukas

Electric Callboy has carved a niche with their signature blend of electronic-infused metalcore and humor-laden lyrics, delivering hits like Pump It, We Got The Moves and their re-edition of Everytime We Touch. Their latest release, Elevator Operator, continues this trend, featuring actor Uke Bosse in the music video and offering a mix of funky grooves, EDM energy, and heavy breakdowns.

While the track maintains the band's established style, some fans express concerns about potential repetitiveness. Comments from the metalcore community suggest that the formula might be wearing thin for some listeners. And to be honest, I share this thoughts too… I mean, I love the style and the overall concept, but having another song with the same flavor might eventually too much.

As Elevator Operator serves as a precursor to their upcoming album, it raises questions about the band's creative direction. Will the new album offer fresh elements to keep their sound engaging and the band’s momentum, or will it adhere closely to the established formula? Only time will tell if Electric Callboy can continue to captivate its audience without the novelty wearing off. What do you think?

Don’t Lean on Me (Redux)

by Amity Affliction | picked by Lukas

Alright, fam, let’s start from Don’t Lean on Me. This track is part of their reimagined album, Let the Ocean Take Me (Redux), which dropped on September 27, 2024. And no, this isn’t just some remastered cash grab - it’s a full-blown re-recording, top to bottom. The band went back into the studio and gave the entire album a fresh perspective.

The original Don’t Lean on Me was already a staple in their catalog - a perfect blend of heavy riffs and hauntingly melodic hooks that captured everything we loved about their 2014 release, and the genre overall. But with the Redux version, the band strips things back, delivering a rawer and more emotionally charged take. This isn’t a simple update; it’s a reinvention. I like to think that it has a bit of influence from their latest Not Without My Ghosts, which was IMHO the hardest one from Amity Affliction ever… maybe even the best one? 🤔

If you’ve been with The Amity Affliction since day one, this Redux is going to hit like a bittersweet memory brought back to life. And if you’re new to the band, it’s the perfect introduction to their depth and evolution over the years. Either way, this one demands your attention.

Echoes

by Midfield | picked by Lukas

Growing up with bands like Blink-182, Sum 41, and Good Charlotte shaped my entire relationship with music as a teenager. Their songs were the soundtrack to everything: high-school summer parties, mischief with friends, running internet radio, running after girls... you've been there, you know. Over the years, though, it’s felt like the genre’s golden days have passed - at least for me. Finding something with the same energy, catchiness, and emotion has been rare these days.

Recently I stumbled upon Midfield. Band hailing from Philadelphia, started in 2016 and has been quietly making waves ever since. While their earlier material (EP) leaned more toward straightforward pop-punk, this debiut album feels more mature and cohesive work to date. Tracks like Echoes remind me of why I sunk with this genre in the first place. Man, it’s like a breath of fresh air. The whole album feels like a love letter to early 2000s pop-punk, yet it doesn’t sound dated or like it’s trying too hard. It’s authentic, vibrant, and packed with that perfect balance of high-energy and no-so-dumb lyrics. Picked Echoes mainly because of the entrance built with drums and very melodic guitar riff, liked it a lot. To me it hits that sweet spot between nostalgia and something new, tackling themes of self-reflection and the lingering shadows of the past in a way that feels personal but relatable.

The pop-punk scene might not be as dominant as it once was, but bands like Midfield prove there’s still so much life left there. And if I have to be hones here, it’s preferable to hear less - from time to time - but with better quality and more power. Although, it’s just my wishing thinking and I hope I’ll caught more albums and bands like Midfield this year. 🍀

Honest Tinder Bio

by Ray Hawthorne | selected by Adi

Ray Hawthorne is proof that Instagram ads can sometimes be really, really good. The algorithm threw him at me in 2024, and I’ll admit it - I became a fan. Known for his album covers featuring Muppets and those sexy, melodic hooks dripping with early 2000s pop-punk nostalgia, he’s a standout in today’s scene. Ray himself describes his songs as being about the stuff he’s too scared or awkward to say out loud in real life. And honestly? When you dive into his tracks and lyrics, it’s clear they’re made for people like him.

If you were that kid in school who wanted to talk to the girl you had a crush on but couldn’t quite work up the nerve - maybe because you were too stuck in your head - this music will hit home. It’s for the overthinkers, the quiet cool kids, the ones who felt everything just a bit too deeply. Case in point? He belts out, just to be crystal clear, I’m not Ryan Gosling.

Even as an artist who hasn’t broken into the mainstream yet, he’s thriving in today’s music industry reality: a new single seems to drop on Spotify almost every week. And yeah, that might sound like a cynical, calculated move in an age where albums seem like a thing of the past, but I’ll admit I’ve fallen for it. The dude has a real gift for writing ridiculously catchy melodies that feel like they were plucked straight off the American Pie soundtrack.

Take Honest Tinder Bio, where he owns up to his flaws with painful but refreshing sincerity: I’ve got bad credit and a bullshit job. His music isn’t for people living influencer-perfect lives on Instagram. It’s for those who might not have it all figured out yet but are at least at peace with who they are - flaws and all.

Who’s this for? If you’re somewhere between 30 and 40, still haven’t started a family, but already have a 30-year mortgage and have weathered at least one mental breakdown - plus you sometimes imagine your boss in a gorilla cage-there’s a solid chance you’ll vibe with Ray’s music.

ATTN.

by Beartooth | selected by Lukas

Let’s talk about deluxe editions. We all know the drill: a band re-releases an album with a couple of live tracks or demo leftovers slapped on as filler, and it often feels like (again) a quick cash grab. But Beartooth’s deluxe edition of The Surface, featuring the new track "ATTN." is something entirely different. This track alone makes the deluxe version worth every penny - it’s not just an addition; it’s a moment.

Beartooth, led by the powerhouse that is Caleb Shomo, has been carving its path in the hardcore and metalcore scene since 2013. Born out of Shomo’s desire to channel raw emotion and personal struggles into music, Beartooth has become synonymous with high-energy, wild music mix. Their discography is a journey through mental health battles, self-discovery, and empowerment, making them a lifeline for fans who need an outlet.

ATTN. continues this tradition of authenticity, but with a fresh spin. Released on September 20th (last year), as part of The Surface (Deluxe), this song feels like the perfect way to cap off the album cycle. It’s loud, melodic, and bursting with the kind of raw intensity that makes Beartooth so compelling. Shomo has described the track as “the ultimate conclusion” to the themes explored in the album, focusing on self-love and growth. And let me tell you - it’s an anthem, I fck’n love this track! Even my kids singing it while we're cruising the car. 🤘

Be sure to check out the music video, too. It’s very Caleb-centric, and that’s not a drawback, no no, directed and recorded very well. The interesting concept fits perfectly with the crowd-singing parts and general feeling.

In a world where deluxe editions often feel like afterthoughts, Beartooth proves that they’re still in it for the fans. ATTN. isn’t just another track - it’s a statement of what this band stands for: catharsis, connection, and authenticity. If you’re even slightly considering picking up The Surface (Deluxe), this song is your reason to do it. But hey, there’s more, you’ll find there - of course - some live tracks and mixes as well. How could it be otherwise? 😅

Mess Like Me

by Glass Tides | picked by Adi

Glass Tides. Emo. Passion. That’s the Spotify description for these Aussies, and honestly, it’s spot on - especially when it comes to their latest track, Mess Like Me. The band has always danced between alternative rock and post-hardcore, but this track leans harder into the latter. It’s packed with emotion and energy, even if it doesn’t quite push into aggressive vocal territory.

For a while, Glass Tides was best known for their pop-punk-style covers of pop hits like Michelle Branch’s Everywhere (seriously, what happened to her? That track was a total banger), Eamon’s Fuck It, and Natasha Bedingfield’s Unwritten. And hey, those covers were great - fun, catchy, and well-executed. But what the band needed was an original song to really cement their place on the “next big thing in emo” shelf.

Mess Like Me feels like that song. It’s got everything: heavy, relatable lyrics and a level of raw emotion that reminds you why emo and post-hardcore have stuck with us for so long. This isn’t just a step forward for Glass Tides; it’s a statement that they’re aiming for a spot among the greats - bands that put "emo passion" front and center.

Who’s this for? If, 20 years ago, you were walking around in a long sleeve with an MP3 player and earbuds, shuffling through Hawthorne Heights, Senses Fail, Taking Back Sunday, or even The Used, you’re going to feel right at home with Mess Like Me. Dive in—you’ll taste the nostalgia and love every second of it.

DeLorean

by Galleons | written by Lukas

Let’s hit 88 mph 🚙💨 and dive into DeLorean, the latest single from Galleons - a band that’s making waves in the post-hardcore scene with their unique, international lineup. With members hailing from Australia and Russia, Galleons has a knack for blending intricate melodies, soaring vocals, and just the right amount of heavy. DeLorean released in June 2024, is their latest showcase of that magic.

UPDATE: the latest one was/is Casadastra, which is also kinda great.

Taking inspiration from Back to the Future (yes, the time-traveling DeLorean), the song is more than just a fun nod to the classic films. It’s about wrestling with regret, pondering what could’ve been, and ultimately accepting that some things are meant to happen, no matter what. The lyrics hit hard for anyone who’s ever wished they could rewind the clock, only to realize that life’s twists and turns are what make it real.

What sets Galleons apart is their ability to channel the spirit of early 2010s (the golden 2007 maybe even) post-hardcore while making it feel fresh and relevant. DeLorean is a prime example: it’s got the emotional depth and vocal range of a classic, but with a modern edge that keeps it from sounding like just another throwback.

For fans of the genre - or anyone who remembers blasting bands like Dance Gavin Dance (oh, where are they!?) or Hands Like Houses - this track is an instant win. It’s proof that Galleons isn’t just reviving post-hardcore; they’re giving it a new spin that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

Wrong Thing

by Tuff Turf | picked by Adi

When Jeff Richie was asked why he left New Jersey, abandoned his punk-hardcore band Cut It Out!, and traded it all for a new wave project called Tuff Turf, his response was as bold as his music: “I hate rules and taxes. I’ve realized people up north need to be told what to do with their lives. Those kinds of people are weak, and weak people are a threat.”

That one quote sums up everything you need to know about Richie’s latest musical venture. Tuff Turf feels like a sonic trip back to the world of 8-bit games, where your pixelated hero might not move with much grace but could still knock out countless bad guys in the name of justice. It’s punk attitude, raw and unfiltered, wrapped up in synth-driven melodies that somehow feel nostalgic and futuristic all at once.

Richie himself describes Tuff Turf as lyrically rooted in punk’s defiance and grit, even if the music has a sleeker, more polished edge than his garage punk-hardcore days. It’s music with attitude that might just sneak its way into the playlists of people who wouldn’t normally venture into punk’s rougher corners.

While Tuff Turf has been around for a while, it’s only recently that Richie’s project has started to turn heads. And not so much that you’ve missed the boat - there’s still plenty of time to impress your friends by dropping his name before the masses catch on. At the end of 2024, Tuff Turf dropped a short but punchy EP, teasing what will soon be their fifth full-length album. It feels like this is Richie’s moment. Watch this space - because if Tuff Turf’s time isn’t now, it’s coming fast. Oh, and listen the Wrong Thing of course.

Yo Soy el Paraiso

by THE SHELTER, Love Ghost | written by Adi

I’ll admit it: the name The Shelter hooked me at first. For a brief, naive moment, I thought maybe Ray Cappo had decided to record something new with his legendary New York hardcore band, Shelter. But let me save you the confusion - this isn’t that Shelter, and Ray Cappo hasn’t set up shop in Mexico. Instead, The Shelter hails from Mexico City, bringing their own fresh take to the scene.

This young band, formed in 2021, is already making moves. They’ve opened for acts like The Rasmus and some of Mexico’s biggest names, including rap-metal giants Molotov and the alt-rock powerhouse División Minúscula. They might be early in their journey, but their latest track, Yo Soy el Paraíso feels like a turning point - more rebellious, more defiant, and brimming with raw potential. The music video is worth a watch, capturing the kind of fire and energy that signals a band ready to break out.

There’s something magic about hearing Spanish melded with melodic guitars - it adds a whole other layer of passion to their sound. If that kind of vibe resonates with you, then consider this your reason to dive into their music. Yo Soy el Paraíso might just be your perfect excuse to devour this musical burrito.

Słońce

by Siding | selected by Adi

"Jezu, jak się cieszę z tych króciutkich wskrzeszeń" (Jesus, how I rejoice in these brief resurrections), Klaus Mitffoch once sang. And honestly? I feel the same way about the resurgence of emo bands on the Polish music scene. This time, we’ve got a gem from Posen, a band clearly inspired by the likes of Astrid Lindgren, W Kilku Słowach, and ODC.

These guys tick all the right emo boxes: a little disillusioned with the world around them, but not so much that they can’t see the good bits. Their lyrics reflect that perfectly: Give me your hand, I’ll show you a hand you’ll never learn… I hear the echo of a promise we made to ourselves). It’s the kind of melancholic poetry that hits you right in the feels.

I had the chance to catch them live, likely at one of their first gigs outside Posen. And where better to debut this kind of music than a squatted venue in Warsaw - a merciless, raw stage that felt like the perfect setting for their sound?

Let’s be real: odds are you might already be more familiar with the Mexican rockers from The Shelter than these local representatives. Why? Well, they’re still figuring out social media, and getting their tracks onto Spotify has clearly taken a backseat. But don’t let that fool you - this is the real deal. Keep an eye on them, because there’s something special brewing here.

Check them out live if you get the chance - you won’t regret it.

Spare Me

by The Plot In You | picked by Lukas

Before we start, buckle up. And if you’ve got a pair of killer headphones lying around, now’s the time to put them on. This track is an absolute rollercoaster every single time I play it. It’s just mind-blowing. Honestly, I could have this one on repeat all day and never get done of it.

I touched on this briefly in the last issue of Just Before The Drop, when I introduced one of the standout tracks from The Plot in Yous’s triple-EP release. Spare Me is the closer on the final EP of the series, Vol. 3. At least for now, it seems like the last chapter of this enigmatic and fascinating set of “mini-albums.” And oh man, what an ending it is. Even after hundreds of listens, this track still gives me goosebumps. It’s electrifying, raw, and brutal - all at once.

First, let me draw your attention to the bass - it’s the very essence of this song, the thread that flys you through the entire composition. It’s crucial to catch this element as the track unfolds because it’s just so relentless. Seriously, keep your ears locked on it. This bass line is the foundation on which everything else is built - at least for me. From the get-go, you’re greeted by Landon’s raw, hoarse growl - at first it lefts you only with this bass and spicy drum beat. Then the verses stretches out with long, draining riffs and relentless double-kick drumming, literally pushing you toward the chorus. And when that chorus finally hits? Oh. My. God. If you haven’t heard the song yet, stop reading right now - you need to experience it first.

Godlike, take away the empathy
Past life, nothing here for you to see
Give me something to fear

Now, do yourself a favor - head to YouTube and search: Spare Me reactions. 😨 It’s absolutely hilarious to see how people lose their minds when the chorus drops. Mouths wide open, jaws on the floor - it’s like they’re picking their teeth up off the ground. That’s the kind of impact this moment has. It’s all thanks to Landon’s surprisingly subtle, delicate, and utterly gorgeous vocals. Fun fact: a lot of people assumed there was a guest featuring - some female vocalist jumping in to add variety. But nope, it’s still Landon Tewers. What. A. Legend.

I’m melting over here, this section is layered perfectly over a heavy, driving guitar line and double-kick madness, all split by harmonious touch of a keyboard accompaniment, adding even more depth. Honestly - this part is pure magic.

A track like this wouldn’t be complete without a breakdown - and oh, do they deliver! It’s the perfect build-up to the final stretch, growing interval by interval until it all erupts in Landon’s crushing, almost deathcore’ish growl that slams the door shut on this wild ride. And just when you think it’s all over, the piano steps in. Clean, haunting, and accompanied by a subtle double-layer, it delivers the closing tones that tie everything together.

Paired with the music video, this final moment creates a hypnotic finish that pulls you deeper into the song’s emotional core. By the end, you’re left stunned - unsure of what to say, what to think, or what just happened. It’s chaotic, mesmerizing, and absolutely insane. For me this was a definitely one of the best song of 2024… fck! maybe even a decade.