On their previous single ‘Algebra (I’m In A Rage)’, British post hardcore band Ruled By Raptors mixed hardcore elements with prog rock time signatures and clean vocals to create a really interesting sound. It was one of those tracks that had such a spark, it more than proved – not that proof were actually needed – that the underground rock and metal scene could still serve up some really inspiring sounds.
This visit to the popular Singles Bar takes in a few newer names representing the worlds of power pop, alt metal, and alternative sounds. There’s also the return of couple of underground talents, and also a really cool comeback single from a name that made waves back in the 90s. With the usual focus on highlighting tracks destined for a cult crowd and a pleasing variety, we hope you find something new to enjoy…
*
Phoenix metallers Incite have been releasing classic sounding thrash/groove based albums for over a decade, but their most recent, ‘Savage New Times’ is one of their best to date. Ploughing through ten heavy workouts in a little over a half-hour, the record is insanely tight. From the speed-oriented opener ‘Lies’ – playing like a cross between Soulfly and the faster elements of Testment – to the groove laden ‘No Mercy, No Forgiveness’, to the heavy, rhythmic title track that showcases a sharper guitar tone for its first half, before tipping the hat very obviously in the direction of Soulfly for a much moodier climax, it’s a record that never lets up.
In the summer of 2026, synth pop act Oui Plastique shared ‘Linger’, a single which straddled a cold mood and a melodic heart, making no secret of a love for early 80s Ultravox. As a preview of an upcoming album, it was hugely effective, presenting a very familiar sound in such a way that any obvious recycling – both from the band’s influences and their own past recordings – felt as if it could still be inspiring.
It’s astonishing to think that the release of the three track ‘Want It Bad (The Pep Talks and Playing Fields of Old England)’ comes five years after Colin Moulding shared ‘The Hardest Battle’, but the XTC man has never been the most prolific of recording artists.