July ‘26 Spotlight

Warning: This might be our most stacked spotlight yet. Here’s 20 hand-picked singles from the month of July, chosen by our team to make sure you never miss the most fire drops. From well-known modern metalcore outfits like Bury Tomorrow and Coldrain, to ones to watch, Fallfeather and Enemy to All, we’ve found the best of the best and delivered them straight to you, free of charge.

ENEMY TO ALL - ETA: NEMESIS PROMO

If within the first 10 seconds you hear a dodgeball snare, you better brace for impact. Enemy to All have dropped a 2-track single designed for turning any venue into a warzone. There’s no shortage of visceral aggression across both tracks, with Day of Emergence leading the fight with a composition of menacing Hardcore riffs and commanding vocals. Accompanying the deadly low chugs are panic inducing chords, and when put together, they instil a sense of determination that may have been previously missing. Both tracks are just over 2 minutes long, giving such a short window for greatness, but the bar has been raised and thrown 500 yards into innocent bystanders. Infiltrator is such a perfectly named track it’s almost comical. Opening yet again with a tonne of angst and violation, it will infiltrate every part of your nervous system and activate your fight or flight mode. Through the vocal break in the middle, it gives a sense of urgency and readiness for what lies ahead, which is unwavering hostility, and a riff so devilish you feel offended hearing it. For a band in their infancy, Enemy to All have shown they mean serious business and that their name isn’t to be taken lightly, because their music could turn a room full of friends into enemies. - HAYLS

BURY TOMORROW - SX

One of the most prolific metalcore bands of recent times, Bury Tomorrow have just announced that they're ending their four album spell with Music For Nations and have become an independent band. To celebrate the start of their new era, the band have released Sx (Short for Symptom), a bouncy slab of modern metalcore that coalesces all the elements of their sound that became more prominent on their former label. As usual, Daniel Winter-Bates is the star of the show, with his distinctive growls and snarls in fine form, particularly on the chunky and wide eyed breakdown. It isn't a massive departure from their last album, but with things now entirely in the bands hands, the prospect for the band mixing things up and bit becomes a bit more exciting and they have enough stock and fan capital by now to survive the journey into independence. - CHRIS

IMPUNITY - LP PROMO

North Yorkshire's finest are back with a two-track single, proving once again why they're still one of the UK’s best up and coming in hardcore right now. Lower Value Human Capital opens with a riff that'll have you floating straight up to heaven before Impunity body slam you straight back to earth with one of the hardest mosh parts you've heard so far this year. From the 45-second mark onwards, this song is nothing but disgustingly awesome riffs and raw energy, written and performed to spin kick someone's head off. Determining Factor keeps the momentum rolling with chugs heavy enough to bring the roof down and a groove infectious enough to make even the most nonchalant “too cool” dude at the show want to get moving. These are two absolutely filthy tracks that aren't meant to be experienced sat alone by yourself. Get yourself to a show, get dancing, and completely fuck somebody up. - RAIHAN

LILITH’S DEMISE - ABUSE OF A CORPSE

Lilith's Demise’s self-styled 305 Deathcore sound embraces the chaos of the genre’s early years while including its modern evolution. Abuse of a Corpse displays a band that understands how to balance unpredictability with impact, moving between crushing grooves and sudden bursts of violence without ever losing momentum. Ana-Kamilla Arnback’s vocal performance is more than impressive, shifting from gutturals to thunderous screams with a range that constantly electrifies one’s mind. The song handles controlled chaos with precision, where every section feels designed to hit harder than the last. Driven by its relentless energy, Abuse of a Corpse exhibits Lilith's Demise spirit as its best. - KEL9

COLDRAIN - EX-HUMANITY

The Nagoya based J-Rock outfit have released their latest single EX-HUMANITY from their new album “OPTIMIZE=OPTDEMISE” dropping later this year in September. Coldrain has never been a band to shy away from intensity, but this track feels like one of their most aggressive releases since “Rabbit Hole” back in 2022. The track wastes no time throwing listeners into a barrage of crushing riffs and relentless percussion, not to mention frontman Masato Hayakawa’s commanding vocal performance. Instrumentally, EX-HUMANITY showcases the band at their most relentless. The guitars blend sharp, downtuned riffs with bursts of dissonance that create an atmosphere of constant tension. But more than just brute force, the band layers subtle melodic accents throughout the verses giving the track more depth. Lyrically, the song is rather straightforward, but that simplicity is what makes them so unsettling. Rather than relying on complex metaphors and storytelling, the band paints a bleak picture of a world where people have sacrificed their identity, empathy, and individuality in exchange for conformity and technological progress. This track challenges listeners to reflect on the direction society is heading, proving that some of the band’s most devastating moments come not just from their heaviness, but from the ideas behind it. It’s a reminder that Coldrain continues to remain one of the most compelling voices in hard rock and alternative metal. - NICK D

DANCE - CRUEL PRINCELY THIEF (FT. ANVILCHANDELIER)

Sydney metalcore outfit Dance just dropped a nasty new single for all you moshers to dance to. Cruel Princely Thief nails that classic metallic hardcore sound with heavy riffs, sing-alongs and pure raw energy. Dance excels at giving us some chuggy breakdown moments throughout this song, and if this were to be played in a venue, a hole would be put through somebody whilst Cruel Princely Thief was playing. There is so much momentum in this track that it keeps the energy high, and it truly stays there the whole time. The production has that perfect DIY polish that keeps its rawness while still letting the guitars have a razor sharp edge. Cruel Princely Thief is a gritty, pissed-off, peak revivalcore tune that delivers exactly what you want from metalcore. This relentless tune needs your attention now! - RYAN F

TEMPERS FRAY - TWICE YOUR SIZE (FT. BODYBAG)

BN1 x LBU heavies Tempers Fray are back with a track strong enough to break your ego. Their first new release in three years, it has received an abundance of excitement from feverish listeners left waiting all this time. Setting the tone with a riff built to crush houses, add to this a bass drop leading to a mosh part which only the bravest may attempt to maneouver, it is abundantly obvious that they are not fucking around here. A sub two minute rager that decimates the competition and reminds listeners that this is what they do best. Drums like a hammer to an anvil, guitars thick like oatmeal. Add to the equation an evil backing vocal from Bodybag frontman Cooper Kryskiw, and you’ve got a recipe for a proper banger. Leaning heavy into the death metal influence, these vocal parts are no joke. Growled vocals dictate the equation, and Conz’ trademark yell rings heavy in the ears of the listener. Lyrics about mental anguish, whilst following the theme of the title. The band wears its heart on its sleeve and drowns it in distortion for you to attempt to decipher on your own. You will find it hard to ignore the impact this has, and it will leave you desperate for more. Evil music for evil dancefloors played by some of the nicest people in UKHC. Spin this now, and learn to love it, or feel the wrath of those far bigger than you. - ED

OUR COMMON COLLAPSE - INVERTEBRATE

The sheer terror that comes with this track is absolutely pulverising. From the get go you are welcomed to the sound of what appears to be an alligator noise and then immediately slammed with a wall of thall cacophony in the best way possible. The tone of the guitars are heavy on the mix, encapsulating a raw, disgusting, earth shattering noise that can only be described as if the sound coming from your headphones had been broken for a good 20 years. Haunting, dark, ambient soundscapes accompany the song, layered beneath the heavy guitar work, showcasing a paranoid and always on-edge setting. Not to mention the vocals give off this screaming cry for help, simultaneously emphasising the wall of noise, delivering a crushing display of anguish. Similar to Varials’ recent album, “Where The Light Leaves”, almost every note, beat, scream performed is a slap from unholy divinity. This is a must for people that are looking for a new devastating sound to add to their library. - NICK H

STAND ATLANTIC - LUCID

Immediately kicking into their signature double time pop punk sound, Stand Atlantic gives us a taste of immense flavourable force that only Stand Atlantic can do. Lucid brings a revival to the sound that “f.e.a.r” made them known for. From the first verse, you are pulled into a storm of energy from the very first line, “Say what you want like you waited for” and this stamina is kept throughout right through to the end. Bonnie Fraser’s vocals are nothing but full of vicious and vigorous energy which perfectly accompanies Jonno Panchini’s dynamic drumbeat. The production side of this track too is immense, delivering what can be only described as a cheetah of vitality to the ears. You can expect that this track will hit you like a truck and then some. If Stand Atlantic wasn’t on your radar before then this track will make you think that they should be. - ADAM

FEATHERFALL - MONOCHROME

Wanna get on the train of an exciting, brand new band before it leaves the station and starts relentlessly tearing up venues across the UK? Of course you do, and Featherfall should be watched very closely. Their first steps into the Post-Hardcore scene are sure to leave a burning hole in anyone who listens to monochrome, a hole that can only be filled by the ones who created it. You want 00’s Post-Hardcore guitar melodies? Raw, gritty vocals? And a sense of being transported back into your poster-covered bedroom, aged 13? You’ll get all of those plus a whole lot more from Featherfall. The bends on the guitars add a sense of nostalgia, like they’ve come from a band that know how to organically replicate the era they’re chasing, and if you didn’t look at the release date, you would swear this came out in 2007. Vocally, it’s a commendable performance for a band literally just starting out, but the vocals have that jagged, rough around the edge characteristic that will separate them from the rest, simply because of their authenticity. Featherfall aren’t trying to be something they’re not with this track, and that’s obvious. What they are trying - and succeeding - to be is a band carving their own path that only leads in one direction; greatness. - HAYLS

IN GLOOM FT. VCTMS - ROOT CANAL

Root Canal turns an uncomfortable phrase into a hit for In Gloom’s latest single. The track immediately leans into a suffocating atmosphere, built around distorted textures and dense production. The announced arrival of VCTMS pushes the song even further into extreme territory with aggressive vocals and reaches another level of intensity. The closing breakdown stands as the song’s defining moment bringing together devastating screams and a final burst that feels earned after 2 minutes of pure violence ; highlighted again by a destructive production (was that an ultrasound?). Root Canal captures both bands at their most uncompromising, delivering a collaboration that leaves the listener stunned. - KEL9

LIVING WEAPON - THE LEAVING PROCESS

Coming five years after their “Paradise” EP, Living Weapon (made up of members of the Vein and Fleshwater collective) return with The Leaving Process, along with the announcement of their album, “Death In The Family”. This is scary metallic hardcore at its best: scratching guitars, filthy bass, evil vocals, and booming drums all collide in a relentless assault. There's so much happening throughout the track, but it never feels overcrowded. Every element has its place, and all falls into a controlled chaos. This should come as no surprise, as every member of Living Weapon has repeatedly proven just how talented they are, and how well they work together. The production leans towards a more modern, polished sound than the band's previous material, but fear not DIY purists, none of the raw energy or intensity has been sacrificed. Instead, the cleaner production only amplifies the track's crushing impact. - RAIHAN

LEISURE HOUR - AM I DUMB?

Racing through at only 2 minutes and 30 seconds, Leisure Hour are already back and with a vengeance with this self-deprecating pop punk banger. This is brimming with energy from the jump. Across the track, it describes the self-destructive tendencies of the subject. Leisure Hour are doing such a great job of bringing back that mid-2010s vibe of merging silly and serious without them hindering each other. It’s a pretty straightforward progression, but it captures the band’s energy so well, not letting up on the fast pace. The real focus is the blunt musings of vocalist Isaiah Neal as they go through their various mistakes, all with a sneer but a resounding willingness to change. As the song progresses, these thoughts get more and more frantic as the doubt creeps in with a super catchy main melody. Towards the end, the song speeds up, and it feels like it’s all coming crashing together. This is a no-nonsense blast and shows the band going from strength to strength. You won’t be disappointed checking out this heater of a tune.  - CALLUM

156/SILENCE - SWEPT FROM UNDER

The Metalcore powerhouses 156/Silence are back with the third and final single from their new album “From A Distance” releasing later this year. Instrumentally, the song balances heavy, jagged guitar work from Jimmy Howell with the expansive, haunting atmospheres that they are known for producing. Vocally, frontman Jack Murray delivers striking duality, shifting seamlessly from throat butchering, unhinged screams in the verses to an ethereal and hauntingly melodic chorus. Lyrically, the song explores the psychological “call of the void”. The sudden, unsolicited intrusive thoughts of self destruction even during moments of peace in your life. Rather than sensationalizing the idea, the band presents it as an internal struggle. While long-time fans may notice the band's continued move toward a more melodic sound, Swept From Under proves that evolution doesn't have to mean losing identity. It's an emotionally gripping, sonically massive track that reinforces 156/Silence as one of modern metalcore’s most creative bands. - NICK D

MILITARIE GUN - WORLD’S ALWAYS BURNING

Punk rockers Militarie Gun have made a name for themselves over the years by crafting certified pop bangers through a hardcore lens. The cries of the true hardcore purists repeatedly fall on deaf ears, and all for the betterment of the band. This new single is no exception to that. Falling just shy of three minutes, the tune is as catchy as one will have grown to expect. It’s a mellow head bopper that will have you meandering your way through the day. The usual politically charged lyrics return, and Ian Shelton’s distinct sing/shout combination is as inviting as ever. They navigate melody in a way that only Militarie Gun can, and Mannequin Pussy’s, Marisa Dabice joins for a well placed and ever welcome vocal feature. Breathy and purposefully lackadaisical, the juxtaposition between her and Shelton’s delivery suits the song immensely. Two of the most repeatedly outspoken vocalists, working within the sphere that treads either side of the line between the under-and-overground, joining together and combining forces for even the briefest of moments makes so much sense here, and they compliment each other massively. Say what you want about the progression that Militarie Gun have taken, they know how to write a song, and this is an excellent addition to their arsenal. Hooks for days, masterful composition, even a guitar solo. The Los Angeles rockers continue to show that they are the ones to look towards for this style of punk rock, and with World’s Always Burning, they do not disappoint. - ED

KISSES UNDER CANNONS - BEYOND THE VAST FOREST

Hailing from West Lothian, Kisses Under Cannons have released their first single, after dropping some promising demos. This is the proper introduction to the band, and they’ve really come out firing on all cylinders. The name and the cover art evoke a feeling of nostalgia, but they’re not simply mimicking a 2000s post-hardcore act. This could easily slot in amongst them. The track builds steadily with thumping drums and an octave lead melody which is so befitting of the era. Clean vocals carry the first verse, but it’s when the harsh vocalist joins in, and they start to duel that this song really comes alive. It’s a huge chorus with an undeniable tension to the music which makes you want to pump your fists and swing your elbows. The tension explodes into this crushing breakdown that will turn the entire dance floor into a war zone, as it builds back up with just a single guitar into one big finale, you’re left wondering how on Earth this is a debut single. - CALLUM

BREAK FIFTY - FORCED III MIND

The dynamics this song displays are seriously over the top. From blast beats, to slowed beatdown, to groovy rhythms, there is a lot that is portrayed in this hard and gruelling 3 minute track. Think of Heriot but on steroids and you will immediately want this on repeat to properly digest it because musically there is so much happening. There is pure ruin, havoc, and devastation within the band's evil and mind tearing nature. The lyrics exhibit themes of trauma, how one copes with it, and how it can make or break a person, which further adds to the insanity of the track. The mix cannot be praised enough on how much it elevates the band, further increasing their destructive, murderous intent riffs, claustrophobic gasping for air type of screams, and ensuring you get enough PING in your ears from the snare. An intense and amazing blend of Hardcore and Nu-Metalcore, do not skip Break Fifty. - NICK H

IF NOT FOR ME (FT WIND WALKERS) - LIE AWAKE

If Not For Me have always been ones to experiment until something is perfect. Sticking to the octanecore formula that they know very well, this track, featuring Wind Walkers helps solidify the fact that they are back and better than ever. It starts out rather peaceful and doesn't go immediately into it, which works out well for the chorus that really takes you into the energy that has just been building up over the course of the first 30 seconds. Wind Walkers’ Trevor Borg’s vocals bring in a build up towards the end when it culminates in a tornado of display of stamina. You should expect it to be one of the more fun songs from If Not For Me and Wind Walkers respectively. If Not For Me really pulled out all of the stops for this single and you should feel excited from start to finish. - ADAM

ORIGAMI ANGEL - PLAY AROUND THE CRIT / COMPOUND EYES

Whilst only being 1 minute and 28 seconds long, Play Around The Crit by Origami Angel was originally only used for Pokémon streamer pChal, but after high praise the band have released the singles onto streaming platforms. With a mix of pop punk and emo genres, this makes for a quick and extremely enjoyable listen, with samples from the Pokémon games itself, and a voice that brings you back to the early 2000s with the whiney and high pitched singing voice. The instruments strike a resemblance to the late 2000s and early 2010s post-hardcore scene akin to bands such as Pierce The Veil and especially early Sleeping With Sirens. With a track, as previously stated, used for backing music for a Pokemon streamer this is a well made track with many good qualities.

The single that was released in conjunction with the first track, Compound Eyes, is a slow track which sticks with that early post-hardcore sound but with more thoughtful lyrics and delivery. Being even shorter than Play Around The Crit, it’s hard to fully appreciate it without giving the song multiple listens but if you're looking for something that is an easy and extremely enjoyable listen this is for you. If you listen to the lyrics the term “compound eyes” is used to explain making mistakes and how, in hindsight, the mistake needs to happen to move forward in life. It is quite refreshing to see a track that makes callbacks to previous generations without being samey, and instead being unique and interesting. - REECE