For some reason releasing split records is not that big a part of the metal scene as it is in the hardcore scene. However, I do have a couple of split records where I learned about great thrash bands (the Thrash Clash releases on Stormspell Records come to mind). The last years we are blessed the Faster Than The Devil splits that bring upcoming bands to your attention. This year was a bit different as I already new a couple of the bands on here, but still: their new material is ace! So get this to be introduced to (or dwell in new material by): Bloodletter,  Ninth Realm, Acid Mass, Grozov. Especially the first two bands are amazing!

Two stoner doom bands meet and reinforce each other on this stellar split. Both with amazing vocals, which makes them stand out in a genre that I usually do not listen for the vocal magic. Yet here we are with two bands that know how to enchant you and bring you to another world.

Look at that label name and tell me why you think it would be specialized in obscure black metal releases, right? In other words: I was massively surprised by some releases by this label, this split being one of them. Both bands play what the label names grungegaze. I don’t know if it is a self made up description, but it does fit the bill. If you like this split as much as I do, do yourself a favor and also look into the EP’s both bands released at the same time. You won’t be disappointed.

OI! is a genre I have only recently (read: the last couple of years) embraced. I am still very picky about what I like and don’t like in this genre. Ultra Razzia passed my test with Jusqu’Au Bout De La Nuit from two years ago. I was excited to hear new material and they delivered songs as good as on that full length. Concrete Elite was new to me, but match the energy and songwriting displayed by Ultra Razzia. In conclusion: a great split!

Sometimes I like to listen to something lighter, something silly. Prison Affair is one of the bands that could fit right in. Make no mistake: their focus is on writing good tunes. Otherwise their releases would not have the high replay value that they have. Snooper, you might remember (should remember) from last years release Super Snooper (which was mentioned multiple times in our Pass The Mic article). A wee bit more serious, but not too much. Both bands give you three new tracks and both just do what they do best. A great egg punk split!

Buying this release was a no-brainer. Both bands have been reviewed (favorably) on this site and Unsanitary Napkin even ended up being my favorite record of 2022. New material by both bands is more than welcome! Jalang surprised me big time on this split. They stepped up. I have not yet determined what exactly changed between Santua and this split, but their side has much more replay value than that full length. To say I am looking forward to new material from them is now an understatement. Unsanitary Napkin is going strong and continue what they do best. This is combined leads to one hell of a wild split!

Well, if you wanna listen to two bands raging on, this might be for you. I already knew Depopulation Department as they came on my radar due to their Haemorrhage affiliations. Depopulation Department has a slightly different approach (more simple, more hardcore) than that grind legend, but there are similarities to be discovered. There are some 80’s speed metal (think Exciter) influences, but the bulk is crust punk. WIth a slight touch of grind. Zaborra was new to me. Their approach is pretty similar, but slightly more thrashy. I would say this is great cooking music. Especially in the prepping stage. Trust me, those veggies are sliced and diced before you know it!