Greetings, Decibel readers!
It’s another great week for new releases, as we get the latest gore-soaked vehicular slaughter from Exhumed, along with a host of lesser-known names who are no less worth your time and exploration. It’s a great chance to make some “new favorite bands” this weekend, so let’s get right into it.
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Coscradh – Carving the Causeway to the Otherworld
A violent, alchemical concoction of black and death metal. The music stands tall on its own, but I’m also fascinated by the band’s blend of inspirations — combining Druidic and Celtic themes with Roman motifs. Rather than paint the two forces in opposition, they seem to unite here with one singular voice.
Stream: Apple Music
Carving the Causeway to the Otherworld by Coscradh
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Dwellnought – Monolith of Ephemerality
You know there’s something interesting about a band when the Bandcamp tags include black metal, death metal, doom metal, grindcore, AND thrash metal. But upon listening, I think the predominant force in Dwellnought‘s music is cavernous death metal, with other light touches thrown in at key moments. It’s the kind of dark, all-enveloping sound you can lose yourself in … good luck finding your way back, though.
Stream: Apple Music
Monolith of Ephemerality by DWELLNOUGHT
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Exhumed – Red Asphalt
As fun as this album is, I feel like Matt Harvey and company missed some golden opportunities with song titles here. Imagine what could have been: “I Can’t Die 55,” “Be Quiet and Drive (Into the Wall),” “Dieway Star,” or even … “Death is a Highway.” Ok, I’ll stop. There’s something cool about whatever Exhumed does, but I really think they’re at their best when they keep things bloody and ridiculous. There’s just a loose and free quality to this version of their sound that lets them really tear it up. It hits something primal in the metalhead soul that just ignites pure, irreverent joy. So have fun with this one. But keep your eyes on the road while you do.
Stream: Apple Music
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Nightshade – In Essence Divided
In a just world, the producers of the Castlevania television series would tap this band to make the soundtrack. For anyone looking for well-produced, gothic-flavored extreme metal with a progressive flair, this should be a highly satisfying listen. I’m actually surprised this Swiss outfit isn’t better known, as they’re the ideal band for something like 70,000 Tons of Metal. Go check them out and let’s see if we can make that happen!
In Essence Divided by NIGHTSHADE
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Rotten Blasphemy – Worshippers of Chaös
Meanwhile. Here’s a band that belongs at a secret basement show on a Tuesday. Definitely required listening for fans of Aura Noir, Nifelheim and Nunslaughter. I also can’t help but smile at the song title “Rise and Sin.” Likewise, this catchy, unholy masterwork is a great way to start the day!
Worshippers Of Chaös by ROTTEN BLASPHEMY
The post Five For Friday: February 20, 2026 appeared first on Decibel Magazine.