Beartooth- Pure Ecstasy
Beartooth has had a revelatory year and it has all culminated in the release of Pure Ecstasy, arguably the band’s most profoundly honest and collaborative record to date. This is a coming out album in more ways than one- a reintroduction to an established heavyweight through the lens of singer Caleb Shomo’s own journey of self discovery. The music takes sharp turns through metalcore, industrial guitars, anthemic rock hooks and even a dash of punchy lines delivered more like a hip hop vocalist than a metal group. The album is a sprint at just under 40 minutes but the cooldown at “I Made It” allows listeners to catch their breath before diving right back into an album worth repeat listens.
Key Track: “I Made It”
Turnstile- Never Enough: Versions
With the triumphant release of Never Enough in 2025, Turnstile went on to experience a phenomenon in hardcore that has yet to be replicated or surpassed- until now. The band called up all their friends (and probably a few enemies with a features list as lengthy as this one) for completely reimagined versions of the songs that continue to define festival stages across the world. From the dreamy Faye Webster rendition of “I Care” to Dying Fetus’ death metal version of “Birds” to the legendary Elton John on piano for “Seein’ Stars”, there is quite literally a moment for every kind of fan, even if not every moment is for everyone. It’s still Turnstile summer and they’re not letting us out of their grip anytime soon.
Key Track: “Birds: Slayyyter Version”
Alabama Shakes- I Must Be Dreaming
Southern rock outfit Alabama Shakes is back with their first full length album in over a decade and they made it worth the wait for fans chomping at the bit for new music. I Must Be Dreaming is a meandering, jazz-influenced epic, with not a single dong clocking in under three minutes. Singer Brittany Howard is a powerhouse in every regard, from her guitar prowess to her remarkable vocals- and she knows just when to hold back and when to let loose. This album is an adventure 11 years in the making and fans will want to take that trip again and again.
Key Track: “How Love’s Supposed to Go”
Need more new music for your weekend? Check out all the best new releases in our weekly playlist!
