Against Evil - Give ‘Em Hell (2024)

3.5★

India isn’t usually a country I think of when heavy metal is mentioned. Perhaps it’s because the Western world has been inundated with the outdated tales of mysticism and believe their only instrument is the sitar, but lurking below the surface is some fantastic music. Much like their peers Kryptos from Bangalore, AGAINST EVIL play a style of traditional heavy metal with some speed and power metal influences. The vocals are grittier than most trad, but paired with their crushing riffs, massive drum and bass sound, and some searing solos, it all culminates into a sonic storm of monstrous proportions. Honestly, if you’d never told me where this band was from, I’d have guessed they were Scandinavian. Everything from the pronunciations to the overall vibe screams “Europe!”, but hey, when some of your influences are legendary European bands, it makes sense. Give these guys a spin, it’s well worth your time.

FAVORITE TRACKS: “Give ‘Em Hell,” “Full Speed Ahead,” “Hellfire”

FOR FANS OF: Judas Priest, Accept, Running Wild

Encyclopædia Metallum

Listen

Originally published in Aug. '24 (Issue No. 4)