It’s summertime and it feels like the calm before the storm… only a few singles caught our eye this past month, but they are absolutely worth a listen, from Latin America and Polynesia to Eastern Europe.
Bronze Tier: Metal Single of the Month – June 2025
Withered Land
“Through the Winterhold’s Blizzard”
Self-released
Based in Minsk, Belarus
With nocturnal howls echoing across frozen forests, Olga Kann leads the way through the darkness. Her blackened shrieks are menacing, yet alluring. Featuring guitars and production by Koliopanos Filippos (Ocean of Grief) and direct inspiration from The Elder Scrolls, “Through the Winterhold’s Blizzard” is a crucial and cold path towards what is to come on the upcoming Hall of the Dead album, set to be independently released in September.
FFO: Wolves in the Throne Room, Grima, Varmia
Silver Tier: Metal Single of the Month – June 2025
Alien Weaponry
“Taniwha” feat. Randy Blythe
Released via Napalm Records
Based in Waipu, New Zealand
Including a spoken word passage by Lamb of God‘s mighty vocalist, the Māori groove metalcore trio’s “Taniwha” speaks on mythological, supernatural beings angered by today’s corporate expansion upon nature. The single is equally driven by environmental activism and modern metal heaviness, perfect as a centerpiece for their recent Te Rā album. It only takes a singular listen to be hooked on the melodic flow, yet video director Francis Baker enhances the band’s eruptive message deeper.
FFO: Gojira, Shepherds Reign, Orbit Culture
New album ‘Te Rā’ is available on vinyl and CD
Gold Tier: Metal Single of the Month – June 2025
Everlight
“Destino 1508” feat. Mariana Priego
Self-released
Based in Mexico City, Mexico
A three vocal onslaught between the lush delivery by Beth Del Viento and fiesty bite from Carlos Loera as well as guest feature Mariana Priego (Elli Noise), “Destino 1508” is a dynamic hit. Directed by Benjamín Luna, the latest video by alternative / metalcore act Everlight captures the grimy and lively spirit of the modern scene. With Spanish hooks spread across the soundscape, I fully endorse this group as the ideal gateway for curious metalheads.
FFO: Evanescence, Spiritbox, Flyleaf