Damn, some artists saved their best for the end of the year. From Latin America and Asia to East Europe, I present the picks for best singles of November.
Phendrana
“Cathexis”
Released via Frozen Archives
Based in Mexico City, Mexico
Fronted by vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and composer mastermind Anuar Salum, this new single by atmospheric black metal project Phendrana is jazzy, whimsical, and includes a saxophone solo. Fueled by post-rock, shoegaze, and classical music, “Cathexis” also boasts guests including drummer Richard Schill (ex-Shining) and Adrián Terrazas-González (ex-The Mars Volta) on woodwinds. Overall, stunning song and stunning video, directed by Fátima Medina. Mixed and mastered by Jens Siefert (Ahab), their upcoming second full-length record is definitely on my radar for next year.
FFO: Alcest, Opeth, Imperial Triumphant
Upcoming ‘Cathexis’ album available to pre-order on CD & Bandcamp
Uuhai
“Uuhai”
Released via Napalm Records
Based in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Alike other Mongolian folk metallers that seem to be all popping up in recent years, Uuhai unleash the heaviness of the horsehead fiddle. Saruul Tsogt-Erdene’s vocals could move mountains, while fiddlers Zorigoo Battsooj and Khurtsgerel Damiranjav chant in their native tongue on the seven-piece group’s new self-referential single. I’m trying my best to learn how to also throat sing in honor of the band’s upcoming European tour with the Italian comedy heavy metallers Nanowar of Steel.
FFO: The Hu, Tengger Cavalry, Nine Treasures
Upcoming ‘Human Herds’ album available to pre-order on CD & colored vinyl
Fittonia
“Programat Să Ard”
Self-Released
Based in Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Soaking in the grime and polish of modern metal, Fittonia has been heavily on my mind since “Hanahaki” (2025 Single of the Year nominee). Synths, riffs, and screams lead up to a chorus on par with Courtney LaPlante or Poppy, and of course a showstopper breakdown, on this new track that roughly translates to “”Programmed to Burn.”
FFO: Spiritbox, Make Them Suffer, In This Moment