Hailing from Rio de Janiero, Brazil, Whipstriker are an intimidating foursome who've spent the past 10 years trafficking in top-shelf, military-grade speed metal with a blackened bent, developing an extensive cult following in the process. The group are currently gearing up to release their fourth set of scorchers, aptly-titled Merciless Artillery, early next month. Mastered by Toxic Holocaust's Joel Grind, the record finds the group's bassist, vocalist and namesake, Whipstriker, leading his ragtag team of Brazilian vets down a one-way road to hell, speed limit be damned. Judging by the song titles ("Enemies' Leather," "Bestial Hurricane," and "Soldier of Sodom," just to name a few), we're in for some pretty gnarly shit.
But appearances can be deceiving: just hear the album's latest single, "Calm After Destruction." Unassuming in name but unrelenting in nature, it combines teeth-clenching thrash verses with anthemic choruses that strike the perfect balance between likability and lethality. Give it a spin below.
Merciless Artillery hits shelves March 9th via Hells Headbangers. Pre-order it here.