Shrike
The Divine and the Serpentine
Self Released
Out on Friday, February 21
A debut album, but also clearly a lifetime’s work ‘The Divine and the Serpentine’ is like an axe to the skull. Although the demonic vocals, frenetic guitars and relentlessly solid, thunderous drums could probably take your head off themselves – no weapon required. Shrike’s underground modern metal is clawing its way from 6ft under, chewing through bones and spitting out the splinters. ‘The Divine and the Serpentine’ is intense. It’s loud. But there’s vulnerability in there. While it’s a pulverising listen, it’s also powerful and thought provoking. Exploring addiction, recovery and trauma as well as the potential for toxicity in all types of relationships, this band’s tough sound tackles harsh topics with tenderness. There are moments of clean singing coupled with emotive melodies (‘An Infinite Debt’, ‘The Sinner in Saint’s Regalia’, ‘The Riverbank’). Shrike have given their all to this album musically and emotionally. Forged by blood, sweat and tears, ‘The Divine and the Serpentine’ is a touching, terrifying, humbling listen.