Incite
Savage New Times
Reigning Phoenix Music
Released: 08/15/2025
9.5/10
Phoenix thrashers/groove metal icons Incite are set to release their new release Savage New Times on August 15, 2025 via Reigning Phoenix Music.
Frontman and founder Richie Cavalera (step son of Metal legend Max Cavalera) blends unrelenting thrash with a cool groove metal vibe that gives their music a distinctive edge. With EL on bass, Lennon Lopez on drums and new addition guitarist Layne Richardson; this band is tight, talented and come out of the gate fast and heavy on this album.
The first track 'Lies' is a super heavy, fast and aggressive fading out to a slower finish. 'Feel This Shit (I'm Fired Up)' continues the thrash assault which has a cool mix of Sepultura and Suicidal Tendencies. This will be a wicked addition to a live show. 'Just a Rat' has a wicked chug and Richie's vocals are fantastic, one of my favourite tracks on this album.
'Chucked Off' showcases some killer guitar work with cool riffing, another personal favourite of mine. 'Doubt and Fear' breaks into a massive riff with darker, heavy vocals. The chorus is catchy and produces that ear worm affect. 'Dolores' begins with a piano intro and is a slower pace song. The track showcases Richie's vocals as the song gains momentum and gets heavier. I really enjoyed the different direction with this being more of a journey with an immersive atmosphere.
'No Mercy No Forgiveness' pounding drums and thumping bass set the tone early in this track. The song speeds up and is a complete banger. 'Used and Abused' is an ominous track that has a black metal vibe mixed with heavy trashing guitars and vocals. This is another personal favourite 'Never Die Once' has a massive bass line mixed with the drums create almost a tribal thrash sound. Another great chorus will make this another cool addition to a live show.
The title track 'Savage New Times' finishes the album off in style. Heavy and fast with a combination of the whole album. I love it when a band finishes off on a high and this absolutely does. I thoroughly enjoyed this album and have to admit it is one of my favourites so far in 2025. For any metal fan this album crosses so many metal genres keeping the listener engaged with a distinctive sound that is fresh. This is a complete package, killer vocal, exceptional musicianship, clever writing and superb production.
Check this album out and play it at eleven!
Jim Harrison, HMS